Battery thickness measuring mechanism

Abstract

This application discloses a battery thickness measurement mechanism. The battery thickness measurement mechanism specifically includes a frame, a thickness measurement module, and a translation module. The thickness measurement module is mounted on the frame and is used to measure the thickness of the battery. The translation module is mounted on the frame and is capable of moving relative to the frame in a first horizontal direction. The translation module includes a base plate, a first limiting device, and a second limiting device. The base plate supports the battery, and the first and second limiting devices are mounted on the base plate. The first limiting device restricts the movement of the battery in the first horizontal direction, and the second limiting device restricts the movement of the battery in a second horizontal direction. By limiting the movement of the battery in both horizontal directions through the first and second limiting devices of the translation module, it is ensured that the battery remains stable during the thickness measurement process, avoiding thickness measurement errors caused by displacement and improving the accuracy of the battery thickness measurement mechanism.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of new energy equipment technology, and in particular to a battery thickness measuring mechanism. Background Technology

[0002] In battery manufacturing, battery thickness is a critical quality control indicator. The thickness of a lithium battery is a significant factor affecting its performance; excessively thick cells can lead to reduced battery capacity and increased charging time. Battery thickness ensures compliance with product specifications and reflects the stability and consistency of the battery's internal structure, significantly impacting safety, performance uniformity, and lifespan. Therefore, accurate measurement of battery thickness is essential. Utility Model Content

[0003] This application provides a battery thickness measuring mechanism that can improve the accuracy of battery thickness measurement.

[0004] The battery thickness measurement mechanism proposed in this application includes:

[0005] frame;

[0006] A thickness measuring module, mounted on the frame, is used to measure the thickness of the battery; and

[0007] A translation module is mounted on the frame, and the translation module is capable of moving relative to the frame along a first horizontal direction;

[0008] The translation module includes a base plate, a first limiting device, and a second limiting device. The base plate is used to support the battery. The first limiting device and the second limiting device are mounted on the base plate. The first limiting device is used to restrict the movement of the battery in a first horizontal direction, and the second limiting device is used to restrict the movement of the battery in a second horizontal direction.

[0009] Optionally, the first limiting device includes a first pushing component and a first positioning component;

[0010] The first pushing component is slidably disposed on the base plate, the first positioning member is fixed on the base plate, and the first pushing component moves along the first horizontal direction to drive the battery to move toward the first positioning member;

[0011] The second limiting device includes a second pushing component and a second positioning component. The second pushing component is slidably disposed on the base plate, and the second positioning component is fixed on the base plate. The second pushing component moves along the second horizontal direction to drive the battery to move toward the direction closer to the second positioning component.

[0012] Optionally, the first pushing component includes a first driving member and a first push plate connected to the first driving member. The first push plate is mounted on the base plate, the first driving member is connected to the base plate, and the first push plate moves along the first horizontal direction under the action of the first driving member.

[0013] The second pushing component includes a second driving member and a second push plate connected to the second driving member. The second push plate is mounted on the base plate, the second driving member is connected to the base plate, and the second push plate moves along the second horizontal direction under the action of the second driving member.

[0014] Optionally, the thickness measuring module includes a first thickness measuring structure and a second thickness measuring structure spaced apart along the first horizontal direction;

[0015] The first thickness measuring structure includes a first mounting bracket and a first sensor. The first sensor is slidably mounted on the first mounting bracket in a vertical direction. The first thickness measuring structure is used to measure the thickness of a first part of the battery.

[0016] The second thickness measuring structure includes a second mounting bracket and a second sensor. The second sensor is slidably mounted on the second mounting bracket in a vertical direction. The second thickness measuring structure is used to measure the thickness of the first part of the battery.

[0017] Optionally, the first thickness measuring structure includes a first guide rail and a first slider. The first guide rail is arranged vertically on the first mounting bracket, and the first slider is slidably disposed on the first guide rail. The first slider is connected to the first sensor.

[0018] The second thickness measuring structure includes a second guide rail and a second slider. The second guide rail is arranged vertically on the second mounting bracket, and the second slider is slidably disposed on the second guide rail. The second slider is connected to the second sensor.

[0019] Optionally, the second thickness measuring structure further includes a third guide rail and a third slider. The third guide rail is disposed on the frame along the first horizontal direction, and the third slider is slidably disposed on the third guide rail. The second mounting bracket is slidably disposed on the third guide rail via the third guide rail.

[0020] Optionally, the second thickness measuring structure includes at least two second sensors and a second slider, with the second sensors and the second sliders corresponding one-to-one, and at least two second sliders arranged on the second guide rail along the vertical direction.

[0021] Optionally, the first thickness measuring structure includes a first scale and a first calibration plate, the first scale is disposed on the first mounting bracket along the vertical direction, and the first calibration plate is connected to the first sensor;

[0022] The second thickness measuring structure includes a second scale and a second calibration plate. The second scale is set on the second mounting bracket along the vertical direction, and the second calibration plate is connected to the second sensor.

[0023] Optionally, the battery thickness measuring mechanism includes two thickness measuring modules, which are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the translation module along the first horizontal direction.

[0024] Optionally, the battery thickness measuring mechanism further includes a transfer device mounted on the frame, the transfer device being used to grip and transfer the battery.

[0025] In the battery thickness measurement mechanism provided in this application embodiment, the first limiting device and the second limiting device of the translation module respectively restrict the movement of the battery in the first horizontal direction and the second horizontal direction, ensuring that the battery can always remain stable during the process of the thickness measurement module measuring the battery thickness, avoiding thickness measurement errors caused by displacement, and improving the accuracy of the battery thickness measurement mechanism in measuring battery thickness. Attached Figure Description

[0026] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the structures shown in these drawings without creative effort.

[0027] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the battery thickness measuring mechanism provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0028] Figure 2 This is an exploded view of the battery thickness measuring mechanism provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0029] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the translation module provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0030] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the thickness measurement module provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0031] Explanation of icon numbers:

[0032] Battery thickness measuring mechanism 100, frame 10, column 11, carrier plate 12, support frame 13;

[0033] Thickness measuring module 20, first thickness measuring structure 21, first mounting bracket 211, first sensor 212, first guide rail 213, first slider 214, first adjusting seat 215, first adjusting bolt 216, first scale 217, first calibration plate 218;

[0034] Second thickness measuring structure 22, second mounting bracket 221, second sensor 222, second guide rail 223, second slider 224, second adjusting seat 225, second adjusting bolt 226, second scale 227, second calibration plate 228, third guide rail 2291, third slider 2292;

[0035] Translation module 30, base plate 31, first limiting device 32, first pushing assembly 321, first driving component 3211, first push plate 3212, first positioning component 322; second limiting device 33, second pushing assembly 331, second driving component 3311, second push plate 3312, second positioning component 332, moving component 34;

[0036] Transfer device 40, clamping assembly 41, moving assembly 42;

[0037] First horizontal direction X, second horizontal direction Y, vertical direction Z.

[0038] The realization of the purpose, functional features and advantages of this application will be further explained in conjunction with the embodiments and with reference to the accompanying drawings. Detailed Implementation

[0039] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this application, and not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0040] It should be noted that when a component is referred to as being "fixed to" or "set on" another component, it can be directly on or indirectly on that other component. When a component is referred to as being "connected to" another component, it can be directly connected to or indirectly connected to that other component.

[0041] It should be understood that the terms "length", "width", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this application.

[0042] It should be understood that the term "and / or" as used in this application specification and the appended claims refers to any combination of one or more of the associated listed items and all possible combinations, and includes such combinations.

[0043] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this application, "multiple" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0044] Please see Figure 1 and Figure 2 , Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the battery thickness measuring mechanism 100 provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 2 This is an exploded view of the battery thickness measuring mechanism 100 provided in an embodiment of this application. The battery thickness measuring mechanism 100 proposed in this application includes a frame 10, a thickness measuring module 20, and a translation module 30. The thickness measuring module 20 is mounted on the frame 10 and is used to measure the thickness of the battery. The translation module 30 is mounted on the frame 10 and is capable of moving relative to the frame 10 along a first horizontal direction X. The translation module 30 includes a base plate 31, a first limiting device 32, and a second limiting device 33. The base plate 31 is used to support the battery. The first limiting device 32 and the second limiting device 33 are mounted on the base plate 31. The first limiting device 32 is used to restrict the movement of the battery in the first horizontal direction X, and the second limiting device 33 is used to restrict the movement of the battery in the second horizontal direction Y.

[0045] The frame 10, serving as the load-bearing component of the entire battery thickness measurement mechanism 100, can be made of high-strength alloy materials such as aluminum alloy or steel. The frame 10 may include columns 11 and a carrier plate 12. Multiple columns 11 are mounted below the carrier plate 12, which supports the thickness measurement module 20 and the translation module 30. The surface of the carrier plate 12 has good flatness and rigidity, providing a stable mounting reference for the thickness measurement module 20 and the translation module 30.

[0046] The thickness measuring module 20 can be installed on the carrier plate 12 of the frame 10 by bolt fastening and locating pin fastening. When installing the thickness measuring module 20, it is necessary to ensure that the measuring axis of the thickness measuring module 20 is perpendicular to the moving direction of the translation module 30, that is, perpendicular to the first horizontal direction X, to avoid measurement errors caused by installation deviation.

[0047] The thickness measurement module 20 may include thickness sensors, which can be contact sensors or non-contact sensors. Taking a contact displacement sensor as an example, thickness sensors are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the translation module 30. When the translation module 30 moves the battery to the measurement position, the thickness sensors move so that the two probes contact the two surfaces of the battery respectively to obtain the battery thickness. The contact displacement sensor can be an inductive displacement sensor or a resistive displacement sensor, etc., and there is no limitation here.

[0048] Because contact-type displacement sensors come into contact with or press against the battery when measuring battery thickness, they may damage the battery's electrodes or separators. Therefore, non-contact sensors can be used to measure battery thickness, avoiding the mechanical pressure exerted on the battery by the thickness measurement module 20. Non-contact sensors can be laser displacement sensors or ultrasonic thickness sensors, etc., and there are no restrictions.

[0049] Taking a laser displacement sensor as an example, when using a single sensor, the sensor's measuring end is vertically aligned with the bearing surface of the base plate 31 in the translation module 30. A fixed distance from the sensor to the reference surface is pre-calibrated, and the battery thickness can be calculated by combining this with the real-time distance detected by the sensor. Alternatively, two laser displacement sensors can be arranged on both sides of the translation module 30. The measuring beams of the two sensors pass through the measuring point of the battery, and the battery thickness can be directly obtained by the difference between the distance between the two sensors and the distance detected by each sensor.

[0050] The translation module 30 is a component for positioning and transferring the battery. The translation module 30 also includes a moving part 34, with a base plate 31 mounted on the moving part 34. The moving part 34 is connected to the carrier plate 12 of the frame 10, and can move smoothly along the first horizontal direction X on the carrier plate 12. The base plate 31 of the translation module 30 can be made of a wear-resistant material.

[0051] The moving component 34 may include a power source, a transmission assembly, a guide, and an actuator. The power source may be a motor, linear motor, cylinder, hydraulic cylinder, or electric actuator, etc. The transmission assembly may be a lead screw and nut assembly, a gear and rack assembly, or a belt drive assembly, etc. The guide may be a guide rail, and the actuator may be a slider. Under the action of the power source, the transmission assembly converts the motion of the power source into linear motion, allowing the slider connected to the transmission assembly to move along the guide rail in the first horizontal direction X. Since the base plate 31, the first limiting device 32, and the second limiting device 33 are all mounted on the moving component 34, the movement of the slider in the moving component 34 drives the battery on the base plate 31 to move synchronously, and the first limiting device 32 and the second limiting device 33 also move synchronously.

[0052] During the movement, the first limiting device 32 and the second limiting device 33 constrain the battery from different directions. This not only prevents the battery from shifting and affecting the measurement results of the thickness measuring module 20, but also enables precise positioning of the battery, fixing it to a preset position for measurement by the thickness measuring module 20.

[0053] The first limiting device 32 is used to restrict the movement of the battery in the first horizontal direction X. In one embodiment, the first limiting device 32 can adopt a baffle structure, and there are two baffles. The baffles can be vertically installed on the edge of the base plate 31. When the battery is placed on the base plate 31, both ends of the battery are respectively attached to the baffles, thereby preventing the battery from sliding along the first horizontal direction X when it moves with the translation module 30.

[0054] The second limiting device 33 is used to limit the movement of the battery in the second horizontal direction Y. In one embodiment, the second limiting device 33 adopts an adjustable push plate structure. The push plate is mounted on the base plate 31 via a slide rail and can extend and retract along the second horizontal direction Y. When the battery is placed on the base plate 31, the push plate structure moves closer to the side of the battery until it fits against the battery, thereby limiting the battery within a preset area of ​​the base plate 31.

[0055] The specific working principle of thickness measurement is as follows: First, the moving part 34 of the translation module 30 moves the base plate 31 to the loading station. An operator or automated equipment places the battery on the base plate 31, with one end of the battery abutting against the baffle of the first limiting device 32. The push plate of the second limiting device 33, under the action of driving force, pushes the battery to a preset position, completing the positioning of the battery on the base plate 31. Then, the translation module 30 moves the battery along the first horizontal direction X to the measurement area of ​​the thickness measurement module 20. The thickness measurement module 20 starts the measurement and records the battery's thickness data. After the measurement is completed, the translation module 30 transfers the battery to the unloading station, completing one thickness measurement of the battery.

[0056] By cooperating with the first limiting device 32 and the second limiting device 33, not only can battery misalignment be avoided from affecting the measurement results of the thickness measuring module 20, but the position of the same battery on the base plate 31 can also be uniquely determined, ensuring that the measuring point of the same battery can be accurately aligned with the measuring end of the thickness measuring module 20 each time it is measured. The structure of the first limiting device 32 and the structure of the second limiting device 33 can be the same or different.

[0057] In the battery thickness measuring mechanism 100 provided in this application, the first limiting device 32 and the second limiting device 33 of the translation module 30 restrict the movement of the battery in two horizontal directions, ensuring that the battery can always remain stable during the process of the thickness measuring module 20 measuring the battery thickness, avoiding thickness measurement errors caused by displacement, and improving the accuracy of the battery thickness measuring mechanism 100 in measuring the battery thickness.

[0058] Please see Figure 2 and Figure 3 , Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the translation module 30 provided in an embodiment of this application. Optionally, the first limiting device 32 includes a first pushing component 321 and a first positioning component 322. The first pushing component 321 is slidably disposed on the base plate 31, and the first positioning component 322 is fixed on the base plate 31. The first pushing component 321 moves along the first horizontal direction X to drive the battery to move toward the first positioning component 322.

[0059] The second limiting device 33 includes a second pushing component 331 and a second positioning component 332. The second pushing component 331 is slidably disposed on the base plate 31, and the second positioning component 332 is fixed on the base plate 31. The second pushing component 331 moves along the second horizontal direction Y to drive the battery to move toward the direction closer to the second positioning component 332.

[0060] Once the battery is placed on the base plate 31, the first pushing component 321 and the second pushing component 331 can be activated sequentially or simultaneously, applying pushing force to the battery from two directions until the battery comes into contact with the first positioning member 322 and the second positioning member 332, thus achieving complete positioning. This positioning method can accommodate batteries of different sizes. Specifically, the travel distance of the first pushing component 321 and the second pushing component 331 can be adjusted according to the different battery sizes to ensure that each type of battery can be precisely positioned.

[0061] Both the first pushing component 321 and the second pushing component 331 may include a driving source, a push plate, and a guide. The driving source may be a cylinder or a servo electric cylinder, etc. The output force of the driving source needs to be adjusted according to the battery weight and positioning accuracy, ensuring pushing stability while avoiding excessive pressure that could damage the battery. The output end of the driving source is connected to the push plate, which is used to contact and push the battery. The guide may be a linear guide rail fixed on the base plate 31, and the bottom of the push plate is connected to the guide rail via a slider, allowing the push plate to slide on the base plate 31.

[0062] When the first pushing component 321 pushes the battery along the first horizontal direction X until it abuts against the first positioning component 322, the first positioning component 322 and the first pushing component 321 simultaneously clamp the battery to limit its displacement. Similarly, the second positioning component 332 and the second pushing component 331 simultaneously clamp the battery to limit its displacement.

[0063] The first positioning member 322 and the second positioning member 332 can be plate-shaped or column-shaped, etc., without limitation. Preferably, both the first positioning member 322 and the second positioning member 332 are plate-shaped. The plate-shaped positioning member has a larger contact area with the battery, which can not only prevent the battery from shifting relative to the first positioning member 322 or the second positioning member 332, but also prevent the first positioning member 322 and the second positioning member 332 from exerting excessive pressure on the battery and damaging it. The length of the first positioning member 322 and the second positioning member 332 can be selected according to the size of the battery.

[0064] In some embodiments, a buffer layer is provided on the side of the first positioning member 322 and the second positioning member 332 facing the battery. The buffer layer can absorb the impact force generated when the battery is pushed to contact the first positioning member 322 or the second positioning member 332, so as to avoid the battery being damaged by hitting the first positioning member 322 or the second positioning member 332.

[0065] Optionally, the first pushing component 321 includes a first driving member 3211 and a first push plate 3212 connected to the first driving member 3211. The first push plate 3212 is mounted on the base plate 31. The first driving member 3211 is connected to the base plate 31. The first push plate 3212 moves along the first horizontal direction X under the action of the first driving member 3211.

[0066] The second pushing component 331 includes a second driving member 3311 and a second push plate 3312 connected to the second driving member 3311. The second push plate 3312 is mounted on the base plate 31. The second driving member 3311 is connected to the base plate 31. The second push plate 3312 moves along the second horizontal direction Y under the action of the second driving member 3311.

[0067] Thus, under the action of the first driving member 3211, the first push plate 3212 and the first positioning member 322 can restrict the displacement of the battery in the first horizontal direction X, and under the action of the second driving member 3311, the second push plate 3312 and the second positioning member 332 can restrict the displacement of the battery in the second horizontal direction Y.

[0068] In addition, since the first push plate 3212 and the second push plate 3312 are movably mounted on the base plate 31, when batteries of different sizes are placed on the base plate 31, the stroke of the first push plate 3212 and the second push plate 3312 can be controlled according to the actual size of the battery, thereby improving the adaptability of the battery thickness measuring mechanism 100 to different batteries.

[0069] Specifically, the first push plate 3212 and the second push plate 3312 can be roughly rectangular. The first push plate 3212 extends along the second horizontal direction Y and is arranged on the base plate 31, while the second push plate 3312 extends along the first horizontal direction X and is also arranged on the base plate 31. The first push plate 3212 and the second push plate 3312 can be slidably connected to the base plate 31 via a slide rail slider structure. The dimensions of the first push plate 3212 and the second push plate 3312 can be designed according to the width of common batteries. The length of the first push plate 3212 can be greater than or equal to the width of the battery's side, ensuring that the battery receives uniform force during pushing and does not tilt. If the length of the first push plate 3212 is less than the width of the battery's side, the first push plate 3212 is located in the middle of the base plate 31 along the second horizontal direction Y, and the battery being tested is also placed in the middle of the base plate 31, which also ensures that the battery receives uniform force when the first push plate 3212 pushes the battery.

[0070] Similarly, the length of the second push plate 3312 can be greater than or equal to the length of the battery's side surface, ensuring that the battery is subjected to uniform force during pushing and will not tilt. If the length of the second push plate 3312 is less than the length of the battery's side surface, along the first horizontal direction X, the second push plate 3312 is located in the middle of the base plate 31, and the battery under test is also placed in the middle of the base plate 31, which also ensures that the battery is subjected to uniform force when the second push plate 3312 pushes the battery. Here, the first horizontal direction X is the length direction of the battery, the second horizontal direction Y is the width direction of the battery, and the vertical direction is the thickness direction of the battery.

[0071] The first driving component 3211 and the second driving component 3311 can be driving devices such as cylinders, electric cylinders, hydraulic cylinders, or linear modules. The types of the first driving component 3211 and the second driving component 3311 can be the same or different. The output end of the first driving component 3211 is connected to the first push plate 3212. The first push plate 3212 can be made of lightweight, high-strength material. The side of the first push plate 3212 that contacts the battery needs to be polished to avoid scratching the battery surface. Alternatively, a protective layer, such as a rubber pad or silicone pad, can be provided on the side of the first push plate 3212 that contacts the battery. This protective layer can not only prevent the first push plate 3212 from scratching the battery but also reduce rigid impact.

[0072] When the first driving member 3211 is working, its output end extends and retracts along the first horizontal direction X to drive the first push plate 3212 to move synchronously until the other side of the battery is in contact with the first positioning member 322. At this time, the battery is quasi-fixed in the position of the first horizontal direction X. Similarly, when the second driving member 3311 is working, its output end extends and retracts along the second horizontal direction Y to drive the second push plate 3312 to move synchronously until the other side of the battery is in contact with the second positioning member 332, so that the battery is fixed in the position of the second horizontal direction Y.

[0073] Please see Figure 2 and Figure 4 , Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the thickness measuring module 20 provided in an embodiment of this application. Optionally, the thickness measuring module 20 includes a first thickness measuring structure 21 and a second thickness measuring structure 22 spaced apart along a first horizontal direction X. The first thickness measuring structure 21 includes a first mounting bracket 211 and a first sensor 212. The first sensor 212 is slidably mounted on the first mounting bracket 211 along the vertical direction Z. The first thickness measuring structure 21 is used to measure the thickness of a first portion of the battery. The second thickness measuring structure 22 includes a second mounting bracket 221 and a second sensor 222. The second sensor 222 is slidably mounted on the second mounting bracket 221 along the vertical direction Z. The second thickness measuring structure 22 is used to measure the thickness of the first portion of the battery.

[0074] The first mounting bracket 211 and the second mounting bracket 221 are mounted on the carrier plate 12 of the frame 10, and the two mounting brackets can be connected to the carrier plate 12 by bolts. The spacing between the first mounting bracket 211 and the second mounting bracket 221 can be controlled according to the size of the battery being tested.

[0075] The first thickness measuring structure 21 and the second thickness measuring structure 22, which are spaced apart along the first horizontal direction X, can measure the thickness of different horizontal portions of the battery, and simultaneously obtain the thickness values ​​at different locations of the battery, thereby improving the accuracy of battery thickness measurement. For example, the first thickness measuring structure 21 can be aligned with the middle region of the battery to detect the thickness value of the middle portion of the battery, and the second thickness measuring structure 22 can be aligned with the edge region of the battery to detect the thickness value of the edge portion of the battery.

[0076] In one embodiment, after the translation module 30 moves the battery to the first measurement position, it aligns the first thickness measuring structure 21 with the middle region of the battery and the second thickness measuring structure 22 with the right edge region of the battery along the first horizontal direction X, allowing simultaneous measurement of the thickness values ​​at the middle and right edges of the battery. Subsequently, the translation module 30 moves the battery to the second measurement position along the first horizontal direction X, aligning the second thickness measuring structure 22 with the left edge region of the battery to obtain the thickness value at the left side of the battery. At this point, the first thickness measuring structure 21 stops measuring. Simultaneously measuring the thickness values ​​at different positions of the battery improves the accuracy of battery thickness measurement.

[0077] The first sensor 212 and the second sensor 222 can move vertically in the Z direction to obtain the thickness value of the battery at different heights, thus providing a more comprehensive reflection of the battery's thickness. Furthermore, for batteries of different sizes, adjusting the height of the first sensor 212 and the second sensor 222 allows for the measurement of the thickness value at different locations.

[0078] Through the coordinated operation of the first thickness measuring structure 21 and the second thickness measuring structure 22, and the height-adjustable installation method of the first sensor 212 and the second sensor 222, the thickness of different parts of the same battery can be measured, and the thickness of the same part of different batteries can also be measured to meet diverse measurement needs.

[0079] The first sensor 212 and the second sensor 222 can be laser displacement sensors or ultrasonic thickness sensors, etc., and there are no restrictions here. The sensor types of the first sensor 212 and the second sensor 222 can be the same or different.

[0080] Optionally, the first thickness measuring structure 21 includes a first guide rail 213 and a first slider 214. The first guide rail 213 is arranged on the first mounting bracket 211 in the vertical direction Z. The first slider 214 is slidably disposed on the first guide rail 213 and is connected to the first sensor 212.

[0081] The first guide rail 213 can be a high-precision linear guide rail, fixed vertically along the Z-direction to the side of the first mounting bracket 211 by screws. The length of the first guide rail 213 can be selected according to the thickness range of the battery. The first slider 214 can slide smoothly on the first guide rail 213. The first sensor 212 can be connected to the first slider 214 via the first adjusting seat 215, which can be provided with a first adjusting bolt 216. When it is necessary to adjust the height position of the first sensor 212, the first adjusting seat 215 can be turned to move the first slider 214 along the first guide rail 213 by turning the first adjusting bolt 216.

[0082] The second thickness measuring structure 22 includes a second guide rail 223 and a second slider 224. The second guide rail 223 is arranged on the second mounting bracket 221 in the vertical direction Z. The second slider 224 is slidably arranged on the second guide rail 223 and is connected to the second sensor 222.

[0083] The installation method of the second guide rail 223 and the second slider 224 on the second thickness measuring structure 22 is the same as that of the first thickness measuring structure 21. Similarly, the second guide rail 223 can be a high-precision linear guide rail, which is fixed to the side of the second mounting bracket 221 in the vertical direction Z by screws. The length of the second guide rail 223 can be selected according to the thickness range of the battery. The second slider 214 can slide smoothly on the second guide rail 223. The second sensor 222 can be connected to the second slider 224 through the second adjusting seat 225, and the second adjusting seat 225 can be provided with a second adjusting bolt 226. When it is necessary to adjust the height position of the second sensor 222, the second adjusting seat 225 can be rotated to move the second slider 224 along the second guide rail 223 by turning the second adjusting bolt 226.

[0084] In some embodiments, the first thickness measuring structure 21 and the second thickness measuring structure 22 may further include a locking device. The locking device is installed on the first slider 214 and the second slider 224. When the first sensor 212 and the second sensor 222 reach the preset position, the locking device can fix the first slider 214 to the first guide rail 213 and fix the second slider 224 to the second guide rail 223 to prevent the first sensor 212 and the second sensor 222 from shifting position due to vibration during the measurement process, thus ensuring the stability of the measurement.

[0085] Optionally, the second thickness measuring structure 22 further includes a third guide rail 2291 and a third slider 2292. The third guide rail 2291 is disposed on the frame 10 along the first horizontal direction X, and the third slider 2292 is slidably disposed on the third guide rail 2291. The second mounting bracket 221 is slidably disposed on the third guide rail 2291 via the third slider 2292.

[0086] The position of the second mounting bracket 221 can be adjusted according to batteries of different sizes and specifications, so that the second sensor 222 on the second mounting bracket 221 can measure the thickness at the same position on different batteries, thereby improving the adaptability of the battery thickness measuring mechanism 100 to batteries of different sizes.

[0087] The bottom of the second mounting bracket 221 is fixedly connected to the third slider 2292 by bolts. The third guide rail 2291 extends along the first horizontal direction X, and the length of the third guide rail 2291 can be controlled according to the length of the battery. The third slider 2292 and the third guide rail 2291 can cooperate through rolling friction, so that the movement of the second mounting bracket 221 in the first horizontal direction X is relatively smooth.

[0088] Optionally, the second thickness measuring structure 22 includes at least two second sensors 222 and a second slider 224, with the second sensors 222 and the second sliders 224 corresponding one-to-one, and at least two second sliders 224 are arranged on the second guide rail 223 along the vertical direction Z.

[0089] Thus, by setting at least two second sensors 222, the second thickness measuring structure 22 can simultaneously measure the battery at multiple points, reducing measurement errors and improving the accuracy of battery thickness measurement.

[0090] In one embodiment, after the translation module 30 moves the battery to the first measurement position, it aligns the first thickness measuring structure 21 with the center region of the battery along the first horizontal direction X, with one second sensor 222 aligned with the upper right corner of the battery and the other second sensor 222 aligned with the lower right corner. The thickness values ​​at the center and right edge of the battery can be measured simultaneously. Subsequently, the translation module 30 moves the battery to the second measurement position along the first horizontal direction X, and the second thickness measuring structure 22 is aligned with the left edge of the battery to obtain the thickness value at the left side. Simultaneously measuring the thickness values ​​at different positions of the battery improves the accuracy of battery thickness measurement. If it is necessary to measure the thickness values ​​at different heights of the battery, the height of the first sensor 212 can be changed by turning the first adjusting bolt 216, and the height of the second sensor 222 can be changed by turning the second adjusting bolt 226.

[0091] Optionally, the first thickness measuring structure 21 includes a first scale 217 and a first calibration plate 218. The first scale 217 is disposed on the first mounting bracket 211 along the vertical direction Z, and the first calibration plate 218 is connected to the first sensor 212. The second thickness measuring structure 22 includes a second scale 227 and a second calibration plate 228. The second scale 227 is disposed on the second mounting bracket 221 along the vertical direction Z, and the second calibration plate 228 is connected to the second sensor 222.

[0092] Understandably, the surface of the first scale 217 is provided with graduations, and the minimum graduation value can be selected according to the battery size, for example, the minimum graduation value can be 0.01mm. The first scale 217 is set on the side of the first mounting bracket 211 along the vertical direction Z and is parallel to the first guide rail 213. The surface of the first calibration plate 218 may be provided with a crosshair pattern. The first calibration plate 218 can be mounted on the first sensor 212 by screws, and the crosshair on the first calibration plate 218 and the measurement center of the first sensor 212 are located in the same vertical direction Z. When adjusting the height of the first sensor 212, the current position of the first sensor 212 can be determined by the alignment of the crosshair on the first calibration plate 218 with the first scale 217.

[0093] By moving the position of the first calibration plate 218 so that it can be aligned with a certain mark on the first scale 217, the first sensor 212 can be quickly moved to a preset height to save calibration time for the first sensor 212.

[0094] Meanwhile, when measuring the thickness of the same part of a battery of the same size, the cooperation between the first calibration plate 218 and the first scale 217 can also improve the repeatability of the first sensor 212, ensuring that the height of the first sensor 212 is consistent in each measurement and reducing measurement errors. Similarly, the cooperation between the second scale 227 and the second calibration plate 228 can also save calibration time for the second sensor 222 and improve the repeatability of the second sensor 222.

[0095] For example, the zero mark of the first scale 217 is pre-aligned with the center of the battery, and the zero mark of the second scale 227 is pre-aligned with the lower right corner of the battery. The crosshairs of the first calibration plate 218 are set to correspond to the measurement center of the first sensor 212, and the crosshairs of the second calibration plate 228 are set to correspond to the measurement center of the second sensor 222. When adjusting the height of the first sensor 212, the operator can determine the current position of the first sensor 212 and the second sensor 222 by observing the alignment of the crosshairs on the first calibration plate 218 with the scale of the first scale 217, and the alignment of the crosshairs on the second calibration plate 228 with the scale of the second scale 227.

[0096] When the crosshair on the first calibration plate 218 aligns with the zero mark on the first scale 217, it indicates that the measurement center of the first sensor 212 is aligned with the center of the battery. The first sensor 212 can then be activated to measure the thickness at the center of the battery. When the crosshair on the second calibration plate 228 aligns with the zero mark on the second scale 227, it indicates that the measurement center of the second sensor 222 is aligned with the lower right corner of the battery. The second sensor 222 can then be activated to measure the thickness at the lower right corner of the battery.

[0097] Optionally, the battery thickness measurement mechanism 100 includes two thickness measurement modules 20, which are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the translation module 30 along a first horizontal direction X. The two thickness measurement modules 20 are symmetrically arranged along the first horizontal direction X. In the second horizontal direction Y, the front-to-back distance between the first sensor 212 of each thickness measurement module 20 and the battery is constant. The first sensor 212 can acquire the measured value of the front-to-back distance between itself and the surface of the battery. By subtracting the measured value obtained from the front-to-back distance from the first sensor 212 of each thickness measurement module 20, the thickness value of a certain point of the battery to be measured can be indirectly obtained. Similarly, by subtracting the measured values ​​obtained from the front-to-back distance from the two second sensors 222, the thickness value of another point of the battery to be measured can be indirectly obtained.

[0098] Optionally, the battery thickness measuring mechanism 100 also includes a transfer device 40 mounted on the frame 10, which is used to grip and transfer the battery. In this way, by using the transfer device 40 in conjunction with the translation module 30, the battery can be automatically transferred between stations such as loading, measuring and unloading, thereby improving the automation level of the battery thickness measuring mechanism 100 and increasing the measurement efficiency.

[0099] Specifically, the frame 10 may further include a support frame 13, which is spaced apart from the column 11. The support frame 13 is used to mount the transfer device 40. The transfer device 40 can be connected to the support frame 13 by bolts. The support frame 13 is higher than the thickness measuring module 20 on the carrier plate 12, so that the transfer device 40 is located above the thickness measuring module 20, avoiding interference between the transfer device 40 and the thickness measuring module 20 when handling batteries.

[0100] The transfer device 40 may include a clamping component 41 and a moving component 42. The moving component 42 can drive the clamping component 41 to move. The specific movement includes, but is not limited to, driving the clamping component 41 to move along the first horizontal direction X, along the second horizontal direction Y, along the vertical direction Z, or rotating around the first horizontal direction X.

[0101] For example, the moving component 42 may include a first drive mechanism that moves along a first horizontal direction X, and a second drive mechanism that moves along a vertical direction Z. The first drive mechanism may use a belt drive to move the clamping component 41 in the first horizontal direction X, wherein the movement range of the clamping component 41 in the first horizontal direction X covers the position of the translation module 30, the loading station, and the unloading station. The second drive mechanism may use a cylinder drive to move the clamping component 41 up and down for gripping and transfer. In addition, the clamping component 41 is aligned with the translation module 30 along the second horizontal direction Y.

[0102] During operation, the transfer device 40 picks up the battery from the loading station, moves it along the first horizontal direction X to above the translation module 30, then descends vertically and places the battery on the base plate 31. The clamping assembly 41 then releases the battery and rises. After the thickness measurement module 20 completes the battery thickness measurement, the clamping assembly 41 descends and picks up the battery, then moves along the first horizontal direction X to place it at the unloading station, completing one transfer operation. This achieves automatic battery loading and unloading, improving the automation level and working efficiency of the battery thickness measurement mechanism 100.

[0103] The number of clamping components 41 can be two. One clamping component 41 is used to clamp the battery from the picking station and place it on the base plate 31 of the translation module 30. After the thickness measurement is completed, this clamping component 41 will then move a new battery from the picking station. The other clamping component 41 clamps the battery after thickness measurement from the translation module 30 and transfers it to the next station. The clamping component 41 may include grippers and gripper cylinders. The gripper cylinders are used to control the opening and closing angle of the grippers to clamp and release the battery. The clamping component 41 can also be a robotic arm, etc., and there is no limitation here.

[0104] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this application and does not limit the patent scope of this application. Any equivalent structural transformations made based on the inventive concept of this application and the contents of the specification and drawings of this application, or direct / indirect applications in other related technical fields, are included within the patent protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A battery gauge mechanism, comprising: include: frame; A thickness measuring module is mounted on the frame and is used to measure the thickness of the battery. as well as A translation module is mounted on the frame and is capable of moving relative to the frame in a first horizontal direction. The translation module includes a base plate, a first limiting device, and a second limiting device. The base plate is used to support the battery. The first limiting device and the second limiting device are mounted on the base plate. The first limiting device is used to restrict the movement of the battery in the first horizontal direction, and the second limiting device is used to restrict the movement of the battery in a second horizontal direction.

2. The battery gauge of claim 1, wherein The first limiting device includes a first pushing component and a first positioning component; The first pushing component is slidably disposed on the base plate, the first positioning member is fixed on the base plate, and the first pushing component moves along the first horizontal direction to drive the battery to move toward the first positioning member; The second limiting device includes a second pushing component and a second positioning component. The second pushing component is slidably disposed on the base plate, and the second positioning component is fixed on the base plate. The second pushing component moves along the second horizontal direction to drive the battery to move toward the direction closer to the second positioning component.

3. The battery gauge of claim 2, wherein, The first pushing component includes a first driving member and a first push plate connected to the first driving member. The first push plate is mounted on the base plate. The first driving member is connected to the base plate. The first push plate moves along the first horizontal direction under the action of the first driving member. The second pushing component includes a second driving member and a second push plate connected to the second driving member. The second push plate is mounted on the base plate, the second driving member is connected to the base plate, and the second push plate moves along the second horizontal direction under the action of the second driving member.

4. The battery gauge of any one of claims 1-3, wherein, The thickness measuring module includes a first thickness measuring structure and a second thickness measuring structure that are spaced apart along the first horizontal direction. The first thickness measuring structure includes a first mounting bracket and a first sensor. The first sensor is slidably mounted on the first mounting bracket in a vertical direction. The first thickness measuring structure is used to measure the thickness of a first part of the battery. The second thickness measuring structure includes a second mounting bracket and a second sensor. The second sensor is slidably mounted on the second mounting bracket in a vertical direction. The second thickness measuring structure is used to measure the thickness of the first part of the battery.

5. The battery gauge of claim 4, wherein, The first thickness measuring structure includes a first guide rail and a first slider. The first guide rail is arranged vertically on the first mounting bracket, and the first slider is slidably disposed on the first guide rail. The first slider is connected to the first sensor. The second thickness measuring structure includes a second guide rail and a second slider. The second guide rail is arranged vertically on the second mounting bracket, and the second slider is slidably disposed on the second guide rail. The second slider is connected to the second sensor.

6. The battery gauge of claim 5, wherein, The second thickness measuring structure further includes a third guide rail and a third slider. The third guide rail is disposed on the frame along the first horizontal direction, and the third slider is slidably disposed on the third guide rail. The second mounting bracket is slidably disposed on the third guide rail via the third guide rail.

7. The battery gauge of claim 5, wherein, The second thickness measuring structure includes at least two second sensors and a second slider, with each second sensor and the second slider corresponding to the other. At least two second sliders are arranged on the second guide rail along the vertical direction.

8. The battery gauge of claim 5, wherein, The first thickness measuring structure includes a first scale and a first calibration plate. The first scale is set on the first mounting bracket along the vertical direction, and the first calibration plate is connected to the first sensor. The second thickness measuring structure includes a second scale and a second calibration plate. The second scale is set on the second mounting bracket along the vertical direction, and the second calibration plate is connected to the second sensor.

9. The battery gauge of claim 5, wherein, The battery thickness measuring mechanism includes two thickness measuring modules, which are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the translation module along the first horizontal direction.

10. The battery gauge of any one of claims 1-3, wherein, The battery thickness measuring mechanism also includes a transfer device mounted on the frame, which is used to clamp and transfer the battery.

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