Battery cell replacement system

Abstract

This disclosure specifically relates to a battery cell replacement system for replacing battery cells carried on a tray during tray transport. The system includes: a frame; a first detection mechanism mounted on the frame and configured to identify defective battery cells in the tray; a buffer mechanism mounted on the frame and configured to buffer battery cells to be replaced; a replacement mechanism mounted on the frame and configured to remove the battery cell to be replaced from the buffer mechanism and replace the defective battery cell; a second detection mechanism mounted on the frame and configured to detect the removed battery cells to be replaced; and a discharge device mounted on the frame and configured to discharge defective battery cells. The replacement mechanism is further configured to transfer defective battery cells from the tray to the discharge device, and to transfer battery cells identified as defective by the second detection mechanism to the discharge device. This disclosure can improve the production efficiency of battery equipment.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of battery technology, and in particular to a battery cell replacement system. Background Technology

[0002] With increasing environmental pollution, the new energy industry is attracting more and more attention. Within the new energy industry, battery technology is a crucial factor in its development.

[0003] Rechargeable battery cells, also known as secondary battery cells, are battery cells that can be recharged after discharge to reactivate the active materials and continue to be used. Rechargeable battery cells are widely used in electronic devices such as mobile phones, laptops, electric vehicles, electric cars, electric airplanes, electric ships, electric toy cars, electric toy ships, electric toy airplanes, and power tools. The production efficiency of battery devices is currently a key research focus. Utility Model Content

[0004] In one aspect of this disclosure, a battery cell replacement system is provided for replacing battery cells carried on a pallet during pallet transport, comprising:

[0005] frame;

[0006] The first inspection unit, located on the rack, is configured to identify defective battery cells in the tray;

[0007] A buffer mechanism, mounted on the rack, is configured to buffer individual battery cells to be replaced;

[0008] A replacement mechanism, disposed on the rack, is configured to remove the battery cell to be replaced from the buffer mechanism and replace the defective battery cell with the battery cell to be replaced.

[0009] A second testing unit, mounted on the rack, is configured to test the removed battery cells to be replaced; and

[0010] A discharge device, mounted on the frame, is configured to discharge the defective battery cells;

[0011] The replacement mechanism is further configured to transfer the defective battery cell in the tray to the discharge device, and to transfer the battery cell to be replaced that is identified as defective by the second detection mechanism to the discharge device.

[0012] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the second inspection mechanism inspects the removed battery cells to be replaced, enabling the early detection of defective cells and reducing the likelihood of them being replaced on the tray. This, in turn, reduces the possibility of production cycles being interrupted by defective cells in subsequent battery assembly processes, improving the production efficiency of the battery assembly. The discharge device can promptly remove defective battery cells from the system, maintaining production cycle time. Furthermore, since both defective cells in the tray and removed defective cells share the same discharge device, it helps improve space utilization.

[0013] In some embodiments, both the battery cell and the battery cell to be replaced are cuboid battery cells. The first detection mechanism detects a first side of the battery cell to identify battery cells with poor adhesive adhesion on the first side. The second detection mechanism is configured to detect a first side of the battery cell to be replaced that has been removed by the replacement mechanism to identify battery cells with poor adhesive adhesion on the first side. The first side is the side of the battery cell with the largest area.

[0014] In this embodiment, by using a second inspection mechanism to inspect the adhesive on the first side of the rectangular battery cell, the possibility of rectangular battery cells with poor adhesive on the first side flowing into subsequent processes can be reduced.

[0015] In some embodiments, the second detection mechanism includes a camera configured to acquire images of the battery cell to be replaced.

[0016] In the buffer mechanism, the battery cell to be replaced is arranged with its first side facing the side where the camera lens is located.

[0017] In this embodiment, the battery cells to be replaced in the buffer mechanism are arranged with their first side facing the camera lens. This allows only one camera to inspect all the battery cells in the buffer mechanism, reducing the hardware cost of the second inspection mechanism compared to secondary inspection in subsequent processes. Furthermore, this arrangement eliminates the need for the replacement mechanism to rotate the battery cells after removal, thus improving production efficiency.

[0018] In some embodiments, the discharge device includes:

[0019] A discharge conveyor line is configured to transport the received defective battery cells to a discharge location; and

[0020] A transfer mechanism, connected to the discharge conveyor line, is configured to receive the defective battery cells transferred by the replacement mechanism and transfer the defective battery cells to the discharge conveyor line.

[0021] In this embodiment, by setting up a transfer mechanism to receive defective battery cells transferred by the replacement mechanism and then transferring them to the discharge conveyor line for discharge, the discharge path of defective battery cells can be changed, the working range of the replacement mechanism can be optimized, and the arrangement of each mechanism can be made more flexible.

[0022] In some embodiments, the discharge conveyor line includes:

[0023] A limiting member is provided at the discharge position to restrict the defective battery cell at the discharge position; and / or

[0024] An exhaust sensor is configured to identify whether the defective battery cell is present at the exhaust location.

[0025] In this embodiment, the limiting component can restrict the defective battery cell to the discharge position for manual removal. The discharge sensor can promptly detect the presence of defective battery cells at the discharge position, prompting an alarm or other device to alert manual removal and handling.

[0026] In some embodiments, the transfer mechanism includes:

[0027] A first transfer element is configured to convey the defective battery cell along a first direction so that the defective battery cell reaches a docking position near the discharge conveyor line; and

[0028] The second transfer member is configured to convey the defective battery cell that has reached the docking position along a second direction to bring the defective battery cell to the inlet of the discharge conveyor line;

[0029] Wherein, the first direction intersects with the conveying direction of the discharge conveyor line, and the second direction is parallel to the conveying direction of the discharge conveyor line.

[0030] In this embodiment, the transfer mechanism includes a first transfer member and a second transfer member, which respectively transport the defective battery cell in a first direction and a second direction, enabling the defective battery cell to be turned. This allows the transfer mechanism to be arranged in a position further away from the worker's work area, making it easier for the replacement mechanism to place the defective battery cell on the transfer structure.

[0031] In some embodiments, the discharge conveyor line includes a chain conveyor line.

[0032] In this embodiment, the discharge conveyor line includes a chain conveyor line, which makes the conveying surface of the discharge conveyor line flat and smooth with low friction, thereby making the conveying of defective battery cells on the discharge conveyor line more stable.

[0033] In some embodiments, the battery cell replacement system further includes:

[0034] A conveying mechanism, disposed adjacent to the frame, is configured to convey the pallet.

[0035] In this embodiment, the conveying mechanism is arranged adjacent to the frame, so that when the pallet is conveyed to the area of ​​the frame by the conveying mechanism, it can be conveniently inspected. At the same time, the replacement mechanism is also arranged on the frame, which helps to reduce the movement path of the replacement mechanism and improve production efficiency.

[0036] In some embodiments, the frame includes a first frame portion and a second frame portion disposed on both sides of the conveying mechanism;

[0037] The battery cell replacement system also includes a mounting bracket spanning the first frame portion and the second frame portion, with the replacement mechanism disposed on top of the mounting bracket.

[0038] In this embodiment, the replacement mechanism is located at the top of the mounting frame, which makes use of the space above the rack, improves space utilization, and allows for more flexible movement when picking up, discharging, and replacing items.

[0039] In some embodiments, the buffer mechanism includes a plurality of buffer slots, each buffer slot being provided with a buffer sensor, the buffer sensor being configured to identify whether the battery cell to be replaced is present in the buffer slot.

[0040] In this embodiment, by using a buffer sensor to identify whether there is a battery cell to be replaced in the buffer slot, the location information of the battery cell to be replaced can be obtained, so that the replacement mechanism can accurately pick up the battery cell to be replaced.

[0041] In some embodiments, the buffer mechanism further includes a buffer alarm configured to issue an audible and visual alarm when the battery cell to be replaced is not present in any of the buffer slots.

[0042] In this embodiment, if there are no replacement battery cells in all the buffer slots, the system will not be able to operate normally. The buffer alarm can effectively remind the staff to replenish the replacement battery cells through audible and visual alarms, thereby maintaining the operation of the system.

[0043] In some embodiments, the rack is provided with a push-pull mechanism, and the buffer mechanism is disposed on the push-pull mechanism so that the buffer mechanism can be pushed and pulled relative to the rack.

[0044] In this embodiment, the buffer mechanism is pulled out away from the frame via a push-pull mechanism, so that when the operator replenishes the battery cells to be replaced, their working range will not interfere with the replacement mechanism. This ensures that replenishing the battery cells to be replaced does not affect the operation of other mechanisms in the battery cell replacement system, enabling non-stop replenishment and improving production efficiency. Attached Figure Description

[0045] The accompanying drawings, which form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of this disclosure and, together with the specification, serve to explain the principles of this disclosure.

[0046] This disclosure will become clearer with reference to the accompanying drawings and the following detailed description, wherein:

[0047] Figure 1 These are schematic diagrams illustrating the structure of some embodiments of the battery cell replacement system according to this disclosure;

[0048] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the discharge device in some embodiments of the battery cell replacement system according to the present disclosure;

[0049] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the buffer mechanism and push-pull mechanism in some embodiments of the battery cell replacement system according to the present disclosure.

[0050] It should be understood that the dimensions of the various parts shown in the accompanying drawings are not drawn to actual scale. Furthermore, the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar components.

[0051] Figure label:

[0052] 1. Pallet;

[0053] 2. Conveying mechanism;

[0054] 3. The primary testing institution;

[0055] 4. Buffer mechanism; 41. Buffer slot; 42. Buffer sensor;

[0056] 5. Replacement mechanism;

[0057] 6. Second testing facility; 61. Camera; 62. Light source;

[0058] 7. Discharge device; 71. Discharge conveyor line; 711. Limiting component; 712. Discharge sensor; 72. Transfer mechanism; 721. First transfer component; 722. Second transfer component;

[0059] 81. Frame; 811. First frame section; 812. Second frame section; 82. Mounting bracket; 83. Push-pull mechanism;

[0060] A. Battery cell; B. Defective battery cell; C. Battery cell to be replaced; S1. First side. Detailed Implementation

[0061] Various exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The descriptions of the exemplary embodiments are merely illustrative and are in no way intended to limit the present disclosure or its application or use. The present disclosure may be implemented in many different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. These embodiments are provided so that the present disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully express the scope of the disclosure to those skilled in the art. It should be noted that, unless specifically stated otherwise, the relative arrangement of components and steps, the composition of materials, numerical expressions, and values ​​set forth in these embodiments should be interpreted as exemplary only and not as limiting.

[0062] When using terms like "includes" or "contains," to describe an element as "including" or "containing" one or more elements, it should be understood that the elements listed after the word are components of the element preceding the word, but this does not preclude the possibility that the element preceding the word may also contain other elements. Furthermore, this statement specifically covers situations where the element preceding the word is entirely composed of or specifically realized by all the elements listed after the word.

[0063] The terms "first," "second," and similar terms used in this disclosure do not indicate any order, quantity, or importance, but are merely used to distinguish different parts. Terms such as "upper," "lower," "left," and "right" are used only to indicate relative positional relationships, and these relative positional relationships may change accordingly when the absolute position of the described object changes.

[0064] In this disclosure, when a specific device is described as being located between a first device and a second device, an intermediary device may or may not be present between the specific device and the first or second device. When a specific device is described as being connected to other devices, the specific device may be directly connected to the other devices without an intermediary device, or it may be not directly connected to the other devices but have an intermediary device.

[0065] All terms used in this disclosure (including technical or scientific terms) have the same meaning as understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains, unless otherwise specifically defined. It should also be understood that terms defined in a general dictionary, such as a dictionary, should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art, and not as having an idealized or highly formalized meaning, unless expressly defined herein.

[0066] Techniques, methods, and equipment known to those skilled in the art may not be discussed in detail, but where appropriate, such techniques, methods, and equipment should be considered part of the specification.

[0067] During the production of battery devices, it is necessary to test the performance of individual battery cells on the tray. If defective battery cells flow into subsequent processes, it may affect the quality and safety of the battery modules and battery devices. Simultaneously, due to the requirements of automated assembly, the number of battery cells in the tray must remain constant. When a defective battery cell is detected, intercepted, and removed, a good battery cell must be added to ensure that the number of battery cells in the tray remains constant, thus meeting the cell quantity requirements of automated assembly. Therefore, it is necessary to effectively and quickly replace detected defective battery cells with good ones to improve the production efficiency of battery devices.

[0068] In some related technologies, a buffer mechanism is used to store battery cells to be replaced, so that they can be replaced with defective battery cells on the tray. However, the battery cells to be replaced stored in the buffer mechanism may also be defective, and if they flow into subsequent processes, it will affect the production cycle or quality of the battery unit.

[0069] In view of this, embodiments of the present disclosure provide a battery cell replacement system that can improve the production efficiency of battery devices.

[0070] In one aspect of this disclosure, a battery cell replacement system is provided for replacing battery cells carried on a pallet during pallet transport, comprising:

[0071] frame;

[0072] The first inspection unit, located on the rack, is configured to identify defective battery cells in the tray;

[0073] A buffer mechanism, mounted on the rack, is configured to buffer individual battery cells to be replaced;

[0074] A replacement mechanism, disposed on the rack, is configured to remove the battery cell to be replaced from the buffer mechanism and replace the defective battery cell with the battery cell to be replaced.

[0075] A second testing unit, mounted on the rack, is configured to test the removed battery cells to be replaced; and

[0076] A discharge device, mounted on the frame, is configured to discharge the defective battery cells;

[0077] The replacement mechanism is further configured to transfer the defective battery cell in the tray to the discharge device, and to transfer the battery cell to be replaced that is identified as defective by the second detection mechanism to the discharge device.

[0078] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the second inspection agency inspects the removed battery cells to be replaced, which reduces the likelihood of defective battery cells being replaced on the tray, thereby reducing the possibility of production cycles being interrupted by defective battery cells in subsequent battery assembly processes and improving the production efficiency of the battery assembly. The discharge device can promptly remove defective battery cells from the system, maintaining the production cycle, and since defective battery cells in the tray and removed defective battery cells share a single discharge device, it helps to improve space utilization.

[0079] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the battery cell can be a secondary battery, which refers to a battery cell that can be recharged to activate the active materials and continue to be used after the battery cell has been discharged.

[0080] The battery cell can be a lithium-ion battery, sodium-ion battery, sodium-lithium-ion battery, lithium metal battery, sodium metal battery, lithium-sulfur battery, magnesium-ion battery, nickel-metal hydride battery, nickel-cadmium battery, lead-acid battery, etc., and this disclosure does not limit the type. The battery cell can be cylindrical, flat, cuboid, or other shapes, and this disclosure does not limit the shape unless otherwise stated. Battery cells are generally classified according to their packaging method into cylindrical battery cells, square battery cells, and pouch battery cells, and this disclosure does not limit the type unless otherwise stated.

[0081] The battery cells of this disclosure are applicable to various battery devices. The battery device mentioned herein refers to a physical module that includes one or more battery cells to provide higher voltage and capacity.

[0082] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of some embodiments of the battery cell replacement system according to the present disclosure.

[0083] refer to Figure 1 This disclosure provides a battery cell replacement system for replacing battery cells A carried on a tray 1 during transport. The system includes a frame 81, a first detection mechanism 3, a buffer mechanism 4, a replacement mechanism 5, a second detection mechanism 6, and a discharge device 7. The first detection mechanism 3 is mounted on the frame 81 and configured to identify defective battery cells B in the tray 1. The buffer mechanism 4 is mounted on the frame 81 and configured to buffer battery cells C to be replaced. The replacement mechanism 5 is mounted on the frame 81 and configured to remove the battery cell C to be replaced from the buffer mechanism 4 and replace the defective battery cell B with the battery cell C. The second detection mechanism 6 is mounted on the frame 81 and configured to detect the removed battery cell C. The discharge device 7 is mounted on the frame 81 and configured to discharge the defective battery cell B. The replacement mechanism 5 is further configured to transfer the defective battery cell B from the tray 1 to the discharge device 7, and to transfer the battery cell C identified as defective by the second detection mechanism 6 to the discharge device 7.

[0084] like Figure 1 As shown, tray 1 can carry multiple battery cells A and is transported by conveyor mechanism 2 to move between workstations in different processes. Since battery cells A may need to be replaced, tray 1 can lock or unlock battery cells A, for example, by means of a cylinder.

[0085] The first inspection unit 3 is configured to identify defective battery cells B in the tray 1. The first inspection unit 3 can be located on at least one side of the conveying mechanism 2, such as either side of the conveying direction or at least one side of the top or bottom sides, to identify defective battery cells B in the tray 1. The first inspection unit 3 can, for example, use chemical or physical testing methods to test one or more of the performance characteristics of the battery cell A, including appearance inspection or internal performance testing, and identify the defective battery cell B in the tray 1 based on the test results not meeting the testing standards.

[0086] The buffer mechanism 4 is configured to buffer the battery cell C to be replaced, which refers to the battery cell to be replaced from the buffer mechanism 4 into the tray 1. The buffer mechanism 4 can provide buffer space to buffer the battery cell C to be replaced.

[0087] The replacement mechanism 5 is configured to retrieve the battery cell C to be replaced from the buffer mechanism 4 to replace the defective battery cell B. Here, the replacement mechanism 5 can obtain the position of the defective battery cell B in the tray 1 through the first detection mechanism 3, thereby achieving the replacement of the defective battery cell B. The replacement mechanism 5 can be, for example, at least one robotic arm. The replacement mechanism 5 replacing the defective battery cell B means that the replacement mechanism 5 removes the defective battery cell B from the tray 1 and places the retrieved battery cell C to be replaced in the corresponding position of the defective battery cell B in the tray 1.

[0088] The second inspection unit 6 is configured to inspect the removed battery cell C to be replaced. The second inspection unit 6 can perform secondary inspection during the transfer of the battery cell C by the replacement unit 5. The defective battery cell B is replaced with the battery cell C only if the battery cell C to be replaced is identified as good by the second inspection unit 6. Similar to the first inspection unit 3, the second inspection unit 6 can also inspect the appearance or internal performance of the battery cell C to be replaced, and identify defective battery cells C to be replaced based on the test results not meeting the test standards.

[0089] The discharge device 7 is configured to discharge defective battery cells B. For example, the discharge device 7 can discharge defective battery cells B to a designated location for manual handling. For defective battery cells B with poor adhesive placement, they can be manually removed from the discharge device 7 and re-adhesive applied.

[0090] According to the embodiments of this disclosure, the second inspection mechanism 6 inspects the removed battery cells C, enabling the early detection of defective battery cells C and reducing the likelihood of defective battery cells C being replaced on the tray 1. This, in turn, reduces the possibility of production cycles being interrupted by defective battery cells in subsequent battery assembly processes, thereby improving the production efficiency of the battery assembly. The discharge device 7 can promptly remove defective battery cells B from the system, maintaining the production cycle. Furthermore, the defective battery cells A in the tray 1 and the removed defective battery cells C share the same discharge device 7, which helps to improve space utilization.

[0091] refer to Figure 1 In some embodiments, both battery cell A and battery cell C to be replaced are cuboid battery cells (also known as square battery cells). The first detection mechanism 3 detects the first side S1 of battery cell A to identify battery cell A with poor adhesive on the first side S1. The second detection mechanism 6 is configured to detect the first side S1 of battery cell C to be replaced taken out by the replacement mechanism 5 to identify battery cell C to be replaced with poor adhesive on the first side S1. The first side S1 is the side with the largest area of ​​battery cell A.

[0092] The first inspection unit 3 and the second inspection unit 6 can capture images of the first side surface S1 of the rectangular battery cell using a camera to obtain the position of the adhesive (also known as the large-area adhesive) relative to the first side surface S1. This allows for the detection of the positional accuracy or other parameters of the large-area adhesive, in order to identify battery cells A with poor adhesive application and battery cells C to be replaced. The camera is an imaging device based on a charge-coupled device (CCD). Its core component is a semiconductor optoelectronic element manufactured using large-scale integrated circuit technology. It converts light signals into electrical charges through photosensitive units on a silicon wafer, which are then directionally transmitted and digitally processed to form an image.

[0093] In this embodiment, by using the second inspection mechanism 6 to inspect the adhesive on the first side S1 of the rectangular battery cell, the possibility of rectangular battery cells with poor adhesive on the first side S1 being flowed into subsequent processes can be reduced.

[0094] refer to Figure 1 In some embodiments, the second detection mechanism 6 includes a camera 61 configured to acquire images of the battery cell C to be replaced. The battery cell C to be replaced in the buffer mechanism 4 is arranged with its first side S1 facing the side where the lens of the camera 61 is located.

[0095] The second detection mechanism 6 can be located outside the buffer mechanism 4, and the camera 61 can detect the first side S1 of the battery cell C to be replaced. Figure 1As shown, the battery cell C to be replaced is arranged in a horizontal direction. In order to avoid obstruction, the camera 61 can be set at a position higher than the battery cell C in the buffer mechanism 4, so that it can be detected when the battery cell C is taken out by the replacement mechanism 5.

[0096] In this embodiment, the battery cell C to be replaced in the buffer mechanism 4 is arranged with its first side S1 facing the lens of the camera 61. This allows only one camera 61 to inspect all the battery cells C to be replaced in the buffer mechanism 4, which reduces the hardware cost of the second inspection mechanism 6 compared to secondary inspection in subsequent processes. Furthermore, this arrangement eliminates the need for the replacement mechanism 5 to rotate the battery cell C after removal, thus improving production efficiency.

[0097] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the discharge device in some embodiments of the battery cell replacement system according to the present disclosure.

[0098] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 In some embodiments, the discharge device 7 includes a discharge conveyor line 71 and a transfer mechanism 72. The discharge conveyor line 71 is configured to convey the received defective battery cells B to the discharge location. The transfer mechanism 72 is connected to the discharge conveyor line 71 and is configured to receive the defective battery cells B transferred by the replacement mechanism 5 and transfer the defective battery cells B to the discharge conveyor line 71.

[0099] The discharge location could be, for example, the end of the discharge conveyor line 71 in the conveying direction. To limit the movement of defective battery cells B transported on the discharge conveyor line 71, roller walls can be installed on both sides of the discharge conveyor line 71 in the conveying direction. The transfer mechanism 72 can be, for example, located between the discharge conveyor line 71 and the conveying mechanism 2.

[0100] In the battery cell replacement system, a hood is required for production safety to separate the workspace of the replacement mechanism 5 from the workspace of the workers. This makes the arrangement of the replacement mechanism 5, the hood, and the discharge conveyor line 71 relatively restricted and prone to interference.

[0101] In this embodiment, by setting up a transfer mechanism 72 to receive the defective battery cell B transferred by the replacement mechanism 5, and then transferring it to the discharge conveyor line 71 for discharge, the discharge path of the defective battery cell B can be changed, the working range of the replacement mechanism 5 can be optimized, and the arrangement of each mechanism can be more flexible.

[0102] refer to Figure 2In some embodiments, the discharge conveyor 71 includes a stop 711 and / or a discharge sensor 712. The stop 711 is positioned at the discharge location to restrict the defective battery cell B to the discharge location. The discharge sensor 712 is configured to detect the presence of the defective battery cell B at the discharge location.

[0103] The limiting component 711 can be a stop, and the discharge sensor 712 can be a photoelectric sensor. When there is a defective battery cell B at the discharge position, its light path is blocked.

[0104] In this embodiment, the limiting member 711 can restrict the defective battery cell B to the discharge position for manual removal. The discharge sensor 712 can detect the presence of the defective battery cell B at the discharge position in a timely manner, so as to prompt the manual removal and handling in conjunction with an alarm or other devices.

[0105] refer to Figure 2 In some embodiments, the transfer mechanism 72 includes a first transfer member 721 and a second transfer member 722. The first transfer member 721 is configured to convey the defective battery cell B along a first direction so that the defective battery cell B reaches a docking position near the discharge conveyor line 71. The second transfer member 722 is configured to convey the defective battery cell B, which has reached the docking position, along a second direction so that the defective battery cell B reaches the inlet of the discharge conveyor line 71. The first direction intersects the conveying direction of the discharge conveyor line 71, and the second direction is parallel to the conveying direction of the discharge conveyor line 71.

[0106] The first transfer member 721 may be, for example, a drive motor that drives the defective battery cell B to move. The transfer mechanism 72 may also include a guide rail extending along a first direction to guide the movement of the defective battery cell B.

[0107] The transfer mechanism 72 may further include a carrier with a base plate to support the received defective battery cells B. The carrier may have two opposing roller walls to restrict movement of the defective battery cells B, and may also have bottom rollers for movement on guide rails. The docking position near the discharge conveyor line 71 may, for example, be located at the end of the transfer mechanism 72 in the first direction. Figure 2 In the middle, the first direction and the second direction are perpendicular.

[0108] The second transfer member 722 can be a dial with soft teeth. After the defective battery cell B reaches the docking position, the second transfer member 722 moves the defective battery cell B in the second direction.

[0109] In this embodiment, the transfer mechanism 72 includes a first transfer member 721 and a second transfer member 722, which respectively transport the defective battery cell B in a first direction and a second direction, enabling the defective battery cell B to be turned. In this way, the transfer mechanism 72 can be arranged in a position further away from the worker's work area, so that the replacement mechanism 5 can more easily place the defective battery cell B on the transfer mechanism 72.

[0110] refer to Figure 2 In some embodiments, the discharge conveyor line 71 includes a chain conveyor line. A chain conveyor line is a type of conveying machinery that uses a reciprocating chain as traction power and a metal or plastic plate as the conveying carrier.

[0111] In this embodiment, the discharge conveyor line 71 includes a chain conveyor line, which makes the conveying surface of the discharge conveyor line 71 flat and smooth with low friction, thereby making the conveying of defective battery cells B on the discharge conveyor line 71 more stable.

[0112] refer to Figure 1 In some embodiments, the battery cell replacement system also includes a conveying mechanism 2, which is disposed adjacent to the frame 81 and configured as a conveying tray 1.

[0113] The conveying mechanism 2 may be, but is not limited to, a conveyor belt, which can continuously convey the pallet 1 as needed, or stop it at a replacement station.

[0114] In this embodiment, the conveying mechanism 2 is arranged adjacent to the frame 81, so that when the pallet 1 is conveyed to the area of ​​the frame 81 by the conveying mechanism 2, it can be conveniently inspected. At the same time, the replacement mechanism 5 is also arranged on the frame 81, which helps to reduce the movement path of the replacement mechanism 5 and improve production efficiency.

[0115] refer to Figure 1 In some embodiments, the frame 81 includes a first frame portion 811 and a second frame portion 812 disposed on both sides of the conveying mechanism 2. The battery cell replacement system also includes a mounting frame 82 spanning the first frame portion 811 and the second frame portion 812, with the replacement mechanism 5 disposed on top of the mounting frame 82.

[0116] The first frame section 811 and the second frame section 812 include a platform higher than the ground. The first detection mechanism 3, the buffer mechanism 4, the replacement mechanism 5, and the second detection mechanism 6 can be mounted on the platform. The conveying mechanism 2 can be fixedly mounted between the first frame section 811 and the second frame section 812, or directly fixedly connected to the first frame section 811 and the second frame section 812.

[0117] Mounting frame 82 may include columns and crossbeams connecting the tops of the columns to span across the first frame portion 811 and the second frame portion 812. The replacement mechanism 5 may be, but is not limited to, a parallel robot. Parallel robots can utilize the space above frame 81, have no cumulative errors, high precision, and their moving parts are lightweight, fast, and have better dynamic response capabilities.

[0118] In this embodiment, the replacement mechanism 5 is located on top of the mounting frame 82, which can utilize the space above the rack 81, improve space utilization, and make it more flexible to move when picking up, discharging and replacing.

[0119] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the buffer mechanism and push-pull mechanism in some embodiments of the battery cell replacement system according to the present disclosure.

[0120] refer to Figure 3 In some embodiments, the buffer mechanism 4 includes a plurality of buffer slots 41, each buffer slot 41 being provided with a buffer sensor 42, the buffer sensor 42 being configured to identify whether a battery cell C to be replaced is present in the buffer slot 41.

[0121] Each buffer slot 41 can be made of a smooth, rigid plastic block, conforming to the outer contour of the battery cell C to be replaced, to provide buffer space. The size of the buffer slot 41 is slightly larger than the size of the battery cell C to be replaced, so that the battery cell C can be smoothly inserted or removed without interference. The number of buffer slots 41 can be, for example, 6.

[0122] The buffer sensor 42 can be, for example, a photoelectric sensor, which is set on both sides of the buffer slot 41. When a battery cell C is present in the buffer slot 41, its light path is blocked.

[0123] In this embodiment, the cache sensor 42 identifies whether there is a battery cell C to be replaced at the cache slot 41, and can obtain the location information of the battery cell C to be replaced so that the replacement mechanism 5 can accurately pick up the battery cell C to be replaced.

[0124] In some embodiments, the buffer mechanism 4 further includes a buffer alarm configured to issue an audible and visual alarm when no battery cell C to be replaced is present in any of the buffer slots 41.

[0125] The buffer alarm can be installed at the buffer slot 41, or at a location away from the buffer slot 41, and connected to the buffer sensor 42.

[0126] In this embodiment, if there are no replacement battery cells C in all 41 buffer slots, the system will not be able to operate normally. The buffer alarm can effectively remind the staff to replenish the replacement battery cells C through audible and visual alarms, thereby maintaining the operation of the system.

[0127] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 3 In some embodiments, the rack 81 is provided with a push-pull mechanism 83, and the buffer mechanism 4 is disposed on the push-pull mechanism 83 so that the buffer mechanism 4 can be pushed and pulled relative to the rack 81.

[0128] The push-pull mechanism 83 is movable relative to the frame 81 so that the buffer mechanism 4 mounted thereon can be pulled out of the housing of the battery cell replacement system in a direction away from the frame 81, thereby replenishing the battery cell C to be replaced.

[0129] In this embodiment, the buffer mechanism 4 is pulled out away from the frame 81 by the push-pull mechanism 83, so that when the operator replenishes the battery cell C to be replaced, his working range will not interfere with the replacement mechanism 5. This ensures that replenishing the battery cell C to be replaced does not affect the operation of other mechanisms in the battery cell replacement system, enabling non-stop material replenishment and improving production efficiency.

[0130] The following is for reference. Figures 1-3 A specific example of the battery cell replacement system disclosed herein will be described.

[0131] A battery cell replacement system is used to replace battery cells A carried on tray 1 during the transport process of tray 1. It includes a frame 81, a first detection mechanism 3, a buffer mechanism 4, a replacement mechanism 5, a second detection mechanism 6, and a discharge device 7. The first detection mechanism 3 is mounted on the frame 81 and configured to identify defective battery cells B in tray 1. The buffer mechanism 4 is mounted on the frame 81 and configured to buffer battery cells C to be replaced. The replacement mechanism 5 is mounted on the frame 81 and configured to remove the battery cell C to be replaced from the buffer mechanism 4 and replace the defective battery cell B with the battery cell C. The second detection mechanism 6 is mounted on the frame 81 and configured to detect the removed battery cell C. The discharge device 7 is mounted on the frame 81 and configured to discharge the defective battery cell B. The replacement mechanism 5 is also configured to transfer the defective battery cell B from tray 1 to the discharge device 7, and to transfer the battery cell C identified as defective by the second detection mechanism 6 to the discharge device 7.

[0132] Both battery cell A and battery cell C to be replaced are rectangular battery cells. The first detection mechanism 3 detects the first side S1 of battery cell A to identify battery cell A with poor adhesive on the first side S1. The second detection mechanism 6 is configured to detect the first side S1 of battery cell C to be replaced taken out by the replacement mechanism 5 to identify battery cell C to be replaced with poor adhesive on the first side S1. The first side S1 is the side with the largest area of ​​battery cell A.

[0133] The second detection mechanism 6 includes a camera 61, which is configured to acquire images of the battery cell C to be replaced. The battery cell C to be replaced in the buffer mechanism 4 is arranged with its first side S1 facing the side where the lens of the camera 61 is located.

[0134] The discharge device 7 includes a discharge conveyor line 71 and a transfer mechanism 72. The discharge conveyor line 71 is configured to transport the received defective battery cells B to the discharge location. The transfer mechanism 72 is connected to the discharge conveyor line 71 and is configured to receive the defective battery cells B transferred by the replacement mechanism 5 and transfer the defective battery cells B to the discharge conveyor line 71.

[0135] The discharge conveyor 71 includes a stop 711 and a discharge sensor 712. The stop 711 is positioned at the discharge location to restrict the defective battery cell B to the discharge location. The discharge sensor 712 is configured to detect the presence of the defective battery cell B at the discharge location.

[0136] The transfer mechanism 72 includes a first transfer member 721 and a second transfer member 722. The first transfer member 721 is configured to convey the defective battery cell B along a first direction so that the defective battery cell B reaches a docking position near the discharge conveyor line 71. The second transfer member 722 is configured to convey the defective battery cell B, which has reached the docking position, along a second direction so that the defective battery cell B reaches the inlet of the discharge conveyor line 71. The first direction intersects the conveying direction of the discharge conveyor line 71, and the second direction is parallel to the conveying direction of the discharge conveyor line 71. The discharge conveyor line 71 is a chain conveyor line.

[0137] The battery cell replacement system also includes a conveying mechanism 2. The conveying mechanism 2 is disposed adjacent to the frame 81 and is configured as a conveying tray 1.

[0138] The frame 81 includes a first frame portion 811 and a second frame portion 812 disposed on both sides of the conveying mechanism 2. The battery cell replacement system also includes a mounting frame 82 spanning the first frame portion 811 and the second frame portion 812, with the replacement mechanism 5 disposed on top of the mounting frame 82. The replacement mechanism 5 is a parallel robot.

[0139] The buffer mechanism 4 includes multiple buffer slots 41, each buffer slot 41 is equipped with a buffer sensor 42, and the buffer sensor 42 is configured to detect whether a battery cell C to be replaced is present in the buffer slot 41. The buffer mechanism 4 also includes a buffer alarm, which is configured to issue an audible and visual alarm when no battery cell C to be replaced is present in any of the buffer slots 41.

[0140] The rack 81 is provided with a push-pull mechanism 83, and the buffer mechanism 4 is disposed in the push-pull mechanism 83 so that the buffer mechanism 4 can be pushed and pulled relative to the rack 81.

[0141] The main working process of the battery cell replacement system disclosed herein is described below.

[0142] Pallet 1 carries battery cell A, and conveyor mechanism 2 transports pallet 1. During the transport process of conveyor mechanism 2, first detection mechanism 3 detects battery cell A in pallet 1, for example, by detecting the position of the large adhesive layer using a camera. If there is no defective battery cell B in pallet 1, conveyor mechanism 2 does not stop transporting, and pallet 1 directly passes through the battery cell replacement system.

[0143] If a defective battery cell B is present in tray 1, conveying mechanism 2 stops conveying and stops tray 1 at the replacement station. Replacement mechanism 5 removes the defective battery cell B from tray 1 based on its location information and places it into transfer mechanism 72 of discharge device 7. Transfer mechanism 72 conveys the defective battery cell B along a first direction to the docking position, and then conveys the defective battery cell B along a second direction to the inlet of discharge conveyor line 71.

[0144] After the replacement mechanism 5 places the defective battery cell B into the transfer mechanism 72, the replacement mechanism 5 takes out the battery cell C to be replaced from the buffer mechanism 4. When the replacement mechanism 5 picks up the battery cell C to be replaced, the second detection mechanism 6 detects the battery cell C to be replaced. If it is identified as good, the replacement mechanism 5 places the battery cell C to be replaced on the tray 1, and the conveying mechanism 2 continues to operate.

[0145] If the replacement mechanism 5 picks up the battery cell C to be replaced and identifies it as a defective battery cell B, the replacement mechanism 5 places the defective battery cell B into the transfer mechanism 72 of the discharge device 7, and then takes out the battery cell C to be replaced from the buffer mechanism 4 again. The second detection mechanism 6 performs the detection again, and repeats the above process until a good battery cell C to be replaced is placed into the tray 1.

[0146] If the battery cell C to be replaced is not present in the buffer mechanism 4, the buffer alarm will sound an audible and visual alarm to remind the staff to replenish the battery cell C. The staff will pull out the buffer mechanism 4 through the push-pull mechanism 83, fill the buffer slot 41 with the battery cell C to be replaced, and then push the buffer mechanism 4 back in.

[0147] The embodiments of this disclosure have now been described in detail. To avoid obscuring the concept of this disclosure, some details known in the art have not been described. Those skilled in the art can fully understand how to implement the technical solutions disclosed herein based on the above description.

[0148] While specific embodiments of this disclosure have been described in detail by way of examples, those skilled in the art should understand that the examples are for illustrative purposes only and not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can be made to the above embodiments or equivalent substitutions can be made to some technical features without departing from the scope and spirit of this disclosure. The scope of this disclosure is defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A battery cell replacement system for replacing battery cells (A) carried by a tray (1) during transport of the tray (1), characterized in that include: Rack (81); The first detection unit (3), located on the frame (81), is configured to identify defective battery cells (B) in the tray (1). A buffer mechanism (4), disposed on the rack (81), is configured to buffer the battery cell (C) to be replaced. The replacement mechanism (5), disposed on the rack (81), is configured to remove the battery cell (C) to be replaced from the buffer mechanism (4) and replace the defective battery cell (B) with the battery cell (C). The second testing unit (6) is mounted on the frame (81) and is configured to test the removed battery cell (C) to be replaced. and A discharge device (7) is provided on the frame (81) and configured to discharge the defective battery cell (B). The replacement mechanism (5) is also configured to transfer the defective battery cell (B) in the tray (1) to the discharge device (7), and to transfer the battery cell (C) identified as defective by the second detection mechanism (6) to the discharge device (7).

2. The battery cell replacement system of claim 1, wherein, Both the battery cell (A) and the battery cell to be replaced (C) are rectangular battery cells. The first detection mechanism (3) detects the first side (S1) of the battery cell (A) to identify the battery cell (A) with poor adhesive on the first side (S1). The second detection mechanism (6) is configured to detect the first side (S1) of the battery cell to be replaced (C) taken out by the replacement mechanism (5) to identify the battery cell to be replaced (C) with poor adhesive on the first side (S1). The first side (S1) is the side with the largest area of ​​the battery cell (A).

3. The battery cell replacement system of claim 2, wherein, The second detection mechanism (6) includes a camera (61) configured to acquire images of the battery cell (C) to be replaced; In this configuration, the battery cell (C) to be replaced in the buffer mechanism (4) is arranged so that the first side (S1) faces the side where the lens of the camera (61) is located.

4. The battery cell replacement system of claim 1, wherein, The discharge device (7) includes: The discharge conveyor line (71) is configured to transport the received defective battery cells (B) to the discharge location; and The transfer mechanism (72), connected to the discharge conveyor line (71), is configured to receive the defective battery cell (B) transferred by the replacement mechanism (5) and transfer the defective battery cell (B) to the discharge conveyor line (71).

5. The battery cell replacement system of claim 4, wherein, The discharge conveyor line (71) includes: A limiting member (711) is provided at the discharge position to restrict the defective battery cell (B) at the discharge position; and / or A discharge sensor (712) is configured to identify whether the defective battery cell (B) is present at the discharge location.

6. The battery cell replacement system of claim 4, wherein, The transfer mechanism (72) includes: The first transfer member (721) is configured to convey the defective battery cell (B) along a first direction so that the defective battery cell (B) reaches a docking position close to the discharge conveyor line (71). The second transfer member (722) is configured to convey the defective battery cell (B) that has reached the docking position along a second direction to bring the defective battery cell (B) to the inlet of the discharge conveyor line (71). The first direction intersects the conveying direction of the discharge conveyor line (71), and the second direction is parallel to the conveying direction of the discharge conveyor line (71).

7. The battery cell replacement system of claim 4, wherein, The discharge conveyor line (71) includes a chain conveyor line.

8. The battery replacement system of claim 1, wherein, Also includes: The conveying mechanism (2), which is disposed adjacent to the frame (81), is configured to convey the pallet (1).

9. The battery cell replacement system of claim 8, wherein, The frame (81) includes a first frame portion (811) and a second frame portion (812) disposed on both sides of the conveying mechanism (2). The battery cell replacement system also includes a mounting bracket (82) spanning the first frame portion (811) and the second frame portion (812), and the replacement mechanism (5) is disposed on the top of the mounting bracket (82).

10. The battery replacement system of claim 1, wherein, The buffer mechanism (4) includes a plurality of buffer slots (41), each of the buffer slots (41) is provided with a buffer sensor (42), the buffer sensor (42) being configured to identify whether the battery cell (C) to be replaced is present in the buffer slot (41).

11. The battery cell replacement system of claim 10, wherein, The buffer mechanism (4) further includes a buffer alarm, configured to issue an audible and visual alarm when the battery cell (C) to be replaced is not present in any of the buffer slots (41).

12. The battery replacement system of claim 1, wherein, The rack (81) is provided with a push-pull mechanism (83), and the buffer mechanism (4) is disposed on the push-pull mechanism (83) so that the buffer mechanism (4) can be pushed and pulled relative to the rack (81).

Images