Battery cell processing apparatus

Abstract

The utility model relates to battery processing equipment art field, concretely provides a kind of battery cell processing equipment. Specifically, the hot-pressing device of the battery cell processing equipment of the utility model includes first upper pressing plate, first lower pressing plate and first support mechanism, first support mechanism can be supported in the middle part of battery cell, the support surface of first support mechanism is higher than the upper surface of first lower pressing plate, to prevent the middle part of battery cell from being concave, first support mechanism is set to after the support surface is subjected to the pressure of first upper pressing plate, the support surface can be allowed to gradually drop along with the depression of first upper pressing plate, until the support surface is flush with the upper surface of first lower pressing plate.In after placing battery cell to first lower pressing plate, the support surface of first support mechanism can be supported in the middle part of battery cell, since the support surface of first support mechanism is higher than the upper surface of first lower pressing plate, the middle part of battery cell can be prevented from being concave, in this way, the battery cell after hot-pressing can be very effectively prevented from appearing wrinkle.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of battery processing equipment, and specifically provides a battery cell processing equipment. Background Technology

[0002] With rapid global economic growth and accelerated urbanization, human demand for energy is increasing daily. Traditional fossil fuels have a severe impact on the environment, while clean energy sources, including solar, wind, and hydropower, not only reduce environmental impact but also have high renewability. However, due to the instability and intermittency of these energy sources, energy storage technology has emerged. With increasing policy support in major regional markets, coupled with the continuous decline in energy storage costs, the global energy storage market is poised for rapid growth.

[0003] As the energy storage industry undergoes fierce competition, demands for larger capacity, lower cost, and longer lifespan are being placed on energy storage systems and cells. Increasing cell size not only improves manufacturing efficiency but also positively promotes further improvements in cell energy density and cost reduction. Currently, several energy storage battery companies have launched large-capacity energy storage cells with capacities exceeding 500Ah, and single-cell capacities reaching over 6MWh, to meet the needs of large-scale, highly economical energy storage applications.

[0004] However, as the width of the battery cell increases, after the cell is hot-pressed and shaped, the outermost negative electrode sheet will have more severe wrinkles. During the cell cycle, lithium will be deposited in the wrinkled area. In the later stages of the cycle, lithium dendrites will be generated and pierce the separator, causing the battery to short circuit and triggering a safety accident.

[0005] Therefore, a new technical solution is needed in this field to solve the above problems. Utility Model Content

[0006] The present invention aims to solve the above-mentioned technical problems, namely, to solve the problem that existing battery cell processing equipment easily causes wrinkles in large-size battery cells when performing hot pressing and shaping.

[0007] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a battery cell processing device, the battery cell processing device including a hot pressing device, the hot pressing device including a first upper pressure plate, a first lower pressure plate and a first support mechanism, the first upper pressure plate being located above the first lower pressure plate, the first lower pressure plate being used to place the battery cell, the first upper pressure plate being used to apply pressure to the battery cell on the first lower pressure plate, the first support mechanism being able to support the middle part of the battery cell, the support surface of the first support mechanism being higher than the upper surface of the first lower pressure plate to prevent the middle part of the battery cell from sinking, the first support mechanism being configured to allow the support surface to gradually descend as the first upper pressure plate is pressed down after the support surface is subjected to the pressure of the first upper pressure plate, until the support surface is flush with the upper surface of the first lower pressure plate.

[0008] In the preferred embodiment of the above-mentioned battery cell processing equipment, the first support mechanism includes a first support member, the top surface of the first support member forms the support surface, and the first lower pressure plate is provided with a receiving groove or receiving opening that can accommodate the first support member.

[0009] In the preferred embodiment of the above-mentioned battery cell processing equipment, the depth of the receiving groove is equal to the thickness of the first supporting member; and / or

[0010] The dimension of the receiving groove along the X-axis is equal to the dimension of the first support member along the X-axis, and the dimension of the receiving groove along the Y-axis is less than or equal to the dimension of the first support member along the Y-axis.

[0011] In the preferred embodiment of the above-mentioned battery cell processing equipment, the first support mechanism further includes a driving member, which is capable of driving the first support member to move upward, and the driving member is configured to allow the first support member to gradually descend as the first upper pressure plate presses down after the first support member is subjected to pressure from the first upper pressure plate; or

[0012] The first support mechanism further includes a vertically arranged elastic member. The top and bottom ends of the elastic member are respectively connected to the first support member and the bottom of the receiving groove. The elastic member is configured to be compressible after the first support member is subjected to the pressure of the first upper pressure plate, so that the first support member can gradually descend as the first upper pressure plate is pressed down.

[0013] In a preferred embodiment of the aforementioned battery cell processing equipment, the equipment further includes a preheating device for preheating the battery cell. The preheating device includes a support member for placing the battery cell, and the support member has a first support protrusion that supports the middle portion of the battery cell to prevent the middle portion of the battery cell from sinking; and / or

[0014] The battery cell processing equipment also includes a transfer tray for transferring the battery cells. The transfer tray is provided with a second support protrusion, which can support the middle part of the battery cell to prevent the middle part of the battery cell from sinking.

[0015] In the preferred embodiment of the above-mentioned battery cell processing equipment, the protrusion height of the first support protrusion is 8mm to 10mm; and / or

[0016] The second support protrusion has a protrusion height of 8mm to 10mm.

[0017] In the preferred embodiment of the above-mentioned battery cell processing equipment, the height difference between the support surface and the upper surface of the first lower pressure plate is 10mm to 15mm.

[0018] In the preferred embodiment of the above-mentioned battery cell processing equipment, the battery cell processing equipment further includes a robotic arm for transferring the battery cell. The robotic arm includes a first clamping mechanism, a second clamping mechanism, and a second support mechanism. The first clamping mechanism and the second clamping mechanism can clamp the two ends of the battery cell respectively. The second support mechanism includes a driving mechanism and a second support member connected to the driving mechanism. After the first clamping mechanism and the second clamping mechanism clamp the battery cell, the driving mechanism can drive the second support member to move so that the second support member moves to the bottom of the battery cell and supports the middle part of the battery cell.

[0019] In the preferred embodiment of the above-mentioned battery cell processing equipment, the battery cell processing equipment further includes a cold pressing device, the cold pressing device includes a second upper pressure plate and a second lower pressure plate disposed below the second upper pressure plate, the second lower pressure plate is used to place the battery cell, the second upper pressure plate is used to apply pressure to the battery cell on the second lower pressure plate, and a heating component is provided on the second upper pressure plate, the heating component is used to heat the upper surface of the battery cell on the second lower pressure plate.

[0020] In the preferred embodiment of the above-mentioned battery cell processing equipment, the heating temperature of the heating element is 95°C to 100°C.

[0021] With the above technical solution adopted, the battery cell processing equipment of this utility model is provided with a first support mechanism on the hot pressing device. After the battery cell is placed on the first lower pressure plate, the support surface of the first support mechanism can support the middle part of the battery cell. Since the support surface of the first support mechanism is higher than the upper surface of the first lower pressure plate, it can prevent the middle part of the battery cell from sinking. In this way, it can effectively prevent the battery cell from wrinkling after hot pressing.

[0022] Furthermore, by providing a receiving groove or receiving opening on the first lower pressure plate, the present invention can accommodate the first support member into the receiving groove or receiving opening during the hot pressing process, which helps to ensure the quality of hot pressing.

[0023] Furthermore, by making the depth of the receiving groove equal to the thickness of the first supporting member, during the process of the first supporting member descending as the first upper pressure plate presses down, when the bottom of the first supporting member contacts the bottom of the receiving groove, the top surface of the first supporting member is exactly flush with the upper surface of the first lower pressure plate, which is more conducive to ensuring the quality of hot pressing and shaping.

[0024] Furthermore, this utility model provides a first support protrusion on the bearing component of the preheating device. When the battery cell is preheated, the first support protrusion supports the middle part of the battery cell, preventing the middle part of the battery cell from sinking, which is more conducive to preventing wrinkles from forming in the battery cell during the hot pressing process.

[0025] Furthermore, this utility model provides a second support protrusion on the transfer tray. During the transfer of the battery cell, the second support protrusion supports the middle part of the battery cell, preventing the middle part of the battery cell from sinking. This is more conducive to preventing wrinkles from forming on the battery cell during the hot pressing process.

[0026] Furthermore, by setting a second support mechanism on the robotic arm, the second support member of the second support mechanism can support the middle part of the battery cell during the transfer of the battery cell by the robotic arm, so as to prevent the middle part of the battery cell from sinking, thereby making it more effective in preventing wrinkles from forming in the battery cell during the hot pressing process.

[0027] Furthermore, this invention provides a heating component on the second upper platen of the cold pressing device. During the cold pressing and shaping process of the battery cell, the heating component can heat the negative electrode on the upper surface of the battery cell, causing it to melt and adhere to each other, thereby making it tighter and thus more conducive to preventing wrinkles from forming in the battery cell. Attached Figure Description

[0028] The preferred embodiments of this utility model are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0029] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a hot-pressing device used in the prior art to heat-press and shape battery cells;

[0030] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the hot pressing device of this utility model for hot pressing and shaping the battery cell;

[0031] Figure 3 This is a structural schematic diagram of the first lower pressure plate and the first support mechanism of the hot pressing device of this utility model;

[0032] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the load-bearing component of the preheating device of this utility model;

[0033] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the transfer pallet of this utility model;

[0034] Figure 6 This is a structural schematic diagram of the first clamping mechanism, the second clamping mechanism, and the second support component of the robotic arm of this utility model;

[0035] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the robotic arm that holds the battery cell according to this utility model.

[0036] List of reference numerals in the attached diagram:

[0037] 11. First upper pressure plate; 12. First lower pressure plate; 13. First support component; 14. Drive component; 15. Base; 121. Receiving groove; 131. Support surface; 2. Bearing component; 21. First support protrusion; 3. Transfer tray; 31. Second support protrusion; 41. First clamping mechanism; 42. Second clamping mechanism; 43. Second support component; 44. Fixing frame; 431. Support plate; 432. Connecting column; 441. First fixing plate; 442. Second fixing plate. Detailed Implementation

[0038] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Those skilled in the art should understand that these embodiments are merely illustrative of the technical principles of the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0039] It should be noted that in the description of this utility model, terms such as "left" and "right," which indicate direction or positional relationship, are based on the direction or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. This is merely for ease of description and does not indicate or imply that the device or element must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, it should not be construed as a limitation of this utility model. Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0040] Furthermore, it should be noted that in the description of this utility model, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "set," "connect," and "install" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model according to the specific circumstances.

[0041] Specifically, this utility model provides a battery cell processing equipment, such as... Figure 2 As shown, the battery cell processing equipment of this utility model includes a hot pressing device, which includes a first upper pressure plate 11 and a first lower pressure plate 12. The first upper pressure plate 11 is located above the first lower pressure plate 12. The first lower pressure plate 12 is used to place the battery cell, and the first upper pressure plate 11 is used to apply pressure to the battery cell on the first lower pressure plate 12.

[0042] When hot pressing is required to shape the battery cell, the battery cell is placed on the first lower pressure plate 12, and then the first upper pressure plate 11 is moved vertically downward toward the first lower pressure plate 12 to hot press the battery cell. As is known from the background art, in the prior art, after hot pressing the large-sized battery cell, wrinkles will appear on the surface of the battery cell.

[0043] To address the aforementioned problems, the inventors conducted a follow-up analysis of the entire hot-pressing forming process and identified the main cause of wrinkles in the battery cells. Specifically, the wrinkles appear in the battery cells after hot-pressing because the large size of the cells causes the middle portion to indent downwards. Figure 1 As shown, during hot pressing, the upper platen of the hot pressing device will first contact the edges of the left and right ends of the battery cell, thereby generating a cohesive force from both ends inward, causing the outermost negative electrode of the battery cell to be squeezed inward, which in turn causes wrinkles to appear on the outermost negative electrode of the battery cell after hot pressing.

[0044] Based on the above research, such as Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the battery cell processing equipment of this utility model adds a first support mechanism to the hot pressing device. The first support mechanism can support the middle part of the battery cell. The support surface 131 of the first support mechanism is higher than the upper surface of the first lower pressure plate 12 to prevent the middle part of the battery cell from sinking. Furthermore, the first support mechanism is configured to allow the support surface 131 to gradually descend as the first upper pressure plate 11 is pressed down after the support surface 131 is subjected to the pressure of the first upper pressure plate 11, until the support surface 131 is flush with the upper surface of the first lower pressure plate 12.

[0045] The hot pressing device of this utility model, by setting a first support mechanism, after the battery cell is placed on the first lower pressure plate 12, the support surface 131 of the first support mechanism can support the middle part of the battery cell. Since the support surface 131 of the first support mechanism is higher than the upper surface of the first lower pressure plate 12, it can prevent the middle part of the battery cell from sinking. In this way, it can effectively prevent wrinkles from appearing on the battery cell after hot pressing.

[0046] It should be noted that this utility model does not limit the specific value of the height difference ΔH between the support surface 131 of the first support mechanism and the upper surface of the first lower pressure plate 12. For example, it can be set to 8mm, 10mm, 12mm, 15mm or 20mm, etc. In practical applications, those skilled in the art can flexibly set the specific value of the height difference between the support surface 131 of the first support mechanism and the upper surface of the first lower pressure plate 12 according to the specific size of the battery cell, as long as the first support mechanism can prevent the middle part of the battery cell from sinking.

[0047] Preferably, the height difference ΔH between the support surface 131 of the first support mechanism and the upper surface of the first lower pressure plate 12 is 10mm to 15mm.

[0048] It should be noted that, in practical applications, under the support of the first support mechanism, the middle part of the battery cell can be made higher than the edge parts at both ends, so that the battery cell presents a shape with the middle part higher than the edge parts at both ends. Alternatively, the middle part of the battery cell can be made to be on the same horizontal plane as the edge parts at both ends, so that the battery cell presents a flat state. Such flexible adjustments and changes do not deviate from the principle and scope of this utility model and should be limited to the protection scope of this utility model.

[0049] Furthermore, it should be noted that this utility model does not limit the specific structural form of the first support mechanism. For example, the first support mechanism can be set as a pneumatic cylinder + support plate structure, or as a spring + support block structure, or as a hydraulic cylinder + support block structure, etc. Such adjustments and changes to the specific structural form of the first support mechanism do not deviate from the principle and scope of this utility model and should all be limited to the protection scope of this utility model.

[0050] Preferably, such as Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the first support mechanism of this utility model includes a first support member 13, the top surface of the first support member 13 forms a support surface 131, and the first lower pressure plate 12 is provided with a receiving groove 121 that can accommodate the first support member 13.

[0051] After the first upper pressure plate 11 applies pressure to the battery cell, the first support member 13 will gradually descend as the first upper pressure plate 11 is pressed down and fall into the receiving groove 121 of the first lower pressure plate 12.

[0052] For example, a portion of the middle region of the first pressure plate 12 can be removed to form a receiving groove 121 for receiving the first support member 13.

[0053] It should be noted that, in practical applications, those skilled in the art can also replace the receiving groove 121 with a receiving opening. Compared with the receiving groove 121, the receiving opening has no bottom wall and penetrates the first lower pressure plate 12 along the thickness direction of the first lower pressure plate 12.

[0054] Furthermore, it should be noted that this utility model does not limit the specific structural form of the first support member 13. For example, the first support member 13 can be set as a support plate, support block or support frame, etc. Such adjustments and changes to the specific structural form of the first support member 13 do not deviate from the principle and scope of this utility model and should be limited to the protection scope of this utility model.

[0055] Preferably, such as Figure 2 and Figure 3As shown, the first support mechanism of this utility model also includes a driving member 14, which can drive the first support member 13 to move upward, and the driving member 14 is configured to allow the first support member 13 to gradually descend as the first upper pressure plate 11 presses down after the first support member 13 is subjected to pressure from the first upper pressure plate 11.

[0056] For example, the hot pressing device has a base 15, a first lower pressure plate 12 mounted on the base 15, and a driving component 14 configured as a pneumatic cylinder. The pneumatic cylinder is vertically arranged, with its cylinder body fixedly connected to the base 15 and its piston fixedly connected to the first support component 13. The air pressure of the pneumatic cylinder is set to a fixed value (e.g., 0.05 MPa, 0.1 MPa, or 0.15 MPa), and the thrust of the pneumatic cylinder is less than the pressure of the first upper pressure plate 11. Thus, under the pressure of the first upper pressure plate 11, the piston of the pneumatic cylinder can be compressed, allowing the first support component 13 to gradually descend as the first upper pressure plate 11 presses down. After the hot pressing is completed, the pneumatic cylinder pushes the first support component 13 upwards to a set position. The specific value of the air pressure of the pneumatic cylinder can be set according to the pressure value of the first upper pressure plate 11.

[0057] It should be noted that, in practical applications, those skilled in the art may also use hydraulic cylinders or other types of drive components 14. Such adjustments and changes to the specific type of drive component 14 do not deviate from the principle and scope of this utility model and should be limited to the protection scope of this utility model.

[0058] Furthermore, it should be noted that, in practical applications, those skilled in the art can also replace the driving member 14 with a vertically arranged elastic member, so that the top and bottom ends of the elastic member are connected to the bottom of the receiving groove 121 on the first support member 13 and the first lower pressure plate 12, respectively. The elastic member is configured to be compressible after the first support member 13 is subjected to the pressure of the first upper pressure plate 11, so that the first support member 13 can gradually descend as the first upper pressure plate 11 is pressed down.

[0059] For example, the elastic member includes a plurality of springs, which are spaced apart in the receiving groove 121. The bottom end of the spring is fixedly connected to the bottom of the receiving groove 121, and the top end of the spring is fixedly connected to the bottom surface of the first support member 13.

[0060] Preferably, such as Figure 2 As shown, the depth D of the receiving groove 121 on the first lower pressure plate 12 is equal to the thickness d of the first support member 13.

[0061] The depth of the receiving groove 121 and the thickness of the first support member 13 are both dimensions along the Z-axis. By making the depth of the receiving groove 121 equal to the thickness of the first support member 13, when the bottom of the first support member 13 contacts the bottom of the receiving groove 121 as the first upper pressure plate 11 is pressed down, the top surface of the first support member 13 is exactly flush with the upper surface of the first lower pressure plate 12.

[0062] Preferably, such as Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the dimension B of the receiving groove 121 on the first lower pressure plate 12 along the X-axis is equal to the dimension b of the first support member 13 along the X-axis, and the dimension L1 of the receiving groove 121 along the Y-axis is smaller than the dimension L2 of the first support member 13 along the Y-axis.

[0063] By making the dimension of the receiving groove 121 along the X-axis equal to the dimension of the first support member 13 along the X-axis, when the first support member 13 is completely placed in the receiving groove 121, there will be no gap between the two sidewalls of the first support member 13 along the X-axis and the two sidewalls of the receiving groove 121. The receiving groove 121 extends through the first lower pressure plate 12 along the Y-axis, and the dimension of the receiving groove 121 along the Y-axis is the same as the dimension of the first lower pressure plate 12 along the Y-axis, L1 < L2. In this way, both ends of the first support member 13 can extend to the outside of the receiving groove 121, which facilitates connection with the driving member 14. For example, as shown in the figure... Figure 3 As shown, pneumatic cylinders can be installed on both the left and right sides of the first lower pressure plate 12. One or two pneumatic cylinders can be installed on one side of the first lower pressure plate 12. If one pneumatic cylinder is installed, it can be located in the middle of the first support member 13. If two pneumatic cylinders are installed, they can be distributed at intervals along the X-axis.

[0064] It should be noted that, in practical applications, those skilled in the art may also make the dimension of the receiving groove 121 along the Y-axis equal to the dimension of the first support member 13 along the Y-axis. In this case, the receiving groove 121 may not pass through the first lower pressure plate 12 along the Y-axis. In addition, in order to facilitate the installation of the drive member 14, such as a pneumatic cylinder, a through hole may be provided at the bottom of the receiving groove 121 so that the piston of the pneumatic cylinder passes through the through hole and connects to the first support member 13 above the receiving groove 121.

[0065] Furthermore, it should be noted that the specific dimensions of the first support member 13 along the X-axis can be determined based on the dimensions of the battery cell, and this utility model does not impose specific limitations. Preferably, the dimension of the first support member 13 along the X-axis is set to 10cm to 15cm.

[0066] Preferably, the battery cell processing equipment of this utility model further includes a cold pressing device (not shown in the figure). The cold pressing device includes a second upper pressure plate and a second lower pressure plate disposed below the second upper pressure plate. The second lower pressure plate is used to place the battery cell, and the second upper pressure plate is used to apply pressure to the battery cell on the second lower pressure plate.

[0067] Before hot pressing the battery cell to shape it, a cold pressing device can be used to shape it first.

[0068] Preferably, the cold pressing device of this utility model is provided with a heating component on the second upper pressure plate, and the heating component is used to heat the upper surface of the battery cell on the second lower pressure plate.

[0069] The inventors discovered that the reason why the battery cell is prone to wrinkles during the hot pressing process is that the outermost negative electrode of the battery cell is relatively loose. By setting a heating component on the second upper platen of the cold pressing device, the negative electrode on the upper surface of the battery cell can be heated by the heating component during the cold pressing process, so that it melts and sticks together, thereby making it tighter and thus helping to prevent the battery cell from wrinkling.

[0070] Preferably, the heating temperature of the heating element is set to 95°C to 100°C.

[0071] Preferably, such as Figure 4 As shown, the battery cell processing equipment of this utility model also includes a preheating device for preheating the battery cell, and the preheating device includes a supporting member 2 for placing the battery cell. Of course, since it is a preheating device for preheating the battery cell, it also includes a heating component for heating the battery cell.

[0072] When a cold pressing device is provided, after the cold pressing device completes the cold pressing and shaping of the battery cell, the battery cell is transferred to the bearing member 2 of the preheating device. Then, the battery cell is heated by the heating component of the preheating device. After the heating is completed, the battery cell is transferred to the hot pressing device for hot pressing and shaping. During the hot pressing process, it is not necessary to reheat the battery cell.

[0073] It should be noted that this utility model does not limit the specific structural form of the load-bearing component 2. For example, the load-bearing component 2 can be set as a load-bearing plate or a load-bearing tray, etc.

[0074] Preferably, such as Figure 4 As shown, the preheating device of this utility model has a first support protrusion 21 on the bearing member 2. The first support protrusion 21 can support the middle part of the battery cell to prevent the middle part of the battery cell from sinking.

[0075] By providing a first support protrusion 21 on the bearing member 2 of the preheating device, the first support protrusion 21 supports the middle part of the battery cell when the battery cell is preheated, preventing the middle part of the battery cell from sinking, which is more conducive to preventing wrinkles from appearing in the battery cell during the hot pressing process.

[0076] It should be noted that this utility model does not limit the protrusion height H1 of the first support protrusion 21. For example, the protrusion height H1 of the first support protrusion 21 can be set to 5mm, 8mm, 10mm or 12mm, etc. Of course, this utility model preferably sets the protrusion height H1 of the first support protrusion 21 to 8mm to 10mm.

[0077] Furthermore, it should be noted that this utility model does not limit the width C1 of the first support protrusion 21. For example, the width C1 of the first support protrusion 21 can be set to 5cm, 8cm, 10cm, 12cm, or 15cm, etc. Of course, this utility model preferably sets the width C1 of the first support protrusion 21 to 5cm to 12cm.

[0078] Preferably, such as Figure 5 As shown, the battery cell processing equipment of this utility model also includes a transfer tray 3 for transferring battery cells.

[0079] Among them, the transfer tray 3 can be used to transfer the cold-pressed and shaped battery cells to the preheating device. If no preheating device is set, it can be used to transfer the cold-pressed and shaped battery cells to the hot-pressing device.

[0080] Preferably, such as Figure 5 As shown, the transfer tray 3 of this utility model is provided with a second support protrusion 31, which can support the middle part of the battery cell to prevent the middle part of the battery cell from sinking.

[0081] By setting a second support protrusion 31 on the transfer tray 3, the second support protrusion 31 supports the middle part of the battery cell during the transfer process, preventing the middle part of the battery cell from sinking, which is more conducive to preventing wrinkles from forming in the battery cell during the hot pressing process.

[0082] It should be noted that this utility model does not limit the protrusion height H2 of the second support protrusion 31. For example, the protrusion height H2 of the second support protrusion 31 can be set to 5mm, 8mm, 10mm or 12mm, etc. Of course, this utility model preferably sets the protrusion height H2 of the second support protrusion 31 to 8mm to 10mm.

[0083] Furthermore, it should be noted that this utility model does not limit the width C2 of the second support protrusion 31. For example, the width C2 of the second support protrusion 31 can be set to 5cm, 8cm, 10cm, 12cm, or 15cm, etc. Of course, this utility model preferably sets the width C2 of the second support protrusion 31 to 5cm to 12cm.

[0084] Preferably, such as Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the battery cell processing equipment of this utility model also includes a robotic arm for transferring the battery cell. The robotic arm includes a first clamping mechanism 41 and a second clamping mechanism 42, which can clamp the two ends of the battery cell respectively.

[0085] The robotic arm can be used to transfer the battery cells on the transfer tray 3 to the preheating device, and then transfer the preheated battery cells to the hot pressing device. If no preheating device is set up, the robotic arm can directly transfer the battery cells on the transfer tray 3 to the hot pressing device.

[0086] For example, the robotic arm includes a fixed frame 44, and a first clamping mechanism 41 and a second clamping mechanism 42 are both disposed within the fixed frame 44. The fixed frame 44 includes a first fixing plate 441 and a second fixing plate 442 spaced apart along the X-axis. The first clamping mechanism 41 includes two first clamping plates spaced apart along the Z-axis. The first clamping plates are horizontally arranged and mounted on the inner sidewall of the first fixing plate 441. The two first clamping plates can move towards each other along the Z-axis to clamp the left end of the battery cell. The second clamping mechanism 42 includes two second clamping plates spaced apart along the Z-axis. The second clamping plates are horizontally arranged and mounted on the inner sidewall of the second fixing plate 442. The two second clamping plates can move towards each other along the Z-axis to clamp the right end of the battery cell. The fixed frame 44 is connected to the drive assembly of the robotic arm, and the drive assembly can drive the fixed frame 44 to move freely.

[0087] Preferably, such as Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the robotic arm of this utility model also includes a second support mechanism. The second support mechanism includes a drive mechanism and a second support member 43 connected to the drive mechanism. After the first clamping mechanism 41 and the second clamping mechanism 42 clamp the battery cell, the drive mechanism can drive the second support member 43 to move so that the second support member 43 moves to the bottom of the battery cell and supports the middle part of the battery cell.

[0088] By setting a second support mechanism on the robotic arm, the second support member 43 of the second support mechanism can support the middle part of the battery cell during the transfer of the battery cell by the robotic arm, so as to prevent the middle part of the battery cell from sinking, which is more conducive to preventing wrinkles from forming in the battery cell during the hot pressing process.

[0089] For example, the second support member 43 includes a horizontally arranged support plate 431 and a vertically arranged connecting column 432. The bottom end of the connecting column 432 is fixedly connected to one end of the support plate 431 or integrally arranged. The top end of the connecting column 432 is connected to the drive mechanism. The connecting column 432 is located at the middle position of the first clamping mechanism 41 and the second clamping mechanism 42 along the X-axis. The drive mechanism can drive the support plate 431 to move up and down along the Z-axis, and can also drive the support plate 431 to rotate about the axis of the connecting column 432. Before clamping the battery cell, the support plate 431 extends along the X-axis and is located on one side of the first clamping mechanism 41 and the second clamping mechanism 42. After the first clamping mechanism 41 and the second clamping mechanism 42 clamp the battery cell, the drive mechanism first drives the support plate 431 to rotate 90°, so that the support plate 431 extends along the Y-axis and is located directly below the middle part of the battery cell. Then, the drive mechanism drives the support plate 431 to move upward along the Z-axis, so that the support plate 431 supports the middle part of the battery cell.

[0090] It should be noted that this utility model does not limit the specific structural form of the drive mechanism. For example, the lifting and lowering of the second support member 43 can be achieved by a motor + gear and rack structure, or by a motor + lead screw and nut structure, etc. In addition, the rotation of the second support member 43 can be directly driven by a motor, or by a motor + gear set structure, etc.

[0091] Those skilled in the art will understand that although some embodiments described herein include certain features included in other embodiments but not others, combinations of features from different embodiments are intended to be within the scope of this application and form different embodiments. For example, any of the claimed embodiments in the claims of this application can be used in any combination.

[0092] The technical solution of this utility model has been described in conjunction with the preferred embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. However, it will be readily understood by those skilled in the art that the protection scope of this utility model is obviously not limited to these specific embodiments. Without departing from the principle of this utility model, those skilled in the art can make equivalent changes or substitutions to the relevant technical features, and the technical solutions after these changes or substitutions will all fall within the protection scope of this utility model.

Claims

1. A battery cell processing equipment, characterized in that, The battery cell processing equipment includes a hot pressing device, which includes a first upper pressure plate (11), a first lower pressure plate (12), and a first support mechanism. The first upper pressure plate (11) is located above the first lower pressure plate (12). The first lower pressure plate (12) is used to place the battery cell. The first upper pressure plate (11) is used to apply pressure to the battery cell on the first lower pressure plate (12). The first support mechanism can support the middle part of the battery cell. The support surface (131) of the first support mechanism is higher than the upper surface of the first lower pressure plate (12) to prevent the middle part of the battery cell from sinking. The first support mechanism is configured to allow the support surface (131) to gradually descend as the first upper pressure plate (11) presses down after the support surface (131) is subjected to the pressure of the first upper pressure plate (11) until the support surface (131) is flush with the upper surface of the first lower pressure plate (12).

2. The battery cell processing equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first support mechanism includes a first support member (13), the top surface of the first support member (13) forms the support surface (131), and the first lower pressure plate (12) is provided with a receiving groove (121) or receiving opening that can accommodate the first support member (13).

3. The cell processing equipment according to claim 2, characterized in that, The depth of the receiving groove (121) is equal to the thickness of the first support member (13); and / or The dimension of the receiving groove (121) along the X-axis is equal to the dimension of the first support member (13) along the X-axis, and the dimension of the receiving groove (121) along the Y-axis is less than or equal to the dimension of the first support member (13) along the Y-axis.

4. The battery cell processing equipment according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first support mechanism further includes a driving member (14), which is capable of driving the first support member (13) to move upward, and the driving member (14) is configured to allow the first support member (13) to gradually descend as the first upper pressure plate (11) presses down after the first support member (13) is subjected to pressure from the first upper pressure plate (11); or The first support mechanism further includes a vertically arranged elastic member. The top and bottom ends of the elastic member are respectively connected to the first support member (13) and the bottom of the receiving groove (121). The elastic member is configured to be compressible after the first support member (13) is subjected to the pressure of the first upper pressure plate (11), so that the first support member (13) can gradually descend as the first upper pressure plate (11) is pressed down.

5. The battery cell processing equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The battery cell processing equipment further includes a preheating device for preheating the battery cell. The preheating device includes a support member (2) for placing the battery cell. The support member (2) is provided with a first support protrusion (21). The first support protrusion (21) can support the middle part of the battery cell to prevent the middle part of the battery cell from sinking; and / or The battery cell processing equipment also includes a transfer tray (3) for transferring the battery cells. The transfer tray (3) is provided with a second support protrusion (31). The second support protrusion (31) can support the middle part of the battery cell to prevent the middle part of the battery cell from sinking.

6. The battery cell processing equipment according to claim 5, characterized in that, The first support protrusion (21) has a protrusion height of 8 mm to 10 mm; and / or The second support protrusion (31) has a protrusion height of 8mm to 10mm.

7. The battery cell processing equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The height difference between the support surface (131) and the upper surface of the first lower pressure plate (12) is 10 mm to 15 mm.

8. The battery cell processing equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The battery cell processing equipment also includes a robotic arm for transferring the battery cell. The robotic arm includes a first clamping mechanism (41), a second clamping mechanism (42), and a second support mechanism. The first clamping mechanism (41) and the second clamping mechanism (42) can clamp the two ends of the battery cell respectively. The second support mechanism includes a driving mechanism and a second support member (43) connected to the driving mechanism. After the first clamping mechanism (41) and the second clamping mechanism (42) clamp the battery cell, the driving mechanism can drive the second support member (43) to move so that the second support member (43) moves to the bottom of the battery cell and supports the middle part of the battery cell.

9. The battery cell processing equipment according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, The battery cell processing equipment also includes a cold pressing device, which includes a second upper pressure plate and a second lower pressure plate disposed below the second upper pressure plate. The second lower pressure plate is used to place the battery cell, and the second upper pressure plate is used to apply pressure to the battery cell on the second lower pressure plate. A heating component is provided on the second upper pressure plate, which is used to heat the upper surface of the battery cell on the second lower pressure plate.

10. The cell processing equipment according to claim 9, characterized in that, The heating element has a heating temperature of 95°C to 100°C.

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