Battery string conveying device

Abstract

The application provides a battery string conveying device, which comprises a feeding conveying mechanism, a middle conveying mechanism, a discharging conveying mechanism and N bearing units. The middle conveying mechanism comprises an upper conveying line and a lower conveying line arranged in layers and having opposite conveying directions. The feeding conveying mechanism is arranged at a first end of the middle conveying mechanism, and the discharging conveying mechanism is arranged at a second end of the middle conveying mechanism. The N bearing units are configured to be circulated between the feeding conveying line, the upper conveying line, the discharging conveying line and the lower conveying line. Each bearing unit can be clamped and positioned between the conveying surface of the upper conveying line when it is transferred from the feeding conveying line to the upper conveying line. Each bearing unit is used for bearing and adsorbing a battery string. Since the bearing unit can be clamped and positioned on the conveying surface of the upper conveying line and the bearing unit can adsorb the battery string, the battery string in the well-arranged battery string group can be prevented from being deviated in the conveying process.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of photovoltaic module manufacturing, specifically a battery string conveying device. Background Technology

[0002] In the production process of photovoltaic modules, the battery strings need to be arranged into an array according to rules to form a battery string group. Then, several processing steps are carried out on the battery string group, such as welding busbars onto the battery string group.

[0003] Chinese utility model patent CN221262318U discloses a photovoltaic module battery string support component and conveying device for implementing the array arrangement of battery strings. It mainly utilizes a conveying mechanism 1 to cyclically transport multiple support components 2, on which the battery strings are placed to form battery string groups.

[0004] However, during the conveying process of the carrier component 2, since the carrier component is only placed on the middle of the upper row of the conveyor belt, it is prone to sliding and shifting relative to the conveyor belt, which causes changes in parameters such as the string spacing and the angle of the battery string within the battery string group, directly affecting the final processing quality of the battery string group. Utility Model Content

[0005] To address the aforementioned technical problems, this application provides a battery string conveying device, the detailed technical solution of which is as follows:

[0006] A battery string conveying device includes a feeding conveying mechanism, a middle conveying mechanism, a discharging conveying mechanism, and N carrying units, wherein:

[0007] The central conveying mechanism includes an upper conveying line and a lower conveying line arranged in two layers with opposite conveying directions. The conveying directions of the upper and lower conveying lines are both parallel to the first direction.

[0008] The feeding conveying mechanism is located at the first end of the middle conveying mechanism. The feeding conveying mechanism includes a first lifting drive unit and a feeding conveying line. The conveying direction of the feeding conveying line is parallel to the first direction. The feeding conveying line is located on the movable part of the first lifting drive unit. The first lifting drive unit is configured to drive the feeding conveying line to lift and lower, so that the feeding conveying line can be connected to the input end of the upper conveying line or to the output end of the lower conveying line.

[0009] The unloading conveying mechanism is located at the second end of the middle conveying mechanism. The unloading conveying mechanism includes a second lifting drive unit and an unloading conveying line. The conveying direction of the unloading conveying line is parallel to the first direction. The unloading conveying line is located on the movable part of the second lifting drive unit. The second lifting drive unit is configured to drive the unloading conveying line to lift and lower, so that the unloading conveying line can be connected to the output end of the upper conveying line or to the input end of the lower conveying line.

[0010] N carrier units are configured to circulate between the loading conveyor line, the upper conveyor line, the unloading conveyor line, and the lower conveyor line. Each carrier unit can engage and position itself with the conveying surface of the upper conveyor line when transitioning from the loading conveyor line to the upper conveyor line. Each carrier unit is used to carry and adsorb the battery string extending along the second direction, which is perpendicular to the first direction, and N≥2.

[0011] The battery string conveying device provided in this application, by setting up a middle conveying mechanism with upper and lower layers and reverse operation, and cooperating with the lifting and unloading conveying mechanism, realizes the automated circulation of each carrying unit on the conveying line, thereby improving the efficiency of battery string arrangement.

[0012] The battery strings are arranged onto the carrier units on the upper conveyor line of the central conveyor mechanism and then transported backward by the upper conveyor line. Because the carrier units can engage and position with the conveyor surface of the upper conveyor line, and can hold the battery strings in place, the positional shift of the battery strings in the arranged battery string group can be avoided during transportation. This ensures that the battery strings do not deviate during transportation and maintain a stable string spacing, ultimately guaranteeing the product quality of the photovoltaic modules.

[0013] In some embodiments, the upper conveyor line includes at least one conveying unit; the conveying unit includes a driving pulley, a driven pulley, and a conveyor belt. The conveyor belt is fitted onto the driving pulley and the driven pulley and conveys along a first direction. A first positioning tooth is provided on the inner side of the conveyor belt. The conveyor belt meshes with the driving pulley and the driven pulley through the first positioning tooth. A second positioning tooth is also provided on the conveying surface of the conveyor belt. A toothed plate is installed at the bottom of the carrying unit. A plurality of tooth grooves are arranged side by side at intervals along the first direction on the toothed plate. The carrying unit meshes with the second positioning tooth on the conveyor belt through the tooth grooves to achieve engagement and positioning between the carrying unit and the conveying surface of the upper conveyor line. Alternatively, the conveying unit includes a driving sprocket, a driven sprocket, and a conveyor chain. The conveyor chain is fitted onto the driving sprocket and the driven sprocket and conveys along the first direction. A pin plate is installed at the bottom of the carrying unit. A plurality of pins are arranged side by side at intervals along the first direction at the bottom of the pin plate. The carrying unit is inserted into the chain links on the conveyor chain through the pins to achieve engagement and positioning between the carrying unit and the conveying surface of the upper conveyor line.

[0014] Two simple and feasible methods for engaging and positioning the upper conveyor line and the carrying unit are provided. By using a conveyor belt or conveyor chain with second positioning teeth and installing toothed plates or pin plates on the carrying unit, it is possible to ensure that the carrying unit automatically engages and positions itself on the conveying surface of the upper conveyor line when transitioning from the feeding conveyor line to the upper conveyor line. Furthermore, when the carrying unit transitions from the output end of the upper conveyor line to the unloading conveyor line, it can automatically detach from the conveying surface of the upper conveyor line as it is being transported. Using a conveyor belt with first positioning teeth mounted on the driving and driven pulleys, or a conveyor chain mounted on the driving and driven sprockets, to transport the carrying unit further ensures the conveying positional accuracy of the carrying unit, thereby ensuring the positional accuracy of the battery string on the carrying unit.

[0015] In some embodiments, the conveying unit further includes two guide rails extending along a first direction, the guide rails being spaced apart on both sides of the conveyor belt or conveyor chain along a second direction, the carrying unit being slidably connected to each guide rail, the guide rails being used to cooperate with the conveyor belt or conveyor chain to carry the carrying unit and to guide the carrying unit during conveying.

[0016] By setting guide rails, the transport of the carrier unit is guided, further preventing the carrier unit from shifting or deflecting during transport.

[0017] In some embodiments, the carrier unit includes two carrier plates spaced apart along a second direction, the two carrier plates being configured to cooperate in carrying and adsorbing a string of first batteries, or each carrier plate being configured to carry and adsorb a string of second batteries respectively, wherein the length of the first battery string is greater than the length of the second battery string; the upper conveyor line includes two conveying units spaced apart along a second direction; the two conveying units are respectively used to carry and convey one of the carrier plates in the carrier unit.

[0018] By configuring the support unit as consisting of two support plates spaced apart along the second direction, the support unit can achieve compatibility with the first battery string and the second battery string, thereby improving the versatility of this application. Furthermore, when supporting two second battery strings, the gap between the two support plates can provide operating space for welding busbars between the two battery strings.

[0019] In some embodiments, the structures of the loading conveyor and the unloading conveyor are the same as those of the upper conveyor; when each carrying unit transitions from the loading conveyor to the upper conveyor, the toothed plate on the carrying unit can simultaneously engage with the second positioning teeth on both the loading conveyor and the upper conveyor, or the pin plate on the carrying unit can simultaneously insert into the chain gaps on both the loading conveyor and the upper conveyor; when each carrying unit transitions from the upper conveyor to the unloading conveyor, the toothed plate on the carrying unit can simultaneously engage with the second positioning teeth on both the upper conveyor and the unloading conveyor, or the pin plate on the carrying unit can simultaneously insert into the chain gaps on both the upper conveyor and the unloading conveyor.

[0020] By setting the structures of the loading and unloading conveyors to be identical to those of the upper conveyor, it is ensured that the carrying unit can also engage and be positioned with the conveying surfaces of the loading and unloading conveyors. This prevents the carrying unit from shifting position during transport on the loading and unloading conveyors and maintains a stable distance. Furthermore, by simultaneously engaging and positioning the toothed plate or pin plate with the conveying surfaces of both conveyors during transitions, the positioning accuracy of the carrying unit during transitions from the loading conveyor to the upper conveyor and from the upper conveyor to the unloading conveyor can be further improved.

[0021] In some embodiments, the structure of the lower conveyor line is the same as that of the upper conveyor line; when each carrying unit transitions from the unloading conveyor line to the lower conveyor line, the toothed plate on the carrying unit can simultaneously engage with the second positioning teeth on both the unloading conveyor line and the lower conveyor line, or the pin plate on the carrying unit can simultaneously insert into the inter-chain gap on both the unloading conveyor line and the lower conveyor line; when each carrying unit transitions from the lower conveyor line to the upper conveyor line, the toothed plate on the carrying unit can simultaneously engage with the second positioning teeth on both the lower conveyor line and the upper conveyor line, or the pin plate on the carrying unit can simultaneously insert into the inter-chain gap on both the lower conveyor line and the upper conveyor line.

[0022] By setting the lower conveyor line to have the same structure as the upper conveyor line, it is ensured that the carrier unit can also be engaged and positioned with the conveyor surface of the lower conveyor line, preventing positional displacement of the carrier unit during transport on the lower conveyor line and maintaining a stable spacing at all times. Furthermore, by simultaneously engaging and positioning the toothed plate or pin plate with the conveyor surfaces of both conveyor lines during transitions, the positional accuracy of the carrier unit during transitions from the unloading conveyor line to the lower conveyor line, and from the lower conveyor line to the loading conveyor line, can be further improved.

[0023] In some embodiments, each carrier unit is used to carry a string of batteries or to carry two strings of batteries arranged side by side along the second direction. The battery strings carried by each carrier unit constitute a battery cell, and P battery cells constitute a battery string group. The upper conveyor line is configured to transport X carrier units in each step, 1≤X≤P. The number of carrier units that can be transported simultaneously on the upper conveyor line is M, where P<M≤N.

[0024] Since the upper conveyor line can simultaneously transport more carrier units than the number of battery units in a single battery string, it ensures that the upper conveyor line can simultaneously transport at least one or more battery units required for a photovoltaic module, such as the battery units required for two photovoltaic modules. In actual production, different processing stations can be set up on the conveying path of the upper conveyor line to complete the continuous processing of multiple photovoltaic modules. Furthermore, since the upper conveyor line is configured to transport the battery string in a step-by-step manner, with each step distance being X carrier units, it can be achieved that each step of the upper conveyor line can move X battery units from the battery string to the processing station for processing.

[0025] In some embodiments, each X consecutively arranged support units are fixedly connected as a whole.

[0026] This configuration ensures that each lifting operation of the unloading conveyor transfers X consecutively arranged carrier units from the upper conveyor to the lower conveyor. Conversely, each lifting operation of the loading conveyor returns X consecutively arranged carrier units from the lower conveyor to the upper conveyor.

[0027] In some embodiments, the bearing surface of the bearing unit is provided with adsorption holes for adsorbing battery strings; the bottom of the bearing unit is provided with a docking air block, and the lower surface of the docking air block is provided with a docking air groove extending along a first direction, which communicates with the adsorption holes; the conveying path of the upper conveyor line is provided with a suction block extending along the first direction, and the upper surface of the suction block is provided with a plurality of suction grooves arranged at intervals along the first direction. The suction block is provided with a suction air passage, and each suction groove is provided with a one-way valve. The one-way valve is used to control the opening and closing of the corresponding suction groove and suction air passage. The suction air passage is connected to an external suction device through an air pipe; the lower surface of the docking air block of each bearing unit on the upper conveyor line is in contact with the upper surface of the suction block. During the conveying process, the docking air block moves on the upper surface of the suction block, and the docking air groove can always dock with at least one suction groove.

[0028] When the docking gas slot is docked with the extraction gas slot, the one-way valve in the extraction gas slot opens, connecting the extraction gas slot with the docking gas slot, causing the adsorption holes to generate an adsorption force to adsorb the battery string; when the docking gas slot is separated from the extraction gas slot, the one-way valve in the extraction gas slot closes, sealing the extraction gas slot.

[0029] By using adsorption holes on the carrier surface of the carrier unit, it is ensured that the carrier unit can adsorb and position the battery string carried on it, thus preventing the battery string from slipping relative to the carrier unit during transportation and causing positional deviation.

[0030] The air extraction block is set on the upper conveyor line and extends along the conveying path of the upper conveyor line. The bottom of the carrying unit is equipped with a docking air block that docks with the air extraction block in real time. During the conveying process, the air extraction block performs real-time air extraction on the adsorption holes on the carrying unit through the docking air block, thereby ensuring that the carrying unit can continuously adsorb the battery string.

[0031] In some embodiments, a first magnet is provided in the docking groove; an air extraction hole communicating with the air extraction passage is provided on the inner wall of the extraction groove; the one-way valve includes a floating plug, a spring, and a second magnet, wherein the floating plug includes a blocking section and an installation section arranged vertically, the diameter of the blocking section is larger than the diameter of the installation section, and the peripheral wall of the blocking section is in contact with the inner wall of the extraction groove; the spring is sleeved on the installation section, the lower end of the spring abuts against the bottom of the extraction groove, and the upper end of the spring abuts against the blocking section; the second magnet is provided at the top of the blocking section, and the second magnet and the first magnet repel each other; when the docking groove and the extraction groove are docked, the first magnet pushes the floating plug downward through the second magnet, the blocking section and the air extraction hole are misaligned, so that the one-way valve opens and the spring is compressed and contracted; when the docking groove and the extraction groove are separated, the spring pushes the floating plug upward to reset, the blocking section blocks the air extraction hole, so that the one-way valve closes.

[0032] By placing a first magnet inside the docking slot and configuring a one-way valve comprising a floating plug, a spring, and a second magnet, the one-way valve automatically opens when the docking slot aligns with the extraction slot due to the mutual repulsion between the first and second magnets. This allows the extraction block to draw air from the suction holes on the support unit via the docking slot. When the docking slot separates from the extraction slot, the one-way valve automatically closes under the action of the spring, preventing air leakage from the extraction slot separated from the docking slot. Furthermore, the automatic opening and closing of the one-way valve is entirely triggered by the magnetic force of the first and second magnets, eliminating the need for additional control circuits and algorithms, thus reducing equipment costs and improving reliability.

[0033] In some embodiments, the inner wall of the suction groove is provided with a suction hole communicating with the suction air passage. The one-way valve includes a floating plug and a lifting drive. The floating plug is movably disposed in the suction groove and connected to the drive end of the lifting drive. When the docking groove is docked with the suction groove, the lifting drive pulls the floating plug downward, and the floating plug is misaligned with the suction hole, so that the one-way valve opens. When the docking groove is separated from the suction groove, the lifting drive pushes the floating plug upward, and the floating plug blocks the suction hole, so that the one-way valve closes.

[0034] An alternative one-way valve structure is provided. When the docking air groove and the suction air groove are docked, the lifting drive controls the floating plug to descend and offset from the suction port, thus opening the one-way valve. This allows the suction block to suction air from the adsorption holes on the supporting unit via the docking air block. When the docking air groove and the suction air groove are separated, the lifting drive controls the floating plug to rise and block the suction port, thus closing the one-way valve and preventing air leakage from the suction air groove separated from the docking air groove.

[0035] In some embodiments, the length of the docking air groove in the first direction is greater than the center distance between two adjacent air extraction grooves, so that the docking air groove always remains docked with at least one air extraction groove during the conveying process; a flexible pad is provided on at least one of the upper surface of the air extraction block and the lower surface of the docking air block, and the upper surface of the air extraction block and the lower surface of the docking air block slide in contact to form an airtight fit.

[0036] By setting the length of the docking air groove in the first direction to be greater than the center distance between two adjacent air extraction grooves, it is ensured that the docking air groove remains docked with at least one air extraction groove during transportation, guaranteeing that the carrying unit can always adsorb the battery string during transportation. By providing a flexible pad on at least one of the upper surface of the air extraction block and the lower surface of the docking air block, it is ensured that an airtight fit can be formed when the upper surface of the air extraction block and the lower surface of the docking air block slide in contact, preventing air leakage at the contact point between the air extraction block and the air extraction block.

[0037] In some embodiments, the carrier unit includes a first carrier plate and a second carrier plate spaced apart along a second direction. The first and second carrier plates are configured to cooperate in carrying and adsorbing a string of first batteries, or the first and second carrier plates are respectively configured to carry and adsorb a string of second batteries, wherein the length of the first battery string is greater than the length of the second battery string. A docking air block is provided at the bottom of both the first and second carrier plates. The upper conveyor line includes two suction blocks spaced apart along the second direction, one suction block being used to provide adsorption force to the docking air block at the bottom of each first carrier plate, and the other suction block being used to provide adsorption force to the docking air block at the bottom of each second carrier plate.

[0038] Because there is a gap between the first and second support plates, by setting two suction blocks on the upper conveyor line, the suction holes on the first and second support plates can be suctioned separately to ensure that both the first and second support plates can perform adsorption of the battery string. Attached Figure Description

[0039] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the battery string conveying device carrying the battery string in the embodiments of this application;

[0040] Figure 2 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the battery string conveying device in the embodiments of this application;

[0041] Figure 3 This is a top view of the battery string conveying device in an embodiment of this application.

[0042] Figure 4 This is a side view of the battery string conveying device in an embodiment of this application.

[0043] Figure 5 for Figure 4 The left view;

[0044] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the feeding and conveying mechanism in the embodiments of this application;

[0045] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the upper conveyor line in the embodiments of this application;

[0046] Figure 8 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the upper conveyor line carrying the carrier unit in an embodiment of this application;

[0047] Figure 9 This is a side view of the upper conveyor line carrying the carrier unit in an embodiment of this application.

[0048] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the meshing and positioning of the conveyor belt and the toothed plate in one embodiment of this application;

[0049] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the insertion and positioning of the conveyor chain on the pin plate in another embodiment of this application;

[0050] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the bottom structure of the support unit in the embodiments of this application;

[0051] Figure 13 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the air extraction block in the embodiments of this application;

[0052] Figure 14 This is a partial cross-sectional view of the air extraction block in an embodiment of this application;

[0053] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the working state of the air extraction block and the support plate unit in the embodiments of this application;

[0054] Figure 16 for Figure 15 AA section view in the middle;

[0055] Figure 17 for Figure 16 A magnified view of region B in the image;

[0056] Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram of a battery string assembly.

[0057] Figures 1 to 18 Includes:

[0058] Feeding and conveying mechanism 1: First lifting drive unit 11, feeding and conveying line 12;

[0059] Upper conveyor line 2: conveyor unit 20, drive pulley 21, driven pulley 22, conveyor belt 23, first positioning tooth 231, second positioning tooth 232, conveyor chain 24, guide rail 25;

[0060] Lower conveyor line 3;

[0061] Material feeding and conveying mechanism 4: Second lifting drive unit 41, material feeding and conveying line 42;

[0062] Bearing unit 5: First bearing plate 50, second bearing plate 51, toothed plate 52, pin plate 53, pin 54, docking air block 55, docking air groove 56, first magnet 57, adsorption hole 58;

[0063] Evacuation block 6: Evacuation groove 61, Evacuation air passage 62, One-way valve 63, Floating plug 631, Sealing section 631a, Installation section 631b, Spring 632, Second magnet 633, Evacuation hole 634;

[0064] 100 battery strings and 200 battery cells. Detailed Implementation

[0065] To make the above-mentioned objects, features, and advantages of this application more apparent and understandable, the application will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. The embodiments described in the following exemplary embodiments do not represent all embodiments consistent with this application. Rather, they are merely examples of apparatuses and methods consistent with some aspects of this application as detailed in the appended claims.

[0066] like Figures 1 to 6 As shown, the battery string conveying device provided in this application includes a feeding conveying mechanism 1, a middle conveying mechanism, a discharging conveying mechanism 4, and N (e.g., 20 in the figure) carrying units 5, wherein:

[0067] The central conveying mechanism includes an upper conveyor line 2 and a lower conveyor line 3 arranged in two layers with opposite conveying directions. The conveying directions of the upper conveyor line 2 and the lower conveyor line 3 are both parallel to the first direction (the X direction in the figure).

[0068] The feeding conveying mechanism 1 is located at the first end (e.g., the left end) of the middle conveying mechanism. The feeding conveying mechanism 1 includes a first lifting drive unit 11 and a feeding conveying line 12. The conveying direction of the feeding conveying line 12 is parallel to the first direction. The feeding conveying line 12 is located on the movable part of the first lifting drive unit 11. The first lifting drive unit 11 is configured to drive the feeding conveying line 12 to lift and lower, so that the feeding conveying line 12 is connected to the input end of the upper conveying line 2 or to the output end of the lower conveying line 3.

[0069] The unloading conveying mechanism 4 is located at the second end (e.g., the right end) of the middle conveying mechanism. The unloading conveying mechanism 4 includes a second lifting drive unit 41 and an unloading conveying line 42. The conveying direction of the unloading conveying line 42 is parallel to the first direction. The unloading conveying line 42 is located on the movable part of the second lifting drive unit 41. The second lifting drive unit 41 is configured to drive the unloading conveying line 42 to rise and fall, so that the unloading conveying line 42 is connected to the output end of the upper conveying line 2 or to the input end of the lower conveying line 3.

[0070] N carrier units 5 are configured to circulate between the loading conveyor line 12, the upper conveyor line 2, the unloading conveyor line 42, and the lower conveyor line 3. Each carrier unit 5 can engage and position itself with the conveying surface of the upper conveyor line 2 when transitioning from the loading conveyor line 12 to the upper conveyor line 2. Each carrier unit 5 is used to carry and absorb battery strings extending along a second direction (e.g., the Y direction), which is perpendicular to the first direction, and N≥2.

[0071] The optional operation process of the battery string conveying device in this embodiment is as follows:

[0072] Based on the spacing between the battery strings to be arranged, the carrier units are placed on the upper conveyor line at appropriate intervals and engaged with the conveyor surface of the upper conveyor line. At this time, all N carrier units 5 may be located on the upper conveyor line 2, or only some carrier units 5 may be located on the upper conveyor line 2, while the remaining carrier units 5 are located on the lower conveyor line 3, the unloading conveyor mechanism 4, or the loading conveyor mechanism 1. Of course, all carrier units 5 located on the upper conveyor line 2 are engaged with the conveyor surface of the upper conveyor line 2.

[0073] The battery strings are arranged according to the layout requirements on all or part of the carrying units 5 located on the upper conveyor line 2 to obtain battery string groups.

[0074] The upper conveyor line 2 transports each carrying unit toward the unloading conveyor line 42, so that the battery strings on it pass through one or more processing stations located on the conveying path of the upper conveyor line to carry out the corresponding processing of the battery strings. For example, the processing station includes a busbar welding station, which is used to weld the busbars to the extended welding strip of the battery string assembly.

[0075] After the processed battery string is removed, the empty carrier unit 5 enters the unloading conveyor line 42. At this time, the second lifting drive unit 41 has already driven the unloading conveyor line 42 to rise, so that the unloading conveyor line 42 connects with the output end of the upper conveyor line 2 to receive the empty carrier unit 5 output by the upper conveyor line 2.

[0076] Next, the second lifting drive unit 41 drives the unloading conveyor line 42 to descend, so that the unloading conveyor line 42 connects with the input end of the lower conveyor line 3, and the unloading conveyor line 42 transports the carrying unit 5 to the lower conveyor line 3.

[0077] The lower conveyor line 3 transports the carrying unit 5 toward the upper conveyor line 2.

[0078] The first lifting drive unit 11 drives the loading conveyor line 12 to descend, so that the loading conveyor line 12 docks with the output end of the lower conveyor line 3 to receive the carrying unit 5 output from the lower conveyor line 3. Then, the first lifting drive unit 11 drives the loading conveyor line 12 to rise, so that the loading conveyor line 12 docks with the input end of the upper conveyor line 2. The loading conveyor line 12 sends the carrying unit 5 back to the upper conveyor line 2, and the carrying unit 5 sent back to the upper conveyor line 2 is re-engaged and positioned with the conveying surface of the upper conveyor line 2.

[0079] Repeat the above process to continuously arrange and process the battery strings, ensuring production efficiency.

[0080] As can be seen, the battery string conveying device provided in this application, by setting up a middle conveying mechanism with upper and lower layers and reverse operation, and cooperating with the lifting and unloading conveying mechanism 4, realizes the automated circulation of each carrying unit 5 on the conveying line, thereby improving the layout efficiency.

[0081] The battery strings are arranged onto the carrier unit 5 on the upper conveyor line 2 located in the middle conveying mechanism, and then conveyed backward by the upper conveyor line 2. Since the carrier unit 5 can engage and position itself with the conveying surface of the upper conveyor line 2, and can hold the battery strings in place, the position of the battery strings in the arranged battery string group can be avoided during the conveying process. This ensures that the battery strings do not deflect during the conveying process and always maintain a stable string spacing, thereby ensuring the quality of the photovoltaic modules produced on the upper conveyor line 2.

[0082] It should be noted here that the “connection” between the two conveyor lines (such as the upper conveyor line 2 and the unloading conveyor line 4) mentioned in this application means that the two conveyor lines are at the same height and on the same conveying path, and the gap between the two conveyor lines must be less than the width of the carrying unit 5 along the first direction, so as to ensure that the carrying unit 5 can transition from one conveyor line to the other.

[0083] Both the first lifting drive unit 11 and the second lifting drive unit 41 can adopt existing linear drive components of various structures, such as cylinders, electric cylinders, linear actuators composed of servo motors and lead screws and nuts, etc.

[0084] like Figures 7 to 10 As shown, in some embodiments, the upper conveyor line 2 includes at least one (e.g., two in the figure) conveyor unit 20. The conveyor unit 20 includes a driving pulley 21, a driven pulley 22, and a conveyor belt 23. The conveyor belt 23 is fitted onto the driving pulley 21 and the driven pulley 22 and conveys along a first direction. A first positioning tooth 231 is provided on the inner side of the conveyor belt 23, and the conveyor belt 23 engages with the driving pulley 21 and the driven pulley 22 through the first positioning tooth 231. A second positioning tooth 232 is also provided on the conveying surface of the conveyor belt 23. A toothed plate 52 is installed at the bottom of the carrying unit 5. Several toothed grooves are arranged side-by-side along the first direction on the toothed plate 52. The carrying unit 5 engages with the second positioning tooth 232 on the conveyor belt 23 through the toothed grooves, achieving engagement and positioning between the carrying unit 5 and the conveying surface of the upper conveyor line 2.

[0085] The carrier unit 5 is transported by a conveyor belt 23 that is fitted with the first positioning teeth 231 on the driving pulley 21 and the driven pulley 22. This ensures stable transport of the carrier unit 5, prevents the conveyor belt 23 from slipping, and guarantees the accuracy of the transport position.

[0086] By providing a second positioning tooth 232 on the conveying surface of the conveyor belt 23 and a toothed plate 52 with grooves matching the second positioning tooth 232 at the bottom of the carrying unit 5, the carrying unit 5 can automatically engage and position itself on the conveying surface of the upper conveyor line 2 when transitioning from the loading conveyor line 12 to the upper conveyor line 2. Furthermore, when the carrying unit 5 transitions from the output end of the upper conveyor line 2 to the unloading conveyor line 42, it can automatically detach from the conveying surface of the upper conveyor line 2 as it is being conveyed, smoothly transitioning onto the unloading conveyor line 42.

[0087] To further improve the conveying stability of the carrying unit 5, a zero-gap double-sided toothed synchronous belt can be used as the conveyor belt 23, and a zero-gap toothed plate 52 can be used.

[0088] like Figure 11 As shown, in some other embodiments, the conveying unit 20 includes a driving sprocket, a driven sprocket, and a conveying chain 24. The conveying chain 24 is fitted onto the driving sprocket and the driven sprocket and conveys along a first direction. A pin plate 53 is installed at the bottom of the carrying unit 5. Several pins 54 are arranged side by side at intervals along the first direction at the bottom of the pin plate 53. The carrying unit 5 is inserted into the link gap of the conveying chain 24 through the pins 54 to realize the engagement and positioning between the carrying unit 5 and the conveying surface of the upper conveying line 2.

[0089] The conveyor chain 24, which is fitted onto the driving and driven sprockets, ensures stable and accurate conveying of the carrying unit 5. By installing a pin plate 53 with a pin 54 at the bottom of the carrying unit 5, it automatically engages and positions itself on the conveying surface of the upper conveyor line 2 when transitioning from the loading conveyor line 12 to the upper conveyor line 2. Similarly, when the carrying unit 5 transitions from the output end of the upper conveyor line 2 to the unloading conveyor line 42, it automatically detaches from the conveying surface of the upper conveyor line 2 and smoothly transitions onto the unloading conveyor line 42.

[0090] To further improve the conveying stability of the carrying unit 5, a zero-gap conveying chain 24 and a zero-gap pin plate 53 can be used.

[0091] like Figures 7 to 9 As shown, in some embodiments, the conveying unit 20 further includes two guide rails 25 extending along a first direction. The guide rails 25 are spaced apart on both sides of the conveyor belt 23 or the conveyor chain 24 along a second direction. The carrying unit 5 is slidably connected to each guide rail 25. The guide rails 25 are used to cooperate with the conveyor belt 23 or the conveyor chain 24 to carry the carrying unit 5 and to guide the carrying unit 5.

[0092] By setting the guide rail 25, the transport and guidance of the carrying unit 5 is realized, preventing the carrying unit 5 from shifting or deflecting.

[0093] As is known to those skilled in the art, photovoltaic modules come in a variety of designs, and the lengths of the cell strings within them also vary, with some cell strings reaching 2.4m in length while others are only 1.3m long; some photovoltaic modules are made of, for example,... Figure 18 The diagram shows two sets of battery strings (each set consisting of 6 strings in the X direction), while some photovoltaic modules consist only of... Figure 18 It consists of a set of battery strings.

[0094] In order to better implement the layout and processing of battery string groups of different types, such as Figures 2 to 5 As shown, in some embodiments, the support unit 5 includes two support plates (the first support plate 50 and the second support plate 51 in the figure) spaced apart along a second direction (such as the Y direction). The two support plates can respectively support and absorb a string of second batteries (e.g., ...). Figure 18 (The battery string in the middle). Correspondingly, such as Figures 7 to 9 As shown, the upper conveyor line 2 includes two conveying units 20 spaced apart along a second direction. The two conveying units 20 are respectively used to carry and convey a support plate from the support unit 5.

[0095] With this configuration, the two support plates of each support unit 5 can respectively support the two battery strings 100 of the battery unit 200, and ensure that there is an operating gap between the two battery strings 100 to facilitate the processing of the battery string group, such as welding the middle busbar to the two battery strings 100.

[0096] Of course, the two carrier plates of each carrier unit 5 can also be used to adsorb a first battery string with a length greater than that of the second battery string (such as the aforementioned battery string with a length of 2.4m) to accommodate the layout requirements of battery string groups of different types.

[0097] It can be seen that by configuring the carrier unit 5 as consisting of two carrier plates spaced apart along the second direction, the carrier unit 5 can achieve layout compatibility with the first battery string and the second battery string, thereby improving the versatility of this application.

[0098] In some embodiments, the structure of the loading conveyor line 12 and the unloading conveyor line 42 is the same as that of the upper conveyor line 2, that is, the conveying surfaces of the loading conveyor line 12 and the unloading conveyor line 42 are also provided with second positioning teeth 232, or the loading conveyor line 12 and the unloading conveyor line 42 use a conveyor chain to convey the carrying unit 5.

[0099] When each carrying unit 5 transitions from the feeding conveyor line 12 to the upper conveyor line 2, the toothed plate 52 on the carrying unit 5 can simultaneously mesh with the second positioning tooth 232 on the feeding conveyor line 12 and the upper conveyor line 2, or the pin plate 53 on the carrying unit 5 can simultaneously insert into the chain gap on the feeding conveyor line 12 and the upper conveyor line 2.

[0100] Similarly, when each carrying unit 5 transitions from the upper conveyor line 2 to the lower conveyor line 42, the toothed plate 52 on the carrying unit 5 can simultaneously engage with the second positioning tooth 232 on both the upper conveyor line 2 and the lower conveyor line 42, or the pin plate 53 on the carrying unit 5 can simultaneously engage with the inter-chain gap on both the upper conveyor line 2 and the lower conveyor line 42.

[0101] Because the carrying unit 5 can be engaged and positioned on the conveying surfaces of the feeding conveyor line 12 and the unloading conveyor line 42, the carrying unit 5 is prevented from shifting position when conveying on the feeding conveyor line 12 and the unloading conveyor line 42, and a stable spacing is always maintained.

[0102] Furthermore, since the toothed plate 52 on the carrying unit 5 can simultaneously engage with the second positioning teeth 232 on both the upper conveyor line 2 and the lower conveyor line 42 when the carrying unit 5 transitions from the feeding conveyor line 12 to the upper conveyor line 2, or the pin plate 53 on the carrying unit 5 can simultaneously insert into the chain gaps on both the feeding conveyor line 12 and the upper conveyor line 2, it can be ensured that the carrying unit 5 can smoothly transition from the feeding conveyor line 12 to the upper conveyor line 2. Similarly, since the toothed plate 52 on the carrying unit 5 can simultaneously engage with the second positioning teeth 232 on both the upper conveyor line 2 and the lower conveyor line 42 when the carrying unit 5 transitions from the upper conveyor line 2 to the lower conveyor line 42, or the pin plate 53 on the carrying unit 5 can simultaneously insert into the chain gaps on both the upper conveyor line 2 and the lower conveyor line 42, it can be ensured that the carrying unit 5 can smoothly transition from the upper conveyor line 2 to the lower conveyor line 42.

[0103] In some embodiments, the structure of the lower conveyor line 3 is the same as that of the upper conveyor line 2. That is, the conveying surface of the lower conveyor line 3 is also provided with the second positioning tooth 232, or the lower conveyor line 3 also uses a conveyor chain to convey the carrying unit 5.

[0104] When each carrying unit 5 transitions from the unloading conveyor line 42 to the lower conveyor line 3, the toothed plate 52 on the carrying unit 5 can simultaneously engage with the second positioning tooth 232 on the unloading conveyor line 42 and the lower conveyor line 3, or the pin plate 53 on the carrying unit 5 can simultaneously engage with the inter-chain gap on the unloading conveyor line 42 and the lower conveyor line 3.

[0105] When each carrying unit 5 transitions from the lower conveyor line 3 to the upper conveyor line 12, the toothed plate 52 on the carrying unit 5 can simultaneously engage with the second positioning tooth 232 on both the lower conveyor line 3 and the upper conveyor line 12, or the pin plate 53 on the carrying unit 5 can simultaneously engage with the inter-chain gap on both the lower conveyor line 3 and the upper conveyor line 12.

[0106] Since the carrier unit 5 can be engaged and positioned on the conveying surface of the lower conveyor line 3, the carrier unit 5 is prevented from shifting position when it is conveyed on the lower conveyor line 3, and the adjacent carrier units 5 always maintain a stable distance.

[0107] In addition, it can ensure that the carrying unit 5 can smoothly transition from the unloading conveyor line 42 to the lower conveyor line 3, and smoothly transition from the lower conveyor line 3 to the loading conveyor line 12, avoiding positional deviation of the carrying unit 5 during the transition conveying process.

[0108] In particular, when the structures of the lower-layer conveying line 3, the loading conveying line 12 and the unloading conveying line 42 are all configured to be the same as that of the upper-layer conveying line 2, the bearing units 5 can be clamped and positioned on the conveying surface throughout the entire cyclic conveying process, which ultimately ensures that adjacent bearing units 5 always maintain a stable spacing during the entire cyclic conveying process.

[0109] In some embodiments, each bearing unit 5 is configured to bear one string of solar cells or two strings of solar cells arranged side by side along the second direction, the solar cell strings borne by each bearing unit 5 constitute one battery unit, and P battery units constitute one solar cell string group. The solar cell string group referred to herein refers to a solar cell string group composed of all solar cell strings included in a complete photovoltaic module. The upper-layer conveying line 2 is configured to perform stepping conveyance of X bearing units 5 each time, where 1≤X≤P. In addition, the number of bearing units 5 that can be conveyed simultaneously on the upper-layer conveying line 2 is M, where P<M≤N.

[0110] Since the number M of bearing units 5 that can be conveyed simultaneously on the upper-layer conveying line 2 is greater than the number P of battery units in one solar cell string group, it can be ensured that the upper-layer conveying line 2 can convey at least the battery units required for more than one photovoltaic module at the same time, for example, the battery units required for two, three or more photovoltaic modules. In actual production, different processing stations can be arranged on the conveying path of the upper-layer conveying line, so that these battery units can complete processing on the upper-layer conveying line 2.

[0111] In addition, since the upper-layer conveying line 2 adopts a stepping conveyance mode and conveys X bearing units in each stepping operation, for the case where X<P, it can be realized that each time the upper-layer conveying line 2 performs one stepping conveyance, X battery units in the solar cell string group can be stepped to the processing station for processing, and processing of all battery units in the solar cell string group can be completed after two or more times of stepping conveyance.

[0112] Of course, for the case where two or more processing stations are provided on the conveying path of the upper-layer conveying line, by reasonably setting the spacing between the processing stations, it can also be realized that when X battery units in the solar cell string group are located at one processing station to receive a first type of processing (such as welding busbars), another X battery units in the solar cell string group are located at another processing station to receive a second type of processing (such as film pasting treatment), thereby further improving the processing efficiency for the solar cell string group.

[0113] For the case where X=P, it can be realized that each stepping conveyance of the upper-layer conveying line 2 steps a complete solar cell string group to the processing station for processing.

[0114] For example, Figure 18The photovoltaic module shown requires a battery string consisting of 6 (P=6) battery cells 200. Therefore, the number of carrier units 5 that can be simultaneously transported on the upper conveyor line 2 is at least 7 (M≥P), so as to ensure that the upper conveyor line 2 can simultaneously transport the battery cells required for more than one photovoltaic module and that the battery string is processed on the upper conveyor line 2.

[0115] The upper conveyor line 2 conveys 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 carrier units 5 in each step, so that X≤P. For example, the upper conveyor line 2 conveys 2 carrier units 5 in each step, so that the 6 battery units 200 in the battery string group enter the processing station for processing in three steps (2 units each time).

[0116] In some embodiments, in each of the X consecutively arranged support units 5, the support units 5 are fixedly connected as a whole. Figure 12 For example, the first bearing plates 50 of the two bearing units 5 are fixedly connected as one unit via the same toothed plate, and correspondingly, the second bearing plates 50 of the two bearing units 5 are fixedly connected as one unit via the same toothed plate. This configuration ensures that each time the unloading conveyor line 4 performs a lifting operation, it can transfer X consecutively arranged bearing units 5 output from the upper conveyor line 2 to the lower conveyor line 3. Similarly, each time the loading conveyor line 1 performs a lifting operation, it can send X consecutively arranged bearing units 5 output from the lower conveyor line 3 back to the upper conveyor line 2. Furthermore, it ensures that the spacing between the simultaneously advancing bearing units remains constant.

[0117] In order for the carrier unit 5 to be able to adsorb the battery string located thereon, in some embodiments, the carrier surface of the carrier unit 5 is provided with adsorption holes 58 for adsorbing the battery string.

[0118] To evacuate the adsorption holes 58 and generate an adsorption force for the battery string, a conventional solution involves installing an air passage inside each carrier unit 5 that communicates with the adsorption holes. This air passage is then connected to an external evacuation device via a flexible air tube, which moves synchronously with the carrier unit 5 to evacuate the adsorption holes 58 in real time. The problem with this evacuation method is that when the transport path of the carrier unit is long and the number of carrier units is large, the multiple dangling flexible air tubes are prone to entanglement, friction, and interference with surrounding components during transport, posing a risk of breakage or damage. Furthermore, the swaying of the flexible air tubes increases the vibration of the carrier unit 5, affecting transport stability.

[0119] To solve this problem, such as Figures 12 to 17As shown, in some embodiments, a docking air block 55 is provided at the bottom of the supporting unit 5, and a docking air groove 56 extending along a first direction is provided on the lower surface of the docking air block 55. The docking air groove 56 communicates with the adsorption hole 58 on the supporting surface of the supporting unit 5. Of course, the X consecutively arranged first supporting plates 50 or second supporting plates 51 fixed together in the previous embodiments can share a single docking air block 55 (e.g., Figure 12 (As shown), a docking air block 55 can also be provided on each of the first bearing plate 50 and the second bearing plate 51 respectively.

[0120] The upper conveyor line 2 is provided with a suction block 6 extending along the first direction on the conveying path. The upper surface of the suction block 6 is provided with a number of suction slots 61 arranged at intervals along the first direction. The suction block 6 is provided with a suction air passage 62. Each suction slot 61 is provided with a one-way valve 63. The one-way valve 63 is used to control the opening and closing of the corresponding suction slot 61 and suction air passage 62. The suction air passage 62 is connected to an external suction device through an air pipe.

[0121] The lower surface of the docking air block 55 of each carrying unit 5 located on the upper conveyor line 2 is in contact with the upper surface of the suction block 6. During the conveying process, the docking air block 55 moves on the upper surface of the suction block 6, and the docking air groove 56 can always dock with at least one suction groove 61. For example Figure 15 As shown, the docking air groove 56 docks with two suction grooves 61 simultaneously. That is, as the docking air block 55 moves with the supporting unit 5, the docking air groove 56 on it docks with the suction grooves 61 on the suction block 6 in sequence.

[0122] When the docking air groove 56 docks with the extraction air groove 61 (i.e., when the docking air groove 56 and the extraction air groove 61 are aligned vertically), the one-way valve 63 in the extraction air groove 61 opens, and the extraction air groove 61 connects the extraction air passage 62 on the extraction block 6 with the docking air groove 56 on the bearing unit 5, thereby causing the adsorption hole 58 to continuously generate an adsorption force for adsorbing the battery string.

[0123] When the docking air groove 56 separates from the extraction air groove 61, the one-way valve 63 in the extraction air groove 61 closes, sealing the extraction air groove 61 and preventing air leakage from the extraction air groove 61 that has separated from the docking air groove 56.

[0124] As can be seen, by setting the air extraction block 6 along the conveying path of the upper conveyor line 2, and setting the docking air block 55 at the bottom of the carrying unit 5 to dock with the air extraction block 6 in real time, the air extraction block 6 can implement real-time air extraction of the adsorption hole 58 of the carrying unit 5 during the conveying process of the carrying unit 5 on the upper conveyor line 2, thereby ensuring that the carrying unit 5 can continuously adsorb the battery string.

[0125] In particular, the air pipe connected to the air extraction device only needs to be connected to the air extraction block 6 to perform unified air extraction on each air extraction slot 61 on the air extraction block 6. It does not need to be connected to the carrying unit 5 and move with the carrying unit 5, thereby avoiding the risk of the air pipe being pulled apart or torn during the movement, and improving the conveying stability of the carrying unit 5.

[0126] like Figures 14 to 17 As shown, in some embodiments, a first magnet 57 is provided inside the docking air groove 56. An air extraction hole 634 communicating with the air extraction passage 62 is provided on the inner wall of the air extraction groove 61. The one-way valve 63 includes a floating plug 631, a spring 632, and a second magnet 633, wherein:

[0127] The floating plug 631 includes a blocking section 631a and an installation section 631b arranged vertically. The diameter of the blocking section 631a is larger than the diameter of the installation section 631b, and the peripheral wall of the blocking section 631a fits against the inner wall of the air extraction groove 61.

[0128] Spring 632 is sleeved on mounting section 631b, with its lower end abutting the bottom of suction groove 61 and its upper end abutting the sealing section 631a. Second magnet 633 is positioned at the top of sealing section 631a, and it repels first magnet 57. That is, the magnetic polarities of opposite sides of the second magnet 633 and the first magnet 57 are the same.

[0129] When the docking air groove 56 aligns with the suction groove 61, the first magnet 57 pushes the floating plug 631 downward via the second magnet 633, thereby misaligning the sealing section 631a with the suction port 634, allowing the one-way valve 63 to open and the spring 632 to contract under pressure. The suction port 634, misaligned with the sealing section 631a, connects to the suction groove 61 and the suction air passage 62, enabling the suction device to extract air from the adsorption hole 58 through the air pipe, the suction air passage 62, and the docking air groove 56.

[0130] When the docking air groove 56 separates from the suction groove 61, the first magnet 57 releases the pressure on the second magnet 633, the spring 632 extends and resets, thereby pushing the floating plug 631 to rise and reset, and the sealing section 631a re-seals the suction hole 634 so that the one-way valve 63 closes.

[0131] As can be seen, by setting a first magnet 57 in the docking air groove 56 and configuring the one-way valve 63 as consisting of a floating plug 631, a spring 632, and a second magnet 633, the one-way valve 63 can be automatically triggered to open when the docking air groove 56 docks with the suction groove 61, thereby allowing the suction block 6 to draw air from the adsorption hole 58 on the bearing unit 5 through the docking air block 55. When the docking air groove 56 separates from the suction groove 61, the one-way valve 63 is automatically triggered to close, thereby preventing air leakage from the exposed suction groove 61 separated from the docking air groove 56.

[0132] Furthermore, the automatic opening and closing of the one-way valve 63 is triggered entirely by the magnetic force of the first magnet 57 and the second magnet 633, without relying on additional control circuits and control algorithms, which reduces equipment costs and improves the reliability of the one-way valve 63.

[0133] The one-way valve 63 can also be implemented in other ways. For example, in some embodiments, the one-way valve 63 includes a floating plug and a lifting drive. The floating plug is movably disposed within the suction groove 61 and connected to the drive end of the lifting drive. When the docking groove 56 docks with the suction groove 61, the lifting drive pulls the floating plug downward, displacing the floating plug from the suction port 634, thereby opening the one-way valve 63. When the docking groove 56 separates from the suction groove 61, the lifting drive pushes the floating plug upward, blocking the suction port, thereby closing the one-way valve 63.

[0134] The one-way valve 63 structure of this configuration also enables the following: when the docking air groove 56 is docked with the extraction air groove 61, the one-way valve 63 opens, allowing the extraction block 6 to extract air from the adsorption hole 58 on the bearing unit 5 via the docking air block 55. When the docking air groove 56 is separated from the extraction air groove 61, the one-way valve 63 closes to prevent air leakage from the extraction air groove 61, which is separated from the docking air groove 56.

[0135] The lifting drive component can be, for example, a cylinder, an electric cylinder, or a solenoid valve. To ensure rapid response of the lifting drive component, the following is achieved: when the docking air groove 56 aligns with the suction groove 61, the lifting drive component synchronously pulls the floating plug downward; when the docking air groove 56 separates from the suction groove 61, the lifting drive component synchronously pushes the floating plug upward. An optional implementation involves installing a sensor within each docking air groove 56, with the sensor signal-connected to the control terminal of the lifting drive component. When the docking air groove 56 aligns with the suction groove 61, the sensor generates a first sensing signal to trigger the lifting drive component to pull the floating plug downward. When the docking air groove 56 separates from the suction groove 61, the sensor generates a second sensing signal to trigger the lifting drive component to push the floating plug upward.

[0136] In some embodiments, the length of the docking air groove 56 in the first direction is greater than the center distance between two adjacent suction grooves 61, thereby ensuring that the docking air groove 56 remains docked with at least one suction groove 61 during the conveying process. Furthermore, a flexible pad is provided on at least one of the upper surface of the suction block 6 and the lower surface of the docking air block 55, and the upper surface of the suction block 6 and the lower surface of the docking air block 55 slide in contact to form an airtight fit, preventing air leakage at the contact point between the suction block 6 and the docking air block 55.

[0137] As described in the previous embodiments, in order to achieve the versatility of the battery string conveying device, in some embodiments, the carrying unit 5 includes a first carrying plate 50 and a second carrying plate 51 arranged at intervals along a second direction, wherein the first carrying plate 50 and the second carrying plate 51 are configured to cooperate in carrying and adsorbing a string of first batteries, or the first carrying plate 50 and the second carrying plate 51 are respectively configured to carry and adsorb a string of second batteries, wherein the length of the first battery string is greater than the length of the second battery string.

[0138] Since there is a gap between the first support plate 50 and the corresponding second support plate 51, it is necessary to evacuate the adsorption holes 58 on the first support plate 50 and the second support plate 51 respectively to ensure that both the first support plate 50 and the second support plate 51 can adsorb the battery string.

[0139] For this purpose, a docking air block 55 is provided at the bottom of both the first support plate 50 and the second support plate 51. Correspondingly, the upper conveyor line 2 includes two suction blocks 6 spaced apart along the second direction, one suction block 6 for providing adsorption force to the docking air block 55 at the bottom of each first support plate 50, and the other suction block 6 for providing adsorption force to the docking air block 55 at the bottom of each second support plate 51.

[0140] This application provides a sufficiently detailed and specific description. Those skilled in the art should understand that the descriptions in the embodiments are merely exemplary, and all changes made without departing from the true spirit and scope of this application should fall within its protection scope. The scope of protection claimed in this application is defined by the claims, not by the above descriptions in the embodiments. Without contradiction, some optional components in one embodiment can also be used in another embodiment, and some preferred structures of the same component in one embodiment are also applicable to another embodiment. Furthermore, there may be slight differences in the wording of the names of certain components in different embodiments; these slight differences will not affect the understanding of the technical solution of the present invention by those skilled in the art.

Claims

1. A battery string conveying device, characterized in that, The battery string conveying device includes a feeding conveying mechanism, a middle conveying mechanism, a discharging conveying mechanism, and N carrying units, wherein: The central conveying mechanism includes an upper conveying line and a lower conveying line arranged in two layers with opposite conveying directions. The conveying directions of the upper conveying line and the lower conveying line are both parallel to the first direction. The feeding conveying mechanism is located at the first end of the middle conveying mechanism. The feeding conveying mechanism includes a first lifting drive unit and a feeding conveying line. The conveying direction of the feeding conveying line is parallel to the first direction. The feeding conveying line is located on the movable part of the first lifting drive unit. The first lifting drive unit is configured to drive the feeding conveying line to lift and lower, so that the feeding conveying line is connected to the input end of the upper conveying line or to the output end of the lower conveying line. The unloading conveying mechanism is located at the second end of the middle conveying mechanism. The unloading conveying mechanism includes a second lifting drive unit and an unloading conveying line. The conveying direction of the unloading conveying line is parallel to the first direction. The unloading conveying line is located on the movable part of the second lifting drive unit. The second lifting drive unit is configured to drive the unloading conveying line to rise and fall, so that the unloading conveying line connects to the output end of the upper conveying line or to the input end of the lower conveying line. N carrying units are configured to circulate between the loading conveyor line, the upper conveyor line, the unloading conveyor line, and the lower conveyor line. Each carrying unit is able to engage and position itself with the conveying surface of the upper conveyor line when transitioning from the loading conveyor line to the upper conveyor line. Each carrying unit is used to carry and absorb a battery string extending along a second direction, which is perpendicular to the first direction, and N≥2.

2. The battery string conveying device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The upper conveyor line includes at least one conveyor unit; The conveying unit includes a driving pulley, a driven pulley, and a conveyor belt. The conveyor belt is fitted onto the driving pulley and the driven pulley and conveys along the first direction. The inner side of the conveyor belt is provided with a first positioning tooth. The conveyor belt meshes with the driving pulley and the driven pulley through the first positioning tooth. The conveying surface of the conveyor belt is also provided with a second positioning tooth. A toothed plate is installed at the bottom of the carrying unit. The toothed plate is provided with a plurality of tooth grooves arranged side by side at intervals along the first direction. The carrying unit meshes with the second positioning tooth on the conveyor belt through the tooth grooves to achieve engagement and positioning between the carrying unit and the conveying surface of the upper conveyor line. or, The conveying unit includes a driving sprocket, a driven sprocket, and a conveying chain. The conveying chain is fitted onto the driving sprocket and the driven sprocket and conveys along the first direction. A pin plate is installed at the bottom of the carrying unit. Several pins are arranged side by side at intervals along the first direction at the bottom of the pin plate. The carrying unit is inserted into the chain links on the conveying chain through the pins to achieve engagement and positioning between the carrying unit and the conveying surface of the upper conveying line.

3. The battery string conveying device as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The conveying unit further includes two guide rails extending along the first direction. The guide rails are spaced apart on both sides of the conveyor belt or the conveyor chain along the second direction. The carrying unit is slidably connected to each of the guide rails. The guide rails are used to cooperate with the conveyor belt or the conveyor chain to carry the carrying unit and to guide the carrying unit during conveying.

4. The battery string conveying device as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The support unit includes two support plates spaced apart along the second direction. The two support plates are configured to cooperate in supporting and adsorbing a string of first batteries, or each support plate is configured to support and adsorb a string of second batteries respectively, wherein the length of the first battery string is greater than the length of the second battery string. The upper conveyor line includes two conveyor units spaced apart along the second direction; The two conveying units are respectively used to carry and convey one of the carrier plates in the carrier unit.

5. The battery string conveying device as described in any one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that: The structure of the loading conveyor line and the unloading conveyor line is the same as that of the upper conveyor line; When each of the carrying units transitions from the feeding conveyor line to the upper conveyor line, the toothed plate on the carrying unit can simultaneously mesh with the second positioning tooth on both the feeding conveyor line and the upper conveyor line, or the pin plate on the carrying unit can simultaneously insert into the inter-chain gap on both the feeding conveyor line and the upper conveyor line. When each of the carrying units transitions from the upper conveyor line to the unloading conveyor line, the toothed plate on the carrying unit can simultaneously engage with the second positioning tooth on both the upper conveyor line and the unloading conveyor line, or the pin plate on the carrying unit can simultaneously insert into the inter-chain gap on both the upper conveyor line and the unloading conveyor line.

6. The battery string conveying device as described in claim 5, characterized in that: The structure of the lower conveyor line is the same as that of the upper conveyor line. When each of the carrying units transitions from the unloading conveyor line to the lower conveyor line, the toothed plate on the carrying unit can simultaneously mesh with the second positioning tooth on both the unloading conveyor line and the lower conveyor line, or the pin plate on the carrying unit can simultaneously insert into the inter-chain gap on both the unloading conveyor line and the lower conveyor line. When each of the carrying units transitions from the lower conveyor line to the upper conveyor line, the toothed plate on the carrying unit can simultaneously engage with the second positioning tooth on both the lower conveyor line and the upper conveyor line, or the pin plate on the carrying unit can simultaneously insert into the inter-chain gap on both the lower conveyor line and the upper conveyor line.

7. The battery string conveying device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Each of the carrier units is used to carry a string of batteries or to carry two strings of batteries arranged side by side along the second direction. The battery strings carried by each carrier unit constitute a battery unit, and P battery units constitute a battery string group. The upper conveyor line is configured to convey X carrier units in each step, where 1 ≤ X ≤ P; The number of carrier units that can be simultaneously transported on the upper conveyor line is M, where P < M ≤ N.

8. The battery string conveying device as described in claim 7, characterized in that, In each of the aforementioned support units, every X consecutively arranged support units are fixedly connected as a whole.

9. The battery string conveying device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The bearing surface of the bearing unit is provided with adsorption holes for adsorbing battery strings. The bottom of the bearing unit is provided with a docking air block, and the lower surface of the docking air block is provided with a docking air groove extending along a first direction, and the docking air groove is connected to the adsorption hole. The upper conveyor line has a suction block extending along the first direction on its conveying path. The upper surface of the suction block has a plurality of suction slots arranged at intervals along the first direction. The suction block is provided with a suction air passage. Each suction slot is provided with a one-way valve. The one-way valve is used to control the opening and closing of the corresponding suction slot and the suction air passage. The suction air passage is connected to an external suction device through an air pipe. The lower surface of the docking air block of each of the bearing units located on the upper conveyor line is in contact with the upper surface of the suction block. During the conveying process, the docking air block moves on the upper surface of the suction block, and the docking air groove can always dock with at least one of the suction grooves. When the docking gas groove is docked with the extraction gas groove, the one-way valve in the extraction gas groove is opened, and the extraction gas groove connects the extraction gas path and the docking gas groove, so that the adsorption hole generates an adsorption force to adsorb the battery string. When the docking air groove separates from the extraction air groove, the one-way valve in the extraction air groove closes, sealing the extraction air groove.

10. The battery string conveying device as described in claim 9, characterized in that: A first magnet is provided inside the docking gas groove; The inner wall of the air extraction groove is provided with an air extraction hole that communicates with the air extraction passage. The one-way valve includes a floating plug, a spring and a second magnet. The floating plug includes a blocking section and an installation section arranged vertically. The diameter of the blocking section is larger than the diameter of the installation section. The peripheral wall of the blocking section is in contact with the inner wall of the air extraction groove. The spring is sleeved on the mounting section, the lower end of the spring abuts against the bottom of the suction groove, the upper end of the spring abuts against the sealing section, and the second magnet is disposed at the top of the sealing section. The second magnet and the first magnet repel each other. When the docking slot connects with the extraction slot, the first magnet pushes the floating plug downward via the second magnet, and the sealing section is misaligned with the extraction hole, so that the one-way valve opens and the spring is compressed and contracted. When the docking air groove separates from the extraction air groove, the spring pushes the floating plug to rise and reset, and the sealing section blocks the extraction air hole, so that the one-way valve closes.

11. The battery string conveying device as described in claim 9, characterized in that: The inner wall of the air extraction groove is provided with an air extraction hole that communicates with the air extraction passage. The one-way valve includes a floating plug and a lifting drive. The floating plug is movably disposed in the air extraction groove and connected to the drive end of the lifting drive. When the docking air groove docks with the suction groove, the lifting drive pulls the floating plug downward, and the floating plug is misaligned with the suction hole, so that the one-way valve opens. When the docking air groove separates from the extraction air groove, the lifting drive pushes the floating plug upward, and the floating plug blocks the extraction air hole, so that the one-way valve closes.

12. The battery string conveying device as described in claim 9, characterized in that: The length of the docking air groove in the first direction is greater than the center distance between two adjacent air extraction grooves, so that during the conveying process, the docking air groove always remains docked with at least one of the air extraction grooves. A flexible pad is provided on at least one of the upper surface of the suction block and the lower surface of the docking block, and the upper surface of the suction block and the lower surface of the docking block slide in contact to form an airtight fit.

13. The battery string conveying device as described in claim 9, characterized in that, The supporting unit includes a first supporting plate and a second supporting plate spaced apart along the second direction. The first supporting plate and the second supporting plate are configured to cooperate in supporting and adsorbing a string of first batteries, or the first supporting plate and the second supporting plate are respectively configured to support and adsorb a string of second batteries, wherein the length of the first battery string is greater than the length of the second battery string. The bottom of both the first support plate and the second support plate is provided with a docking air block; The upper conveyor line includes two air extraction blocks spaced apart along the second direction. One of the air extraction blocks is used to provide adsorption force to the docking air blocks at the bottom of each of the first bearing plates, and the other air extraction block is used to provide adsorption force to the docking air blocks at the bottom of each of the second bearing plates.

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