Battery cell transfer device based on battery cell surface detection and appearance detection machine

Abstract

The utility model discloses a battery cell transfer device based on battery cell core surface detection and appearance detection machine, wherein the battery cell transfer device based on battery cell core surface detection includes transfer mechanism and first detection mechanism, and the transfer mechanism includes first displacement module and material taking manipulator, and the second detection mechanism material taking manipulator abuts the second surface of battery cell main body to obtain the battery cell, and the first displacement module of second detection mechanism is used for driving the second detection mechanism material taking manipulator to transfer the battery cell, the first detection mechanism is located at the side of the moving path of the second detection mechanism material taking manipulator along the first surface of battery cell main body, and is used for detecting the first surface of battery cell main body on the second detection mechanism material taking manipulator. The battery cell transfer device based on battery cell core surface detection of the utility model can realize the detection of the first surface of battery cell main body simultaneously in the process of battery cell feeding or discharging, thereby optimizing the equipment timing, and improving the battery cell appearance detection efficiency.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the technical field of battery cell testing, and in particular to a battery cell transfer device and appearance inspection machine based on battery cell surface testing. Background Technology

[0002] Battery cell surface defects refer to various undesirable phenomena or flaws that appear on the surface of the battery cell during the manufacturing or use process.

[0003] Surface defects in battery cells not only affect the appearance quality of the cells, but may also negatively impact their performance and safety.

[0004] With the rapid development of the new energy industry and the continuous progress of battery technology, the surface defect detection technology of the battery cell body and the electrode tabs is also constantly developing.

[0005] In related technologies, appearance inspection machines are devices used to detect defects on the surface of battery cells.

[0006] Existing appearance inspection machines generally include a cell loading device, a cell body inspection device, a cell tab inspection device, and a loading device.

[0007] For battery cell body testing devices, it is usually necessary to test the first and second sides of the battery cell body separately.

[0008] However, since the first side of the battery cell body is supported and blocked during the transportation process, the existing appearance inspection machine needs to flip the battery cell over before it can inspect the first side of the battery cell body. The inspection process is cumbersome and the inspection efficiency is not high. Utility Model Content

[0009] This invention aims to solve at least one of the technical problems existing in the prior art. To this end, this invention proposes a battery cell transfer device based on the detection of the cell's surface, which can simultaneously detect the first surface of the battery cell body during the process of loading or unloading the battery cells, thereby optimizing the equipment timing and improving the efficiency of battery cell appearance inspection.

[0010] This utility model also proposes an appearance inspection machine having the above-mentioned battery cell transfer device based on the detection of the battery cell core surface.

[0011] A battery cell transfer device based on battery cell surface detection according to a first aspect embodiment of the present invention is used to transfer a battery cell from a battery cell loading device to a battery cell tab detection device and / or from a battery cell tab detection device to a battery cell unloading device, wherein the battery cell loading device, the battery cell tab detection device, and / or the battery cell unloading device support a first surface of the battery cell body, and the battery cell transfer device includes: The transfer mechanism includes a first displacement module and a picking robot. The picking robot abuts against the second side of the battery cell body to obtain the battery cell. The first displacement module is used to drive the picking robot to transfer the battery cell. The first detection mechanism is located on one side of the moving path of the material handling robot along the first surface of the battery cell body, and is used to detect the first surface of the battery cell body on the material handling robot.

[0012] The battery cell transfer device based on battery cell surface detection according to the embodiments of the present invention has at least the following beneficial effects: 1. This utility model incorporates a transfer mechanism and a first detection mechanism. The transfer mechanism includes a first displacement module and a picking robot. The picking robot abuts against the second surface of the battery cell body to obtain the battery cell. The first displacement module drives the picking robot to transfer the battery cell. The first detection mechanism is located on one side of the picking robot's movement path along the first surface of the battery cell body. The first detection mechanism is used to detect the first surface of the battery cell body on the picking robot. It is understood that, for the sake of production continuity, the battery cell loading device, the battery cell tab detection device, and the battery cell unloading device typically support the same surface of the battery cell body (i.e., the first surface of the battery cell body). To transport battery cells, the transfer mechanism moves the cells by having the picking robot abut against the second side of the battery cell body to pick them up. This ensures that the first side of the battery cell body is not obstructed during the transfer. Simultaneously, the first detection mechanism detects the first side of the battery cell body on the picking robot along one side of the first side of the battery cell body on the moving shoulder of the picking robot. Thus, the first side of the battery cell body is detected simultaneously during the loading or unloading process, eliminating the need for a flipping mechanism to flip the battery cell before detecting the first side of the battery cell body. This optimizes the equipment timing and improves the efficiency of battery cell appearance inspection.

[0013] 2. By combining the first-side inspection process with the transfer process into one, this utility model eliminates the need for a dedicated flipping station and flipping time, greatly shortens the total dwell time of the battery cells on the production line, and improves the overall production cycle and inspection efficiency.

[0014] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the first detection mechanism includes a first visual detection component and a first light source component. The first visual detection component is used to perform visual detection on the first surface of the battery cell body, and the first light source component is used to irradiate light onto the first surface of the battery cell body.

[0015] The advantages are: by setting a first light source, the first light source can provide a stable, uniform, and adjustable lighting environment for the first visual inspection component to visually inspect the first surface of the battery cell body, effectively overcoming ambient light interference and ensuring that the first visual inspection component can capture clear, high-contrast images, thereby greatly improving the accuracy and reliability of defect identification and avoiding false detection and missed detection.

[0016] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the first detection mechanism includes a first visual detection component, which is configured as a line scan camera. The line scan camera scans the first surface of the battery cell body to detect the first surface of the battery cell body.

[0017] The advantages are: by using a line scan camera as the first visual inspection component, this utility model can not only acquire two-dimensional texture information such as scratches and dirt on the surface, but also acquire height change information such as depressions, protrusions, and tab adhesive wrinkles on the surface, thus realizing a more comprehensive three-dimensional morphological defect detection of the first surface of the battery cell body, with higher detection dimensions and accuracy.

[0018] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the first detection mechanism further includes a first light source, which is used to irradiate light onto the first surface of the battery cell body. The light source emitted by the first light source is a linear light source. The first visual detection device receives the linear reflected light from the first surface of the battery cell body to perform visual detection on the first surface of the battery cell body. The intersection line of the light emission plane of the first light source and the light reception plane of the first visual detection device is located on the first surface of the battery cell body.

[0019] The advantage of this invention is that by setting the light source emitted by the first light source to a linear light source, the illumination area of ​​the first light source is narrower, which helps to concentrate the light in the area where the first visual inspection device receives reflected light on the first surface of the battery cell body, thereby enabling the first visual inspection device to acquire a clearer image.

[0020] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the first detection mechanism includes a second displacement module and a first visual detection component. The first visual detection component is used to perform visual detection on the first surface of the battery cell body. The first visual detection component is installed at the output end of the second displacement module. The second displacement module can drive the first visual detection component to move closer to and away from the transfer mechanism.

[0021] The advantages of this invention are: by setting a second displacement module, the second displacement module drives the first visual inspection component to actively approach or move away from the battery cell. Thus, on the one hand, the first inspection mechanism can accurately adjust the inspection distance between the first visual inspection component and the first surface of the battery cell body according to the size of different battery cell models or different inspection requirements, always keeping the first visual inspection component at the optimal working distance to ensure imaging quality. On the other hand, during non-inspection periods, the visual inspection component can be moved away from the transfer mechanism, making room for the transfer mechanism, preventing motion interference with the picking robot or the battery cell, and improving the safety and reliability of the equipment.

[0022] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the cell transfer device further includes a frame, the second displacement module includes a sliding component and a first screw, the sliding component is slidably disposed on the frame, the first visual inspection component is mounted on the sliding component, the first screw is rotatably connected to one of the frame and the sliding component, and the first screw is rotatably connected to the other of the frame and the sliding component, and the first screw rotates to drive the sliding component to slide.

[0023] The advantages are: by setting up a sliding component and a first screw, the sliding component is driven by a screw drive. It can be understood that the screw drive has high positioning accuracy and self-locking function, which can stably and accurately keep the first visual inspection component in its required position, prevent displacement due to vibration or other reasons during the inspection process, and ensure the stability of the inspection results.

[0024] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the cell transfer device further includes a frame, the second displacement module includes a sliding assembly, the sliding assembly includes a sliding member and a mounting member, the sliding member is slidably disposed on the frame, the mounting member is used to install the first visual inspection member, one of the sliding member and the mounting member is threadedly connected to a first bolt, the other of the sliding member and the mounting member is provided with a first arc-shaped through groove horizontally extending along the sliding direction perpendicular to the sliding member, the first arc-shaped through groove is used to connect the first bolt, the mounting member rotates along the center of the first arc-shaped through groove to adjust the detection angle of the first visual inspection member, and the first bolt is used to lock and fix the sliding member and the mounting member.

[0025] The advantages are: by setting the first arc-shaped through groove and the first bolt, the shooting angle of the first visual inspection component can be flexibly adjusted, such as vertical irradiation or oblique irradiation at a certain angle, to adapt to the defect detection needs with different reflective characteristics. For example, some defects are more obvious under specific angles of light, which enhances the adaptability and defect capture capability of the first inspection mechanism. In addition, the locking structure of the first bolt is simple and reliable, ensuring that it will not loosen after the angle is adjusted.

[0026] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the material handling robot has a vacuum adsorption head, which abuts against the second side of the battery cell body to adsorb the battery cell. And / or, the first displacement module includes a horizontal transfer module and a lifting transfer module, wherein the horizontal transfer module is used to drive the material handling robot to move horizontally, and the lifting transfer module is used to drive the material handling robot to move up and down.

[0027] The advantages of this invention are: by setting a vacuum adsorption head on the material handling robot, the robot can adsorb the battery cells using vacuum adsorption. Compared with mechanical grippers, this avoids physical damage or deformation to the battery cells, especially the tabs, caused by clamping force. Moreover, since vacuum adsorption only adsorbs the second side of the battery cell, the entire first side and all sides are unobstructed and fully exposed to the first detection mechanism, achieving blind-spot-free detection and further improving the comprehensiveness of the detection. In addition, the first displacement module adopts a combination of horizontal transfer module and lifting transfer module, realizing precise and flexible transfer of the battery cells in three-dimensional space. It can accurately pick up, transfer, and place the battery cells from the loading position to the unloading position, realizing the automated operation of the entire device.

[0028] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the cell transfer device further includes a second detection mechanism. The second detection mechanism is disposed on one side of the cell moving path along the second surface of the cell body in the cell loading device, the cell tab detection device, or the cell unloading device. The second detection mechanism is used to detect the second surface of the cell body.

[0029] The advantages of this invention are: by adding a second detection mechanism along one side of the second surface of the battery cell body in the battery cell feeding device, battery cell tab detection device, or battery cell unloading device, it can be understood that the battery cell feeding device, battery cell tab detection device, and battery cell unloading device support the first surface of the battery cell body during operation, leaving the second surface of the battery cell body exposed without obstruction. By setting a second detection mechanism in the battery cell feeding device, battery cell tab detection device, or battery cell unloading device to detect the second surface of the battery cell body, it is not necessary to send the battery cell to other independent detection stations, thus improving the efficiency and integration of the entire detection process.

[0030] According to a second aspect embodiment of the present invention, the appearance inspection machine includes a battery cell transfer device, a battery cell loading device, a battery cell tab detection device, and a battery cell unloading device based on the battery cell surface detection according to a first aspect embodiment of the present invention. The battery cell transfer device is used to transfer the battery cell from the battery cell loading device to the battery cell tab detection device and / or transfer the battery cell from the battery cell tab detection device to the battery cell unloading device.

[0031] The appearance inspection machine according to the embodiments of this utility model has at least the following beneficial effects: 1. This utility model provides a cell transfer device with a transfer mechanism and a first detection mechanism. The transfer mechanism includes a first displacement module and a picking robot. The picking robot abuts against the second surface of the cell body to obtain the cell. The first displacement module drives the picking robot to transfer the cell. The first detection mechanism is located on one side of the picking robot's movement path along the first surface of the cell body. The first detection mechanism is used to detect the first surface of the cell body on the picking robot. It is understood that, for the sake of production continuity, the cell loading device, cell tab detection device, and cell unloading device usually support the same surface of the cell body for transport. In the cell feeding process, when the transfer mechanism moves the cells, the picking robot arm abuts against the second side of the cell body to obtain the cells. This ensures that the first side of the cell body is not obstructed during cell transfer. Simultaneously, the first detection mechanism detects the first side of the cell body on the picking robot arm along one side of the first side of the cell body on the moving shoulder of the picking robot arm. Thus, the first side of the cell body is detected simultaneously during the cell loading or unloading transfer process, eliminating the need for a flipping mechanism to flip the cells and then detect the first side of the cell body. This optimizes equipment timing and improves the efficiency of cell appearance inspection.

[0032] 2. This utility model combines the first-side inspection process with the transfer process in the cell transfer device, eliminating the need for a dedicated flipping station and flipping time, greatly shortening the total dwell time of the cells on the production line, and improving the overall production cycle and inspection efficiency.

[0033] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the battery cell feeding device is provided with a feeding conveyor belt, which supports the first side of the battery cell body to transport the battery cell. And / or, the battery cell tab detection device is provided with a turntable, the execution end of the turntable supporting the first side of the battery cell body to transport the battery cell; And / or, the cell feeding device is provided with a feeding conveyor belt, which supports the first side of the cell body to transport the cell.

[0034] The advantages of this invention are as follows: Firstly, by incorporating a feeding conveyor belt in the battery cell feeding device, which supports the first side of the battery cell body for transport, the invention ensures that the battery cell maintains a stable, downward-facing posture throughout the entire feeding process. This provides a consistent interface and prerequisite for non-contact first-side detection in the transfer device, enabling the entire system to work in a coordinated manner. Secondly, by incorporating a turntable in the battery cell tab detection device, with its execution end supporting the first side of the battery cell body for transport, the invention ensures that the battery cell maintains a stable, downward-facing posture throughout the entire tab detection process. This provides a consistent interface and prerequisite for non-contact first-side detection in the transfer device, enabling the entire system to work in a coordinated manner. Thirdly, by incorporating a feeding conveyor belt in the battery cell unloading device, which supports the first side of the battery cell body for transport, the invention ensures that the battery cell maintains a stable, downward-facing posture throughout the entire unloading process. This provides a consistent interface and prerequisite for non-contact first-side detection in the transfer device, enabling the entire system to work in a coordinated manner.

[0035] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the battery cell feeding device is provided with a flipping mechanism, and the battery cell feeding device or the battery cell tab detection device is provided with a barcode scanning mechanism. The flipping mechanism is used to flip the battery cell to be compatible with different types of battery cells with QR codes on the first or second side of the battery cell body, and the barcode scanning mechanism is used to scan the QR code on the battery cell. And / or, the appearance inspection machine is further provided with a corner detection mechanism, which is used to detect the corner position of the battery cell; And / or, the battery cell unloading device is equipped with a battery cell sorting mechanism, which is used to classify qualified and unqualified battery cells.

[0036] The advantages of this invention are as follows: By incorporating a flipping mechanism and a barcode scanning mechanism, the compatibility and intelligence of the equipment are enhanced. It can handle battery cells with QR codes located on the first or second side, and the flipping mechanism unifies the orientation, expanding the application range of the equipment and reducing the cost for customers to replace equipment due to changes in battery cell models. Simultaneously, the barcode scanning mechanism enables identity binding and full-process quality traceability for each battery cell, providing a data foundation for production quality management. Furthermore, the invention includes a corner detection mechanism to detect the corners of the battery cells, enabling visual inspection of the corners and expanding the inspection range to meet diverse testing requirements. Finally, the battery cell sorting mechanism in the battery cell unloading device classifies qualified and unqualified cells. Based on the inspection results of the visual inspection machine, the system can automatically sort qualified and unqualified products to different flow directions without manual intervention, significantly saving labor costs and improving sorting efficiency. This effectively prevents defective products from flowing into subsequent processes or among qualified products, ensuring the quality of the finished products.

[0037] 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

[0038] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this utility model or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this utility model. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0039] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the appearance inspection machine turntable, the feeding conveyor belt, and the battery cell transfer device based on the battery cell surface inspection in an embodiment of this utility model. Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the battery cell transfer device and appearance inspection machine based on the battery cell surface detection according to an embodiment of the present utility model; Figure 3 for Figure 2 The diagram shows the structure of the transfer mechanism and the first detection mechanism; Figure 4 for Figure 3 A schematic diagram showing the positions of the light-receiving plane of the first visual detection device and the light-emitting plane of the first light source device; Figure 5 for Figure 3 The enlarged view of point A is shown.

[0040] Reference numerals: 100-Transfer mechanism, 110-First displacement module, 120-Material handling robot, 130-First detection mechanism, 140-First vision inspection component, 141-Receiving light plane, 150-First light source component, 151-Emitting light plane, 152-Intersecting line, 160-Second displacement module, 170-Sliding component, 180-First screw, 190-Sliding component, 200-Mounting component, 210-First bolt, 220-First arc-shaped through groove, 230-Vacuum suction head, 240-Horizontal transfer module, 250-Lifting transfer module, 260-Second detection mechanism, 270-Turntable, 280-Unloading conveyor belt. Detailed Implementation

[0041] 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.

[0042] In the description of this utility model, it should be understood that the directional descriptions, such as up, down, front, back, left, right, etc., indicate the directional or positional relationship based on the directional or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this utility model and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this utility model.

[0043] In the description of this utility model, "several" means one or more, "multiple" means two or more, "greater than," "less than," and "exceeding" are understood to exclude the stated number, while "above," "below," and "within" are understood to include the stated number. If "first" and "second" are mentioned, it is only for the purpose of distinguishing technical features and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly indicating the number of indicated technical features or the order of the indicated technical features.

[0044] In the description of this utility model, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation, connection, and linkage" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to fixed connections, detachable connections, or integral connections; they can refer to mechanical connections or electrical connections; they can refer to direct connections or indirect connections through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal communication between 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.

[0045] The following describes, with reference to the accompanying drawings, a battery cell transfer device and an appearance inspection machine based on battery cell surface detection according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] The present invention aims to provide embodiments of a battery cell transfer device and an appearance inspection machine based on battery cell surface inspection.

[0047] In this embodiment, the battery cell body has a first side and a second side, that is, the front and back sides of the battery cell body.

[0048] Reference Figure 1 In this embodiment, the appearance inspection machine mainly includes a battery cell transfer device, a battery cell loading device, a battery cell tab detection device, and a battery cell unloading device based on battery cell surface detection. The battery cell transfer device is used to transfer the battery cell from the battery cell loading device to the battery cell tab detection device and / or transfer the battery cell from the battery cell tab detection device to the battery cell unloading device, thereby enabling the battery cell transfer device to transfer the battery cell between the battery cell loading device and the battery cell tab detection device and / or between the battery cell tab detection device and the battery cell unloading device.

[0049] In some specific embodiments, the battery cell loading device is equipped with a loading conveyor belt that supports the first side of the battery cell body to transport the battery cell. This ensures that the battery cell maintains a stable posture with the first side facing down throughout the entire loading process, providing a consistent interface and prerequisite for non-contact first side detection in the transfer device, and enabling the entire system to work in a coordinated manner.

[0050] In some specific embodiments, the cell feeding device is provided with a flipping mechanism, and the cell feeding device or the cell tab detection device is provided with a barcode scanning mechanism. The flipping mechanism is used to flip the cell to be compatible with different types of cells with QR codes on the first or second side of the cell body, and the barcode scanning mechanism is used to scan the QR code on the cell.

[0051] It is understood that this embodiment enhances the compatibility and intelligence of the equipment by setting up a flipping mechanism and a scanning mechanism. It can handle battery cells of different specifications with the QR code located on the first or second side. By unifying the posture through the flipping mechanism, the application range of the equipment is expanded, and the cost of replacing equipment due to changes in battery cell models is reduced for customers. At the same time, the scanning mechanism realizes the identification binding of each battery cell and full-process quality traceability, providing a data foundation for production quality management.

[0052] In some specific embodiments, the battery cell tab detection device is equipped with a turntable 270. The execution end of the turntable 270 supports the first side of the battery cell body to transport the battery cell. This ensures that the battery cell always maintains a stable posture with the first side facing down throughout the entire battery cell tab detection process, providing a consistent interface and prerequisite for non-contact first side detection in the transfer device, and enabling the entire system to work in a coordinated manner.

[0053] Specifically, the execution end of the turntable 270 is set as a vacuum suction plate, which vacuum-adsorbs the first side of the battery cell body.

[0054] In some specific embodiments, the appearance inspection machine is also equipped with a corner detection mechanism, which is used to detect the corner position of the battery cell.

[0055] It is understood that this embodiment, by setting up a corner detection mechanism, is used to detect the corner of the battery cell, thereby realizing the appearance inspection of the corner of the battery cell, making the appearance inspection machine have a wider range of battery cell inspection and meeting the diverse inspection requirements of the battery cell.

[0056] In some specific embodiments, the battery cell unloading device is equipped with an unloading conveyor belt 280, which supports the first side of the battery cell body to transport the battery cell. This ensures that the battery cell always maintains a stable posture with the first side facing down throughout the entire unloading process, providing a consistent interface and prerequisite for non-contact first side detection in the transfer device, and enabling the entire system to work in a coordinated manner.

[0057] In some specific embodiments, the battery cell unloading device is equipped with a battery cell sorting mechanism, which is used to classify qualified and unqualified battery cells.

[0058] It is understood that this embodiment includes a battery cell sorting mechanism in the battery cell unloading device. The battery cell sorting mechanism is used to classify qualified and unqualified battery cells. Thus, based on the detection results of the appearance inspection machine, the system can automatically sort qualified and unqualified products into different flow directions without manual intervention, which greatly saves labor costs and improves sorting efficiency. It effectively prevents defective products from flowing into subsequent processes or qualified products, and ensures the quality of the products leaving the factory.

[0059] Reference Figure 2 In this embodiment, the cell transfer device based on cell surface detection is used to transfer the cell from the cell loading device to the cell tab detection device and / or to the cell unloading device. The cell loading device, the cell tab detection device and / or the cell unloading device support the first surface of the cell body.

[0060] Specifically, the cell transfer device includes a transfer mechanism 100, a first detection mechanism 130, and a second detection mechanism 260.

[0061] Reference Figure 3 For the transfer mechanism 100, the transfer mechanism 100 includes a first displacement module 110 and a picking robot 120. The picking robot 120 abuts against the second side of the battery cell body to obtain the battery cell. The first displacement module 110 is used to drive the picking robot 120 to transfer the battery cell.

[0062] The first detection mechanism 130 is located on one side of the moving path of the picking robot 120 along the first surface of the battery cell body. The first detection mechanism 130 is used to detect the first surface of the battery cell body on the picking robot 120.

[0063] It is understood that this embodiment, by setting a transfer mechanism 100 and a first detection mechanism 130, includes a first displacement module 110 and a picking robot 120. The picking robot 120 abuts against the second surface of the battery cell body to obtain the battery cell. The first displacement module 110 is used to drive the picking robot 120 to transfer the battery cell. The first detection mechanism 130 is located on one side of the moving path of the picking robot 120 along the first surface of the battery cell body. The first detection mechanism 130 is used to detect the first surface of the battery cell body on the picking robot 120. It is understood that, for the sake of production continuity, the battery cell loading device, the battery cell tab detection device, and the battery cell unloading device are usually all supporting the battery cell body. The battery cells are transported from the same side of the main body. When the transfer mechanism 100 transfers the battery cells, the picking robot 120 abuts against the second side of the battery cell body to obtain the battery cells. This ensures that the first side of the battery cell body is not obstructed when the transfer mechanism 100 transfers the battery cells. At the same time, the first detection mechanism 130 detects the first side of the battery cell body on the picking robot 120 along one side of the first side of the battery cell body on the moving shoulder of the picking robot 120. Thus, the first side of the battery cell body is detected simultaneously during the battery cell loading or unloading transfer process, eliminating the need to set up a flipping mechanism to flip the battery cells and then detect the first side of the battery cell body. This optimizes the equipment timing and improves the efficiency of battery cell appearance inspection.

[0064] This embodiment combines the first-side inspection process with the transfer process into one, eliminating the need for a dedicated flipping station and flipping time, greatly shortening the total dwell time of the battery cells on the production line, and improving the overall production cycle and inspection efficiency.

[0065] Specifically, when the picking robot 120 picks up and transfers battery cells, the first side of the battery cell body on the picking robot 120 faces downwards, and the first detection mechanism 130 is located below the moving path of the picking robot 120. The first detection mechanism 130 faces upwards to detect the first side of the battery cell body on the picking robot 120.

[0066] In some specific embodiments, the first detection mechanism 130 includes a first visual detection element 140 and a first light source element 150. The first visual detection element 140 is used to perform visual detection on the first surface of the battery cell body, and the first light source element 150 is used to irradiate light onto the first surface of the battery cell body.

[0067] It is understood that by setting the first light source 150, the first light source 150 can provide a stable, uniform, and adjustable lighting environment for the first visual inspection device 140 to visually inspect the first surface of the battery cell body, effectively overcoming ambient light interference and ensuring that the first visual inspection device 140 can capture clear, high-contrast images, thereby greatly improving the accuracy and reliability of defect identification and avoiding false detection and missed detection.

[0068] Furthermore, the cell transfer device also includes a frame, and the first detection mechanism 130 also includes a mounting bracket for mounting the first light source 150. One of the frame and the mounting bracket is threadedly connected to a second bolt, and the other of the frame and the mounting bracket is provided with a horizontally penetrating second arc-shaped through groove for connecting the second bolt. The mounting bracket rotates along the center of the second arc-shaped through groove to adjust the illumination angle of the first light source 150, and the second bolt is used to lock and fix the frame and the mounting bracket.

[0069] It is understood that, by setting the second arc-shaped through groove and the second bolt, the illumination angle of the first light source 150 can be flexibly adjusted to meet the detection requirements of the first visual inspection component 140. In addition, the locking structure of the second bolt is simple and reliable, ensuring that it will not loosen after the angle is adjusted.

[0070] In some specific embodiments, the first detection mechanism 130 includes a first visual detection element 140, which is configured as a line scan camera. The line scan camera scans the first surface of the battery cell body to detect the first surface of the battery cell body.

[0071] It is understood that by using a line scan camera as the first visual inspection element 140 in this embodiment, the first visual inspection element 140 can not only acquire two-dimensional texture information of the surface such as scratches and dirt, but also acquire height change information of the surface such as depressions, protrusions, and tab adhesive wrinkles, thus realizing a more comprehensive three-dimensional morphological defect detection of the first surface of the battery cell body, with higher detection dimensions and accuracy.

[0072] Specifically, a 2.5D line scan camera can be used as the first visual inspection component 140. Thus, the 2.5D line scan camera can acquire planar images and surface height change information to form a three-dimensional imaging effect, which is conducive to achieving a more comprehensive three-dimensional morphological defect detection of the first surface of the battery cell body.

[0073] Reference Figure 4In some specific embodiments, the first detection mechanism 130 further includes a first light source 150, which is used to irradiate light onto the first surface of the battery cell body. The light source emitted by the first light source 150 is a linear light source. The first visual detection unit 140 receives the linear reflected light from the first surface of the battery cell body to perform visual detection on the first surface of the battery cell body. The intersection line 152 of the light emission plane 151 of the first light source 150 and the light reception plane 141 of the first visual detection unit 140 is located on the first surface of the battery cell body.

[0074] It is understandable that by setting the light source emitted by the first light source 150 as a line light source, and making the intersection line 152 of the light emission plane 151 of the first light source 150 and the light reception plane 141 of the first visual detection element 140 located on the first surface of the battery cell body, the illumination area of ​​the first light source 150 is narrower, which is beneficial for the light to be concentrated in the area where the first visual detection element 140 receives reflected light on the first surface of the battery cell body, thereby enabling the first visual detection element 140 to acquire a clearer image.

[0075] Furthermore, the intersection line 152 of the emitting light plane 151 of the first light source 150 and the receiving light plane 141 of the first visual detection element 140 is parallel to the short side of the battery cell and perpendicular to the long side of the battery cell, thereby adapting the transfer mechanism 100 to move the battery cell along the length direction of the battery cell.

[0076] In other embodiments, the light source emitted by the first light source 150 may also be a surface light source.

[0077] Reference Figure 5 In some specific embodiments, the first detection mechanism 130 includes a second displacement module 160 and a first visual detection element 140. The first visual detection element 140 is used to perform visual detection on the first surface of the battery cell body. The first visual detection element 140 is installed at the output end of the second displacement module 160. The second displacement module 160 can drive the first visual detection element 140 to move closer to and away from the transfer mechanism 100.

[0078] It is understood that in this embodiment, by setting a second displacement module 160, the second displacement module 160 drives the first visual inspection component 140 to actively approach or move away from the battery cell. Thus, on the one hand, the first inspection mechanism 130 can accurately adjust the inspection distance between the first visual inspection component 140 and the first surface of the battery cell body according to the size of different battery cell models or different inspection requirements, so that the first visual inspection component 140 is always at the optimal working distance to ensure imaging quality. On the other hand, during non-inspection periods, the visual inspection component can be moved away from the transfer mechanism 100 to make room for the transfer mechanism 100, prevent motion interference with the picking robot 120 or the battery cell, and improve the safety and reliability of the equipment.

[0079] Specifically, the cell transfer device also includes a frame, and the second displacement module 160 includes a sliding assembly 170 and a first screw 180. The sliding assembly 170 is slidably disposed on the frame, and the first vision inspection component 140 is mounted on the sliding assembly 170. The first screw 180 is rotatably connected to one of the frame and the sliding assembly 170, and is rotatably connected to the other of the frame and the sliding assembly 170. The first screw 180 rotates to drive the sliding assembly 170 to slide.

[0080] Understandably, the screw drive has high positioning accuracy and self-locking function, which can stably and accurately hold the first visual inspection piece 140 in its required position, prevent displacement due to vibration or other reasons during the inspection process, and ensure the stability of the inspection results.

[0081] Furthermore, a first nut is threaded onto the first screw 180, and the first nut is used to abut against the sliding assembly 170, thereby making the sliding assembly 170 more secure.

[0082] Furthermore, the sliding assembly 170 is provided with an oblong through groove extending along the length of the first screw 180, and a third bolt is provided on the oblong through groove. The third bolt is threadedly connected to the frame, thereby making the sliding assembly 170 and the frame more stable.

[0083] In some specific embodiments, the cell transfer device further includes a frame, and the second displacement module 160 includes a sliding assembly 170. The sliding assembly 170 includes a slider 190 and a mounting member 200. The slider 190 is slidably disposed on the frame, and the mounting member 200 is used to install the first visual inspection member 140. One of the slider 190 and the mounting member 200 is threadedly connected to a first bolt 210. The other of the slider 190 and the mounting member 200 is provided with a first arc-shaped through groove 220 that runs horizontally along the sliding direction perpendicular to the slider 190. The first arc-shaped through groove 220 is used to connect the first bolt 210. The mounting member 200 rotates around the center of the first arc-shaped through groove 220 to adjust the detection angle of the first visual inspection member 140. The first bolt 210 is used to lock and fix the slider 190 and the mounting member 200.

[0084] It is understood that, by setting the first arc-shaped through groove 220 and the first bolt 210, the shooting angle of the first visual inspection component 140 can be flexibly adjusted, such as vertical illumination or oblique illumination at a certain angle, to adapt to the defect detection needs with different reflective characteristics. For example, some defects are more obvious under specific angles of light, which enhances the adaptability and defect capture capability of the first inspection mechanism 130. In addition, the locking structure of the first bolt 210 is simple and reliable, ensuring that it will not loosen after the angle is adjusted.

[0085] In some specific embodiments, the material handling robot 120 has a vacuum adsorption head 230, which abuts against the second side of the battery cell body to adsorb the battery cell.

[0086] It is understood that in this embodiment, by setting a vacuum adsorption head 230 on the picking robot 120, the picking robot 120 uses vacuum adsorption to adsorb the battery cell. Therefore, compared with mechanical grippers, it avoids physical damage or deformation to the battery cell, especially to the tab part, caused by the clamping force. Moreover, since vacuum adsorption only adsorbs the second side of the battery cell, its entire first side and all sides are unobstructed and fully exposed to the first detection mechanism 130, realizing blind-spot-free detection and further improving the comprehensiveness of the detection.

[0087] In some specific embodiments, the first displacement module 110 includes a horizontal transfer module 240 and a lifting transfer module 250. The horizontal transfer module 240 is used to drive the material handling robot 120 to move horizontally, and the lifting transfer module 250 is used to drive the material handling robot 120 to move up and down.

[0088] Understandably, the first displacement module 110 uses a combination of a horizontal transfer module 240 and a lifting transfer module 250 to achieve precise and flexible transfer of battery cells in three-dimensional space. It can accurately pick up, transfer, and place the battery cells from the loading position to the unloading position, thus realizing the automated operation of the entire device.

[0089] In some specific embodiments, the horizontal transfer module 240 can be mounted on the frame, the lifting transfer module 250 can be mounted at the output end of the horizontal transfer module 240, and the material handling robot 120 can be mounted at the output end of the lifting transfer module 250.

[0090] Specifically, the frame can be provided with a horizontally extending first guide rail. The horizontal transfer module 240 includes a first translation frame and a first drive assembly. The first translation frame is slidably connected to the first guide rail. The first drive assembly includes a first motor and a second screw. The second screw is rotatably connected to the frame and threadedly connected to the first translation frame. The first motor is mounted on the frame and drives the second screw to rotate, so that the second screw drives the first translation frame to move horizontally.

[0091] Furthermore, the frame is provided with two parallel first guide rails, the first translation frame is slidably connected to the two first guide rails, and two first drive components are provided accordingly.

[0092] In some specific embodiments, the first translation frame may be provided with a second guide rail extending vertically. The lifting and transferring module 250 includes a first lifting frame and a second drive assembly. The material handling robot 120 is mounted on the first lifting frame. The first lifting frame is slidably connected to the second guide rail vertically. The second drive assembly includes a second motor and a third screw. The third screw is rotatably connected to the first translation frame and threadedly connected to the first lifting frame. The second motor is mounted on the first translation frame and drives the third screw to rotate, so that the third screw drives the first lifting frame to lift.

[0093] Furthermore, the first translation frame is provided with two second guide rails, the first lifting frame is slidably connected to the two second guide rails, and two corresponding second drive components are provided.

[0094] In other embodiments, the lifting and transferring module 250 may be mounted on the frame, the horizontal transferring module 240 may be mounted at the output end of the lifting and transferring module 250, and the material handling robot 120 may be mounted at the output end of the horizontal transferring module 240.

[0095] The second testing mechanism 260 is located on one side of the cell moving path along the second surface of the cell body in the cell feeding device, cell tab testing device, or cell unloading device. The second testing mechanism 260 is used to test the second surface of the cell body.

[0096] Understandably, the battery cell loading device, battery cell tab detection device, and battery cell unloading device support the first side of the battery cell body during operation, leaving the second side of the battery cell body exposed and unobstructed. By setting a second detection mechanism 260 in the battery cell loading device, battery cell tab detection device, or battery cell unloading device to detect the second side of the battery cell body, it is not necessary to send the battery cell to other independent detection stations, thus improving the efficiency and integration of the entire detection process.

[0097] Specifically, the second testing mechanism 260 can be configured with the same structure as the first testing mechanism 130. By adjusting the specific installation position and installation angle, the second side of the battery cell body can be tested. This will not be elaborated further here.

[0098] In the description of this specification, references to terms such as "an embodiment," "some embodiments," "illustrative embodiments," "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, 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.

[0099] The terms "first," "second," "third," "fourth," etc. (if applicable) in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this application are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be interchanged where appropriate so that the embodiments described herein can be implemented in a sequence other than that illustrated or described herein.

[0100] It should also be noted that, in the description of this specification, relational terms such as first and second are used only to distinguish one entity or operation from another entity or operation, and do not necessarily require or imply any such actual relationship or order between these entities or operations.

[0101] Furthermore, the terms “comprising” and “having”, and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, system, product, or apparatus that includes a series of steps or units is not necessarily limited to those steps or units that are explicitly listed, but may also include other steps or units that are not explicitly listed or that are inherent to such processes, methods, products, or apparatus.

[0102] Furthermore, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further limitation, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes said element.

[0103] The embodiments of the present utility model have been described in detail above with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the present utility model is not limited to the above embodiments. Within the scope of knowledge possessed by those skilled in the art, various changes can be made without departing from the spirit of the present utility model.

Claims

1. A battery cell transfer device based on battery cell surface detection, characterized in that, For transferring battery cells from a battery cell loading device to a battery cell tab detection device and / or from a battery cell tab detection device to a battery cell unloading device, wherein the battery cell loading device, the battery cell tab detection device, and / or the battery cell unloading device support a first surface of the battery cell body, and the battery cell transfer device includes: The transfer mechanism (100) includes a first displacement module (110) and a picking robot (120). The picking robot (120) abuts against the second side of the battery cell body to obtain the battery cell. The first displacement module (110) is used to drive the picking robot (120) to transfer the battery cell. The first detection mechanism (130) is located on one side of the moving path of the material handling robot (120) along the first surface of the battery cell body, and is used to detect the first surface of the battery cell body on the material handling robot (120).

2. The cell transfer device based on cell surface detection according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first detection mechanism (130) includes a first visual detection component (140) and a first light source component (150). The first visual detection component (140) is used to perform visual detection on the first surface of the battery cell body, and the first light source component (150) is used to irradiate light onto the first surface of the battery cell body.

3. The cell transfer device based on cell surface detection according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first detection mechanism (130) includes a first visual detection component (140), which is configured as a line scan camera. The line scan camera scans the first surface of the battery cell body to detect the first surface of the battery cell body.

4. The cell transfer device based on cell surface detection according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first detection mechanism (130) further includes a first light source (150), which is used to irradiate light onto the first surface of the battery cell body. The light source emitted by the first light source (150) is a linear light source. The first visual detection device (140) receives the linear reflected light from the first surface of the battery cell body to perform visual detection on the first surface of the battery cell body. The intersection line (152) of the light emission plane (151) of the first light source (150) and the light reception plane (141) of the first visual detection device (140) is located on the first surface of the battery cell body.

5. The cell transfer device based on cell surface detection according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first detection mechanism (130) includes a second displacement module (160) and a first visual detection component (140). The first visual detection component (140) is used to perform visual detection on the first surface of the battery cell body. The first visual detection component (140) is installed at the output end of the second displacement module (160). The second displacement module (160) can drive the first visual detection component (140) to move closer to and away from the transfer mechanism (100).

6. The cell transfer device based on cell surface detection according to claim 5, characterized in that, It also includes a frame, and the second displacement module (160) includes a sliding assembly (170) and a first screw (180). The sliding assembly (170) is slidably disposed on the frame. The first visual inspection element (140) is mounted on the sliding assembly (170). The first screw (180) is rotatably connected to one of the frame and the sliding assembly (170), and the first screw (180) is rotatably connected to the other of the frame and the sliding assembly (170). The first screw (180) rotates to drive the sliding assembly (170) to slide.

7. The cell transfer device based on cell surface detection according to claim 5, characterized in that, The system also includes a frame. The second displacement module (160) includes a sliding assembly (170). The sliding assembly (170) includes a slider (190) and a mounting member (200). The slider (190) is slidably disposed on the frame. The mounting member (200) is used to install the first visual inspection member (140). One of the slider (190) and the mounting member (200) is threadedly connected to a first bolt (210). The other of the slider (190) and the mounting member (200) is provided with a first arc-shaped through groove (220) that runs horizontally along the sliding direction perpendicular to the slider (190). The first arc-shaped through groove (220) is used to connect the first bolt (210). The mounting member (200) rotates around the center of the first arc-shaped through groove (220) to adjust the detection angle of the first visual inspection member (140). The first bolt (210) is used to lock and fix the slider (190) and the mounting member (200).

8. The cell transfer device based on cell surface detection according to claim 1, characterized in that, The material handling robot (120) has a vacuum adsorption head (230), which abuts against the second side of the battery cell body to adsorb the battery cell; And / or, the first displacement module (110) includes a horizontal transfer module (240) and a lifting transfer module (250), wherein the horizontal transfer module (240) is used to drive the picking robot (120) to move horizontally, and the lifting transfer module (250) is used to drive the picking robot (120) to move up and down.

9. The cell transfer device based on cell surface detection according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a second detection mechanism (260), which is disposed in the battery cell feeding device, the battery cell tab detection device or the battery cell unloading device, on one side of the battery cell moving path along the second surface of the battery cell body, and the second detection mechanism (260) is used to detect the second surface of the battery cell body.

10. An appearance inspection machine, characterized in that, The invention includes a battery cell transfer device, a battery cell loading device, a battery cell tab detection device, and a battery cell unloading device based on battery cell surface detection as described in any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the battery cell transfer device is used to transfer a battery cell from the battery cell loading device to the battery cell tab detection device and / or transfer a battery cell from the battery cell tab detection device to the battery cell unloading device.

11. The appearance inspection machine according to claim 10, characterized in that: The battery cell feeding device is equipped with a feeding conveyor belt, which supports the first side of the battery cell body to transport the battery cell. And / or, the battery cell tab detection device is provided with a turntable (270), the actuating end of the turntable (270) supporting the first side of the battery cell body to transport the battery cell; And / or, the cell feeding device is provided with a feeding conveyor belt (280), which supports the first side of the cell body to transport the cell.

12. The appearance inspection machine according to claim 10, characterized in that, The battery cell feeding device is equipped with a flipping mechanism, and the battery cell feeding device or the battery cell tab detection device is equipped with a barcode scanning mechanism. The flipping mechanism is used to flip the battery cell to be compatible with different types of battery cells with QR codes on the first or second side of the battery cell body. The barcode scanning mechanism is used to scan the QR code on the battery cell. And / or, the appearance inspection machine is further provided with a corner detection mechanism, which is used to detect the corner position of the battery cell; And / or, the battery cell unloading device is equipped with a battery cell sorting mechanism, which is used to classify qualified and unqualified battery cells.

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