Battery manufacturing system and battery manufacturing method

Abstract

An automated battery manufacturing system is disclosed. The system includes a detection unit, a removal unit, and a transfer unit. The detection unit detects a reject mark on a battery product. The removal unit removes the battery product. The transfer unit transfers the battery product to the detection unit and, in response to the detection unit detecting the reject mark on the battery product, transfers the battery product to the removal unit.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to the manufacture of batteries, particularly secondary batteries. Specifically, the present invention relates to a battery manufacturing system and a machine-readable medium storing instructions for performing a battery manufacturing method. Here, the term "battery manufacturing" explicitly includes the manufacture of secondary batteries.

[0002] The present invention also relates to automated factories, particularly smart factories, in which the battery manufacturing systems and / or methods disclosed herein are embodied and / or performed. [Background technology]

[0003] Battery technology has developed rapidly in recent years. Significant improvements have been made in battery energy density. Improved charging capabilities and faster charging times have also been achieved, making battery-based electronic devices more practical and convenient for everyday use. As battery technology advances and economies of scale are realized through increased production volumes, battery manufacturing costs are decreasing.

[0004] Such developments, in particular, will enable electric vehicles (EVs) to travel greater distances on a single charge. The increasing importance of electric vehicle batteries is due to their positive environmental impact, potential for energy independence, technological advances, cost reductions, support for renewable energy integration, grid resilience, and alignment with sustainable development goals.

[0005] In view of the development of the prior art, there is a need to further improve the manufacturing efficiency and reduce the cost of batteries, especially secondary batteries. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] The technical problems known in the prior art are solved by the subject matter defined by the features of the independent claims. Particular embodiments of the invention are given by the features of the dependent claims. In the following, embodiments of the invention are introduced and their features are explained in detail. Any, some or all of the embodiments can be combined with each other unless expressly stated otherwise or technically inappropriate. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] According to one embodiment, an automated battery manufacturing system is disclosed. The automated battery manufacturing system includes a detection unit, a transfer unit, and a removal unit. The detection unit is configured to detect a reject mark on a battery product. The removal unit is configured to remove the battery product. The transfer unit is configured to transfer the battery product to the detection unit. The transfer unit is also configured to transfer the battery product to the removal unit if (or when) the detection unit detects the reject mark on the battery product.

[0008] As a result, the automated battery manufacturing system is configured such that battery products are transferred by a transfer unit to a detection unit. The detection unit is configured to search for a reject mark on the battery product. If the detection unit detects a reject mark on the battery product, the battery product is transferred to a removal unit, which removes the battery product. In this manner, battery products with reject marks can be removed from the system in an automated manner, increasing efficiency and reducing time, cost, and energy requirements.

[0009] According to another embodiment, an automated factory is disclosed. The automated factory includes the automated battery manufacturing system disclosed herein. Example and optional features of the automated manufacturing system disclosed herein can also be applied to the automated factory.

[0010] The automated factory may be or may include a smart factory in which the automated battery manufacturing system disclosed herein is embodied. The exemplary and optional features of the automated manufacturing system disclosed herein may also be applied to a smart factory. The term "smart factory" is used as commonly understood in the industrial process field, particularly in the fields of automation, the Internet of Things, artificial intelligence, big data analytics, cloud computing, and robotics. In particular, a smart factory may be understood in relation to the Industry 4.0 paradigm. As used herein, a smart factory may also be referred to as a digital factory or an intelligent factory and may refer to an advanced manufacturing facility that utilizes various digital technologies, automation, and data exchange in production processes.

[0011] According to another embodiment, an automated battery manufacturing method (also referred to herein simply as "battery manufacturing method" or "method") is disclosed. The automated battery manufacturing method may include the following steps: transferring a battery product to a detection unit; searching for a reject mark on the battery product by the detection unit; if the reject mark is found on the battery product, recognizing the battery product as a non-compliant battery product and transmitting the non-compliant battery product to a removal unit; and if the reject mark is not found on the battery product, recognizing the battery product as an approved battery product and transmitting the approved battery product to a packaging unit.

[0012] As a result, an automated battery manufacturing method is provided that can automatically classify battery products into good products ("approved battery products," see below) and bad products ("non-compliant battery products," see below). Thus, a method can be provided that facilitates the integration of battery manufacturing processes into automated factories (e.g., smart factories). Additionally, the systems and methods disclosed herein can facilitate the automation of battery manufacturing, saving necessary costs, time, and energy.

[0013] The automated battery manufacturing system can perform the automated battery manufacturing method disclosed herein. Also, the automated battery manufacturing system can perform any, some, or all of the examples and features of the automated battery manufacturing method disclosed herein. The automated battery manufacturing method can be embodied to be performed in the automated battery manufacturing system disclosed herein.

[0014] Unless expressly stated otherwise or technically inappropriate, an automated battery manufacturing method may include any, some, or all of the examples and features of an automated battery manufacturing system. Accordingly, a component referred to in an automated battery manufacturing method may correspond to a respective component of an automated battery manufacturing system, regardless of the use of the indefinite article "a" or "an." When a component of an automated battery manufacturing system is "configured" to perform an operation, this may be interpreted as a step in the automated battery manufacturing method that performs the same operation. Unless expressly stated otherwise or technically inappropriate, an automated battery manufacturing system may include any, some, or all of the examples and features of an automated battery manufacturing method.

[0015] According to another embodiment, a machine-readable medium is disclosed. The machine-readable medium stores instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to perform a battery manufacturing method. The battery manufacturing method includes the steps of: transferring a battery product to a detection unit; searching the battery product for a reject mark by the detection unit; recognizing the battery product as a non-compliant battery product and transmitting the non-compliant battery product to a removal unit if the reject mark is found on the battery product; and recognizing the battery product as an approved battery product and transmitting the approved battery product to a packaging unit if the reject mark is not found on the battery product.

[0016] Thus, the machine-readable medium can store instructions for performing the automated battery manufacturing methods disclosed herein. As such, the instructions stored on or in the machine-readable medium can further include any, some, or all of the examples and features of the automated battery manufacturing methods and / or automated battery manufacturing systems disclosed herein, unless expressly stated otherwise or technically inappropriate.

[0017] Here, an automated battery manufacturing system can refer to a series of devices involved in the battery manufacturing process. The battery manufacturing system can include all steps from raw material preparation to battery cell and module assembly, quality control, testing, and packaging. The automated battery manufacturing system can further include any one, some, or each of the additional features disclosed below, unless expressly indicated otherwise or technically inappropriate. The automated battery manufacturing system can perform or embody a battery manufacturing method provided in machine-readable storage as disclosed herein.

[0018] Herein, the terms "automated" and "automatically" in the "automated" battery manufacturing system and automated battery manufacturing method are used as commonly understood in the industrial process field, particularly in connection with automation, the Internet of Things, artificial intelligence, big data analytics, cloud computing, and robotics. The term "automated" can indicate that the battery manufacturing system operates with reduced, minimized, or no human intervention. In particular, the term "automated" in the automated battery manufacturing system or "automatically" as used herein can refer to automation as commonly understood in the industrial process field. The automated battery manufacturing system can perform and / or determine tasks, particularly mechanical processes, according to preprogrammed instructions and / or algorithms. The automated battery manufacturing system can perform repetitive or complex operations without sustained human control. Optionally, the automated battery manufacturing system can include a human-machine interface that allows humans to intervene in the operation of the automated battery manufacturing system. The automated battery manufacturing system can include the use of one or more processors, one or more control units, and / or one or more memories. The automated battery manufacturing system can include the use of additional devices in addition to the components disclosed herein to perform the battery manufacturing process. Hereinafter, unless otherwise specified, the abbreviation "system" may be used to refer to the automated battery manufacturing system disclosed herein.

[0019] Here, the term battery can be used in connection with the storage of electrochemical energy. Batteries can include primary batteries and secondary batteries. In some examples, batteries can refer to explicitly rechargeable secondary batteries. Here, a battery product can refer to an industrial product including a container that stores chemical energy and converts the chemical energy into electrical energy. A battery product can include at least one electrochemical cell having a positive electrode, a negative electrode, a separator therebetween, and an electrolyte. A battery product can be a secondary battery or a portion thereof. In some examples, a battery product can refer to a complete product including a battery or a portion of a battery. Alternatively, a battery product can refer to a semi-finished product including a battery or a portion of a battery in the manufacturing process. Without loss of generality, a battery product as used herein can refer to a pouch-type battery cell, a prismatic battery cell, or a cylindrical battery cell.

[0020] References herein to a "battery product" generally refer to one or more battery products for brevity. As discussed further below, the battery product referred to herein may be one of a plurality of battery products. The systems and methods described herein may be configured to operate and be performed individually in an industrialized production process. Thus, references herein to the general singular term "battery product" may include processing of one single battery product (e.g., transferring, scanning for rejection marks, removing, moving, arranging, packaging, unpacking, etc.), processing of multiple battery products sequentially (i.e., one battery product at a time), or, in certain cases, processing a set of multiple battery products at a time (i.e., as a group). The generally referred battery product may be a non-compliant battery product with a rejection mark or an approved battery product without a rejection mark.

[0021] Unless otherwise expressly stated or technically inappropriate, any, some, or each of the above specifications and features related to battery products may apply accordingly to non-conforming battery products and / or approved battery products disclosed herein.

[0022] Here, a non-conforming battery product may refer to a battery product that is excluded from further distribution, particularly distribution to a supply chain and / or customer. For example, a non-conforming battery product may refer to a battery product that does not meet predefined requirements and / or quality standards. For example, a non-conforming battery product may refer to a faulty battery product, a defective battery product, a non-conforming battery product, an incomplete battery product, a sub-quality battery product, and / or a sub-standard battery product. A non-conforming battery product may be the result of manufacturing failures, damage incurred during manufacturing, and / or defective components used in manufacturing.

[0023] Here, an approved battery product may refer to a battery product that meets predefined requirements and / or quality standards. An approved battery product may refer to a battery product designated for packaging, storage, and / or distribution, particularly distribution to a supply chain and / or customer. For example, an approved battery product may refer to a non-defective battery product and / or a standard battery product. By way of example, a battery product that is not a non-compliant battery product may generally be considered (referred to) as an approved battery product.

[0024] Here, the reject mark or reject mark may generally refer to a feature configured to, when detected by a detection unit, determine that a battery product containing the reject mark is a non-conforming battery product. In some examples, the reject mark may be embodied in a visual indicator placed on the battery product so that an automated battery manufacturing system can determine that the product is a non-conforming battery product. The reject mark may be visually recognizable and may be provided to indicate that a battery product containing it is a non-conforming battery product. The reject mark may visually indicate the presence of a non-conforming product. Examples of the reject mark may include a stamp, a symbol, text, a specific color area or pattern, or a combination thereof.

[0025] Additionally or alternatively, the reject mark may be a feature that enables retrieval of information that a battery product containing the reject mark is a non-compliant battery product. For example, the reject mark may be embodied in or included in an identifier of the battery product. The identifier may enable retrieval of information about the battery product. If the reject mark is embodied in the identifier, the identifier may enable retrieval of information that the battery product is a non-compliant battery product. For example, if the reject mark is embodied in the identifier of the battery product, the reject mark may be detected by the detection unit when the detection unit reads the identifier of the battery product.

[0026] A battery product identifier may refer to a code that can be read and interpreted by a machine (e.g., a decoder) to identify and / or distinguish the battery product from other battery products. The identifier may include information about the battery product and / or a hyperlink to data stored in a database containing such information, allowing for retrieval of information about the battery product. For example, information about the production of the battery product may include one or more of the following: production date, production time, batch number, responsible supervisor, production site, production line, serial code, and product number. Some or all of the above information may be used to determine that a battery product containing the identifier is a non-conforming battery product. For example, a specific production date and time of battery components may be known to result in a non-conforming battery product. Additionally or alternatively, there may be a specific batch number known to contain non-conforming battery products. Additionally or alternatively, the responsible supervisor, production site, production line, serial code, and / or product number may be linked to information that the battery product is considered a non-conforming battery product.

[0027] Additionally or alternatively, the reject mark may include, be embodied as, or be embodied within a number of respective identifiers of non-compliant battery products.

[0028] According to one embodiment, the reject mark may be embodied in a machine-readable visual representation that includes encoded data and / or points to data stored in a database. In particular, the reject mark may be embodied in a barcode or a two-dimensional matrix code, as described further below. This may further facilitate operation of the system and method in an automated or smart factory.

[0029] According to one embodiment, the system further includes a control unit configured to search for reject marks and provide the reject marks to the detection unit. The control unit may include or be coupled to a processor and / or memory for such purposes. The control unit may further operate to control any, some, or each of the steps performed by the system disclosed herein. Alternatively or additionally, the control unit may execute the (automated) battery manufacturing method disclosed herein and / or instructions stored on a machine-readable medium disclosed herein.

[0030] As a result, the reject mark can be updated before the detection unit scans the reject mark on the battery product, thereby allowing the exclusion of non-compliant battery products to be performed in a more accurate manner.

[0031] According to one embodiment, the method further comprises receiving a reject mark via a user interface and / or a communication network. In particular, the reject mark can be entered on-site (i.e., near the detection unit) or remotely, e.g., by a human operator via a communication network. Alternatively or additionally, the reject mark can be stored in a cloud or a remote server, which the control unit can access to retrieve the reject mark. In particular, the reject mark can be provided such that after decoding, data or a hyperlink becomes available, which hyperlink enables retrieval of data stored in, for example, a database on a remote server or in a storage physically located near the detection unit.

[0032] There may be many different reject marks, and "a" reject mark may be used below to indicate a reference to one of the possible reject marks. At the same time, when "the" reject mark is used, particularly for the sake of linguistic precision, it is not intended that the phrase be limited to one single reject mark unless expressly stated otherwise. In particular, "the" reject mark may be used as a collective term for one reject mark or multiple reject marks in this specification and claims. Whether the term reject mark is used as one of the possible reject marks or as a collective term should be clear to one skilled in the art from the context.

[0033] Here, a detection unit may refer to a device or collection of devices configured to automatically detect reject marks on battery products. Additionally or alternatively, the detection unit may be configured to detect reject marks on one battery product at a time or on a set (i.e., as a group) of battery products at a time. The detection unit may additionally include any, some, or each of the features described below in connection with the detection unit.

[0034] The detection unit can be configured to scan for the reject mark one battery product at a time or a set (i.e., as a group) of battery products at a time. As mentioned above, the general expression detecting the reject mark of "one" battery product can include that the detection unit can be configured to detect the reject mark one battery product at a time or a set (i.e., as a group) of battery products at a time. Also, detecting the reject mark of "one" battery product can include detecting the reject mark one battery product at a time or a set (i.e., as a group) of battery products at a time.

[0035] The detection unit includes an optical scanner configured to optically detect and identify reject marks on battery products. The detection unit may be or include one or more barcode scanners. The one or more barcode scanners may be fixed or mobile. One or each of the barcode scanners may be or include a laser scanner, a linear imager, a 2D imager, and / or a camera-based scanner. The detection unit and reject marks may be provided such that the detection unit is configured to detect and decode the reject marks. In a specific example, the detection unit may be configured to detect (decode) barcodes and / or two-dimensional matrix codes containing 23 bytes of alphanumeric information.

[0036] In one embodiment, the detection unit may include a barcode scanner or a scanner for a two-dimensional matrix code. The type of barcode scanner may correspond to the format of the reject mark. In such an embodiment, the reject mark may be embodied as or within a barcode and / or a two-dimensional matrix code. The terms barcode and two-dimensional matrix code may be used as commonly understood in the fields of industrial process and production control. In particular, a barcode or two-dimensional matrix code may refer to a code, symbol, and / or pattern in a visually machine-readable form. The barcode or two-dimensional matrix code may be provided in all available formats or in a suitable new format. Some examples of barcode formats include Code 25, Code 39, Code 128, European Article Number (EAN 2, EAN 5, EAN-8, EAB-13, EAN 128, or similar), ITF, and Universal Product Code (UPC-A, UPC-E, or similar). Some examples of two-dimensional matrix code formats include Aztec Code, Data Matrix, JAB Code, PDF417, and QR Code. It should be understood that these are merely a few major examples and that the scope of the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0037] The detection unit may include a device configured to optically detect and interpret the barcode and / or two-dimensional matrix code. In particular, the detection unit may include a light source (e.g., a laser light source or an LED) configured to emit a light beam into a scan area. In this manner, the light source may illuminate the barcode and / or two-dimensional matrix code, allowing for its easy detection and interpretation. Additionally, the detection unit may include a sensor configured to detect light reflected from the barcode and / or two-dimensional matrix code. The sensor may be configured to capture a reflected light pattern and convert the reflected light pattern into an electrical signal. The detection unit may also include a decoder configured to process the electrical signal from the sensor by analyzing the reflected light pattern and converting the reflected light pattern into a machine-readable code and / or a human-readable code (e.g., an alphanumeric code). The derived code may correspond to the encoded data, i.e., data encoded in the barcode or two-dimensional matrix code. Alternatively or additionally, the derived code may include a hyperlink pointing to data stored in a database.

[0038] The use of a barcode scanner is one example. Additionally or alternatively, the detection unit may include other devices or mechanisms for detecting the reject mark. For example, the detection unit may be configured to detect the reject mark of a battery product via perceptible feedback, such as tactile feedback, vibration feedback, temperature feedback, acoustic feedback, electrical feedback, magnetic feedback, or electromagnetic feedback, present on the battery product. For such purposes, the detection unit may include a corresponding sensor. An optical scanner may be easily implemented.

[0039] Here, a transfer unit may refer to a device or collection of devices configured to automatically transfer battery products to a detection unit. Additionally or alternatively, the transfer unit may be configured to transfer multiple battery products to the detection unit, transferring one battery product at a time or a set (i.e., group) of battery products at a time.

[0040] In this regard, the general term "one" battery product is also used, which can include the transfer of a single battery product or the transfer of multiple battery products one battery product at a time (e.g., sequentially) or a set of battery products one at a time (i.e., as a group). The transfer unit can be configured to transfer multiple battery products. The transfer can be performed one battery product at a time or a set of battery products at a time (i.e., as a group).

[0041] The transfer unit may include one or more devices configured to transfer the battery products to the detection unit. For such purpose, the transfer unit may include one or more conveyors for transporting the battery products along a predetermined path or route. The transfer unit, in particular the conveyor, may include a moving surface for carrying the battery products.

[0042] The transfer unit may include one or more conveyors configured to transfer battery products to the detection unit. Additionally or alternatively, the transfer unit may include one or more conveyors configured to transfer battery products, particularly non-conforming battery products, from the detection unit to the removal unit. Additionally or alternatively, the transfer unit may include one or more conveyors configured to transfer battery products from the unpacking unit (described below) to the detection unit. Additionally or alternatively, the transfer unit may include one or more conveyors configured to transfer battery products from the detection unit to the packaging unit (described below). The one or more conveyors mentioned above may form one single conveyor or may be arranged as separate conveyors.

[0043] Additionally or alternatively, the transfer unit may include one or more handling devices. The one or more handling devices may refer to devices known in the fields of robotics and automation. In particular, the one or more handling devices may include (respectively) one or more gantry robots and / or one or more robot arms. The one or more handling devices may be configured to move the battery products toward the detection unit. For example, the one or more handling devices may be configured to move the battery products on one or more conveyors of the transfer unit. In particular, the one or more handling devices may be configured to move the battery products from input packages supplied to the system to one or more conveyors and / or to the detection unit.

[0044] In certain examples, the detection unit can be fixedly mounted in the scan area of ​​the system. The transfer unit can transfer the battery product and place it in the scan area (can be configured to place it). In particular, the transfer unit can place the battery product (can be configured to place it) so that the detection unit can scan the surface of the battery product or a partial area thereof. In some examples, the detection unit can be configured to increase or decrease the distance to the battery product.

[0045] In a specific example, the transfer unit can be configured to move the battery product near the detection unit. The transfer unit can transfer (can be configured to transfer) the battery product to a location where the detection unit can search for a reject mark on the battery product. Alternatively or additionally, the transfer unit can transfer (can be configured to transfer) the battery product to a predetermined location, and the detection unit can be configured to move near the predetermined location and search for a reject mark. Such an operation can also be considered to transfer the battery product to the detection unit.

[0046] In certain examples, the transfer unit may be further configured to move the set of battery products to the detection unit in a specifically arranged manner. The specific arrangement of the set of battery products may facilitate or be necessary for proper detection of the reject mark. The specific arrangement of the set of battery products may vary depending on the time required for the detection unit to properly detect the reject mark. The specific arrangement of the set of battery products may also vary depending on the processing speed of the system, particularly the rate (number per unit time) of battery products fed to the detection unit. For example, the specific arrangement of the set of battery products may include a predetermined spacing between adjacent battery products transferred by the transfer unit to the detection unit.

[0047] In a specific example, the detection unit can be installed on the transfer unit. For example, the detection unit can be attached to a handling device of the transfer unit. This allows the detection unit to be configured to detect the reject mark on the battery product while it is being transferred by the transfer unit. This example can also be considered as the transfer unit transferring the battery product to the detection unit.

[0048] Here, the removal unit refers to a device or a set of devices configured to automatically remove battery products. The removal unit may be configured to automatically remove battery products after they have been transferred to the removal unit by the transfer unit. Removing a battery product may indicate that the battery product is removed from the product flow. In particular, removing a battery product may indicate that the battery product is removed from further distribution, particularly distribution to the supply chain and / or customers. The removal unit may be configured to remove one battery product or multiple battery products. In particular, the removal unit may be configured to remove battery products in a normal path or normal production movement sequence within an automated battery manufacturing system, an automated battery manufacturing method, or a supply chain. For example, the removal unit may be or include a container for permanently or temporarily storing one or more battery products. The battery products removed by the removal unit may be discarded, destroyed, or recycled.

[0049] According to one embodiment, the battery product is one of a plurality of battery products. As such, the automated battery manufacturing system may be provided with the plurality of battery products. For example, the plurality of battery products may be provided in an input package in which the plurality of battery products are arranged in a particular manner. As noted above, the term "one battery product" is used herein without loss of generality. Thus, "one" battery product as used herein refers to a random or arbitrary battery product among the plurality of battery products, rather than a specific (selected) one of the plurality of battery products.

[0050] According to one embodiment, the method further includes receiving an input package including a pallet supporting one or more uniformly sized stationary frames (wherein a plurality of battery products are housed in one or each stationary frame), unpacking the battery products of the plurality of battery products one stationary frame at a time from the input package, and performing a battery manufacturing method described herein for each battery product.

[0051] Also, in the following description, when reference is made to multiple battery products being processed (e.g., transferred, scanned for reject marks, removed, moved, arranged, packaged, unpacked, etc.), unless otherwise specified or technically inappropriate, this processing can be performed one battery product at a time or a set (i.e., as a group) of battery products at a time.

[0052] According to one embodiment, the transfer unit is configured to transfer the plurality of battery products to the detection unit, and the detection unit is configured to detect the reject mark of each of the plurality of battery products.

[0053] Therefore, the speed and accuracy of the process of automatically excluding non-compliant battery products from a plurality of battery products can be improved. As a result, the throughput of battery manufacturing can be increased. Therefore, a system or method that is easy to implement in mass production, particularly in automated factories and / or smart factories, can be provided.

[0054] According to one embodiment, each battery product of the plurality of battery products includes a respective identifier of the set of identifiers. In this embodiment, one identifier of the set of identifiers is or includes a reject mark. Alternatively, in this embodiment, each of the plurality of identifiers of the set of identifiers is or includes a respective reject mark.

[0055] In other words, the reject mark may be embodied as or within one, some, or all of the identifiers included in each of a plurality of battery products, where, as noted above, "a" reject mark is used to include embodiments in which there are multiple different reject marks.

[0056] The identifier or identifiers (each) may refer to a code that can be read and interpreted by a machine (e.g., a decoder) to identify and / or distinguish the battery product from other battery products. In some examples, the identifier may be or include information related to the production of the battery product. Alternatively or additionally, the identifier may include a hyperlink to data stored in a database containing information related to the production of the battery product. For example, information related to the production of the battery product may include one or more of the following: production date, production time, batch number, responsible supervisor, production site, production line, serial code, and product number.

[0057] The battery product identifier, or any, some, or all of the plurality of battery product identifiers, may each be or include a bar code or two-dimensional matrix code. Bar codes and two-dimensional matrix codes may be as described above and may be used herein as understood in the fields of industrial process and production control.

[0058] In this embodiment, the detection unit can search for a reject mark from each of the plurality of battery products. In particular, the detection unit can scan the area of ​​each battery product where the respective identifier is located (or is intended to be located). When the detection unit detects a reject mark in one of the identifiers of the plurality of battery products, the transfer unit can transfer the battery product to the removal unit. In other words, when the detection unit detects an identifier that is or includes a reject mark, the transfer unit can transfer the battery product to the removal unit.

[0059] Similarly, in embodiments in which a single battery product is provided to the system, the single battery product may include an identifier. As described above, the detection unit of the system may scan the battery product, particularly the location where the identifier is located (or is intended to be located). If the detection unit detects a reject mark on the battery product's identifier, the transfer unit may transfer the battery product to the removal unit. In other words, if the detection unit detects that the identifier is or includes a reject mark, the transfer unit may transfer the battery product to the removal unit.

[0060] In this manner, the identifier for each of the plurality of battery products may be utilized to indicate or include information regarding whether the battery product is an approved battery product or a non-compliant battery product, or to include a hyperlink to such information, thereby further facilitating implementation of the systems and methods disclosed herein in industrial (automated) factories, smart factories, etc.

[0061] According to one embodiment, the system further includes an unpacking unit. The unpacking unit is configured to receive an input package including a plurality of battery products and unpack the plurality of battery products from the input package. In one embodiment, the transfer unit can be configured to sequentially transfer the plurality of battery products individually and / or in groups from the unpacking unit to the detection unit. In another embodiment, the unpacking unit can be configured to move the battery products directly to the detection unit. In this embodiment, the unpacking unit can be considered part of the transfer unit.

[0062] As a result, the systems and methods can be configured to operate automatically upon delivery of input packages, thus further increasing the degree of automation and making it easier to implement the systems and methods disclosed herein in automated or smart factories.

[0063] As introduced above, an input package can refer to a physical unit in which multiple battery products are arranged in a specific manner. In particular, the multiple battery products can be arranged in a stack of layers in the input package. The input package or the tray introduced above can include one or more fixed frames configured to safely house the multiple battery products (e.g., shaped and dimensioned in a manner that maintains spacing between adjacent battery products). For example, each layer of the layer stack of the input package can include a fixed frame and a predefined number of battery products from the multiple battery products housed therein in a specific arrangement.

[0064] Here, unpacking can refer to the process of removing battery products from the input package and moving them to a transfer unit and / or a detection unit. Additionally or alternatively, unpacking can include the process of opening the input package to access the plurality of battery products contained therein. Unpacking can also include the process of removing all parts of the input package other than the plurality of battery products to access the plurality of battery products contained in the input package.

[0065] Here, the unpacking unit can be or include a device or devices configured to unpack multiple battery products in an input package. In particular, the unpacking unit can include one or more handling devices (e.g., one or more gantry robots and / or one or more robotic arms) configured to remove one or more battery products from the input package. The unpacking unit can be pre-programmed to accurately lift the battery products from the input package. The unpacking unit can be pre-programmed to arrange the one or more battery products according to a predefined arrangement (e.g., with a gap between adjacent battery products or a pre-defined two-dimensional pattern). The arrangement of the battery products can vary depending on the requirements of the detection unit and / or the arrangement of the transfer unit.

[0066] According to one embodiment, the input package includes a pallet supporting one or more uniformly sized stationary frames, with a plurality of battery products housed in one or each stationary frame. The unpacking unit is configured to unpack the battery products of the plurality of battery products one stationary frame at a time from the input package. The stationary frames may also be referred to as trays.

[0067] As a result, the systems and methods may be operable to process multiple battery products in input packages where the battery products are arranged in a defined manner, thus further increasing the processing speed of multiple battery products and making the systems and methods disclosed herein easier to implement in automated factories or smart factories.

[0068] According to one embodiment, the system further includes a packaging unit, wherein the transfer unit is further configured to selectively transfer the battery product from the detection unit to the packaging unit in response to the detection unit not detecting the reject mark on the battery product, and the packaging unit is configured to package the battery product into an output package.

[0069] As described above, the detection unit can scan the reject mark of the battery product. If the reject mark is detected on the battery product, the battery product is recognized as a non-conforming battery product (or a defective battery product) and is transferred to the removal unit by the transfer unit. If the reject mark is not detected on the battery product, the battery product is recognized as an approved battery product (or a good battery product) and is transferred to the packaging unit.

[0070] Here, the packaging unit may be or may include a device or devices configured to package the battery products into an output package, and the packaging unit may be configured to package the remainder of the plurality of battery products, i.e., the plurality of battery products excluding the removed non-compliant battery products, into the output package.

[0071] An output package can refer to a physical unit in which the remainder of the plurality of battery products is arranged in a specific manner. In particular, the remainder of the plurality of battery products can be arranged in a stack of layers in the output package. The output package or its tray can include one or more fixed frames configured (e.g., shaped and dimensioned) to securely house the remainder of the plurality of battery products, particularly in a manner that maintains spacing between adjacent battery products. For example, each layer of the layer stack of the output package can include a fixed frame and a predefined number of battery products from the remainder of the plurality of battery products housed therein in a specific arrangement.

[0072] As a result, the system and method can receive an input package containing battery products, including approved and non-compliant battery products, and output an output package from which the non-compliant battery products have been excluded. Furthermore, the output package can be configured to have a similar or identical structure to the input package. Such an embodiment can further facilitate the overall operation of the system and execution of the method.

[0073] The output package may also include a pallet supporting one or more uniformly sized stationary frames, with the remainder of the plurality of battery products housed in one or each stationary frame. The packaging unit may be configured to package the remainder of the plurality of battery products in layers in the output package, with one stationary frame stacked on top of the other. The stationary frames may also be referred to as trays. The or each stationary frame may have slots for housing the remainder of the plurality of battery products. The slots may be configured (e.g., shaped and dimensioned) to each house an approved battery product in a safe manner. The slots may also be arranged to maintain spacing between the battery products within the stationary frames.

[0074] Furthermore, the packaging unit may be configured to arrange the battery products in a specific direction. In particular, the arrangement plan may be such that the battery products are arranged in a specific direction, for example, in consideration of the arrangement of the positive and negative electrode leads protruding from the battery case.

[0075] According to one embodiment, the system further includes a package transfer line configured to provide the containers to a packaging unit, the output package including the containers, and the packaging unit configured to arrange the battery products within the containers according to the arrangement plan.

[0076] As a result, containers for constructing output packages can be provided automatically, which may further facilitate implementation of the system and method in an automated factory or smart factory.

[0077] In particular, in examples where the output package includes a pallet and one or more rigid frames stacked together, the container can refer to the pallet and / or the one or more rigid frames. Also, the container (e.g., including the pallet and one or more rigid frames) can be retrieved from an unpacking unit, e.g., from the unpacking unit described above. In particular, for example, the container including the pallet and one or more rigid frames can be retrieved in the process of emptying the input package. This can allow for the reuse of the same components received at the input of the system.

[0078] According to one embodiment, the system may further include an additional detection unit upstream of the packaging unit in the processing direction of the system. In particular, the additional detection unit may be operated between the detection unit and the packaging unit and / or between the removal unit and the packaging unit. The additional detection unit may be configured to detect reject marks on battery products.

[0079] As a result, a safeguard can be provided to ensure that the battery products transferred to the packaging unit are not non-compliant battery products, and therefore the quality expectations for the battery packages in the output package can be further increased.

[0080] According to one embodiment, the transfer unit includes a conveyor configured to move the battery products to the detection unit, and the transfer unit is further configured to maintain a predetermined spacing between the non-conforming battery products on the conveyor and before and after the non-conforming battery products on the conveyor relative to a transfer direction of the conveyor toward the detection unit, where the transfer direction may refer to the direction of a path or route along which the battery products are transferred by the conveyor.

[0081] As a result, the transfer unit is configured to position the battery product in a manner appropriate for the detection unit. In examples where the battery product is one of multiple battery products, the transfer unit can be configured to position the multiple battery products at a distance from each other according to the requirements of the detection unit. This can contribute to the proper operation of the detection unit.

[0082] According to one embodiment, the system includes an unpacking unit as described herein, a transfer unit as described herein, a detection unit as described herein, a removal unit as described herein, and a packaging unit as described herein. Optionally, the system may further include an additional transfer unit as described herein. In other embodiments, the unpacking unit or the packaging unit may be omitted. The (automated) battery manufacturing method may be embodied accordingly.

[0083] According to one embodiment, the transfer unit may include a first conveyor, a second conveyor, a first operating device, and a second operating device. The first conveyor may be configured to transfer battery products to, toward, and / or from the detection device to the detection device. The first operating device may be configured to transfer battery products from the input package or the unpacking unit to the transfer unit. The second operating device may be configured to transfer the battery products to the removal unit if a reject mark is detected on the battery product by the detection unit, or to transfer the battery product to the second conveyor if no reject mark is detected. The second conveyor may be configured to transfer the (approved) battery products to the packaging unit. [Effects of the Invention]

[0084] The first and second conveyors may each be configured as described above or in a corresponding manner. The first and second conveyors may each include a moving surface for transporting the battery products along a defined path or route. The first manipulator device and / or the second manipulator device may be or include a gantry robot and / or a robotic arm for performing the operations described above. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0085] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an automated battery manufacturing system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an automated battery manufacturing system according to an embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an automated battery manufacturing system according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an automated battery manufacturing system according to an embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating machine-readable storage according to an embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0086] Detailed examples are described below in connection with the drawings. It should be noted that for the sake of brevity, the above features will not be repeated. It should be understood that any, some, or all of the above features may be embodied in the components, unless otherwise specified or technically inappropriate. Identical or related components and features are indicated by identical or related reference numerals in the drawings and the following description.

[0087] FIG. 1 illustrates an automated battery manufacturing system 100, referred to herein as system 100. System 100 can be included in an automated factory, particularly a smart factory. As such, the illustration shown in FIG. 1 can provide a partial view of an automated factory or smart factory. System 100 includes a detection unit 102, a removal unit 104, and a transfer unit 106.

[0088] System 100 can include or embody any, some, or all of the features described herein with respect to the automated battery manufacturing system. System 100 can also be configured to perform the automated battery manufacturing method described herein and, optionally, can include any, some, or all of the additional features described herein with respect to the automated battery manufacturing method. In particular, system 100 can be configured to receive and embody instructions stored on a machine-readable storage medium that, when executed by a processor, cause the system to perform the (automated) battery manufacturing method disclosed herein.

[0089] The system 100 can be configured to perform a battery manufacturing method including: transferring the battery product P to the detection unit 102 (by the transfer unit 106); searching for a reject mark on the battery product P by the detection unit 102; if a reject mark is found on the battery product P, recognizing that the battery product P is a non-compliant battery product and communicating the non-compliant battery product to the removal unit 104; and if a reject mark is not found on the battery product P, recognizing that the battery product P is an approved battery product and communicating the approved battery product to a packaging unit (not shown in FIG. 1).

[0090] The system 100 receives a battery product P. The detection unit 102 is configured to detect a reject mark on the battery product P. The removal unit 104 is configured to remove the battery product P, particularly in response to the detection unit 102 detecting the reject mark on the battery product P. The transfer unit 106 is configured to transfer the battery product P to the detection unit 102. The transfer unit 106 is also configured to transfer the battery product to the removal unit 104 in response to the detection unit 102 detecting the reject mark on the battery product P.

[0091] The detection unit 102 can include or embody any, some, or all of the features described herein with respect to the detection unit. The removal unit 104 can include or embody any, some, or all of the features described herein with respect to the removal unit. The transfer unit 106 can include or embody any, some, or all of the features described herein with respect to the transfer unit.

[0092] Battery product P may include or embody any, some, or all of the features described herein with respect to battery products, and may be referred to herein as "one" battery product for reasons described herein.

[0093] A reject mark may include or embody any, some, or all of the features described herein with respect to a reject mark, and may be referred to herein as "a" reject mark for reasons described herein.

[0094] In the system 100 shown in FIG. 1 , a battery product P can be moved to the detection unit 102 by the transfer unit 106, as represented by arrow D. The battery product P may or may not include a reject mark. The detection unit 102 can scan the battery product P for the reject mark. When the detection unit 102 detects the reject mark on the battery product, the transfer unit 106 can transfer the battery product P to the removal unit 104. The system 100 can also recognize the battery product P as a non-conforming battery product, which can be defined and / or embodied in the manner described above.

[0095] If the detection unit 102 does not detect a reject mark (or is unable to find a reject mark) on the battery product P, the transfer unit 106 may transfer the battery product P for finishing and / or further processing (e.g., packaging, storage, or delivery).

[0096] In this manner, an automated system and / or method may be provided that may be provided in machine-readable storage as described herein, which may reduce the cost, required time, and energy consumption of the battery manufacturing process, and may facilitate the implementation of the battery manufacturing process in automated factories, such as smart factories.

[0097] 2 shows another example of an automated battery manufacturing system 100, which may also be referred to as system 100. System 100 may be included in an automated factory, particularly a smart factory. As such, the example shown in FIG. 2 may provide a partial view of an automated factory or smart factory.

[0098] The system 100 shown in Figure 2 can include or embody any, some, or all of the features described herein with respect to the automated battery manufacturing system. In particular, the system 100 shown in Figure 2 can include or embody any, some, or all of the features of the system 100 described above with reference to Figure 1. The system 100 shown in Figure 2 can also be configured to perform the automated battery manufacturing method described herein and can optionally include any, some, or all of the additional features described herein with respect to the automated battery manufacturing method. In particular, the system 100 can be configured to receive and embody instructions stored on a machine-readable storage medium that, when executed by a processor, cause the system 100 to perform the (automated) battery manufacturing method disclosed herein.

[0099] In FIG. 2 , the system 100 includes a detection unit 102, a removal unit 104, a transfer unit 106, an unpacking unit 108, a barcode scanner 110, and a packaging unit 112. The system 100 of FIG. 2 receives an input package 202 including a plurality of battery products. The battery product P can be one of the plurality of battery products, particularly any one of them. The system 100 of FIG. 2 outputs an output package 204 including a plurality of approved battery products. For example, the battery product P can be included in the output package 204 if no reject mark is detected on the battery product P. The battery product P can be excluded from the output package 204 if a reject mark is detected on the battery product P.

[0100] Any, some, any, or each of the plurality of battery products may include or embody any, some, or all of the features described herein with respect to the battery products. With reference to Figure 2, a "battery product" P may be referred to as one of the plurality of battery products for reasons described herein.

[0101] The detection unit 102 is configured to detect a reject mark on the battery product P. The detection unit 102 may include or embody any, some, or all of the features described herein with respect to the detection unit, in particular any of the features described above with respect to FIG. 1 , unless expressly stated otherwise or technically inappropriate.

[0102] A reject mark may include or embody any, some, or all of the features described herein with respect to a reject mark, and may be referred to herein as "a" reject mark for reasons described herein.

[0103] In the system 100 shown in FIG. 2 , the unpacking unit 108 is configured to receive an input package 202 containing a plurality of battery products and unpack the battery products of the plurality of battery products from the input package. The unpacking unit 108 may include or embody any, some, or all of the features described herein with respect to the transfer unit. In particular, the unpacking unit 108 unpacks some or all of the battery products P of the plurality of battery products from the input package 202, as represented by arrow IN in FIG. 2 . For such purposes, the unpacking unit 108 may include one or more gantry robots and / or one or more robotic arms or other manipulation devices.

[0104] The input package 202 may include a pallet supporting one or more uniformly sized stationary frames (not shown). Multiple battery products may be housed in one or each stationary frame. The stationary frames may also be referred to as trays. The unpacking unit 108 may be configured to unpack the battery products P of the multiple battery products one stationary frame at a time (i.e., by tray) from the input package 202.

[0105] The transfer unit 106 is configured to sequentially transfer the plurality of battery products individually and / or in groups from the unpacking unit 108 to the detection unit 102, as represented by arrow D.

[0106] Each or some of the plurality of battery products includes a respective identifier (ID). A collection of different identifiers used in the plurality of battery products can be referred to as an identifier set. One identifier in the identifier set can be or include a reject mark. Alternatively, each of the plurality of identifiers in the identifier set can be or include a respective reject mark. The identifier can include or embody any, some, or all of the characteristics of the identifier described herein. For example, the identifier (ID) can be a machine-readable visual display on the surface of the battery product P. In particular, as shown in FIG. 2, the identifiers (IDs) of the plurality of battery products can be located at the same position on each battery product P. Specifically, the identifiers (IDs) of the plurality of battery products can be provided as barcodes and / or two-dimensional matrix codes, each of which can be provided in any one of the manners described herein.

[0107] The detection unit 102 of FIG. 2 includes a barcode scanner 110. The barcode scanner 110 may be configured to read and decode identifiers of a plurality of battery products. The barcode scanner 110 may be configured to read and decode barcodes and / or two-dimensional matrix codes on which an identifier (ID) may be provided. The barcode scanner 110 may be positioned to optically scan an area corresponding to the location of the identifier (ID) of the battery product P. The barcode scanner 110 may be movable toward or away from a battery product P currently positioned near the barcode scanner 110. The barcode scanner 110 may include or embody any, some, or all of the features of the barcode scanners described above.

[0108] The identifiers (IDs) of each of the plurality of battery products can be read and decoded by the barcode scanner 110. One or some of the identifiers of the plurality of battery products can be a reject mark. Information regarding whether an identifier is a reject mark can be retrieved from a remote server or storage and / or entered by a human supervisor on-site (i.e., in accessible proximity to the control unit of the system 100).

[0109] The transfer unit 106 is configured to transfer the plurality of battery products from the unpacking unit 108 to the detection unit 102, as indicated by arrow D. The transfer unit 106 is configured to transfer the non-conforming battery products PN to the removal unit 104 in response to the detection unit 102 detecting a reject mark on the battery product P (e.g., its identifier (ID) is a reject mark). The transfer unit 106 is also configured to transfer the approved battery products PA to the packaging unit 112 in response to the detection unit 102 not detecting a reject mark on the battery product P (e.g., its identifier (ID) is not a reject mark). The transfer unit 106 may include or embody any, some, or all of the features described herein with respect to the transfer unit, particularly any of the features described above with respect to FIG. 1, unless expressly stated otherwise or technically inappropriate.

[0110] When the detection unit 102 detects a reject mark on a (given) battery product P (currently located), i.e., when the identifier (ID) of this battery product P is the reject mark, this battery product P is recognized as a non-conforming battery product PN. The transfer unit 106 transfers the non-conforming battery product PN to the removal unit 104, as indicated by the arrow R.

[0111] The removal unit 104 is configured to remove the battery product P in response to the detection unit 102 detecting a reject mark on the battery product P. The removal unit 104 may include or embody any, some, or all of the features described herein with respect to the removal unit, in particular any of the features described above with respect to FIG. 1 , unless otherwise expressly stated or technically inappropriate.

[0112] If the detection unit 102 does not detect a reject mark on the battery product P, i.e., if the identifier (ID) of this battery product P does not have a reject mark, this battery product P is recognized as an approved battery product PA. The transfer unit 106 transfers the approved battery product PA to the packaging unit 112, as indicated by arrow A.

[0113] The packaging unit 112 is configured to package one or more approved battery products PA, as indicated by arrow OUT, into an output package 204. The output package 204 can be prepared for storage or delivery. The packaging unit 112 can include or embody any, some, or all of the features of the packaging units described herein.

[0114] The package transfer line is configured to provide the containers to the packaging unit, where the output package includes the containers, and the packaging unit is configured to arrange the battery products in the containers according to the arrangement plan.

[0115] Figure 3 shows a partial view of an example system 100. The example shown in Figure 3 may be part of the system 100 of Figure 1 or Figure 2. Therefore, unless expressly stated otherwise or technically inappropriate, the description above with respect to Figure 1 or Figure 2 may apply accordingly to the example of Figure 3.

[0116] FIG. 3 shows a stationary frame 206 housing a number of battery products P. The stationary frame 206 may be part of an input package, such as the input package 202 described above with respect to FIG. 2. The stationary frame 206 may provide slots for housing each one battery package P in a fixed manner and at a distance from adjacent battery products. For this purpose, the stationary frame 206 may be formed of a rigid material. The stationary frame 206 may also be referred to as a tray. The stationary frame 206 may include or embody any, some, or all of the features of the stationary frame disclosed herein.

[0117] As shown in FIG. 3, the battery products P housed in the fixed frame 206 can be transferred (transferred) to the transfer unit 106. In particular, the battery products P housed in the fixed frame 206 can be transferred on the moving surface of the conveyor of the transfer unit 106. At the same time, for proper operation of the detection unit 102, the spacing (which can also be referred to as pitch) between two adjacent battery products P can be increased. In the example of FIG. 3, the battery products P are arranged on the fixed tray 206 so as to maintain an initial spacing t0 between them. Also in FIG. 3, the battery products P are arranged on the conveyor of the transfer unit 106 so as to maintain an arrangement spacing t1 between two adjacent battery products P. The arrangement spacing t1 may be larger than the initial spacing t0 and / or may be adapted to meet specific requirements of the detection unit 102. The arrangement spacing t1 may also vary depending on the operating speed of the detection unit 102, particularly the barcode scanner 110, and / or the processing speed of the system 110.

[0118] The operation (step) of correcting the arrangement of the battery products P, in particular changing the distance between two adjacent battery products P, can be performed by the transfer unit 106 or the unpacking unit 108.

[0119] Although Figure 3 shows a parallel, linear arrangement of battery products P along (or perpendicular to) the process direction D, claimed subject matter is not limited thereto. The battery products P can be arranged in other suitable arrangements. The pitch between the battery products P can be designed to meet technical requirements.

[0120] Figure 4 illustrates another automated battery manufacturing system 100, which may also be referred to as system 100. System 100 of Figure 4 may include any, some, or all of the example features described above with reference to Figures 1, 2, and 3. For brevity, only features and aspects of system 100 of Figure 4 that are different from or additional to the previous examples are described below.

[0121] As shown enlarged and schematically illustrated at the bottom of FIG. 4 , the battery product P may be provided as a pouch-type battery cell. The pouch-type battery cell may include a case 302 in which an electrode assembly including a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator layer is housed and sealed, a positive electrode lead 304 protruding from the case 302, and a negative electrode lead 306 protruding from the case 302. The case 302 may have a flat beam shape extending along the longitudinal direction, and the electrode leads 304, 306 may protrude from each cross section of the case 302 in the longitudinal direction. Although not explicitly shown, the case 302 may also include a laminated degassing portion folded or rolled along a side surface of the case 302 in the width direction. It should be understood that the present invention is not limited to pouch-type battery cells and may also be applied to other types of battery cells, such as cylindrical or prismatic types.

[0122] It is preferable to arrange the battery products P in the fixed frame 206 in a uniform direction with the electrode leads 304, 306 protruding from the case 302 of the battery product P. The uniform direction of the battery products P can increase safety during transportation and the unpacking process. The system disclosed herein, and in particular the transportation unit 106 thereof, can automatically arrange a large number of battery products P in the correct direction so that safety can be increased during transportation and unpacking of the output package 204.

[0123] 4, in addition to the devices and components described above, the system 100 has an input area 208 where one or more input packages 202 are received and processed by an unpacking unit (not explicitly shown in FIG. 4). Optionally, the system may also include a supply area 210, represented by arrow IN, where one or more unpacked input packages 202 are supplied to the system 100 and ready to be unpacked.

[0124] The unpacking unit can be provided in any manner described above and can include one or more gantry robots and / or one or more handling devices for unpacking one or more battery packages P into the input package 202. While not explicitly shown, in the example of FIG. 4 , each input package 202 can include a pallet and one or more fixed frames 206 stacked (if applicable) on the pallet and on top of each other. The unpacking unit can be configured to unpack the input package 202U by retrieving the battery products P from the topmost fixed frame of the input package 202U currently positioned to be processed by the unpacking unit (e.g., in front of the conveyor of the transfer unit 106). The unpacking unit can process the input package one battery product at a time, a predefined number of battery products at a time, by tray, or similar manner, where a tray corresponds to a fixed frame. In the example of FIG. 4 , the unpacking unit can lift six battery products at a time, which corresponds to half of the battery products housed in a single fixed frame of the input package 202. The battery products P can be arranged on the first conveyor 106A of the transfer unit 106 by an unpacking unit. For such purpose, the unpacking unit can include one or more handling devices, such as a gantry robot and / or a robotic manipulator.

[0125] Alternatively, the transfer unit 106 can be configured to transfer one or more battery products P from the input package 202 to the first conveyor 106A. The transfer unit 106 can include one or more handling devices, such as a gantry robot and / or a robotic manipulator.

[0126] When placing the battery products P on the first conveyor 106A, the unpacking unit and / or the transfer unit 106 can be configured to arrange the battery products in a preprogrammed arrangement as described above, particularly with reference to FIG. 3. Specifically, a preprogrammed gap or clearance can be maintained before and after each battery product P. The first conveyor 106A of the transfer unit 106 can transfer one or more battery products P to the detection unit 102, as represented by arrow D. The first conveyor 106A can be configured as described herein.

[0127] The detection unit 102 includes a barcode reader 110A, which may be referred to as a first barcode reader. The first barcode reader 110A may be configured as described herein. The first barcode reader 110A may be configured to read and decode each battery product P as it passes through or passes by the first barcode reader 110A. As described above, the detection unit 102 is configured to detect reject marks in this manner.

[0128] When the detection unit 102 detects a reject mark on a battery product P, the battery product P is identified as a non-conforming battery product PN. The transfer device 106 then transfers the non-conforming battery product PN to the removal unit 104. For such purpose, the transfer device 106 may use one or more gantry robots and / or one or more robotic manipulators (not shown) configured to transfer the non-conforming battery product PN to the removal unit 104.

[0129] The removal unit 104 is configured to remove battery products, particularly non-compliant battery products PN, as represented by dashed arrow R. The removal unit 104 can be configured as described herein. In particular, the removal unit 104 can perform the operation of removing the non-compliant battery products in an automated manner once the non-compliant battery products PN are transferred to the removal unit 104. In the example of FIG. 4 , the removal unit 104 has two positions for receiving the non-compliant battery products PN, respectively. The transfer unit 106, for example, an operating device of the transfer unit 106, can be configured to place the non-compliant battery product PN in one of the slots.

[0130] If the detection unit 102 does not detect a reject mark on a (given) battery product P (i.e., the detection unit 102 is unable to detect a reject mark), this battery product P is recognized as an approved battery product PA in the manner described above. The transfer unit 106 may also be further configured to transfer all battery products P that do not have a reject mark (i.e., do not include a reject mark or the detection unit 102 has not detected a reject mark) to or in the direction of a packaging unit 112, not explicitly shown in FIG. 4 . For such purpose, the transfer unit 106 may include a second conveyor 106B for transferring the approved battery products PA to the packaging unit 112.

[0131] This causes the approved battery products PA to be transferred to or toward the packaging unit 112, as represented by arrow A. The packaging unit 112 may include one or more handling devices that lift and place one or more battery products into an output package 204. The output package 204 may be provided in the manner described above. For example, the packaging unit 112 may place the approved battery products PA into a fixed frame in the output package 204.

[0132] The output packages 204 can be positioned in an output area 212 to be processed by the packaging unit (i.e., to provide one or more approved battery products PA). The system 100 can also further include a distribution area 214 where one or more completed output packages 204 are temporarily stored for further distribution, delivery, or storage.

[0133] 4 may further include a package transfer line 216 configured to provide the containers to a packaging unit. The output package includes the containers. The packaging unit is configured to arrange the battery products in the containers according to an arrangement plan.

[0134] The package transfer line 216 and the containers can each include or embody any, some, or all of the features described herein. In particular, the containers can be or include pallets and / or stationary frames (i.e., trays). In particular, the system 100 and / or the package transfer line 216 can be configured to transport empty stationary frames 206 or empty pallets (not shown) from the input area 208 to the output area 212 to receive one or more approved battery products PA, as represented by arrow L1. Additionally, the package transfer line 216 can be configured to temporarily store one or more stationary frames 206 in a surplus area 218, as represented by arrow L2 in FIG. 4 . The one or more stationary frames 206 in the surplus area 218 can be transported by or via the package transfer line 216 to the output area 212 to receive one or more approved battery products PA to form the output package 204.

[0135] FIG. 5 shows a schematic diagram of a machine-readable storage 10 that stores instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to perform an automated battery manufacturing method 20, or simply method 20.

[0136] According to the automated battery manufacturing method 20, the battery product is transferred to a detection unit at 22. The (or one) battery product and detection unit can be provided as described above.

[0137] At 24, a detection unit searches for a reject mark on the battery product. The search can include a barcode scanner as described above. The reject mark (or one of the reject marks) can be provided as described above. The detection unit can be provided as described above.

[0138] At 26, if a reject mark is found on the battery product, the battery product is recognized as a non-compliant battery product and the non-compliant battery product is transmitted to a removal unit. The processing of the non-compliant battery product can be as described above. The removal unit can be provided as described above.

[0139] In 28, if no reject mark is found on the battery product, the battery product is recognized as an approved battery product and the approved battery product is transmitted to the packaging unit. The approved battery product can be provided as described above. The packaging unit can be configured as described above. [Explanation of symbols]

[0140] 100: Automated battery manufacturing system, system 102: Detection unit 104: Removal Unit 106:Transport unit 106A, 106B: Conveyor 108: Unpacking unit 110: Barcode scanner 110A, B: Barcode scanner 112: Packaging unit 202: Input package 204: Output package 206: Fixed frame, tray 208: Input area 210: Supply area 212: Output area 214: Shipping area 216: Package transfer line 302: Case, battery cell case 304, 306: Electrode leads A, D, R: Transport direction, processing direction IN, OUT: Processing direction L1, L2: Package delivery direction P: Battery products PA: Approved Battery Product PN: Non-compatible battery product

Claims

1. a reject mark detection unit configured to detect a reject mark of the battery product; a removal unit configured to remove the battery product; a transfer unit configured to transfer the battery product to the reject mark detection unit and to transfer the battery product to the removal unit in response to the reject mark detection unit detecting a reject mark on the battery product.

2. the battery product is one of a plurality of battery products; The transfer unit is configured to transfer a plurality of the battery products to the reject mark detection unit; The automated battery manufacturing system of claim 1 , wherein the reject mark detection unit is configured to detect a reject mark of each of the plurality of battery products.

3. each battery product of the plurality of battery products includes a respective identifier of a set of identifiers; one identifier of said set of identifiers is or comprises said reject mark, or 3. The automated battery manufacturing system of claim 2, wherein each of a plurality of identifiers of the set of identifiers is or includes a respective one of the reject marks.

4. further comprising an unpacking unit configured to receive an input package including a plurality of the battery products and unpack the plurality of battery products from the input package; 3. The automated battery manufacturing system of claim 2, wherein the transfer unit is configured to sequentially transfer a plurality of the battery products individually and / or in groups from the unpacking unit to the reject mark detection unit.

5. The input package includes a pallet supporting one or more uniformly sized stationary frames, and a plurality of the battery products are housed in one or each of the stationary frames; 5. The automated battery manufacturing system of claim 4, wherein the unpacking unit is configured to unpack a plurality of the battery products from the input package one stationary frame at a time.

6. further comprising a packaging unit; the transfer unit is configured to selectively transfer the battery product from the reject mark detection unit to the packaging unit in response to the reject mark detection unit being unable to detect the reject mark of the battery product; The automated battery manufacturing system of claim 1 , wherein the packaging unit is configured to package the battery product in an output package.

7. further comprising a package transfer line configured to provide containers to the packaging unit; the output package includes the container; 7. The automated battery manufacturing system of claim 6, wherein the packaging unit is configured to arrange the battery products within the containers according to an arrangement plan.

8. the transfer unit includes a conveyor configured to move the battery products to the reject mark detection unit; 2. The automated battery manufacturing system of claim 1, wherein the transfer unit is configured to maintain a predetermined distance before and after non-conforming battery products on the conveyor relative to a direction of travel of the conveyor toward the reject mark detection unit.

9. The reject mark is 10. The automated battery manufacturing system of claim 1, wherein the encoded data is embodied in or within a machine-readable visual representation, in particular a bar code or a two-dimensional matrix code, that includes the encoded data and / or points to the data stored in the database.

10. The automated battery manufacturing system of claim 1 , further comprising a control unit configured to retrieve the reject mark and provide the retrieved reject mark to the reject mark detection unit.

11. An automated factory, in particular a smart factory, comprising an automated battery manufacturing system according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. A machine-readable medium storing instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to perform a battery manufacturing method, The battery manufacturing method includes: transferring the battery product to a detection unit; Searching for a reject mark of the battery product by a reject mark detection unit; If a reject mark is found on the battery product, identifying the battery product as a non-conforming battery product and transmitting the non-conforming battery product to a removal unit; and if no reject mark is found on the battery product, recognizing that the battery product is an approved battery product and communicating the approved battery product to a packaging unit.

13. The battery manufacturing method includes: The machine-readable medium of claim 12 , further comprising receiving the reject mark via a user interface and / or a communications network.

14. 14. The machine-readable medium of claim 12 or 13, wherein the battery product includes a machine-readable visual indication, in particular a barcode or two-dimensional matrix code, that includes encoded data and / or points to data stored in a database.

15. The battery manufacturing method includes: receiving an input package including a pallet supporting one or more uniformly sized stationary frames, wherein a plurality of battery products are housed in one or each of the stationary frames; unpacking a plurality of said battery products from said input package one stationary frame at a time; 13. The machine-readable medium of claim 12, further comprising: performing the battery manufacturing method on each of the battery products.

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