Battery manufacturing equipment

Abstract

This disclosure relates to a battery manufacturing apparatus, comprising: a plurality of cell processing units disposed along a first direction, each of the plurality of cell processing units including a heating unit for heating a cell; and a movement adjustment unit for moving the plurality of cell processing units along the first direction to adjust the interval between the plurality of cell processing units, wherein the movement adjustment unit maintains the interval between any one of the plurality of cell processing units and another cell processing unit adjacent to the any one of the plurality of cell processing units at a preset target interval, and wherein the any one of the plurality of cell processing units and the other adjacent cell processing unit together heat the cell installed in the any one of the cell processing units.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a battery manufacturing apparatus used in the manufacture of battery cells. More specifically, it relates to a battery manufacturing apparatus for improving the efficiency of the battery cell manufacturing process or formation process. Background Technology

[0002] The manufacturing process of battery cells involves heating and pre-charging the cells after assembly. In particular, heating the cells improves the wetting ability of the electrolyte inside the cells, thus facilitating successful pre-charging.

[0003] However, typically, heating a prismatic battery cell is done using its bottom surface, which results in a relatively long heating time and may not achieve uniform heating by heating only the bottom surface. Additionally, the cell casing may deform due to gas during heating. Utility Model Content

[0004] (a) Technical problems to be solved

[0005] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the problem to be solved is to increase the heating area of ​​the battery cell and to heat the increased heating area uniformly.

[0006] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the problem to be solved is to shorten the time required to heat the battery cells.

[0007] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the problem to be solved is to minimize the deformation of the casing when heating the battery cell.

[0008] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the problem to be solved is to improve the wettability of the electrolyte and to facilitate pre-charging.

[0009] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the problem to be solved is to improve the efficiency of the battery cell manufacturing process.

[0010] On the other hand, this disclosure can be widely applied to the fields of electric vehicles, battery charging stations, energy storage systems (ESS), and other green technologies that utilize batteries, such as solar power (photovoltaics) and wind power. Furthermore, this disclosure can be used for eco-friendly mobility, including electric vehicles and hybrid vehicles, to prevent climate change by suppressing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.

[0011] (II) Technical Solution

[0012] The battery manufacturing apparatus according to this disclosure may include: a plurality of cell processing units disposed along a first direction, and each of the plurality of cell processing units includes a heating unit for heating a cell; and a movement adjustment unit for moving the plurality of cell processing units along the first direction to adjust the interval between the plurality of cell processing units. The movement adjustment unit can maintain the interval between any one of the plurality of cell processing units and another cell processing unit adjacent to the any one of the cell processing units at a preset target interval, and any one of the plurality of cell processing units and the other adjacent cell processing unit can together heat the cell installed in the any one of the cell processing units.

[0013] The battery manufacturing apparatus according to this disclosure may further include: a first support portion and a second support portion disposed on both sides of the plurality of cell processing portions along the first direction; and a pressure sensing portion located on either the first support portion or the second support portion, for measuring the pressure applied to the plurality of cell processing portions or the cells when the plurality of cell processing portions are moved by the movement adjustment portion.

[0014] The pressure sensing unit may be a load sensor, which contacts the outer side of the plurality of battery cell processing units when the plurality of battery cell processing units move.

[0015] The movable adjustment unit may include a movable shaft, which is supported by another support of the first support and the second support, and rotates to move the plurality of cell processing units.

[0016] The movement adjustment unit may further include a movement prevention unit that prevents the rotation of the movement shaft to suppress the expansion of the battery cell.

[0017] Each of the plurality of cell processing sections may further include: a main body section that supports the heating section and pressurizes the cell; and a fixing section that guides the cell to the heating section and detachably fixes the cell to the main body section. The heating section may include: a first heater disposed on the front surface of the main body section where the fixing section is located to heat the cell; and a second heater located in the opposite direction of the front surface to heat an adjacent cell.

[0018] Each of the plurality of cell processing units may further include a temperature sensor located at the lower part of the main body to sense the temperature of the heating unit.

[0019] The heating element can heat the battery cell to a preset allowable temperature.

[0020] Each of the plurality of cell processing sections may include: a wing extending from both sides of the main body along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction; a recess formed by at least a portion of the side of the wing recessing toward the main body; and a gap block including: an extension extending from the wing along the first direction; and a bending portion bending from one end of the extension toward the fixing portion.

[0021] A portion of the bent portion of any one of the cell processing units can be inserted into the recess of the other cell processing unit.

[0022] When the bent portion of any one of the cell processing units is inserted into the recess of the other cell processing unit, the gap block of any one of the cell processing units can maintain the target interval between the any one of the cell processing units and the other cell processing unit.

[0023] The fixing part may include a first fixing block and a second fixing block, the first fixing block and the second fixing block are arranged along the second direction and extend along the height direction of the main body, and the lower ends of the first fixing block and the second fixing block may be bent toward each other.

[0024] Each of the plurality of cell processing units may further include a wheel located at the lower part of the wing.

[0025] It may further include a guide rod extending along the first direction, and each of the plurality of cell processing sections may further include a connection hole formed through the wing, and the guide rod is inserted into the connection hole.

[0026] (III) Beneficial Effects

[0027] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the heating area of ​​the battery cell can be increased, and the increased heating area can be heated uniformly.

[0028] According to another embodiment of this disclosure, the time required to heat the battery cell can be shortened.

[0029] According to another embodiment of this disclosure, the deformation of the casing can be minimized when heating the battery cell.

[0030] According to yet another embodiment of this disclosure, the wettability of the electrolyte can be improved, and pre-charging can be performed smoothly.

[0031] According to yet another embodiment of this disclosure, the efficiency of the battery cell manufacturing process can be improved. Attached Figure Description

[0032] Figure 1 This is an example of a battery manufacturing apparatus disclosed herein.

[0033] Figure 2 This is an example of a battery manufacturing apparatus according to the present disclosure viewed from the side (Y direction).

[0034] Figure 3 This is a block diagram related to the control unit.

[0035] Figure 4 This is an example of a cell processing department.

[0036] Figure 5 Observation from the rear Figure 4 An example of a cell processing section is shown.

[0037] Figure 6 This is an example illustrating how multiple cell processing units pressurize the cells.

[0038] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a control method for a battery manufacturing apparatus according to the present disclosure.

[0039] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0040] 100: Battery cell; 210: Battery cell processing department

[0041] 211a: Main body; 211b, 211c: Wings

[0042] 213: Gap block; 215: Fixing part

[0043] 219: Recessed portion; 920: Adjustable movement portion

[0044] 930: Pressure sensing unit; 950: Heating unit

[0045] 1000: Battery manufacturing equipment Detailed Implementation

[0046] Preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The configurations or control methods of the apparatus described below are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. Throughout this specification, the same reference numerals denote the same components.

[0047] Figure 1 This is an example of a battery manufacturing apparatus according to the present disclosure.

[0048] Reference Figure 1 The battery manufacturing apparatus 1000 according to this disclosure may include: a plurality of cell processing units 210 disposed along a first direction (X direction); and a movement adjustment unit 920 for moving the plurality of cell processing units 210 along the first direction to adjust the spacing between the plurality of cell processing units 210.

[0049] Additionally, the battery manufacturing apparatus 1000 may further include a support 500 for supporting the plurality of cell processing units 210. The support 500 may further include a traveling section (not shown) or a track (not shown) for moving the plurality of cell processing units 210 along a first direction. The traveling section allows for smoother movement of the plurality of cell processing units 210.

[0050] Additionally, the battery manufacturing apparatus 1000 may further include a guide rod 290 for guiding the movement of the plurality of cell processing units 210.

[0051] The battery cell 100 can be housed in any one of the plurality of battery cell processing units 210. Furthermore, it can be accommodated by the heating unit 950 (see below) described later. Figure 3 The battery cell 100 is heated. Alternatively, a plurality of battery cells 100 may be provided, corresponding to the number of the plurality of battery cell processing units 210.

[0052] The cell processing unit 210 can pressurize and heat the cell 100 housed in (or in contact with) the cell processing unit 210. More specifically, the cell processing unit 210 can pressurize and heat the cell 100 while maintaining the spacing between the plurality of cell processing units 210 at a preset target spacing.

[0053] The spacing between the plurality of cell processing units 210 refers to the spacing between any one of the plurality of cell processing units 210 and another cell processing unit 210 adjacent to that one. More specifically, it refers to any one of the main body units 211a, which will be described later (see reference 211a). Figure 4 The interval between the main body portion 211a and another main body portion 211a adjacent to any one of the main body portions 211a.

[0054] The movable adjustment unit 920 can individually control the plurality of cell processing units 210, and can reduce the interval between the plurality of cell processing units 210 from a preset initial interval to a preset target interval, or increase the interval from the target interval to the initial interval.

[0055] The movement adjustment unit 920 allows the plurality of cell processing units 210 to move along the first direction on the support 500. Through the movement adjustment unit 920, the battery manufacturing apparatus 1000 can maintain the interval between the plurality of cell processing units 210 at a preset initial interval, or adjust the interval between the plurality of cell processing units 210 to a target interval shorter than the initial interval length. The movement adjustment unit 920 can also adjust the interval between the plurality of cell processing units 210 from the target interval to the initial interval.

[0056] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 The movement adjustment unit 920 may further include a movement shaft 927, which rotates to adjust the spacing between the plurality of cell processing units 210. The movement shaft 927 may have a screw configuration with threads on its outer surface. The movement shaft 927 can be configured in other ways as long as it enables the plurality of cell processing units 210 to move along the first direction. For example, a linear actuator or similar component may be used instead of the movement shaft 927.

[0057] On the other hand, refer to Figure 1 The battery manufacturing apparatus 1000 may further include a support portion 250, which is disposed along the first direction across the plurality of cell processing portions.

[0058] The support portion 250 may be provided with a pressure sensing portion 930 (see reference). Figure 2 The pressure sensing unit 930 measures the pressure applied to the plurality of cell processing units 210. Additionally, the support unit 250 can support the moving shaft 927 (see reference 2010) that rotates via the drive unit 921. Figure 1 ).

[0059] More specifically, the support portion 250 may include a first support portion 251 and a second support portion 252 disposed on both sides of the plurality of cell processing portions 210 along the first direction.

[0060] Additionally, the battery manufacturing apparatus 1000 may further include a pressure sensing unit 930, located at either the first support portion 251 or the second support portion 252, to measure the pressure applied to the plurality of cell processing portions 210. Furthermore, the battery manufacturing apparatus 1000 may include the moving shaft 927, supported by the other support portion of the first support portion 251 and the second support portion 252, and rotated to move the plurality of cell processing portions 210.

[0061] Figure 2 This is an example of a battery manufacturing apparatus according to the present disclosure viewed from the side (Y direction).

[0062] Reference Figure 2 The illustration shows an example where the pressure sensing unit 930 is disposed in the first support portion 251 and the moving shaft 927 is supported by the second support portion 252, but is not limited thereto. Furthermore, the pressure sensing unit 930 can be disposed in other locations as long as it is capable of measuring the pressure applied to the plurality of cell processing portions 210.

[0063] The pressure sensing unit 930 can be a load cell, which contacts the outer side of the plurality of cell processing units 210 when the plurality of cell processing units 210 move. Since the pressure applied to the plurality of cell processing units 210 is the same as the pressure applied to the cell 100, the pressure sensing unit 930 does not need to be in direct contact with the cell 100.

[0064] In contrast, the pressure sensing unit 930 can be a sensor that measures the pressure applied to the plurality of battery cell processing units 210 using capacitance. Furthermore, there can be various methods for measuring the pressure applied to the plurality of battery cells 100.

[0065] Reference Figure 2 The moving adjustment unit 920 may further include a driving unit 921, which is used to adjust the interval between the plurality of cell processing units 210 via the moving shaft 927. Figure 2 An example of the drive unit 921 being a ring-shaped handle is shown. However, the drive unit 921 may also include any one of a servo motor, a torque wrench, or an electric actuator to rotate the moving shaft 927.

[0066] On the other hand, refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The plurality of cell processing units 210 can be arranged in multiple columns along the first direction, instead of a single column. The battery manufacturing apparatus 1000 can simultaneously pressurize and heat more cells 100 through the plurality of columns. Each column can be individually provided with the pressure sensing unit 930 and the movement adjustment unit 920. Therefore, the cell processing unit 210 provided in one column can be independently controlled, independent of the cell processing unit 210 provided in another column.

[0067] On the other hand, the movement adjustment unit 920 may further include a movement prevention unit 923 to prevent the rotation of the movement shaft 927 and fix the spacing between the plurality of cell processing units 210.

[0068] The movement prevention unit 923 can prevent the plurality of battery cell processing units 210 from moving when the plurality of battery cells 100 are heated and expanded.

[0069] Reference Figure 2 The movement prevention part 923 can be configured as a pin-shaped lever to prevent the drive part 921, which is in the form of a handle, from rotating in the direction of releasing pressure.

[0070] That is, the movement prevention part 923 can function as a fixing mechanism to prevent the rotation of the rotating shaft.

[0071] The movement prevention part 923 can fix the connecting shaft 925 used to connect the moving shaft 927 and the driving part 921 to block the reaction force transmitted from the moving shaft 927 to the driving part 921, or the driving force transmitted from the driving part 921 to the moving shaft 927.

[0072] For example, the movement prevention part 923 can be configured as a pin and inserted radially along the movement shaft 927 to prevent the movement shaft 927 from rotating.

[0073] Reference Figure 2 The plurality of cell processing units 210 can be arranged along the first direction and divided into two groups, GA and GB. If the plurality of cell processing units 210 are arranged in a column along the first direction (hereinafter referred to as series arrangement), the length of the plurality of cell processing units 210 will become longer, which may result in uneven voltage application to each cell 100.

[0074] Therefore, the battery manufacturing apparatus 1000 can prevent more than a predetermined number of cell processing units 210 from simultaneously pressurizing the cell 100 by grouping the plurality of cell processing units 210, so as to uniformly pressurize the cell 100 housed in the plurality of cell processing units 210 in the series arrangement.

[0075] That is, the battery cells 100 housed in any one of the battery cell processing units 210 can be arranged in a direction toward another group.

[0076] Furthermore, the orientation of the battery cells 100 housed in the battery cell processing section 210 included in each group can be opposite. However, this is just an example, and they can also be set to the same orientation.

[0077] Additionally, refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The illustration shows an example where one column includes two grouped cell processing units 210, thus the battery manufacturing apparatus 1000 includes a total of four grouped cell processing units 210 in the two columns. However, the battery manufacturing apparatus 1000 according to this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0078] The grouped cell processing unit 210 may include cell processing units 210 grouped according to a preset number of groups.

[0079] The grouped cell processing unit 210 may include: a first cell processing unit 2101 and a third cell processing unit 2103 located at the outermost periphery of the grouped cell processing unit 210 along the first direction; and one or more second cell processing units 2102 located between the first cell processing unit 2101 and the third cell processing unit 2103.

[0080] The first cell processing unit 2101 only needs to heat the cell 100 that is detachably fixed to the first cell processing unit 2101, so the heating unit 950 (described later) can be included only on one of the two sides of the first cell processing unit 2101. Figure 4 On the other hand, the third cell processing unit 2103 only needs to heat another cell 100 adjacent to the third cell processing unit 2103. Therefore, the fixing part 215 that accommodates the cell 100 can be omitted from the third cell processing unit 2103, and only the heating part 950 can be included on one side.

[0081] The second cell processing unit 2102 may include the heating unit 950 on both sides to heat the cell 100 housed in the second cell processing unit 2102 and to heat another adjacent cell 100.

[0082] Figure 3 A block diagram related to the control unit is shown.

[0083] The battery manufacturing apparatus 1000 according to this disclosure may include a control unit 900 for controlling the movement adjustment unit 920. The battery manufacturing apparatus 1000 may sense the load or pressure applied to the battery cell 100 via the pressure sensing unit 930.

[0084] In addition, the control unit 900 can control the heating unit 950 that heats the battery cell 100, and can sense the heating temperature of the battery cell 100 through the temperature sensor 910.

[0085] Additionally, the battery manufacturing apparatus 1000 may include an input / output unit 940, which receives commands from a user and outputs information about the battery cell 100 to the user. The input / output unit 940 may be located on the support 500.

[0086] The control unit 900 can receive and execute user commands through the input / output unit 940, and display to the user the pressure applied to the cell 100 sensed by the pressure sensing unit 930 and the temperature of the cell 100 sensed by the temperature sensor 910.

[0087] Figure 4 This is an example of a cell processing department. Figure 5 Observation from the rear Figure 4 An example of a cell processing section is shown.

[0088] Reference Figure 4 The cell processing unit 210 can accommodate and heat the cell 100. Preferably, one cell processing unit 210 can accommodate one cell 100. More specifically, after the cell 100 is detachably fixed, the cell 100 can be heated by contacting one side of the cell 100.

[0089] Additionally, the cell processing unit 210 can also contact one side of another cell 100 adjacent to it to heat one side of the other cell 100. When heating the cell 100, the interval between the cell processing unit 210 and the cell processing unit 210 that houses the adjacent cell 100 can be a preset target interval.

[0090] As described above, the target interval GL can be maintained by the movement adjustment unit 920.

[0091] The cell processing unit 210 may include: a heating unit 950 for heating the cell 100; a main body 211a for supporting the heating unit 950 and pressurizing the cell 100; and a fixing unit 215 for guiding the cell 100 to the heating unit 950 and detachably fixing the cell 100 to the main body 211a.

[0092] Reference Figure 4The main body 211a can be configured as a planar shape, and the heating part 950 can be attached to one surface of the main body 211a. The heating part 950 can be a pad-shaped heater.

[0093] For example, the heating element 950 can be a heater formed by arranging heating wires between gaskets and using a pressing process. The gaskets can be made of silicone or epoxy rubber. Therefore, even if the heating element 950 comes into contact with one side of the battery cell 100, damage to the battery cell 100 can be prevented.

[0094] Additionally, the main body 211a can be made of a material that deforms minimally when pressurized, in order to pressurize the battery cell 100. For example, the material of the main body 211a can be aluminum.

[0095] The side of the battery cell 100 that is in contact with the heating part 950 may be the side with the largest area among the sides that form the shape of the battery cell 100.

[0096] For example, the side with the largest area can be the side facing the positive electrode, the negative electrode, and the protective film along the direction of the stack of positive electrode, negative electrode, and protective film housed inside the cell 100.

[0097] On the other hand, the heating part 950 may include: a first heater 951, which is attached to the front surface of the main body 211a (or the protruding surface of the fixing part 215 or the surface located in the F direction); and a second heater 952 (see reference). Figure 5 ), and is attached to the rear surface (or the surface located in the R direction) of the main body 211a.

[0098] The first heater 951 can heat the battery cell 100 (or the battery cell 100 housed on the front surface of the main body 211a) housed in the battery cell processing section 210 where the first heater 951 is provided, and the second heater 952 can heat another battery cell 100 adjacent to the rear surface of the main body 211a of the battery cell processing section 210.

[0099] The fixing part 215 can be attached to the front surface of the main body 211a. The fixing part 215 can be located on the front surface of the main body 211a and on both sides of the first heater 951. The battery cell 100 in contact with the first heater 951 can be stably supported by the fixing part 215.

[0100] Furthermore, the fixing part 215 can be made of a heat-resistant material. This is because the fixing part 215 is adjacent to the heating part 950. Therefore, the fixing part 215 can be made of a polymer material that has excellent heat resistance and mechanical strength while minimizing deformation or damage to the housing of the battery cell 100 when in contact with the battery cell 100. For example, the polymer material can be polyetheretherketone (PEEK).

[0101] The fixing part 215 can guide the battery cell 100 so that the battery cell 100 can contact the first heater 951 and detachably fix the two sides of the battery cell 100.

[0102] Therefore, the upper region of the surface of the fixing part 215 that contacts the battery cell 100 can be inclined. Thus, when the battery cell 100 is inserted, the fixing part 215 can guide the battery cell 100 to move naturally toward the heating part 950.

[0103] The fixing part 215 may include a first fixing block 2151 and a second fixing block 2152, which are disposed along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction and extend along the height direction of the main body.

[0104] The first fixing block 2151 and the second fixing block 2152 can be disposed on both sides of the heating part 950 or the first heater 951 to detachably fix the battery cell 100.

[0105] In addition, the first fixing block 2151 and the second fixing block 2152 can act as stoppers to restrict the movement of the battery cell 100, preventing the battery cell 100 from contacting the support 500. For this purpose, the lower ends of the first fixing block 2151 and the second fixing block 2152 can be bent toward each other.

[0106] Reference Figure 5 The main body 211a may further include wings 211b and 211c, which extend from both sides of the main body 211a along the second direction. The main body 211a and the wings 211b and 211c may be referred to as pressure plates 211.

[0107] Along the first direction, the thickness of the main body 211a can be greater than the thickness of the wings 211b and 211c. This is because the battery cell 100 is pressurized through the main body 211a. Furthermore, since the wings 211b and 211c are disposed on both sides of the main body 211a along the second direction, unlike the main body 211a, the external force applied to the wings 211b and 211c can be dispersed.

[0108] On the other hand, the cell processing section 210 may further include a recessed section 219, which is formed by at least a portion of the side surfaces of the wings 211b and 211c recessing toward the main body section 211a.

[0109] In addition, the cell processing unit 210 may further include a gap block 213 located on the wing portions 211b and 211c to maintain the gap between the main body portion 211a and another main body portion 211a adjacent to the main body portion 211a at the target gap.

[0110] Since the wings 211b and 211c are located on both sides of the main body 211a, the gap block 213 can also be located on both sides of the main body 211a.

[0111] The gap block 213 may include: an extension 213a extending from the wings 211b and 211c in the first direction toward the front of the main body 211a; and a bent portion 213b bent from one end of the extension 213a toward the fixing portion 215.

[0112] As described above, the movement prevention unit 923 (refer to...) Figure 2 This prevents the moving shaft 927 from rotating due to the expansion of the battery cell 100, which would cause the pressure applied to the battery cell 100 by the battery cell processing unit 210 to be released. On the other hand, the gap block 213 can maintain the target interval to prevent the interval between the battery cell processing units 210 from shrinking below the target interval.

[0113] Specifically, when the bent portion 213b of any one of the cell processing units 210 is inserted into the recessed portion 219 of another cell processing unit 210 adjacent to the one of the cell processing units 210, the gap between the one of the cell processing units 210 and the other cell processing unit 210 will be maintained at the target gap.

[0114] At the target interval, the bent portion 213b of any one of the cell processing sections 210 can be inserted into the recessed portion 219 of another cell processing section 210 adjacent to the one cell processing section 210. Thus, the interval between the one cell processing section 210 and the other cell processing section 210 can be maintained at the target interval.

[0115] More specifically, the interval between any one main body portion 211a and another main body portion 211a adjacent to the any one main body portion 211a can be maintained at the target interval.

[0116] Furthermore, even if the battery cell 100 expands due to the heating element 950, the gap block 213 can maintain the target interval. That is, at the target interval, even if the pressure applied to the battery cell 100 or the battery cell processing unit 210 increases due to the expansion of the battery cell 100, the interval between the plurality of battery cell processing units 210 can be maintained at the target interval.

[0117] Reference Figure 4 and Figure 5 The device may further include a temperature sensor 910 located at the lower part of the main body 211a to sense the temperature of the heating element 950 or the temperature of the battery cell 100. While the temperature sensor 910 senses the temperature of the main body 211a because it is located at the lower end of the main body 211a, it can also sense the temperature of the battery cell 100 because the main body 211a, the heating element 950, and the battery cell 100 in contact with the heating element 950 are in thermal equilibrium.

[0118] Reference Figure 4 and Figure 5 The cell processing unit 210 may further include a wheel 218, which facilitates the movement of the cell processing unit 210 along the first direction on the support 500.

[0119] The wheel 218 is located below the wings 211b and 211c and rotates when the cell processing unit 210 moves, thus assisting the movement of the cell processing unit 210.

[0120] Reference Figure 4 and Figure 5 The wings 211b and 211c may further include a connecting hole 216, which penetrates the wings 211b and 211c along the first direction. Due to the guide rod 290 (refer to...) Figure 1 The battery cell processing unit 210 is inserted into the connection hole 216, so that when the battery cell processing unit 210 moves along the first direction, the wobbling of the battery cell processing unit 210 in other directions besides the first direction can be minimized, and the position of the battery cell processing unit 210 can be precisely controlled.

[0121] Figure 6 This is an example illustrating how multiple cell processing units pressurize the cells.

[0122] Reference Figure 6 The control unit 900 can adjust the spacing between the plurality of cell processing units 210 to an initial spacing IL (refer to) via the movement adjustment unit 920. Figure 6(See the figure above). Under the initial interval IL, the battery cell 100 can be disposed in each of the plurality of battery cell processing units 210.

[0123] The initial interval IL can be greater than the thickness of the battery cell 100. That is, the initial interval IL can represent the state in which the plurality of battery cell processing units 210 are opened to accommodate the battery cell 100.

[0124] After the battery cell 100 is set up, the control unit 900 can adjust the interval between the plurality of battery cell processing units 210 through the movement adjustment unit 920 to pressurize the battery cell 100 by a preset target pressure.

[0125] Under the target pressure, the spacing between the plurality of cell processing units 210 can be the target spacing GL (refer to...). Figure 6 (See the image below).

[0126] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a control method for a battery manufacturing apparatus according to the present disclosure.

[0127] Reference Figure 7 The control method of the battery manufacturing apparatus according to this disclosure may include: step S10, maintaining the interval between any one of the plurality of cell processing units 210 and another cell processing unit 210 adjacent to the arbitrary cell processing unit 210 at a preset initial interval IL by means of the movement adjustment unit 920; step S30, setting a cell 100 in each of the plurality of cell processing units 210; step S50, moving the plurality of cell processing units 210 along the first direction by means of the movement adjustment unit 920 to pressurize the cell 100 set in each of the plurality of cell processing units 210 by means of a preset target pressure; and step S70, while maintaining the interval between the arbitrary cell processing unit 210 and the other cell processing unit 210 at the preset target interval, heating the cell 100 by means of the heating unit 950.

[0128] Subsequently, according to the control method of this disclosure, step S90 can be performed to move the battery cell 100, which has been heated for a preset heating time, to the next process. The next process may be a charging process for charging the battery cell 100.

[0129] For example, the next process could be a pre-charging process. That is, the battery manufacturing apparatus 1000 can heat the battery cell 100 before the pre-charging process. Specifically, heating the battery cell 100 improves the wettability of the electrolyte and facilitates the pre-charging of the cell 100. Alternatively, the battery manufacturing apparatus 1000 can also be used during the pre-charging process.

[0130] Specifically, the battery manufacturing apparatus 1000 can be used in conjunction with a device for heat vacuum charge (HVC). Alternatively, the battery manufacturing apparatus 1000 can be used in conjunction with a device for heat vacuum press charge (HVPC).

[0131] For example, according to the control method of this disclosure, the cell 100 can be pressurized and heated by the cell processing unit 210 at the target interval GL before or during the pre-charge process. Afterwards, while maintaining the target interval GL, the battery manufacturing apparatus 1000 can be moved to the apparatus for the heat vacuum press charge (HVPC).

[0132] Subsequently, in the apparatus used for the heat vacuum press charge (HVPC), the battery cell 100 can be charged while maintaining the target interval GL. Furthermore, after charging is complete, the pressure applied to the battery cell 100 can be released.

[0133] On the other hand, in step S30, where the battery cell 100 is disposed in each of the plurality of battery cell processing sections 210, the control method of the battery manufacturing apparatus of this disclosure allows the battery cell 100 to be disposed between each of the plurality of battery cell processing sections 210. The placement of the battery cell 100 can be achieved by means of a device such as a clamp.

[0134] Specifically, the battery cell 100 can be guided by the fixing part 215 to contact the heating part 950 (or the first heater 951).

[0135] Subsequently, according to the control method of the battery manufacturing apparatus disclosed herein, step S50 can be executed: the plurality of cell processing units 210 are moved along the first direction by the movement adjustment unit 920, so as to pressurize the cell 100 disposed in each of the plurality of cell processing units 210 by a preset target pressure.

[0136] In step S50, when pressurizing by the target pressure, the multiple cell processing units 210 can pressurize the cell 100 housed in each of the multiple cell processing units 210 by the movement adjustment unit 920 until the pressure sensed by the pressure sensing unit 930 reaches the preset target pressure.

[0137] For example, at the target interval GL, the load applied to the cell 100 can be less than 5 tons. The target pressure can vary depending on the area of ​​one side of the cell 100 to which the load is applied. Furthermore, the pressure sensing unit 930 can also sense the load applied to the cell 100, rather than the pressure applied to the cell 100.

[0138] After the target interval GL is reached, the control unit 900 can restrict the rotation of the moving shaft 927 through the movement prevention unit 923 to prevent changes in the interval between the plurality of cells.

[0139] Subsequently, according to the control method of this disclosure, step S70 can be performed: while maintaining the interval between any one of the cell processing units 210 and the other cell processing unit 210 at a preset target interval, the cell 100 is heated by the heating unit 950.

[0140] The target interval can be maintained by inserting a portion (or specifically a bent portion 213b) of the gap block 213 of any one of the cell processing units 210 into the recess 219 of the other cell processing unit 210. When a portion of the gap block 213 of any one of the cell processing units 210 is inserted into the recess 219 of the other cell processing unit 210, the interval between the cell processing unit 210 and the other cell processing unit 210 can be maintained at the target interval GL.

[0141] On the other hand, the heating unit 950 can heat the battery cell 100 to below a preset allowable temperature.

[0142] The heating element 950 can heat the battery cell 100 from the side with the largest area on one side, so the time required is relatively shorter compared to heating the bottom surface of the battery cell 100.

[0143] In addition, the heating part 950 can be configured as a pad with an area similar to the largest area on one side of the battery cell 100, so that the battery cell 100 can be heated more evenly.

[0144] For example, the permissible temperature can be below 90°C. This is to prevent the electrolyte contained inside the cell 100 from boiling.

[0145] Even if the battery cell 100 expands due to heating by the heating unit 950 and the pressure applied to the battery cell 100 increases, the target interval GL can be kept constant by the gap block 213 and the movement prevention unit 923. Therefore, even if the battery cell 100 is heated, deformation such as expansion or twisting of the battery cell 100 casing due to heating can be prevented.

[0146] This disclosure can be implemented in various variations, and its scope of claim is not limited to the embodiments described above. Therefore, if a modified embodiment includes the constituent elements of the claims of this disclosure, it should be considered to fall within the scope of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A battery manufacturing apparatus, characterized in that, include: Multiple cell processing units are arranged along a first direction, and each of the multiple cell processing units includes a heating unit for heating the cell. as well as The movable adjustment unit moves the plurality of cell processing units along the first direction to adjust the spacing between the plurality of cell processing units. The moving adjustment unit maintains the interval between any one of the plurality of cell processing units and another cell processing unit adjacent to the aforementioned cell processing unit at a preset target interval, and the aforementioned cell processing unit and the other adjacent cell processing unit together heat the cell installed in the aforementioned cell processing unit.

2. The battery manufacturing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, Further includes: The first support portion and the second support portion are disposed on both sides of the plurality of cell processing portions along the first direction; as well as A pressure sensing unit, located in either the first support unit or the second support unit, measures the pressure applied to the plurality of cell processing units or the cell when the plurality of cell processing units are moved by the movement adjustment unit.

3. The battery manufacturing apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that, The pressure sensing unit is a load sensor, and when the plurality of cell processing units move, the load sensor comes into contact with the outer side of the plurality of cell processing units.

4. The battery manufacturing apparatus according to any one of claims 2 and 3, characterized in that, The movable adjustment unit includes a movable shaft, which is supported by another support of the first support and the second support, and rotates to move the plurality of cell processing units.

5. The battery manufacturing apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that, The movement adjustment unit further includes a movement prevention unit that prevents the rotation of the movement shaft to suppress the expansion of the battery cell.

6. The battery manufacturing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, Each of the plurality of cell processing units further includes: The main body supports the heating element and applies pressure to the battery cell; and The fixing part guides the battery cell to the heating part and detachably fixes the battery cell to the main body part. The heating element includes: A first heater is disposed on the front surface of the main body where the fixing part is located, for heating the battery cell; and A second heater, located in the opposite direction of the front surface, heats an adjacent cell.

7. The battery manufacturing apparatus according to claim 6, characterized in that, Each of the plurality of cell processing units further includes a temperature sensor located at the lower part of the main body to sense the temperature of the heating unit.

8. The battery manufacturing apparatus according to any one of claims 6 and 7, characterized in that, The heating element heats the battery cell to a preset allowable temperature.

9. The battery manufacturing apparatus according to claim 6, characterized in that, Each of the plurality of cell processing units includes: The wings extend from both sides of the main body along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction; A recessed portion is formed by at least a portion of the side surface of the wing recessing towards the main body portion; and The gap block includes: an extension extending from the wing along the first direction; and a bent portion bending from one end of the extension toward the fixing portion.

10. The battery manufacturing apparatus according to claim 9, characterized in that, A portion of the bent portion of any one of the cell processing units is inserted into the recess of the other cell processing unit.

11. The battery manufacturing apparatus according to claim 9, characterized in that, When the bent portion of any one of the cell processing units is inserted into the recess of the other cell processing unit, the gap block of any one of the cell processing units maintains the target interval between the any one of the cell processing units and the other cell processing unit.

12. The battery manufacturing apparatus according to claim 9, characterized in that, The fixing part includes a first fixing block and a second fixing block, which are arranged along the second direction and extend along the height direction of the main body. The lower ends of the first fixing block and the second fixing block are bent toward each other.

13. The battery manufacturing apparatus according to claim 9, characterized in that, Each of the plurality of cell processing units further includes a wheel located at the lower part of the wing.

14. The battery manufacturing apparatus according to any one of claims 9 to 13, characterized in that, Further includes: A guide rod that extends along the first direction. Each of the plurality of cell processing sections further includes a connection hole formed through the wing, and the guide rod is inserted into the connection hole.

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