Thickness measurement system for battery cells

Abstract

The utility model discloses a thickness measuring system of electric core, thickness measuring system of electric core includes: assembly line frame, and the assembly line frame has the first direction interval setting feeding station, measuring station and unloading station, and the feeding station is provided with rotatable feeding electric core clamp, and the feeding electric core clamp has the electric core clamping area, and the feeding electric core clamp selectively rotates the electric core clamped to parallel with the horizontal plane, and the measuring station is provided with pressure thickness gauge, and the pressure thickness gauge is suitable for the thickness measurement of the electric core placed parallel with the horizontal plane, and the carrying mechanism is set below the assembly line frame and can move in the first direction. Therefore, by making the feeding electric core clamp selectively rotate the electric core clamped to parallel with the horizontal plane, and making the pressure thickness gauge suitable for the thickness measurement of the electric core placed parallel with the horizontal plane, the stability of the electric core in the thickness measurement process can be improved, and the accuracy of the electric core thickness measurement result can be improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of battery technology, and in particular to a thickness measurement system for battery cells. Background Technology

[0002] As the new energy vehicle market continues to expand, the demand for its core component, the battery pack, is also increasing. A battery pack is composed of multiple cells, and the measurement of cell thickness is a crucial step in the battery pack manufacturing and quality control process. Cell thickness not only directly affects the physical dimensions and assembly precision of the battery pack, but is also closely related to core indicators such as safety, performance consistency, and cycle life.

[0003] In related technologies, the thickness of the battery cell is measured when it is placed vertically to the horizontal plane, and a battery cell fixing device is set up to fix the battery cell. This not only makes the battery cell prone to deformation, but may also cause damage to the structure of the battery cell fixing device, resulting in poor stability of the battery cell during the thickness measurement process and inaccurate thickness measurement results. Utility Model Content

[0004] The present invention aims to at least solve one of the technical problems existing in the prior art. Therefore, one objective of the present invention is to provide a battery cell thickness measurement system with a more reliable structure, which can improve the stability of the battery cell during the thickness measurement process and improve the accuracy of the battery cell thickness measurement results.

[0005] The battery cell thickness measurement system of this utility model includes: a production line frame, which has a loading station, a measuring station, and a unloading station spaced apart in a first direction. The loading station is equipped with a rotatable battery cell clamp, which has a battery cell clamping area. The loading station selectively rotates the clamped battery cell to be parallel to a horizontal plane. The measuring station is equipped with a pressure thickness gauge, which is suitable for measuring the thickness of battery cells placed parallel to the horizontal plane. A conveying mechanism is disposed below the production line frame and is movable in the first direction to selectively convey battery cells between multiple stations of the production line frame.

[0006] Therefore, by selectively rotating the battery cell clamped by the battery cell loading fixture to be parallel to the horizontal plane, and adapting the pressure thickness gauge to measure the thickness of the battery cell placed parallel to the horizontal plane, the stability of the battery cell during the thickness measurement process can be improved, and the accuracy of the battery cell thickness measurement results can be improved.

[0007] In some examples of this utility model, the feeding cell clamp includes two feeding clamps spaced apart from each other in a second direction, and a first cell clamping area is defined between the two feeding clamps. At least one of the two feeding clamps is retractable in the second direction to adapt to clamping cells of different lengths. The two feeding clamps selectively rotate synchronously to drive the clamped cells to rotate.

[0008] In some examples of this utility model, both of the feeding clamps include a first jaw, the first jaw includes two clamping pieces, and the two clamping pieces can selectively move closer or further apart in the thickness direction of the battery cell to adapt to clamping battery cells of different thicknesses.

[0009] In some examples of this utility model, the cell thickness measurement system further includes an intelligent maintenance device having a detachable second gripper. The intelligent maintenance device selectively corresponds to the loading station, the unloading station, and the measurement station to selectively maintain, inspect, and replace components therein.

[0010] In some examples of this utility model, the cell thickness measurement system further includes a controller and a cell model calibrator, wherein the cell model calibrator is electrically connected to the controller, and the controller is electrically connected to the intelligent maintenance device, the cell loading fixture, and the pressure thickness gauge.

[0011] In some examples of this utility model, the measuring station includes a first measuring station and a second measuring station. The pressure thickness gauge is provided on both the first measuring station and the second measuring station. The first measuring station is closer to one side of the assembly line in the second direction, and the second measuring station is closer to the other side of the assembly line in the second direction.

[0012] In some examples of this utility model, the cell thickness measurement system further includes a positioner, and the assembly line further includes a positioning station. The positioning station has a first cell placement area and a second cell placement area. The first cell placement area is more adjacent to one side of the assembly line in a second direction and corresponds to the first measurement station in a first direction. The second cell placement area is more adjacent to the other side of the assembly line in a second direction and corresponds to the second measurement station in a first direction. The positioner is movable between the first cell placement area and the second cell placement area to move the cell in the first cell placement area to the second cell placement area.

[0013] In some examples of this utility model, a first buffer station is provided between the loading station and the first measuring station, which are spaced apart from each other in a first direction, and a second buffer station is provided between the second measuring station and the unloading station, which are spaced apart from each other in a second direction.

[0014] In some examples of this utility model, the conveying mechanism is a lifting conveying mechanism, which can be raised and lowered in the vertical direction to selectively clamp the battery cell.

[0015] In some examples of this utility model, the conveying mechanism includes a first conveying mechanism, a second conveying mechanism, and a third conveying mechanism. The first conveying mechanism is movable between the loading station and the first buffer station. The third conveying mechanism is movable between the second buffer station and the unloading station. The second conveying mechanism corresponds simultaneously to the first buffer station, the first measuring station, the displacement station, and the second measuring station. The second conveying mechanism can simultaneously convey the battery cells from the first buffer station to the first measuring station, convey the battery cells from the first measuring station to the displacement station, convey the battery cells from the displacement station to the second measuring station, and convey the battery cells from the second measuring station to the second buffer station.

[0016] In some examples of this utility model, the unloading station is provided with a rotatable unloading cell clamp. The unloading cell clamp includes two unloading clamps spaced apart from each other in a second direction. A second cell clamping area is defined between the two unloading clamps. At least one of the two unloading clamps is retractable in the second direction. The two loading clamps selectively rotate synchronously to drive the clamped cell to rotate to be perpendicular to the horizontal plane, which facilitates unloading.

[0017] Additional aspects and advantages of this invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0018] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of this utility model will become apparent and readily understood from the description of the embodiments taken in conjunction with the following drawings, in which: Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a cell thickness measurement system according to an embodiment of the present utility model; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the vertical state of the battery cells at the loading station according to an embodiment of the present utility model; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the horizontal state of the battery cells at the loading station according to an embodiment of the present utility model; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the cell before displacement at the displacement station according to an embodiment of the present utility model; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the cell after displacement at the displacement station according to an embodiment of the present utility model; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the measurement station according to an embodiment of the present utility model; Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating the control method of the cell thickness measurement system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] Figure label: 100. Thickness measurement system; 10. Assembly line frame; 101. Loading station; 1011. Loading cell fixture; 10111. Loading fixture; 10112. First gripper; 1012. First cell clamping area; 102. Measuring station; 1021. First measuring station; 1022. Second measuring station; 1023. Pressure thickness gauge; 10231. Thickness reference plate; 10232. Thickness measuring block; 10233. Thickness measuring block mounting plate; 10234. Thickness sensor; 103. Unloading station; 104. Positioning station; 1041. First cell placement area; 1042. Second cell placement area; 105. First buffer station; 106. Second buffer station; 20. Handling mechanism; 201. First handling mechanism; 202. Second handling mechanism; 203. Third handling mechanism; 30. Battery cells; 40. Intelligent maintenance device. Detailed Implementation

[0020] The embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below. The embodiments described with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary. The embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below.

[0021] The following is for reference. Figures 1-7 Describes a thickness measurement system 100 for a battery cell 30 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] Combination Figures 1-6 As shown, the thickness measurement system 100 for the battery cell 30 according to this utility model mainly includes: an assembly line 10 and a transport mechanism 20. The assembly line 10 divides the entire production process into several workstations, each corresponding to a specific assembly, inspection, or processing task. The transport mechanism 20 is responsible for moving the battery cell 30 between different workstations. The assembly line 10 and the transport mechanism 20 work together to achieve the orderly and efficient flow of the battery cell 30 during the thickness measurement process.

[0023] In embodiments of this utility model, the main body of the battery cell 30 is rectangular in shape, and the type of battery cell 30 includes, but is not limited to, blade batteries.

[0024] Specifically, the assembly line frame 10 has a loading station 101, a measuring station 102, and a unloading station 103 spaced apart in a first direction. The loading station 101 is equipped with a rotatable loading cell clamp 1011, which has a cell clamping area. The loading cell clamp 1011 selectively rotates the clamped cell 30 to be parallel to the horizontal plane. The measuring station 102 is equipped with a pressure thickness gauge 1023, which is suitable for measuring the thickness of the cell 30 placed parallel to the horizontal plane. When the thickness measurement system 100 of the battery cell 30 is running, firstly, the battery cell 30 is transported to the loading station 101, and the battery cell 30 is clamped in a vertical state in the battery cell clamping area of ​​the loading battery cell fixture 1011, that is, the battery cell 30 is placed vertically relative to the horizontal plane on the loading station 101. Then, the loading battery cell fixture 1011 is controlled to rotate, and at the same time, the loading battery cell fixture 1011 drives the battery cell 30 to rotate, so that the battery cell 30 changes from a vertical state to a horizontal state, that is, the battery cell 30 changes from being placed vertically relative to the horizontal plane to being placed parallel to the horizontal plane. Then, the battery cell 30 on the loading station 101 is transported to the measurement station 102 by the transport mechanism 20. During the transport process, the placement state of the battery cell 30 remains unchanged. The measurement station 102 is equipped with a pressure thickness gauge 1023, and the thickness of the battery cell 30, which is placed parallel to the horizontal plane, can be measured by the pressure thickness gauge 1023.

[0025] It should be noted that, Figure 1 The first and second directions are horizontal, while the up and down directions are vertical directions perpendicular to the horizontal plane.

[0026] In the prior art, the thickness of the battery cell 30 is usually measured when it is placed vertically to the horizontal plane. In the embodiment of this utility model, the thickness of the battery cell 30 is measured when it is placed parallel to the horizontal plane. Specifically, when measuring the thickness of the battery cell 30 when it is placed vertically to the horizontal plane, a battery cell fixing device is required to secure it. Simultaneously, the battery cell 30 is subjected to lateral support forces. These lateral forces not only make the battery cell 30 prone to deformation but may also subject the fixing screws of the battery cell fixing device to shear forces or cause localized stress concentrations, leading to structural damage to the device and resulting in poor stability of the battery cell 30 during thickness measurement. However, when the battery cell 30 is placed parallel to the horizontal plane, it can directly adhere to the surface. Furthermore, the supporting force from the surface, the battery cell's own weight, and the pressure applied during thickness measurement are all vertical. This allows for more uniform stress distribution on the battery cell 30, preventing deformation during measurement and improving its stability and accuracy.

[0027] Furthermore, the conveying mechanism 20 is disposed below the assembly line frame 10 and is movable in the first direction to selectively convey the battery cells 30 between multiple stations of the assembly line frame 10. Specifically, the loading station 101, measuring station 102, and unloading station 103 of the assembly line frame 10 are spaced apart in the first direction. By disposing of the conveying mechanism 20 below the assembly line frame 10 and making the conveying mechanism 20 movable in the first direction, the movement of the battery cells 30 from the loading station 101 to the measuring station 102, and from the measuring station 102 to the unloading station 103, can be achieved through the conveying mechanism 20.

[0028] Therefore, by selectively rotating the clamped battery cell 30 to be parallel to the horizontal plane by the feeding battery cell clamp 1011, and adapting the pressure thickness gauge 1023 to measure the thickness of the battery cell 30 placed parallel to the horizontal plane, the stability of the battery cell 30 during the thickness measurement process can be improved, and the accuracy of the thickness measurement result of the battery cell 30 can be improved.

[0029] Combination Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the battery cell loading clamp 1011 includes two loading clamps 10111 spaced apart from each other in the second direction. A first battery cell clamping area 1012 is defined between the two loading clamps 10111. At least one of the two loading clamps 10111 is extendable in the second direction to adapt to clamping battery cells 30 of different lengths. The two loading clamps 10111 selectively rotate synchronously to drive the clamped battery cells 30 to rotate.

[0030] Specifically, the battery cell clamping fixture 1011 includes two clamping fixtures 10111 spaced apart from each other in the second direction. The two clamping fixtures 10111 define a first battery cell clamping area 1012. The battery cell 30 is transported to the first battery cell clamping area 1012. The two clamping fixtures 10111 clamp the two ends of the battery cell 30 in the second direction to fix the battery cell 30 in the first battery cell clamping area 1012.

[0031] Furthermore, at least one of the two feeding clamps 10111 is telescopic in the second direction. By telescopically adjusting the feeding clamps 10111, the distance between the two feeding clamps 10111 in the second direction can be adjusted. This not only allows the feeding clamps 10111 to hold battery cells 30 of different lengths, improving the versatility and flexibility of the feeding clamps 10111, but also prevents the battery cells 30 from becoming loose or slipping due to excessive distance between the two feeding clamps 10111 in the second direction, and prevents the battery cells 30 from being squeezed due to insufficient distance between the two feeding clamps 10111 in the second direction, which could cause damage to the battery cells 30 or the feeding clamps 10111.

[0032] Furthermore, the battery cell 30 needs to be flipped from a vertical state to a horizontal state at the loading station 101. By ensuring that the working surfaces of the two loading clamps 10111 remain parallel, and by selectively and synchronously rotating the two loading clamps 10111 after clamping the two ends of the battery cell 30 in the second direction, the clamped battery cell 30 can be driven to rotate. This not only realizes the transformation of the battery cell 30 from a vertical state to a horizontal state, but also makes the force on the battery cell 30 more uniform during the rotation process, preventing the battery cell 30 from tilting or deforming during the rotation process, and improving the stability of the battery cell 30 during the rotation process.

[0033] In some embodiments of this utility model, the dimension of the battery cell 30 whose thickness is measured by the thickness measuring system 100 in the first direction is set to W, and W satisfies the relationship: 90mm≤W≤215mm; the dimension of the battery cell 30 whose thickness is measured by the thickness measuring system 100 in the second direction is set to L, and L satisfies the relationship: 400mm≤L≤1200mm.

[0034] In some embodiments of this utility model, a camera is provided on the loading station 101, which can be used to obtain the dimensions of the battery cell 30 located in the first battery cell clamping area 1012 in the first direction and the second direction.

[0035] Combination Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, both loading clamps 10111 include a first gripper 10112. The first gripper 10112 includes two clamping pieces. The two clamping pieces can selectively move closer or further away from each other in the thickness direction of the battery cell 30 to adapt to clamping battery cells 30 of different thicknesses.

[0036] Specifically, both feeding clamps 10111 include a first clamp 10112, and each first clamp 10112 is provided with two clamping pieces. By selectively moving the two clamping pieces closer to or further away from each other in the thickness direction of the battery cell 30, the opening distance between the two clamping pieces can be adjusted, and the size that the first clamp 10112 can hold in the thickness direction of the battery cell 30 can be adjusted.

[0037] Specifically, the two clamping pieces of the first gripper 10112 are arranged parallel to each other. The two clamping pieces of the first gripper 10112 are suitable for clamping both ends of the battery cell 30 in the length direction. When clamping the battery cell 30 through the two clamping pieces of the first gripper 10112, the two clamping pieces are first moved away from each other in the thickness direction of the battery cell 30 until the distance between the two clamping pieces is greater than the thickness of the battery cell 30. Then, the two ends of the battery cell 30 in the length direction are respectively placed between the two clamping pieces. After confirming that the placement position of the battery cell 30 is correct, the two clamping pieces are moved closer to each other, that is, the distance between the two clamping pieces is gradually reduced until both clamping pieces of the first gripper 10112 are in contact with the surface of the battery cell 30 and apply appropriate pressure to the surface of the battery cell 30, thereby realizing the clamping of the battery cell 30 by the first gripper 10112.

[0038] It should be noted that when the battery cell 30 is placed vertically relative to the horizontal plane, and the battery cell 30 is clamped by the first gripper 10112, the length direction of the battery cell 30 is consistent with the second direction, the thickness direction of the battery cell 30 is consistent with the first direction, the projections of the two clamping pieces of the first gripper 10112 on the plane perpendicular to the first direction overlap each other, and the battery cell 30 is placed in the center of the clampable area between the two clamping pieces of the first gripper 10112.

[0039] This configuration not only allows the first gripper 10112 to hold battery cells 30 of different thicknesses, improving the versatility and flexibility of the loading fixture 10111, but also ensures that the size that the first gripper 10112 can hold matches the thickness of the battery cell 30. This guarantees a good gripping effect of the first gripper 10112 on the battery cell 30, preventing the battery cell 30 from loosening or slipping when held by the first gripper 10112, and preventing the first gripper 10112 from squeezing the battery cell 30 and causing damage to the battery cell 30 or the first gripper 10112.

[0040] In some embodiments of this utility model, the dimension of the battery cell 30 whose thickness is measured by the thickness measurement system 100 in the vertical direction is set as D, and D satisfies the relationship: 13.5mm≤D≤30mm.

[0041] Combination Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 6 As shown, the thickness measurement system 100 of the battery cell 30 also includes an intelligent maintenance device 40, which has a detachable second gripper. The intelligent maintenance device 40 selectively corresponds to the loading station 101, the unloading station 103 and the measuring station 102 to selectively maintain, inspect and replace the components therein.

[0042] Specifically, the intelligent maintenance device 40 has a detachable second gripper, which can grip the vertically placed battery cell 30 and transport the battery cell 30 in a vertical state to the first battery cell clamping area 1012 of the loading station 101.

[0043] Furthermore, the intelligent maintenance device 40 selectively corresponds to the loading station 101, unloading station 103, and measuring station 102 to selectively maintain, inspect, and replace components therein. Specifically, when components in the loading station 101, unloading station 103, and measuring station 102 are damaged or worn and do not meet the usage standards of the thickness measurement system 100, the intelligent maintenance device 40 can correspond to the station where the components do not meet the usage standards of the thickness measurement system 100 and perform maintenance, inspection, and replacement of the components in that station. In addition, the intelligent maintenance device 40 can also calibrate and check the rotational and extensional accuracy of relevant components in the loading station 101 and unloading station 103, as well as the measurement accuracy of the measuring station 102, to improve the accuracy of the rotation angle and extensional length of relevant components in the loading station 101 and unloading station 103, and to improve the accuracy of the cell 30 thickness measurement results at the measuring station 102.

[0044] In some embodiments of this utility model, when different models of battery cells 30 are adapted to different models of second grippers, if the installed second gripper is not compatible with the model of the battery cell 30 that needs to be handled, the intelligent maintenance device 40 can automatically detect that the installed second gripper is not compatible with the model of the battery cell 30 that needs to be handled. Then, the thickness measurement system 100 of the battery cell 30 can automatically disassemble the second gripper that is not compatible with the model of the battery cell 30, and automatically replace and install the second gripper that is compatible with the model of the battery cell 30 that needs to be handled. This can reduce labor costs and improve the safety and automation performance of the thickness measurement system 100 of the battery cell 30.

[0045] Combination Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 6 As shown, the thickness measurement system 100 of the battery cell 30 also includes a controller and a battery cell model calibrator. The battery cell model calibrator is electrically connected to the controller, and the controller is electrically connected to the intelligent maintenance device 40, the battery cell feeding fixture 1011, and the pressure thickness gauge 1023.

[0046] Specifically, the cell model calibrator is electrically connected to the controller, and the controller is electrically connected to the intelligent maintenance device 40, the cell loading fixture 1011, and the pressure thickness gauge 1023. The cell model calibrator is used to verify whether the cell sizes that the second gripper of the intelligent maintenance device 40 can hold, the cell sizes that the cell loading fixture 1011 can hold, and the cell models that the pressure thickness gauge 1023 is suitable for detecting are compatible with the cell models of the cell 30 whose thickness is about to be measured. When the intelligent maintenance device 40 and the cell loading fixture 1011 are detected, the calibrator will calibrate the cell models of ... If there is a mismatch between the model of the battery cell 30 to be measured and the model of the pressure thickness gauge 1023, the controller will correspondingly control the intelligent maintenance device 40, the battery cell loading fixture 1011, and the pressure thickness gauge 1023 to replace components or adjust parameters, so that the intelligent maintenance device 40, the battery cell loading fixture 1011, and the pressure thickness gauge 1023 are all compatible with the model of the battery cell 30 to be measured, thereby ensuring the normal operation of the battery cell 30 thickness measurement system 100 and the accuracy of the measurement results.

[0047] Combination Figure 1 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the measurement station 102 includes a first measurement station 1021 and a second measurement station 1022. Both the first measurement station 1021 and the second measurement station 1022 are equipped with pressure thickness gauges 1023. The first measurement station 1021 is closer to one side of the assembly line frame 10 in the second direction, and the second measurement station 1022 is closer to the other side of the assembly line frame 10 in the second direction.

[0048] Specifically, both the first measuring station 1021 and the second measuring station 1022 are equipped with pressure thickness gauges 1023. The first measuring station 1021 is closer to the side of the assembly line 10 in the second direction. When the battery cell 30 is transported to the first measuring station 1021, the pressure thickness gauge 1023 on the first measuring station 1021 will measure the thickness of the battery cell 30 on the side in the second direction that is relatively far away from the second measuring station 1022. The second measuring station 1022 is closer to the other side of the assembly line 10 in the second direction. When the battery cell 30 is transported to the second measuring station 1022... After that, the pressure thickness gauge 1023 on the second measurement station 1022 will measure the thickness of the battery cell 30 on the side relatively far away from the first measurement station 1021 in the second direction. The thickness values ​​of the battery cell 30 detected by the first measurement station 1021 and the second measurement station 1022 are compared, and the larger value is taken as the thickness measurement result of the battery cell 30. This can prevent the pressure thickness gauge 1023 from incompletely measuring the thickness of the battery cell 30 due to the excessive length of the battery cell 30, and can make the thickness measurement result of the battery cell 30 more accurate, which can be beneficial to the packaging and application of the battery cell 30.

[0049] In some embodiments of this utility model, the pressure thickness gauge 1023 may mainly include a thickness measuring reference plate 10231, a thickness measuring block 10232, a thickness measuring block mounting plate 10233, and a thickness sensor 10234. The thickness measuring reference plate 10231 is suitable for placing the battery cell 30. The thickness sensor 10234 is connected to the thickness measuring block mounting plate 10233. The thickness measuring block 10232 is fixedly disposed on the thickness measuring block mounting plate 10233 and is disposed above the thickness measuring reference plate 10231. The conveying mechanism 20 places the battery cell 30 on the thickness measuring reference plate 10231 by clamping the battery cell 30 on both sides in the second direction, and controls the thickness measuring block 10232 to move downward until it contacts the battery cell 30 and applies a certain pressure to the battery cell 30, thereby obtaining the thickness of the battery cell 30 at the thickness sensor 10234. It should be noted that, to ensure the accuracy of the thickness measurement of the battery cell 30, the required contact area between the thickness measuring block 10232 and the battery cell 30 may vary depending on the size of the battery cell 30. Therefore, the size of the thickness measuring block 10232 needs to be adjusted according to the size of the battery cell 30 to meet the required contact area. For example, the size of the thickness measuring block 10232 in the first direction can be equal to the size of the battery cell 30 in the first direction, and the size of the thickness measuring block 10232 in the second direction can be smaller than the size of the battery cell 30 in the second direction. Additionally, a guide rail can be provided above the thickness measuring block mounting plate 10233 to guide the movement of the thickness measuring block mounting plate 10233, making the movement of the thickness measuring block mounting plate 10233 more stable and accurate, thereby making the measurement results of the pressure thickness gauge 1023 more accurate.

[0050] Combination Figure 1 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the thickness measurement system 100 for the battery cell 30 also includes a positioner, and the assembly line frame 10 also includes a positioner station 104. The positioner station 104 has a first battery cell placement area 1041 and a second battery cell placement area 1042. The first battery cell placement area 1041 is more adjacent to one side of the assembly line frame 10 in a second direction and corresponds to the first measurement station 1021 in a first direction. The second battery cell placement area 1042 is more adjacent to the other side of the assembly line frame 10 in a second direction and corresponds to the second measurement station 1022 in a first direction. The positioner is movable between the first battery cell placement area 1041 and the second battery cell placement area 1042 to move the battery cell 30 in the first battery cell placement area 1041 to the second battery cell placement area 1042.

[0051] Specifically, the displacement station 104 is positioned in the first direction between the first measurement station 1021 and the second measurement station 1022. The first cell placement area 1041 of the displacement station 104 and the first measurement station 1021 are located on the same side of the assembly line frame 10 in the second direction, and the first cell placement area 1041 corresponds to the first measurement station 1021 in the first direction. The second cell placement area 1042 and the second measurement station 1022 are located on the same side of the assembly line frame 10 in the second direction, and the second cell placement area 1042 corresponds to the second measurement station 1022 in the first direction. The cell 30 is placed in the first measurement station 1022. After the thickness measurement is completed at position 1021, the cell 30 is transported to the first cell placement area 1041 of the positioner station 104. Then, the cell 30 in the first cell placement area 1041 is moved to the second cell placement area 1042 by the movement of the positioner. Then, the cell 30 in the second cell placement area 1042 is transported to the second measurement station 1022 for a second thickness measurement. This setting can simplify the transportation path of the cell 30 from the first measurement station 1021 to the second measurement station 1022, reduce the transportation loss of the cell 30, improve the continuity of the cell 30 thickness measurement process, and improve the efficiency and stability of the assembly line 10 during operation.

[0052] It should be noted that, in the embodiments of this utility model, the moving distance of the positioner in the second direction needs to be adjusted according to the length of the battery cell 30, and the positioner is electrically connected to the controller.

[0053] In some embodiments of this utility model, the positioner may adopt a stepping mechanism structure to realize the movement of the battery cell 30 from the first battery cell placement area 1041 to the second battery cell placement area 1042.

[0054] Combination Figure 1 As shown, a first buffer station 105 is provided between the loading station 101 and the first measuring station 1021, and a second buffer station 106 is provided between the second measuring station 1022 and the unloading station 103 ...

[0055] Specifically, a first buffer station 105 is provided between the loading station 101 and the first measurement station 1021, with the buffer station 105 spaced apart in the first direction. The thickness measurement process of the battery cell 30 requires a certain amount of time. When the processing speed of the loading station 101 on the battery cell 30 is faster than that of the first measurement station 1021, the battery cell 30 that has completed the corresponding processing at the loading station 101 can be stored in the first buffer station 105 to prevent the battery cell 30 that has completed the corresponding processing at the loading station 101 from having nowhere to be stored, which would result in the battery cell 30 being clamped in the loading station 101 for a long time.

[0056] Furthermore, a second buffer station 106 is provided between the second measuring station 1022 and the unloading station 103, which are spaced apart in the second direction. When the processing speed of the battery cell 30 by the second measuring station 1022 is faster than that of the unloading station 103, the battery cell 30 that has completed the thickness measurement at the second measuring station 1022 can be stored in the second buffer station 106 to prevent the battery cell 30 that has completed the thickness measurement at the second measuring station 1022 from having nowhere to be stored, which would force the second measuring station 1022 and other stations to suspend work. In addition, a second buffer station 106 is set between the second measurement station 1022 and the unloading station 103. If the thickness measurement value of the battery cell 30 is unqualified, it can be temporarily stored in a specific area of ​​the second buffer station 106 for manual review or secondary inspection. This prevents the battery cell 30 with unqualified thickness from directly entering the unloading process and causing defective products to flow out. Furthermore, by controlling the working mechanism of the unloading station 103, a certain model or batch of battery cells 30 can be temporarily stored in the second buffer station 106, which facilitates the differentiation of the model or batch of battery cells 30.

[0057] Combination Figures 1-5 As shown, the conveying mechanism 20 is a lifting conveying mechanism, which can be raised and lowered in the vertical direction to selectively clamp the battery cell 30.

[0058] Specifically, the lifting and transporting mechanism can move vertically and linearly in the first direction. The lifting and transporting mechanism is equipped with a third battery cell placement area. The lifting and transporting mechanism is located below each station of the assembly line frame 10. When the lifting and transporting mechanism receives a transport instruction, it confirms that the lifting and transporting mechanism performing the transport operation is located directly below the corresponding battery cell 30 placement station. Then, the lifting and transporting mechanism first moves vertically to place the battery cell 30 at the corresponding station into the third battery cell placement area of ​​the lifting and transporting mechanism. The lifting and transporting mechanism is in the system-set position in the vertical direction. Then, the lifting and transporting mechanism moves in the first direction. After the lifting and transporting mechanism transports the battery cell 30 to the top of the corresponding station in the first direction, it moves vertically again to transport the battery cell 30 to the corresponding station.

[0059] In some embodiments of this utility model, a lifting and picking clamp is provided on the lifting and conveying mechanism. The lifting and picking clamp is suitable for clamping both ends of the battery cell 30 in the first direction. The battery cell 30 is transported from a certain station to the third battery cell placement area of ​​the lifting and conveying mechanism or from the third battery cell placement area of ​​the lifting and conveying mechanism to a certain station through the clamping action of the lifting and picking clamp. The clamping size of the lifting and picking clamp in the first direction can be adjusted to clamp battery cells 30 of different sizes.

[0060] Combination Figure 1As shown, the conveying mechanism 20 includes a first conveying mechanism 201, a second conveying mechanism 202, and a third conveying mechanism 203. The first conveying mechanism 201 is movable between the loading station 101 and the first buffer station 105. The third conveying mechanism 203 is movable between the second buffer station 106 and the unloading station 103. The second conveying mechanism 202 corresponds to the first buffer station 105, the first measuring station 1021, the displacement station 104, and the second measuring station 1022. The second conveying mechanism 202 can simultaneously convey the battery cell 30 from the first buffer station 105 to the first measuring station 1021, convey the battery cell 30 from the first measuring station 1021 to the displacement station 104, convey the battery cell 30 from the displacement station 104 to the second measuring station 1022, and convey the battery cell 30 from the second measuring station 1022 to the second buffer station 106.

[0061] Specifically, the first conveying mechanism 201 is movable between the loading station 101 and the first buffer station 105 to move the battery cell 30 on the loading station 101 to the first buffer station 105. In this way, through the processing of the battery cell 30 at the loading station 101 and the conveying by the first conveying mechanism 201, a certain number of battery cells 30 can be stored at the first buffer station 105 to ensure the continuity of the battery cell 30 thickness measurement process and prevent the measurement process from being suspended at the first measurement station 1021 and the second measurement station 1022 due to the untimely transport of the battery cell 30.

[0062] The third conveying mechanism 203 is movable between the second buffer station 106 and the unloading station 103 to convey the battery cells 30 on the second buffer station 106 to the unloading station 103. This not only allows a certain number of battery cells 30 to be stored in the second buffer station 106 to ensure the continuity of the battery cell unloading process and prevents the unloading station 103 from pausing due to untimely conveying of battery cells 30, but also allows the differentiation of different battery cell models by controlling the running time or the number of conveyed cells in the unloading station 103 after the thickness measurement system 100 changes the model of the battery cell 30.

[0063] The second transport mechanism 202 corresponds simultaneously to the first buffer station 105, the first measurement station 1021, the displacement station 104, and the second measurement station 1022. The second transport mechanism 202 can simultaneously transport the battery cell 30 from the first buffer station 105 to the first measurement station 1021, the battery cell 30 from the first measurement station 1021 to the displacement station 104, the battery cell 30 from the displacement station 104 to the second measurement station 1022, and the battery cell 30 from the second measurement station 1022 to the second buffer station 106. In this way, the transport of battery cells 30 from multiple stations can be completed at one time. This not only simplifies the transport process of battery cells 30 and reduces the vibration and interference caused by the frequent start-stop and movement of the transport mechanism 20 between different stations, but also shortens the operating cycle of the entire thickness measurement system 100 and improves the working efficiency of the thickness measurement system 100.

[0064] Combination Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the unloading station 103 is equipped with a rotatable unloading cell clamp. The unloading cell clamp includes two unloading clamps spaced apart from each other in the second direction. The two unloading clamps define a second cell clamping area. At least one of the two unloading clamps is retractable in the second direction. The two unloading clamps selectively rotate synchronously to drive the clamped cell 30 to rotate to be perpendicular to the horizontal plane, which facilitates unloading.

[0065] Specifically, the battery cell clamping fixture includes two clamping fixtures spaced apart from each other in a second direction. A second battery cell clamping area is defined between the two clamping fixtures. The battery cell 30 is transported to the second battery cell clamping area, and the two clamping fixtures clamp both ends of the battery cell 30 in the second direction to fix the battery cell 30 in the second battery cell clamping area.

[0066] Furthermore, at least one of the two unloading clamps is telescopic in the second direction. By telescopically adjusting the distance between the two unloading clamps in the second direction, not only can the unloading clamps be used to hold battery cells 30 of different lengths, improving the versatility and flexibility of the unloading clamps, but it can also prevent the battery cell 30 from becoming loose or slipping due to excessive distance between the two unloading clamps in the second direction, and prevent the battery cell 30 from being squeezed due to insufficient distance between the two unloading clamps in the second direction, which could cause damage to the battery cell 30 or the unloading clamps.

[0067] Furthermore, the battery cell 30 needs to be flipped from a horizontal state to a vertical state at the unloading station 103. This is achieved by ensuring that the working surfaces of the two unloading fixtures remain parallel and selectively rotating synchronously after clamping the two ends of the battery cell 30 in the second direction, thereby driving the clamped battery cell 30 to rotate. This not only enables the battery cell 30 to change from a horizontal state to a vertical state, but also makes the force on the battery cell 30 more uniform during rotation, preventing the battery cell 30 from tilting or deforming during rotation and improving the stability of the battery cell 30 during rotation.

[0068] Combination Figure 7 As shown, the control method of the thickness measurement system 100 of the battery cell 30 according to this utility model mainly includes the following steps: Based on the production plan adjustment, the thickness measurement system 100 inputs or selects the model of the battery cell 30 to be produced this time on the interface. The thickness measurement system 100 automatically retrieves the complete set of production parameters and process flow corresponding to the model of the battery cell 30 from the corresponding process parameter database. The thickness measurement system 100 automatically sends the retrieved production parameters and process flow to the intelligent maintenance device 40, loading station 101, unloading station 103, measuring station 102, displacement station 104 and other related equipment to realize the automatic parameter configuration of related equipment and reduce manual setting errors. Based on the model of the battery cell 30, the performance parameters of the new model battery cell are retrieved from the database of the thickness measurement system 100, and the shape parameters of the new model battery cell are read by the camera of the loading station 101. The external and performance parameters of the new battery cell are compared with those of the original battery cell to obtain the changes in the length, width and height of the new battery cell, as well as the relevant changes in the cover plate of battery cell 30. The battery cell digital model is checked and the subtle changes are compared. Based on the comparison results of the external and performance parameters of the new battery cell and the original battery cell, it is determined whether the relevant parameters of the thickness measurement system 100 need to be adjusted. If the external parameters of the new battery cell are consistent with those of the original battery cell, recheck the following parameters: the battery cell size suitable for clamping by the second gripper of the intelligent maintenance device 40; the battery cell size suitable for clamping by the first gripper 10112 of the loading fixture 10111 on the loading station 101; the battery cell size suitable for clamping by the loading and unloading fixtures on the unloading station 103; the moving distance of the positioner on the positioner station 104; and the dimensions of the thickness measuring block 10232 of the pressure thickness gauge 1023 on the measuring station 102. Confirm that no further adjustments are needed. These parameters are adjusted, and then the pressure parameters applied to the battery cell 30 by the pressure thickness gauge 1023 on the measuring station 102 are automatically adjusted according to the performance parameters of the battery cell 30. The adjusted pressure parameters applied to the battery cell 30 by the pressure thickness gauge 1023 are calibrated with the performance parameters of the new model battery cell. After confirming that the adjusted pressure parameters applied to the battery cell 30 by the pressure thickness gauge 1023 are compatible with the new model battery cell 30, the battery cell 30 replacement can be completed, and the thickness measurement system 100 of the battery cell 30 can be confirmed to start running. If the external parameters of the new battery cell are inconsistent with those of the original battery cell, the thickness measurement system 100 automatically calls the database to obtain the external parameters of the new battery cell transmitted from the camera. It compares these parameters with those of the original battery cell to determine the changes in length, width, and height, as well as the changes in related parameters of the electrode post. It then checks the battery cell's digital model, compares subtle changes, and, based on the relevant parameters of the original battery cell and the relevant positional relationships stored in the database, automatically adjusts the relevant parameters of the intelligent maintenance device 40, loading station 101, unloading station 103, positioning station 104, and measuring station 102. The adjusted parameters are then compared with those of the new battery cell. Once it is confirmed that the adjusted parameters of the intelligent maintenance device 40, loading station 101, unloading station 103, positioning station 104, and measuring station 102 are compatible with the new battery cell 30, the battery cell 30 replacement is completed, and the thickness measurement system 100 for the battery cell 30 can be confirmed to start operating. If the external parameters of the new model battery cell are inconsistent with those of the original model battery cell, the thickness measurement system 100 needs to make the following adjustments to automatically complete the battery cell 30 replacement: the battery cell size that the second gripper of the intelligent maintenance device 40 is suitable for clamping, the battery cell size that the first gripper 10112 of the loading fixture 10111 on the loading station 101 is suitable for clamping, the battery cell size that the unloading fixture on the unloading station 103 is suitable for clamping, the moving distance of the positioner on the positioner station 104, the size of the thickness measuring block 10232 of the pressure thickness gauge 1023 on the measuring station 102, and the pressure parameters applied by the thickness measuring block 10232 to the battery cell 30. The thickness measurement system 100 of the battery cell 30 is also equipped with an intelligent tooling storage library. Replaced devices such as the second gripper of the intelligent maintenance device 40 and the thickness measuring block 10232 are placed in the intelligent tooling storage library. Simultaneously, the codes of these devices are scanned, and data such as the number of times these devices have been used are uploaded and stored in the database of the thickness measurement system 100. This allows the system to determine the next maintenance time for these devices based on their usage count, thereby achieving the automatic maintenance function of the thickness measurement system 100. In some embodiments of this invention, the intelligent tooling storage library can be located within the intelligent maintenance device 40 of the thickness measurement system 100.

[0069] It should be noted that the new model of battery cell mentioned above refers to the model of the battery cell 30 that the assembly line frame 10 is about to measure, while the original model of battery cell refers to the model of the battery cell 30 that the current assembly line frame 10 is suitable for measuring.

[0070] Furthermore, referring to Figure 1, when the model of the battery cell 30 requiring thickness measurement is compatible with the battery cell size that the second gripper of the intelligent maintenance device 40 of the current assembly line frame 10 is suitable for clamping, the battery cell size that the first gripper 10112 of the loading fixture 10111 on the loading station 101 is suitable for clamping, the moving distance of the positioner on the positioner station 104, the size of the thickness measuring block 10232 of the pressure thickness gauge 1023 on the measuring station 102, and the pressure parameters applied by the thickness measuring block 10232 to the battery cell 30, the operation flow of the battery cell 30 thickness measurement system 100 of this utility model can mainly include the following steps: The vertically positioned battery cell 30 is transported to the first battery cell clamping area 1012 of the loading station 101 by the second gripper of the intelligent maintenance device 40. The two loading clamps 10111 of the loading station 101 clamp the battery cell 30 in the first battery cell clamping area 1012. Then the two loading clamps 10111 selectively rotate synchronously to drive the clamped battery cell 30 to rotate, flipping the vertical battery cell 30 to a horizontal state. The first conveying mechanism 201 transports the horizontally positioned battery cell 30 from the loading station 101 to the first buffer station 105. The second conveying mechanism 202 simultaneously conveys the battery cell 30 from the first buffer station 105 to the first measuring station 1021, the battery cell 30 from the first measuring station 1021 to the repositioning station 104, the battery cell 30 from the repositioning station 104 to the second measuring station 1022, and the battery cell 30 from the second measuring station 1022 to the second buffer station 106. The thickness of the battery cell 30 is measured at the first measuring station 1021 and the second measuring station 1022. At the repositioning station 104, the battery cell 30 is moved from the first battery cell placement area 1041 to the second battery cell placement area 1042. The third conveying mechanism 203 transports the horizontally positioned battery cell 30 from the second buffer station 106 to the second battery cell clamping area of ​​the unloading station 103. The two unloading fixtures at the unloading station 103 clamp the battery cell 30 in the second battery cell clamping area. Then, the two unloading fixtures selectively rotate synchronously to drive the clamped battery cell 30 to rotate, flipping the horizontal battery cell 30 to a vertical state. Finally, the second gripper of the intelligent maintenance device 40 removes the vertically positioned battery cell 30 from the second battery cell clamping area of ​​the unloading station 103.

[0071] In some embodiments of this utility model, combined with Figures 1-6 As shown, the loading station 101, buffer station, measurement station 102, positioning station 104, and unloading station 103 of the assembly line 10 can simultaneously accommodate multiple battery cells 30. In other words, the thickness measurement system 100 of the battery cell 30 can simultaneously measure multiple battery cells 30 of the same model. For example, the loading station 101, buffer station, measurement station 102, positioning station 104, and unloading station 103 of the assembly line 10 can simultaneously accommodate eight battery cells 30, and the thickness measurement system 100 of the battery cell 30 can simultaneously measure the thickness of eight battery cells 30 of the same model.

[0072] In some embodiments of this utility model, the rotation of the loading clamp 10111 can be controlled by a servo motor, and the extension and retraction of the loading clamp 10111 in the second direction can be controlled by a servo electric cylinder.

[0073] In the description of this utility model, it should be understood that the terms "center", "longitudinal", "transverse", "length", "width", "thickness", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", "clockwise", "counterclockwise", "axial", "radial", "circumferential", etc., indicating the orientation or positional relationship are based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing this utility model and simplifying the description, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this utility model.

[0074] 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., refer to specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in connection with that embodiment or example, which are 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.

[0075] 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 thickness measurement system for a battery cell, characterized in that, include: The assembly line frame (10) has a loading station (101), a measuring station (102) and a unloading station (103) spaced apart in a first direction. The loading station (101) is provided with a rotatable loading cell clamp (1011). The loading cell clamp (1011) has a cell clamping area. The loading cell clamp (1011) selectively rotates the clamped cell (30) to be parallel to the horizontal plane. The measuring station (102) is provided with a pressure thickness gauge (1023). The pressure thickness gauge (1023) is suitable for measuring the thickness of the cell (30) placed parallel to the horizontal plane. A transport mechanism (20) is disposed below the assembly line frame (10) and movable in a first direction to selectively transport battery cells (30) between multiple workstations of the assembly line frame (10).

2. The cell thickness measurement system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The loading cell clamp (1011) includes two loading clamps (10111) spaced apart from each other in a second direction. A first cell clamping area (1012) is defined between the two loading clamps (10111). At least one of the two loading clamps (10111) is retractable in the second direction to accommodate clamping cells (30) of different lengths. The two loading clamps (10111) selectively rotate synchronously to drive the clamped cell (30) to rotate.

3. The cell thickness measurement system according to claim 2, characterized in that, Both of the feeding fixtures (10111) include a first gripper (10112), which includes two clamping pieces. The two clamping pieces can selectively move closer or further away from each other in the thickness direction of the battery cell (30) to accommodate battery cells (30) of different thicknesses.

4. The cell thickness measurement system according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes an intelligent maintenance device (40) having a detachable second gripper, which is selectively associated with the loading station (101), the unloading station (103) and the measuring station (102) to selectively maintain, inspect and replace the components therein.

5. The cell thickness measurement system according to claim 4, characterized in that, It also includes a controller and a cell model calibrator, the cell model calibrator being electrically connected to the controller, and the controller being electrically connected to the intelligent maintenance device (40), the cell loading fixture (1011), and the pressure thickness gauge (1023).

6. The cell thickness measurement system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The measuring station (102) includes a first measuring station (1021) and a second measuring station (1022). The pressure thickness gauge (1023) is provided on both the first measuring station (1021) and the second measuring station (1022). The first measuring station (1021) is closer to one side of the assembly line frame (10) in the second direction, and the second measuring station (1022) is closer to the other side of the assembly line frame (10) in the second direction.

7. The cell thickness measurement system according to claim 6, characterized in that, The assembly line (10) also includes a positioner and a positioner station (104) having a first cell placement area (1041) and a second cell placement area (1042). The first cell placement area (1041) is more adjacent to one side of the assembly line (10) in a second direction and corresponds to the first measurement station (1021) in a first direction. The second cell placement area (1042) is more adjacent to the other side of the assembly line (10) in a second direction and corresponds to the second measurement station (1022) in a first direction. The positioner is movable between the first cell placement area (1041) and the second cell placement area (1042) to move the cell (30) of the first cell placement area (1041) to the second cell placement area (1042).

8. The cell thickness measurement system according to claim 7, characterized in that, A first buffer station (105) is provided between the loading station (101) and the first measuring station (1021) and spaced apart in a first direction; a second buffer station (106) is provided between the second measuring station (1022) and the unloading station (103) and spaced apart in a second direction.

9. The cell thickness measurement system according to claim 8, characterized in that, The transport mechanism (20) is a lifting transport mechanism, which can be raised and lowered in the vertical direction to selectively clamp the battery cell (30).

10. The cell thickness measurement system according to claim 9, characterized in that, The conveying mechanism (20) includes a first conveying mechanism (201), a second conveying mechanism (202), and a third conveying mechanism (203). The first conveying mechanism (201) is movable between the loading station (101) and the first buffer station (105). The third conveying mechanism (203) is movable between the second buffer station (106) and the unloading station (103). The second conveying mechanism (202) is simultaneously connected to the first buffer station (105), the first measuring station (1021), and the displacement station (203). Corresponding to the second measurement station (104) and the second measurement station (1022), the second transport mechanism (202) can simultaneously transport the battery cell (30) of the first buffer station (105) to the first measurement station (1021), transport the battery cell (30) of the first measurement station (1021) to the displacement station (104), transport the battery cell (30) of the displacement station (104) to the second measurement station (1022), and transport the battery cell (30) of the second measurement station (1022) to the second buffer station (106).

11. The cell thickness measurement system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The unloading station (103) is equipped with a rotatable unloading cell clamp. The unloading cell clamp includes two unloading clamps spaced apart from each other in a second direction. A second cell clamping area is defined between the two unloading clamps. At least one of the two unloading clamps is retractable in the second direction. The two unloading clamps selectively rotate synchronously to drive the clamped cell (30) to rotate to be perpendicular to the horizontal plane, which facilitates unloading.

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