Battery module online assembling device

Abstract

The utility model discloses a kind of battery module online combined equipment, it is related to battery manufacturing field;In tray assembly, tray is equipped with several stack positions capable of supporting battery cell stack along first direction and several centering components for battery cell stack centering, two push plates of centering component are located along second direction two sides in stack position, and along second direction sliding connection in tray, tray is equipped with the positioning component for end plate support and positioning along first direction two sides;Conveying mechanism along first direction conveying tray assembly is equipped with assembly station;End plate centering mechanism is equipped along first direction two sides of assembly station, two push blocks of end plate centering mechanism are located along second direction two sides of assembly station and can be close to each other.The utility model is good in compatibility, and can be online quickly assembled for various specifications battery module.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of battery manufacturing technology, and in particular to an online assembly equipment for battery modules. Background Technology

[0002] In the battery manufacturing process, battery modules are assembled by splicing together several cells or even several cell stacks. Moreover, during the assembly process, several cells or cell stacks need to be combined and fixed with other components such as end plates according to the process design requirements.

[0003] However, existing technologies have revealed the following problems in battery module assembly: The assembly station suffers from poor compatibility, failing to accommodate battery modules with various assembly methods. During assembly, the components need to be aligned with the cell stacks; however, when assembling multiple cell stacks, the components cannot be simultaneously aligned with several stacks, hindering rapid assembly. Furthermore, due to the complexity of the components and the long assembly time, assembly typically requires removing the cell stacks from the conveyor line, preventing real-time online assembly on the conveyor. This necessitates handling heavy cell stacks and increases energy consumption during transport.

[0004] This shows that existing battery module assembly equipment needs further improvement. Utility Model Content

[0005] This invention aims to solve at least one of the technical problems existing in the prior art. To this end, this invention proposes an online battery module assembly device with good compatibility, capable of quickly aligning multiple cell stacks and end plates, thereby enabling rapid online assembly of battery modules of various specifications without the need for off-line transfer.

[0006] This utility model embodiment provides an online battery module assembly device, which includes:

[0007] A tray assembly includes a tray, an alignment component for aligning battery cells, and a positioning component for supporting and positioning end plates. The tray is provided with a plurality of stacking positions for supporting battery cells and a plurality of the alignment components along a first direction. The alignment component has two push plates that are opposite each other along a second direction. The two push plates are respectively located on both sides of the stacking positions along the second direction and are slidably connected to the tray along the second direction. The positioning components are provided on both sides of the tray along the first direction and are connected to the tray.

[0008] A conveying mechanism having an assembly station and a conveying plane for conveying the pallet assembly along a first direction;

[0009] The end plate centering mechanism has two push blocks that are opposite each other along a second direction and can move closer or further apart. The two push blocks are respectively located on both sides of the assembly station along the second direction. The assembly station is provided with the end plate centering mechanism on both sides along a first direction, which is perpendicular to the second direction.

[0010] The battery module online assembly equipment according to the present utility model has at least the following beneficial effects: when the conveying mechanism transports the tray assembly to the assembly station, the two push blocks of the end plate centering mechanism move closer to each other along the second direction, so that the end plate located on the positioning component completes the centering work in the second direction under the pushing action of the two push blocks, thereby ensuring that the centering axis of the end plate coincides with the centering axis of several cell stacks, and realizing the combined assembly of several cell stacks and the end plates on both sides.

[0011] Several cell stacks are placed along the second direction on the stacking position of the tray assembly, and end plates of corresponding size are placed on the positioning assembly. The tray assembly, several cell stacks and end plates are sent to the assembly station by the conveying mechanism. Then, the centering assembly, positioning assembly and end plate centering mechanism work together to drive the end plates on both sides to quickly center and assemble with several cell stacks in the second direction. This enables real-time online rapid assembly of battery modules with different sizes along the second direction, improving compatibility. Furthermore, there is no need to assemble the cell stacks with the end plates without removing them from the conveying mechanism, thereby reducing assembly time and saving energy.

[0012] In some embodiments of this utility model, the online battery module assembly equipment further includes a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism is provided on at least one side of the assembly station along the second direction. The locking mechanism is provided with a locking end that can move along the second direction. The locking end is configured to dock and lock with the tray assembly.

[0013] In some embodiments of this utility model, the centering assembly further includes a lead screw and a connector; the lead screw extends along a second direction and is rotatably connected to the tray, the lead screw and the push plate are in one-to-one correspondence and threaded connection, the connector is connected to the end of the lead screw away from the stacking position along the second direction, the assembly station is provided with the locking mechanism on both sides along the second direction, the locking mechanism includes a locking component and a first driving member, the output end of the first driving member is connected to the locking component to drive the locking component to move along the second direction, the locking component is provided with the locking end, one of the locking end and the connector is provided with a first positioning hole, and the other is provided with a first insertion part that can be adapted to connect with the first positioning hole.

[0014] In some embodiments of this utility model, the locking assembly includes a drive motor and a coupling connector, the coupling connector being the locking end, the output end of the first drive member being connected to the drive motor, and the output shaft of the drive motor being connected to the coupling connector to drive the coupling connector to rotate the connector head; and / or,

[0015] The centering component further includes a first positioning block connected to the tray; the locking mechanism further includes a second positioning block connected to the output end of the first drive member; one of the first and second positioning blocks has a second positioning hole, and the other has a second insertion portion that can be adapted to connect with the second positioning hole; and / or...

[0016] The end plate centering mechanism further includes a second driving member, the output end of which is connected to the push block to drive the push block to move along a second direction.

[0017] In some embodiments of this utility model, the online battery module assembly equipment further includes a pressure plate driving mechanism; the positioning component is provided with an upward-facing end plate placement groove and a snap-fit ​​part, the positioning component is slidably connected to the tray along a first direction, the assembly station is provided with the pressure plate driving mechanism on both sides along the first direction, the pressure plate driving mechanism includes a snap-fit ​​member and a first motion component, one of the snap-fit ​​member and the snap-fit ​​part is provided with a snap-fit ​​groove, the other is provided with a tongue, the tongue is adapted to the snap-fit ​​groove, the output end of the first motion component is connected to the snap-fit ​​member to drive the snap-fit ​​member to move along the first direction and a third direction or along the first direction and a second direction respectively, the first direction, the second direction and the third direction are perpendicular to each other.

[0018] In some embodiments of this utility model, the positioning component includes a positioning seat, a first clamping member, and a second clamping member. The positioning seat is provided with an end plate placement groove, and the two ends of the end plate placement groove form an open structure along a second direction. The first clamping member is elastically connected to the positioning seat so that the first clamping member can contact the surface of the end plate away from the stacking position along a first direction. The second clamping member is located above the first clamping member and is movably connected to the positioning seat so that the second clamping member can contact the upper part of the end plate.

[0019] In some embodiments of this utility model, the tray assembly further includes a plurality of support seats and a locking member. The plurality of support seats are arranged at intervals along a first direction and are slidably connected to the tray along the first direction. The support seats are provided with the stacking position. The locking member is detachably connected between the tray and the support seats. The centering component and the positioning component are disposed on the support seats. The locking mechanism further includes a first adjusting component. The output end of the first adjusting component is connected to the first driving member to drive the first driving member to move along the first direction, so that the locking end can dock and lock with the tray assembly. The end plate centering mechanism further includes a second adjusting component. The second adjusting component is configured to drive the push block to move along the first direction, so that the push block can move along the second direction and center the end plate.

[0020] In some embodiments of this utility model, the online assembly equipment for battery modules further includes a first detection component. At least one first detection component is provided on both sides of the assembly station along the first direction. The first detection component includes a distance sensor and a second motion component. The output end of the second motion component is connected to the distance sensor to drive the distance sensor to move along the first direction and the second direction respectively. The distance sensor is configured to detect its distance from the cell stack or end plate in the first direction after stacking.

[0021] In some embodiments of this utility model, the online assembly equipment for battery modules further includes a lifting mechanism, which is disposed on the assembly station. The lifting mechanism has a lifting part that can move along a third direction. The lifting part is configured to contact the tray assembly and lift the tray assembly. The first direction, the second direction, and the third direction are perpendicular to each other.

[0022] In some embodiments of this utility model, the online battery module assembly equipment further includes a second detection component, which is disposed on the lifting mechanism and configured to detect the lifting height of the tray assembly; and / or,

[0023] The lifting mechanism includes a base, a lifting seat, and a third driving member. The lifting seat is located above the base and is slidably connected to the base in a third direction. The base is provided with at least one wedge block, and the wedge block is provided with a lifting track. The lifting seat is provided with rollers, and the rollers are rotatably connected to the lifting track. The third driving member is located on the base, and the output end of the third driving member is connected to all the wedge blocks to drive the wedge blocks to move relative to the base in a direction perpendicular to the third direction.

[0024] Other features and advantages of this invention will be set forth in the description which follows, and will be apparent in part from the description, or may be learned by practicing the invention. The objects and other advantages of this invention may be realized and obtained by means of the structures particularly pointed out in the description, claims, and drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0025] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the online battery module assembly equipment provided according to an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0026] Figure 2 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the online battery module assembly equipment provided according to an embodiment of the present utility model after omitting the tray assembly;

[0027] Figure 3 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the tray assembly provided according to an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0028] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram showing the relative positions of the locking mechanism, end plate alignment mechanism, and first detection component on the frame according to an embodiment of the present utility model.

[0029] Figure 5 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the locking mechanism provided according to an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0030] Figure 6 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the end plate alignment mechanism and the first detection component provided according to an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0031] Figure 7 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the positioning component provided according to an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0032] Figure 8 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the lifting mechanism provided according to an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0033] Figure 9 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the pressure plate driving mechanism and driving assembly provided according to an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0034] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the connection between the roller and the lifting seat according to an embodiment of the present utility model.

[0035] Reference numerals: 100, pallet assembly; 110, pallet; 111, stacking position; 112, guide wheel; 120, centering assembly; 121, push plate; 122, lead screw; 123, connector; 124, first positioning block; 130, support base; 140, locking element; 150, positioning assembly; 151, positioning seat; 152, end plate placement slot; 153, first clamping element; 154, second clamping element; 155, connecting shaft; 156, guide hole; 157, snap-fit ​​part; 200, conveying mechanism; 300, locking mechanism; 310, drive motor; 320, first driving element; 330, connecting joint; 340, second positioning block; 350, first adjusting assembly; 361, first translation seat; 362, second translation seat 370. Distance measuring component; 380. Slotted photoelectric switch; 400. End plate centering mechanism; 410. Push block; 420. Second driving component; 430. Second adjustment component; 500. First detection component; 510. Distance sensor; 520. Fourth driving component; 530. Fifth driving component; 541. Third translation seat; 542. Fixed seat; 600. Lifting mechanism; 610. Base; 620. Lifting seat; 630. Third driving component; 640. Guide column; 650. Stopper; 660. Wedge block; 670. Fourth translation seat; 680. Roller; 700. Frame; 800. Pressure plate driving mechanism; 810. Snap-fit ​​component; 820. Sixth driving component; 830. Seventh driving component; 900. Second detection component. Detailed Implementation

[0036] The embodiments of this utility model are described in detail below. Examples of these embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain this utility model, and should not be construed as limiting this utility model.

[0037] In the description of this utility model, it should be understood that features specified as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of those features. In the description of this utility model, unless otherwise stated, "several" means one or more, and "multiple" means two or more.

[0038] In the description of this utility model, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "connected" and "linked" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model based on the specific circumstances.

[0039] The following is for reference. Figures 1 to 10 This invention describes an online battery module assembly device provided according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] like Figures 1 to 10 As shown, the online battery module assembly equipment according to the present invention can be applied in battery production lines. It can center and stack several cell stacks and quickly center the end plates relative to the stacked cell stacks, thereby enabling real-time online rapid assembly of battery modules of different specifications. It eliminates the need to transfer the cell stacks off the production line to complete the battery module assembly, giving the online battery module assembly equipment the advantages of high compatibility, low cost, and low energy consumption.

[0041] The online battery module assembly equipment has a first direction, a second direction, and a third direction, wherein the first direction, the second direction, and the third direction are arranged perpendicularly to each other. In this embodiment, it is assumed that the first direction is the front-to-back direction, the second direction is the left-to-right direction, and the third direction is the up-down direction.

[0042] As is understandable, a battery module includes components such as a cell stack, end plates, a structural frame, a thermal management system, and conductive connectors. The cell stack, composed of multiple individual cells connected in series or parallel, is the core energy storage unit of the battery module. End plates are located at both ends of the cell stack, serving to fix the stack, resist expansion, and provide mechanical support.

[0043] like Figures 1 to 7 As shown, the structure of the online battery module assembly equipment includes a tray assembly 100, a conveying mechanism 200, a locking mechanism 300, and an end plate centering mechanism 400.

[0044] The conveying mechanism 200 is equipped with an assembly station and a conveying plane, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the tray assembly 100 is placed on a conveying plane and can be conveyed by the conveying mechanism 200. The conveying plane extends along a first direction, and its function is to convey the tray assembly 100 along the first direction to deliver the tray assembly 100 to the assembly station and to deliver the tray assembly 100 out of the assembly station. In this embodiment, the conveying mechanism 200 is a double-speed chain conveyor line. It can be understood that the assembly station can be set at any position in the conveying direction of the conveying mechanism 200. In addition, other stations such as a loading station are set upstream of the assembly station. When the tray assembly 100 moves to the loading station under the conveying action of the conveying mechanism 200, several cell stacks and / or end plates can be placed on the tray assembly 100. The battery module online assembly equipment also includes a frame 700, and the conveying mechanism 200 is fixedly mounted on the frame 700 to obtain strong support.

[0045] Pallet assembly 100 includes a pallet 110, an alignment assembly 120, and a positioning assembly 150, such as Figure 1 and Figure 3 As shown, the tray 110 has several stacking positions 111 along a first direction, which are used to support battery cell stacks. It is understood that the number of stacking positions 111 can be set according to actual needs. The stacking positions 111 are arranged at intervals along the first direction, and a certain number of battery cell stacks can be arranged along a second direction and placed on the stacking positions 111, with the length of the battery cell stacks extending along the first direction. In some examples, each stacking position 111 holds a certain number of battery cell stacks. In other examples, a certain number of battery cell stacks simultaneously occupy all stacking positions 111.

[0046] The pallet 110 is provided with multiple guide wheels 112 on both sides along the second direction. The central axis of the guide wheels 112 extends along the third direction. Correspondingly, the conveying mechanism 200 is provided with a guide rail, and the outer peripheral surface of the guide wheels 112 contacts the guide rail. When the pallet 110 moves along the first direction under the conveying action of the conveying mechanism 200, the guide wheels 112 can roll along the guide rail. The guide wheels 112 can guide the movement of the pallet 110 and limit its movement in the second direction, thereby increasing the stability of the pallet 110's movement.

[0047] The tray 110 is also provided with several centering components 120 along the first direction. The function of the centering components 120 is to center and press the battery cell stacks to prevent displacement. The centering components 120 have two push plates 121, which are arranged opposite each other along the second direction. The two push plates 121 are located on both sides of the stacking position 111 along the second direction, and both push plates 121 are slidably connected to the tray 110 along the second direction. Specifically, the push plates 121 are mounted on the tray 110 through guide rail slider pairs, so that the two push plates 121 can move closer to each other relative to the tray 110 along the second direction to apply pressure to the battery cell stacks located on the stacking position 111, thereby completing the centering and stacking of the battery cell stacks in the second direction.

[0048] In this embodiment, as Figure 3 As shown, each push plate 121 has two sliders at its bottom, which are spaced apart along a first direction. Correspondingly, the tray 110 has two guide rails extending along a second direction, which are spaced apart along the first direction. The sliders are slidably connected to the guide rails. The centering component 120 and the stacking position 111 are arranged in a one-to-one correspondence. Of course, it is not excluded that in other embodiments, the centering component 120 and the stacking position 111 are arranged in a one-to-many manner.

[0049] The pallet 110 is provided with positioning components 150 on both sides along the first direction. The positioning components 150 are used for end plate support and positioning and are connected to the pallet 110. It is understood that the positioning components 150 are provided with end plate placement slots 152, the openings of which are upward-facing and extending through the pallet 152 along the second direction, so that end plates of different lengths can be placed in them. When an end plate is placed in the end plate placement slot 152, it remains stable within the slot and can move along the first direction with the pallet assembly 100.

[0050] The end plate located at the end plate placement slot 152 can contact several cell stacks located on the stacking position 111. Specifically, the end plates located on both sides of the tray 110 along the first direction can respectively contact the two ends of several cell stacks along the first direction. After several cell stacks are aligned and stacked, the end plates need to be aligned so that the alignment axis of the end plate and the alignment axis of the stacked cell stacks both extend along the first direction and coincide with each other. At this time, the end plate and the stacked cell stacks are parallel. Then, the end plate and several cell stacks can be connected, such as by steel strip fixing, fasteners such as bolt connection, or welding to achieve mutual connection between them.

[0051] In this embodiment, the centering axis of the end plate and the centering axis of the cell stack are set to coincide with the central axis of the conveying mechanism 200 extending in the first direction.

[0052] A locking mechanism 300 is provided on at least one side of the assembly station along the second direction. The locking mechanism 300 has a locking end that is movable along the second direction and is configured to dock and lock with the pallet assembly 100. When the locking mechanism 300 is in operation, the locking end can move along the second direction and approach the pallet assembly 100, then dock and lock with the pallet assembly 100 (such as the pallet 110, centering component 120, or positioning component 150), keeping the pallet assembly 100 fixed in the first direction and preventing displacement of the pallet assembly 100 during assembly, which would affect the assembly result.

[0053] Understandably, in some examples, the pallet assembly 100 has at least one connecting end on both sides along the second direction, and correspondingly, the assembly station has at least one locking mechanism 300 on both sides along the second direction. The locking end of the locking mechanism 300 can move along the second direction and engage with the connecting end of the pallet assembly 100 for locking. In other examples, the pallet assembly 100 has at least one connecting end on one side along the first direction, and correspondingly, the assembly station has at least one locking mechanism 300 on one side along the second direction. The locking end of the locking mechanism 300 can move along the second direction and engage with the connecting end of the pallet assembly 100 for locking.

[0054] In this embodiment, as Figure 3 As shown, the centering assembly 120 also includes a lead screw 122 and a connector 123. The lead screw 122 extends along a second direction and is rotatably connected to the tray 110 via a bearing seat, allowing it to rotate around its central axis. Two lead screws 122 are provided, each corresponding to a push plate 121, and they are threaded together. During the rotation of the lead screw 122, the push plate 121 can move along the second direction under the driving force of the lead screw 122. The lead screw 122 is located at the midpoint of the push plate 121 along a first direction.

[0055] Each lead screw 122 is equipped with a connector 123, which is connected to the end of the lead screw 122 away from the stacking position 111 along the second direction. Specifically, the connector 123 is located on the outside of the push plate 121, and the connector 123 and the lead screw 122 are coaxially arranged and fixed together. The connector 123 is a connection end and also a power input end. The connector 123 can dock with and drive the rotary drive component. When several battery cells are stacked in the stacking position 111, the rotary drive component can drive the connector 123 to rotate the lead screw 122, so that the two push plates 121 move closer to each other along the second direction and apply a centering and pressing effect to the several battery cells.

[0056] Of course, it is possible that in other embodiments, there is only one lead screw 122, and the lead screw 122 has two threaded portions with opposite thread directions. The two threaded portions are respectively arranged in a one-to-one correspondence with the two push plates 121 and are threadedly connected to each other. The connector 123 is provided on one end of the lead screw 122, so that the connector 123 is fixed to the lead screw 122. In addition, it is possible that the connector 123 is connected to the lead screw 122 through a transmission structure.

[0057] Moreover, such as Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 4As shown, locking mechanisms 300 are provided on both sides of the assembly station along the second direction, and the locking mechanisms 300 are arranged in a one-to-one correspondence with the connectors 123. The locking mechanisms 300 are symmetrically arranged about the conveying mechanism 200 along the second direction, and the locking mechanisms 300 can be fixedly mounted on the frame 700.

[0058] like Figure 5 As shown, the locking mechanism 300 includes a locking component and a first driving member 320. The output end of the first driving member 320 is connected to the locking component. When the first driving member 320 is in operation, its output end can drive the locking component to move in a second direction, causing the locking component to move closer to or further away from the connector 123. The locking component can be mounted directly or via a bracket on the output end of the first driving member 320. The locking component has a locking end.

[0059] Furthermore, one of the locking end and the connector 123 is provided with a first positioning hole, and the other is provided with a first insertion part, which can be adapted to connect with the first positioning hole. After the first insertion part extends into the first positioning hole and engages with the first positioning hole, the locking mechanism 300 will lock the tray assembly 100 to prevent the tray assembly 100 from shifting during the assembly process and affecting the assembly quality.

[0060] Furthermore, the locking assembly includes a drive motor 310 and a coupling connector 330. The coupling connector 330 serves as both the locking end and the power output end. The output end of the first drive member 320 is connected to the drive motor 310. The output shaft of the drive motor 310 is directly connected to the coupling connector 330 or connected via a transmission structure to drive the coupling connector 330 to rotate the connector 123 after it mates with the connector 123. The drive motor 310 operates and transmits power to the connector 123 through the coupling connector 330, causing the connector 123 to rotate the lead screw 122, thereby causing the two push plates 121 to move closer or further apart along a first direction.

[0061] It is understandable that the connector 330 can also be connected to the output shaft of the drive motor 310 through a transmission structure. The first drive component 320 can be a linear drive device such as a pneumatic cylinder, electric cylinder, or hydraulic cylinder. The first positioning hole is an internal angle hole, and the shape of the first insertion part is adapted to the first positioning hole. If the first positioning hole is an internal hexagonal hole, then the cross-sectional shape of the first insertion part is hexagonal. When the connector 330 has a first positioning hole and the connector 123 has a first insertion part, the first positioning hole and the connector 330 are coaxially arranged, and the first insertion part and the connector 123 are coaxially arranged. Of course, it is also possible that the connector 123 has a first positioning hole and the connector 330 has a first insertion part.

[0062] When the first driving component 320 is working, the drive motor 310 and the connector 330 approach the connector 123 along the second direction, allowing the connector 330 to accurately align with the connector 123 to establish a driving connection. During operation of the drive motor 310, the cooperation between the connector 330 and the connector 123 causes the lead screw 122 to drive the push plate 121 to move along the second direction, thereby enabling the pressurization of several battery cell stacks under the action of the two push plates 121. The drive motor 310 can be a reversible motor, capable of rotating the output shaft in either the forward or reverse direction. The drive motor 310 can also be a servo motor, which facilitates precise control of the rotation angle of the connector 330, thereby controlling the movement distance of the push plate 121.

[0063] In addition, the locking mechanism 300 also includes a ranging component 370, which can be a laser ranging sensor or an infrared ranging sensor. The ranging component 370 is arranged in a one-to-one correspondence with the push plate 121. The ranging component 370 is located on the side of the push plate 121 away from the stacking position 111 along the second direction. The ranging component 370 is configured to detect the movement distance of the push plate 121 along the second direction. The position detection of the push plate 121 by the ranging component 370 is used to determine whether the push plate 121 has moved into place along the second direction, thereby facilitating the control of the drive motor 310 to stop running.

[0064] In addition, the locking mechanism 300 also includes two slotted photoelectric switches 380, which are arranged at intervals along the second direction. The two slotted photoelectric switches 380 are used to detect whether the drive motor 310 is in a working position or a non-working position under the driving action of the first drive member 320.

[0065] Of course, it is not excluded that in other embodiments, the locking mechanism 300 is not provided to lock the tray assembly 100.

[0066] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 4 and Figure 6 As shown, the assembly station is provided with end plate centering mechanisms 400 on both sides along the first direction. When the pallet assembly 100 moves to the assembly station, the end plate centering mechanisms 400 and the positioning assembly 150 are arranged opposite each other along the second direction. The end plate centering mechanisms 400 can be fixedly mounted on the frame 700. The end plate centering mechanisms 400 have two push blocks 410, which are arranged opposite each other along the second direction. The two push blocks 410 are located on both sides of the assembly station along the second direction, and they can move along the second direction to move closer to each other or further away from each other, thereby applying a centering effect in the second direction to the end plate on the positioning assembly 150.

[0067] In this embodiment, the two push blocks 410 are symmetrically arranged about the conveying mechanism 200 along the second direction. The end plate centering mechanism 400 also includes a second driving member 420, which is arranged in a one-to-one correspondence with the push blocks 410. The output end of the second driving member 420 is fixedly connected to the push block 410. When the second driving member 420 is working, its output end can drive the push block 410 to move along the second direction, allowing the push block 410 to move closer along the second direction and push the end plate on the positioning assembly 150, so that the end plate can complete the centering work in the second direction, ensuring that the centering axis of the end plate and the centering axis of the stacked cell stack extend along the first direction and coincide with each other. The second driving member 420 can be a linear drive device such as a cylinder, electric cylinder, or hydraulic cylinder.

[0068] Of course, it is not excluded that in other embodiments, the second driving member 420 simultaneously drives the two push blocks 410 to move closer or further away from each other along the second direction, for example, by means of a motor, gears and two racks.

[0069] In this embodiment, the alignment axis of the end plate and the alignment axis of the cell stack extend along the first direction and coincide with each other. The end plate alignment mechanism 400 and locking mechanism 300, both located on both sides of the assembly station, are symmetrically arranged about the alignment axis. Several cell stacks can be arranged on the stacking position 111 along a direction perpendicular to the alignment axis. Using the alignment axis as a reference, the online battery module assembly equipment can quickly align several cell stacks and end plates along the alignment axis to achieve the effect of rapid assembly compatible with multiple battery modules.

[0070] During the online assembly of battery modules provided in this embodiment, after the conveying mechanism 200 transports the tray assembly 100 with cell stacks and end plates to the assembly station, the tray assembly 100 remains fixed at the assembly station. At this time, the conveying mechanism 200 can stop operating. Several cell stacks are already placed on the stacking position 111 of the tray assembly 100 for centering and stacking processing, while the end plates are already placed in the end plate placement slot 152 of the positioning assembly 150 for centering processing. The dimensions of the end plates along the second direction are adapted to the dimensions of the several cell stacks along the second direction after stacking. The dimensions of the end plates along the second direction can be selected according to the number of cell stacks along the second direction, thereby enabling the assembly of battery modules with different dimensions along the second direction.

[0071] Next, the locking mechanism 300 is activated. Under the operation of the first drive unit 320, the locking end of the locking mechanism 300 moves along the second direction and approaches the tray assembly 100, allowing the locking end to quickly dock and lock with the centering component 120 on the tray assembly 100 and achieve a drive connection. This not only locks the tray assembly 100, preventing displacement during assembly and ensuring high assembly quality, but also, when the drive motor 310 is running, the locking end drives the two push plates 121 of the centering component 120 to move along the second direction and approach each other. This causes several cell stacks located at the stacking position 111 to complete the pressurized stacking process under the pushing action of the two push plates 121. The centering axis of the stacked cell stacks extends along the first direction.

[0072] Furthermore, when the end plate alignment mechanism 400 is activated, the two push blocks 410 of the end plate alignment mechanism 400 move along the second direction and approach each other under the operation of the second drive member 420. This allows the end plate located on the positioning assembly 150 to complete the alignment work in the second direction under the pushing action of the two push blocks 410, and the alignment axis of the end plate extends along the first direction. This ensures that the alignment axis of the end plate coincides with the alignment axis of several cell stacks, thereby realizing the combined assembly of several cell stacks and the end plates on both sides.

[0073] It is understood that, in this embodiment, depending on the battery module to be assembled, a certain number of cell stacks can be placed on the stacking position 111 of the tray assembly 100 along the second direction, and end plates of corresponding size can be placed on the positioning assembly 150. The tray assembly 100, cell stacks and end plates are sent to the assembly station by the conveying mechanism 200. Then, the locking mechanism 300, the centering assembly 120, the positioning assembly 150 and the end plate centering mechanism 400 cooperate with each other to drive the end plates on both sides to be quickly centered and assembled with several cell stacks in the second direction. This enables real-time online rapid assembly of battery modules with different sizes along the second direction, improves the compatibility of the online battery module assembly equipment, and eliminates the need to assemble the cell stacks with the end plates after removing them from the conveying mechanism 200, thereby reducing assembly time and saving energy.

[0074] In addition, in order to enable the pallet assembly 100 to move on the conveyor mechanism 200 and achieve recycling, a locking mechanism 300 is added at the assembly station to input power to the lead screw 122 of the centering component 120 on the pallet assembly 100, so as to ensure that the centering component 120 can perform the function of pressurizing and stacking several battery cells at the assembly station.

[0075] In some embodiments, such as Figure 3 and Figure 5As shown, the centering component 120 also includes a first positioning block 124, which is fixedly connected to the tray 110. The number of first positioning blocks 124 is not limited to one. In this embodiment, four first positioning blocks 124 are provided and arranged in a matrix. The locking mechanism 300 also includes a second positioning block 340, which is configured in a one-to-one correspondence with the first positioning block 124. When the tray component 100 moves to the assembly station, the second positioning block 340 and the first positioning block 124 are positioned opposite each other in the second direction. The second positioning block 340 is fixedly connected to the output end of the first driving member 320. When the first driving member 320 is running, the second positioning block 340 can move along the second direction together with the drive motor 310 and the coupling 330.

[0076] Furthermore, one of the first positioning block 124 and the second positioning block 340 is provided with a second positioning hole, and the other is provided with a second insertion part, which can be adapted to connect with the second positioning hole. It can be understood that the second positioning hole can be a round hole, a square hole, or a hole of other shapes, and the shape of the second insertion part is adapted to the shape of the second positioning hole. When the second insertion part extends into the second positioning hole, the first positioning block 124 and the second positioning block 340 can perform a locking and positioning function, thereby locking or unlocking the tray assembly 100. Therefore, during the battery module assembly process, through the mutual cooperation between the first positioning block 124 and the second positioning block 340, the tray assembly 100 is reinforced with a locking function, preventing the docking locking point between the locking mechanism 300 and the centering component 120 from failing due to the movement of the tray assembly 100 along the first direction, thereby ensuring that the locking end of the locking mechanism 300 and the connecting end of the centering component 120 maintain a good docking state.

[0077] In this embodiment, the first positioning block 124 is provided with a second positioning hole. The opening of the second positioning hole is open towards the side of the first positioning block 124 away from the stack position 111 along the second direction. The second positioning hole is through the top and bottom. Moreover, the second positioning hole is U-shaped when viewed along the third direction. Correspondingly, the second positioning block 340 is provided with a second insertion part.

[0078] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 As shown, the online battery module assembly equipment also includes a lifting mechanism 600. The lifting mechanism 600 is located at the assembly station, and its function is to lift and lower the tray assembly 100 located at the assembly station. Specifically, the lifting mechanism 600 has a lifting section that can move in a third direction, and the lifting section is configured to contact the tray assembly 100 and lift it.

[0079] Understandably, when the conveying mechanism 200 transports the tray assembly 100 to the assembly station, the lifting mechanism 600 lifts the tray assembly 100, allowing it to leave the conveying plane and enabling the conveying mechanism 200 to continue operating without frequent starts and stops. After the tray assembly 100 is lifted to the set height, the locking mechanism 300 and the end plate alignment mechanism 400 can operate to perform the pressure stacking of the cell stack and the alignment of the end plates, respectively, facilitating the rapid assembly of the battery module.

[0080] In a specific embodiment, such as Figures 8 to 10 As shown, the lifting mechanism 600 includes a base 610, a lifting seat 620, and a third drive component 630. The lifting seat 620 is located above the base 610 and is slidably connected to the base 610 along a third direction, allowing the lifting seat 620 to rise and fall stably relative to the base 610. In this embodiment, the lifting seat 620 has four guide posts 640 extending along a third direction, all arranged in a matrix. Correspondingly, the base 610 has four guide sleeves, and the guide posts 640 are slidably connected to the guide sleeves. The upper part of the lifting seat 620 can contact the lower part of the tray assembly 100 and provide support. The base 610 can be fixedly mounted on the frame 700.

[0081] The base 610 is provided with at least one wedge block 660, which is slidably connected to the base 610 in a direction perpendicular to a third direction. The wedge block 660 is provided with a lifting rail located on its upper part. The lifting seat 620 is provided with rollers 680 located on its lower part. The rollers 680 are rotatable relative to the lifting seat 620, and their central axis extends in a direction perpendicular to a third direction. The rollers 680 and the lifting rails are arranged in a one-to-one correspondence, and the rollers 680 are rotatably connected to the lifting rails.

[0082] In this embodiment, four wedge blocks 660 are provided and arranged in a matrix. All wedge blocks 660 are fixedly installed on the fourth translation seat 670 of the lifting mechanism 600. The fourth translation seat 670 can be installed on the base 610 through a guide rail slider pair. The lifting track includes a first support plane, an inclined plane and a second support plane arranged sequentially along a first direction. The first support plane, the inclined plane and the second support plane are arranged from top to bottom and connected to each other. The first support plane is higher than the second support plane.

[0083] When the roller 680 rolls from the second support plane along the inclined surface to the first support plane, the lifting seat 620 can move upward relative to the base 610 to a first set position, so that the lifting seat 620 drives the pallet assembly 100 to move into place. At this time, the first support plane provides vertical upward support to the roller 680, effectively protecting the guide column 640 from horizontal pressure. When the roller 680 moves to the first support plane, the lifting seat 620 can move downward relative to the base 610 to a second set position, so that the lifting seat 620 drives the pallet assembly 100 to move into place, allowing the pallet assembly 100 to fall on the conveying plane of the conveying mechanism 200, so that the conveying mechanism 200 can send the pallet assembly 100 out of the assembly station.

[0084] The third drive unit 630 is fixedly mounted on the base 610. The output end of the third drive unit 630 is connected to all the wedge blocks 660. The output end of the third drive unit 630 can drive the wedge blocks 660 to move relative to the base 610 in a direction perpendicular to a third direction, allowing the wedge blocks 660 to move linearly relative to the rollers 680. During this process, the rollers 680 can move along the extension direction of the lifting track, allowing the rollers 680 to move to the first support plane or the second support plane. This ensures that the lifting seat 620 drives the pallet assembly 100 to move in a third direction relative to the base 610, realizing the lifting function of the pallet assembly 100. The third drive unit 630 can be a linear drive device such as a pneumatic cylinder, an electric cylinder, or a hydraulic cylinder.

[0085] In this embodiment, the third driving member 630 is a telescopic cylinder. The driving direction of the third driving member 630 is the first direction. There are two third driving members 630, which are arranged at intervals along the second direction. The output ends of the two third driving members 630 are fixedly connected to the fourth translation seat 670. The two third driving members 630 can synchronously drive the fourth translation seat 670 to move all the wedge blocks 660 along the first direction.

[0086] This design not only enables the lifting seat 620 to move up and down, but also provides strong support for the lifting seat 620, making the direction of movement of the output end of the third drive component 630 perpendicular to the direction of gravity of the lifting seat 620 and the tray assembly 100. This effectively avoids damage such as bending or even breakage of the output end of the third drive component 630 due to the gravity of the lifting seat 620 and the tray assembly 100, and also reduces the performance requirements of the third drive component 630, saving manufacturing costs.

[0087] Of course, it is not excluded that in other embodiments, the lifting mechanism 600 may adopt other structures, such as the third driving component 630 being a telescopic cylinder used to drive the lifting seat 620 to move up and down.

[0088] In addition, the lifting mechanism 600 also includes a stopper 650. The stopper 650 is fixedly mounted on the base 610. The stopper 650 can block the tray assembly 100, preventing the tray assembly 100 located at the assembly station from being affected by the next tray assembly 100, ensuring that the battery module assembly work proceeds normally and smoothly. When the tray assembly 100 leaves the assembly station, the stopper 650 is activated and releases its blocking effect on the tray assembly 100, allowing the next tray assembly 100 to move to the assembly station.

[0089] In some embodiments, such as Figure 8 As shown, the online battery module assembly equipment also includes a second detection component 900. The second detection component 900 is fixedly mounted on the lifting mechanism 600 and is configured to detect the lifting height of the tray assembly 100. The second detection component 900 is a non-contact ranging sensor, such as a laser sensor, and can emit a detection beam towards the lifting seat 620, the tray assembly 100, or the base 610.

[0090] When the lifting seat 620 lifts the tray assembly 100, the second detection component 900 can collect the upward movement distance of the lifting seat 620 and the tray assembly 100 in real time to determine whether the lifting seat 620 and the tray assembly 100 have moved into place. This ensures that the locking mechanism 300 can accurately dock and lock with the centering component 120, and that the end plate centering mechanism 400 can accurately dock with the positioning component 150, so as to apply a centering effect to the end plate on the positioning component 150. Both the locking mechanism 300 and the end plate centering mechanism 400 are configured to be activated after the tray assembly 100 has moved into place. In this embodiment, the lifting seat 620 is provided with a number of slots, and a second detection component 900 is provided at each slot. The second detection component 900 can emit a detection beam downward toward the base 610.

[0091] In some embodiments, such as Figure 3 , Figures 7 to 9 As shown, the structure of the online battery module assembly equipment also includes a pressure plate drive mechanism 800. Pressure plate drive mechanisms 800 are provided on both sides of the assembly station along the first direction. The pressure plate drive mechanism 800 can be fixedly mounted on the frame 700 or on the base 610.

[0092] Each positioning component 150 is provided with an end plate placement groove 152 and a snap-fit ​​part 157. The opening of the end plate placement groove 152 is open upward. Moreover, the positioning component 150 and the tray 110 can be slidably connected in the first direction through a guide rail slider pair, so that the positioning component 150 can move relative to the tray 110 in the first direction.

[0093] The pressure plate drive mechanism 800 includes a latching member 810 and a first motion component. One of the latching member 810 and the latching part 157 has a latching groove, and the other has a tongue. The tongue is adapted to connect with the latching groove to create a latching action between the latching member 810 and the latching part 157, allowing the latching member 810 to drive the latching part 157 to move along a first direction. The output end of the first motion component is fixedly connected to the latching member 810, and the output end of the first motion component can drive the latching member 810 to move along the first direction and a third direction, or along the first direction and a second direction.

[0094] It is understood that the first motion component is a dual-axis motion mechanism. The specific shapes of the latching member 810 and the latching part 157 can be set according to actual needs, and are not specifically limited here.

[0095] In this embodiment, the snap-fit ​​component 810 is provided with a tongue, and the snap-fit ​​portion 157 is provided with a snap-fit ​​groove. The first motion component includes a sixth drive component 820 and a seventh drive component 830, which are telescopic cylinders. The seventh drive component 830 is mounted on the base 610, and the sixth drive component 820 can be fixed to the output end of the seventh drive component 830 by a first mounting seat. The first mounting seat is connected to the base 610 by a guide rail slider pair, so that the sixth drive component 820 can move relative to the base 610 in a first direction under the driving action of the seventh drive component 830. The snap-fit ​​component 810 can be fixed to the output end of the sixth drive component 820 by a second mounting seat. The second mounting seat is connected to the first mounting seat by a guide rail slider pair, so that the snap-fit ​​component 810 can move relative to the base 610 in a third direction under the driving action of the sixth drive component 820.

[0096] In some examples, the opening of the snap-fit ​​slot is open downwards. The first motion component is configured to drive the snap-fit ​​member 810 to move along a first direction and a third direction, respectively. Therefore, when the first motion component is in operation, the snap-fit ​​member 810 can first move along the third direction and approach the snap-fit ​​part 157, so that the snap-fit ​​member 810 can snap with the snap-fit ​​part 157. Then, the snap-fit ​​member 810 drives the snap-fit ​​part 157 to move along the first direction, so that the snap-fit ​​part 157 can drive the positioning component 150 to move along the first direction and approach the stacked cell stack, so that the end plate can be pressed against the cell stack for assembly of the end plate and the cell stack. This configuration can effectively utilize the space below the tray assembly 100 at the assembly station and avoid interference from the pressure plate drive mechanism 800 when the tray assembly 100 leaves the assembly station.

[0097] In other examples, the opening of the snap-fit ​​slot is open to one side of the second direction, and the first motion component is configured to drive the snap-fit ​​810 to move along the first direction and the second direction, respectively.

[0098] In this embodiment, as Figure 7 As shown, the positioning assembly 150 includes a positioning seat 151, a first clamping member 153, and a second clamping member 154. The positioning seat 151 is fixedly connected to the tray 110. The positioning seat 151 has an upward-facing end plate placement groove 152. The end plate placement groove 152 has an opening structure at both ends along the second direction. Therefore, end plates of different lengths (i.e., dimensions along the second direction) can be placed in the end plate placement groove 152 on the positioning seat 151.

[0099] The first clamping member 153 is located on the side of the end plate placement groove 152 away from the stacking position 111 along the first direction. The first clamping member 153 is elastically connected to the positioning seat 151. Specifically, a spring is provided between the first clamping member 153 and the positioning seat 151. The spring is configured to drive the first clamping member 153 to move along the first direction toward the end plate placement groove 152, so that the first clamping member 153 can contact the surface of the end plate away from the stacking position 111 along the first direction. This allows the first clamping member 153 to apply a clamping action along the first direction to the end plate located in the end plate placement groove 152, thereby enabling the end plate to be centered and clamped in the first direction by the first clamping member 153. Therefore, end plates of different thicknesses (i.e., dimensions along the first direction) can be kept stable at the end plate placement groove 152.

[0100] In this embodiment, the first pressing member 153 is a pressing block. Multiple first pressing members 153 are provided and arranged at intervals along the second direction. The first pressing member 153 is provided with a guide shaft extending along the first direction. The positioning seat 151 is provided with a guide hole. The guide shaft is adapted to the guide hole. The spring is sleeved on the guide shaft. The two ends of the spring are respectively connected to the first pressing member 153 and the positioning seat 151.

[0101] The second clamping member 154 is located above the first clamping member 153, and is movably connected to the positioning seat 151 so that the second clamping member 154 can contact the upper part of the end plate. In some examples, the second clamping member 154 can be slidably connected to the positioning seat 151 in a third direction. When the second clamping member 154 moves into position in the third direction away from the end plate, the end plate can be removed from the end plate placement slot 152. In other examples, the second clamping member 154 can be rotatably connected to the positioning seat 151. By flipping the second clamping member 154, the clamping effect of the second clamping member 154 on the end plate is released, making it easier to remove the end plate from the end plate placement slot 152.

[0102] In this embodiment, the second clamping member 154 is provided with an L-shaped limiting surface. When the second clamping member 154 abuts against the upper part of the end plate, the limiting surface can fit against the upper surface of the end plate and the surface close to the stacking position 111 along the first direction, so that the second clamping member 154 can apply a downward clamping action to the end plate. Moreover, the second clamping member 154 can cooperate with the first clamping member 153 to apply a limiting action to the end plate along the first direction, so that the end plate can maintain a stable vertical state and avoid tilting of the end plate, thereby ensuring that the end plate can be parallel to the cell stack, which facilitates the rapid assembly of the end plate and the cell stack.

[0103] Furthermore, the lower end of the second clamping member 154 is provided with a connecting shaft 155 extending along the second direction. Correspondingly, the positioning seat 151 is provided with a guide hole 156, which extends through the second direction so that the connecting shaft 155 can be placed in the guide hole 156. The upper end of the guide hole 156 extends vertically upward and bends along the first direction away from the stacking position 111. When the connecting shaft 155 moves from top to bottom to the lower part of the guide hole 156, the second clamping member 154 can apply a clamping effect to the end plate, and under the action of gravity, the second clamping member 154 can maintain a stable state. When an external force is applied to the second clamping member 154, driving the connecting shaft 155 to move from bottom to top along the guide hole 156, the second clamping member 154 can flip over, releasing its clamping effect on the end plate. Of course, a guide bearing can be provided on the connecting shaft 155, with the outer peripheral surface of the guide bearing contacting the guide hole 156.

[0104] In some embodiments, such as Figure 3 As shown, the tray assembly 100 also includes a plurality of support seats 130 and a locking member 140. The plurality of support seats 130 are arranged at intervals along a first direction, and the support seats 130 can be slidably connected to the tray 110 along the first direction via guide rail slider pairs. The support seats 130 are provided with stacking positions 111, on which battery cells are stacked. A centering component 120 and a positioning component 150 are both disposed on the support seats 130. In this embodiment, there are two support seats 130, each support seat 130 is equipped with one centering component 120, and there are two positioning components 150, which are respectively fixedly connected to the support seats 130 located on both sides of the tray 110 along the first direction.

[0105] The locking element 140 is detachably connected between the tray 110 and the support 130 to lock the tray 110 and the support 130, preventing the support 130 from sliding relative to the tray 110 in the first direction, thereby ensuring the position of the support 130 on the tray 110.

[0106] Understandably, based on the dimensions of the cell stack along the first direction, the position of the support base 130 on the tray 110 along the first direction is adjusted so that the support base 130 can support several cell stacks, and also ensure that the end plate on the positioning assembly 150 can contact the cell stacks. In some examples, one end of the locking member 140 is fixed to the support base 130, and the other end of the locking member 140 is connected to the elongated hole on the tray 110 by a bolt. In other examples, one end of the locking member 140 is fixedly connected to the support base 130, and the other end of the locking member 140 is provided with a tightening screw extending along the first direction, and the tightening screw is threadedly connected to the locking member 140. The tray 110 is provided with a limiting block, and the tightening screw can abut against the surface of the limiting block along the first direction. By rotating the tightening screw in the forward or reverse direction, the position of the locking member 140 relative to the limiting block in the first direction can be adjusted, thereby adjusting the position of the support base 130. Furthermore, in order to ensure that the tightening screw always remains in contact with the limiting block, a spring element that extends and retracts in the first direction is provided between the tray 110 and the support base 130.

[0107] like Figure 5 As shown, the locking mechanism 300 also includes a first adjustment component 350. The output end of the first adjustment component 350 is fixedly connected to the first drive member 320. The output end of the first adjustment component 350 can drive the first drive member 320 to move the drive motor 310 and the connector 330 along a first direction. This allows the position of the connector 330 in the first direction to be adjusted according to the position of the support base 130 along the first direction, ensuring accurate docking between the connector 330 and the connector 123 of the centering component 120. This establishes a docking, locking, and driving connection between the locking end and the tray assembly 100.

[0108] In this embodiment, the locking mechanism 300 further includes a first translation seat 361 and a second translation seat 362. A first adjustment component 350 is fixedly mounted on the frame 700. The output end of the first adjustment component 350 is connected to the first translation seat 361. The first translation seat 361 is mounted on the frame 700 via a guide rail slider pair, allowing the first translation seat 361 to move relative to the frame 700 in a first direction. The second translation seat 362 is mounted on the first translation seat 361 via a guide rail slider pair, allowing the second translation seat 362 to move relative to the first translation seat 361 in a second direction. A first driving member 320 is fixedly mounted on the first translation seat 361. The output end of the first driving member 320 is connected to the second translation seat 362. A drive motor 310 is mounted on the second translation seat 362.

[0109] Moreover, such as Figure 6As shown, the end plate alignment mechanism 400 further includes a second adjustment component 430. The second adjustment component 430 is configured to drive the push block 410 to move along a first direction, so that the push block 410 can move along a second direction and align the end plate. In this embodiment, the output end of the second adjustment component 430 is connected to the second driving member 420. However, it is not excluded that the output end of the second adjustment component 430 is connected to the push block 410, and the output end of the second driving member 420 is connected to the second adjustment component 430.

[0110] It is understandable that the first adjustment component 350 and the second adjustment component 430 can be servo electric cylinders, capable of precisely controlling and adjusting the positions of the connector 330 and the push block 410 in the first direction. This ensures that the locking mechanism 300 can dock, lock, and drive the centering component 120 on the support base 130, and that the end plate centering mechanism 400 can cooperate with the positioning component 150 on the support base 130 to center the end plate. Alternatively, the first adjustment component 350 and the second adjustment component 430 can be cylinders, coupled with multiple photoelectric switches to control the positions of the connector 330 and the push block 410 in the first direction. Of course, it is not ruled out that the first adjustment component 350 and the second adjustment component 430 can be hand-cranked linear slides.

[0111] When the online battery module assembly equipment of this embodiment is applied to battery module assembly, if the size of the cell stack along the first direction increases or decreases due to the need to switch to a different specification of battery module, the position of the support base 130 on the tray 110 along the first direction can be adjusted. When the tray assembly 100 moves to the assembly station, the position of the connector 330 in the first direction is effectively adjusted by the first adjustment component 350, allowing the locking mechanism 300 to dock, lock, and drive the centering component 120 on the support base 130. The position of the push block 410 in the first direction is effectively adjusted by the second adjustment component 430, allowing the end plate centering mechanism 400 to be positioned opposite the positioning component 150, thus enabling the end plate centering mechanism 400 to apply a centering effect to the end plate on the positioning component 150. Therefore, the online battery module assembly equipment of this embodiment can quickly assemble battery modules of different specifications (size along the first direction and size along the second direction), further improving compatibility.

[0112] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 4 and Figure 6As shown, the online battery module assembly equipment also includes a first detection component 500. At least one first detection component 500 is provided on both sides of the assembly station along a first direction. In this embodiment, two first detection components 500 are provided on both sides of the assembly station along the first direction, and the two first detection components 500 are respectively located on both sides of the assembly station along a second direction. Specifically, the two first detection components 500 are symmetrically arranged about the conveying mechanism 200 along the second direction. The first detection component 500 is located on the side of the end plate centering mechanism 400 away from the stacking position 111 along the first direction.

[0113] The first detection component 500 includes a ranging sensor 510 and a second motion component. The output end of the second motion component is fixedly connected to the ranging sensor 510. When the second motion component is working, the output end of the second motion component can drive the ranging sensor 510 to move along a first direction and a second direction, respectively.

[0114] In this embodiment, the first detection component 500 further includes a fixed base 542 and a third translation base 541. The second motion component includes a fourth drive member 520 and a fifth drive member 530, which are cylinders. The fixed base 542 is mounted on the frame 700 and fixedly connected to the frame 700. The fifth drive member 530 is fixedly mounted on the fixed base 542. The output end of the fifth drive member 530 is connected to the third translation base 541. The third translation base 541 is located above the fixed base 542 and is mounted on the fixed base 542 via a guide rail slider pair, allowing the third translation base 541 to move relative to the fixed base 542 in a second direction. The fourth drive member 520 is mounted on the third translation base 541. The ranging sensor 510 can be directly fixed or indirectly fixed to the output end of the fourth drive member 520 via a mounting bracket.

[0115] The ranging sensor 510 is configured to detect its distance from the cell stack or endplate in a first direction after stacking. The ranging sensor 510 can be a contact ranging sensor or a non-contact ranging sensor. In this embodiment, the ranging sensor 510 is a contact displacement sensor.

[0116] After the cell stack is completed or the cell stack and end plate are assembled into a battery module, the distance sensor 510 can move to the detection position and perform distance detection on the cell stack or end plate under the joint operation of the fourth drive unit 520 and the fifth drive unit 530. The distance sensors 510 arranged on both sides along the first direction jointly complete the dimensional detection of the stacked cell stack or end plate along the first direction, so as to determine whether the size of the stacked cell stack or battery module along the first direction is too large or too small. If the size of the stacked cell stack or battery module does not meet the process requirements, the battery module cannot be installed in the casing and the stacked cell stack or battery module is regarded as a defective product.

[0117] For example, when the ranging sensor 510 is a contact displacement sensor, if the probes of the ranging sensor 510 arranged on both sides of the first direction cannot directly contact the surface of the cell stack or end plate when the ranging sensor 510 reaches the detection position, it can be determined that the size of the cell stack or battery module in the first direction is too small; if the probes of the ranging sensor 510 arranged on both sides of the first direction can directly contact the surface of the cell stack or end plate, the physical displacement can be converted into a measurable electrical signal, thereby enabling the size detection of the cell stack or battery module in the first direction, and facilitating the determination of whether the size detection result meets the standard based on the electrical signal.

[0118] In addition, when the second adjustment component 430 is provided, the fixed base 542 is mounted on the frame 700 via the guide rail slider pair, and the output end of the second adjustment component 430 is connected to the fixed base 542. Therefore, under the operation of the second adjustment component 430, the positions of the push block 410 and the first detection component 500 in the first direction can be adjusted simultaneously.

[0119] Understandably, after the end plate is placed in the end plate placement slot 152 of the positioning component 150, the end plate can be pressed once by the first clamping member 153. Then, after the locking mechanism 300 and the centering component 120 cooperate to complete the centering and pressurization stacking of several cell stacks, the first detection component 500 works and performs size detection to determine whether the stacked cell stack or battery module is defective. Next, the end plate centering mechanism 400 works and centers the end plate so that the central axis of the end plate extends and coincides with the central axis of the cell stack along the first direction. At this time, the end plate can be parallel to the cell stack.

[0120] The online battery module assembly equipment of this utility model embodiment can realize the real-time assembly of battery modules at the assembly station on the conveying mechanism 200, improve the assembly speed, and avoid multiple energy consumption caused by handling heavy battery cell stacks.

[0121] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "illustrative embodiment," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0122] Although embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the present invention, the scope of which is defined by the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A battery module online assembly apparatus, characterized by, include: A tray assembly (100) includes a tray (110), an alignment assembly (120) for aligning battery cells, and a positioning assembly (150) for supporting and positioning end plates. The tray (110) is provided with a plurality of stacking positions (111) for supporting battery cells and a plurality of the alignment assemblies (120) along a first direction. The alignment assembly (120) has two push plates (121) facing each other along a second direction. The two push plates (121) are respectively located on both sides of the stacking positions (111) along the second direction and are slidably connected to the tray (110) along the second direction. The positioning assemblies (150) are provided on both sides of the tray (110) along the first direction and are connected to the tray (110). The conveying mechanism (200) is provided with an assembly station and a conveying plane for conveying the pallet assembly (100) along a first direction; The end plate centering mechanism (400) has two push blocks (410) that are opposite to each other along a second direction and can move closer or further apart. The two push blocks (410) are respectively located on both sides of the assembly station along the second direction. The end plate centering mechanism (400) is provided on both sides of the assembly station along a first direction, which is perpendicular to the second direction.

2. The battery module on-line assembling apparatus according to claim 1, wherein It also includes a locking mechanism (300), which is provided on at least one side of the assembly station along the second direction. The locking mechanism (300) is provided with a locking end that can move along the second direction and is configured to dock and lock with the tray assembly (100).

3. The battery module on-line assembling apparatus according to claim 2, wherein The centering assembly (120) further includes a lead screw (122) and a connector (123); the lead screw (122) extends along a second direction and is rotatably connected to the tray (110); the lead screw (122) and the push plate (121) are in one-to-one correspondence and threaded connection; the connector (123) is connected to one end of the lead screw (122) along the second direction away from the stacking position (111); the assembly station is provided with the locking mechanism (300) on both sides along the second direction; the locking mechanism (300) includes a locking component and a first drive member (320); the output end of the first drive member (320) is connected to the locking component to drive the locking component to move along the second direction; the locking component is provided with the locking end; one of the locking end and the connector (123) is provided with a first positioning hole, and the other is provided with a first insertion part that can be adapted to and connected to the first positioning hole.

4. The battery module on-line assembling apparatus according to claim 3, wherein The locking assembly includes a drive motor (310) and a connector (330), the connector (330) being the locking end. The output end of the first drive member (320) is connected to the drive motor (310), and the output shaft of the drive motor (310) is connected to the connector (330) to drive the connector (330) to rotate the connector (123); and / or, The centering component (120) further includes a first positioning block (124) connected to the tray (110), and the locking mechanism (300) further includes a second positioning block (340) connected to the output end of the first drive member (320). One of the first positioning block (124) and the second positioning block (340) is provided with a second positioning hole, and the other is provided with a second insertion part that can be adapted to and connected to the second positioning hole; and / or, The end plate centering mechanism (400) further includes a second driving member (420), the output end of which is connected to the push block (410) to drive the push block (410) to move along a second direction.

5. The online battery module assembly equipment according to claim 4, characterized in that, It also includes a pressure plate drive mechanism (800); the positioning component (150) is provided with an upward-facing end plate placement groove (152) and a snap-fit ​​part (157), the positioning component (150) is slidably connected to the tray (110) along a first direction, the assembly station is provided with the pressure plate drive mechanism (800) on both sides along the first direction, the pressure plate drive mechanism (800) includes a snap-fit ​​part (810) and a first motion component, one of the snap-fit ​​part (810) and the snap-fit ​​part (157) is provided with a snap-fit ​​groove, and the other is provided with a tongue, the tongue is adapted to the snap-fit ​​groove, the output end of the first motion component is connected to the snap-fit ​​part (810) to drive the snap-fit ​​part (810) to move along the first direction and a third direction or along the first direction and a second direction respectively, the first direction, the second direction and the third direction are perpendicular to each other.

6. The online battery module assembly equipment according to claim 5, characterized in that, The positioning assembly (150) includes a positioning seat (151), a first clamping member (153), and a second clamping member (154). The positioning seat (151) is provided with the end plate placement groove (152). The end plate placement groove (152) forms an opening structure at both ends along the second direction. The first clamping member (153) is elastically connected to the positioning seat (151) so that the first clamping member (153) can contact the surface of the end plate away from the stacking position (111) along the first direction. The second clamping member (154) is located above the first clamping member (153) and is movably connected to the positioning seat (151) so that the second clamping member (154) can contact the upper part of the end plate.

7. The online battery module assembly equipment according to claim 6, characterized in that, The tray assembly (100) further includes a plurality of support seats (130) and a locking element (140). The plurality of support seats (130) are arranged at intervals along a first direction and are slidably connected to the tray (110) along the first direction. The support seats (130) are provided with the stacking position (111). The locking element (140) is detachably connected between the tray (110) and the support seats (130). The centering component (120) and the positioning component (150) are disposed on the support seats (130). The locking mechanism (300) also includes... The end plate centering mechanism (400) includes a first adjustment component (350), the output end of which is connected to the first drive member (320) to drive the first drive member (320) to move along a first direction, so that the locking end can dock and lock with the tray assembly (100). The end plate centering mechanism (400) also includes a second adjustment component (430), which is configured to drive the push block (410) to move along the first direction, so that the push block (410) can move along a second direction and center the end plate.

8. The online battery module assembly equipment according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, It also includes a first detection component (500), at least one of the first detection components (500) is provided on both sides of the assembly station along the first direction. The first detection component (500) includes a distance sensor (510) and a second motion component. The output end of the second motion component is connected to the distance sensor (510) to drive the distance sensor (510) to move along the first direction and the second direction respectively. The distance sensor (510) is configured to detect its distance from the cell stack or end plate in the first direction after stacking.

9. The online battery module assembly equipment according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, It also includes a lifting mechanism (600) disposed on the assembly station, the lifting mechanism (600) having a lifting part that can move along a third direction, the lifting part being configured to contact the pallet assembly (100) and lift the pallet assembly (100), the first direction, the second direction and the third direction being perpendicular to each other.

10. The online battery module assembly equipment according to claim 9, characterized in that, It also includes a second detection component (900), which is disposed on the lifting mechanism (600) and configured to detect the lifting height of the tray assembly (100); and / or, The lifting mechanism (600) includes a base (610), a lifting seat (620), and a third drive member (630). The lifting seat (620) is located above the base (610) and is slidably connected to the base (610) in a third direction. The base (610) is provided with at least one wedge block (660), and the wedge block (660) is provided with a lifting rail. The lifting seat (620) is provided with a roller (680), and the roller (680) is rotatably connected to the lifting rail. The third drive member (630) is located on the base (610), and the output end of the third drive member (630) is connected to all the wedge blocks (660) to drive the wedge blocks (660) to move relative to the base (610) in a direction perpendicular to the third direction.

Images