Insertion guide for inserting an electrode assembly into a can and insertion method thereof

Abstract

An insertion guide according to one embodiment of the present invention is an insertion guide for guiding the insertion of an electrode assembly into a can in an insertion device for inserting an electrode assembly into a can, wherein the insertion guide comprises an insertion hole in the center for inserting the electrode assembly and is movably disposed in the insertion device. An insertion method for inserting an electrode assembly into a can according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises inserting the electrode assembly into the can through an insertion guide, wherein the insertion guide comprises a plurality of insertion guide members, and when the electrode assembly is inserted into the can, one or more of the plurality of insertion guide members are moved.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an insertion guide for inserting an electrode assembly into a can and a method for inserting the same, and more specifically, to an insertion guide for inserting a jelly roll electrode assembly into a can and a method for inserting a jelly roll electrode assembly into a can. Background Technology

[0002] Unlike primary batteries, which cannot be recharged, secondary batteries refer to batteries capable of charging and discharging, and are applied not only to portable devices but also to electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) driven by electric power sources.

[0003] Currently, widely used types of secondary batteries include lithium-ion batteries, lithium-polymer batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-hydrogen batteries, and nickel-zinc batteries. The operating voltage of these unit secondary battery cells, or unit battery cells, is approximately 2.5V to 4.6V. Therefore, if a higher output voltage is required, a battery pack is formed by connecting multiple battery cells in series. Additionally, a battery pack is formed by connecting multiple battery cells in parallel depending on the charge / discharge capacity required for the battery pack. Accordingly, the number of battery cells included in the battery pack can be varied depending on the required output voltage or charge / discharge capacity.

[0004] When configuring a battery pack by connecting multiple battery cells in series or parallel, it is common practice to first configure a battery module consisting of at least one battery cell, preferably multiple battery cells, and then use at least one such battery module and add other components to form a battery pack. Here, a battery module refers to a component in which multiple battery cells are connected in series or parallel, and a battery pack may refer to a component in which multiple battery modules are connected in series or parallel to increase capacity and output.

[0005] Battery cells are classified into pouch type, cylindrical type, prismatic type, etc., depending on the shape of the battery case.

[0006] Among these, cylindrical cells offer excellent safety as they primarily utilize a metal case with a cylindrical structure. They also have the advantage of high energy density by housing a jelly-roll type electrode assembly inside the case, and make it easy to configure a large-capacity power storage device by connecting multiple cells in series or parallel.

[0007] The electrode assembly, housed in a cylindrical case, is a rechargeable power generation device composed of a stacked structure of an anode, a separator, and a cathode, and is classified into jellyroll, stack, and stack / folding types. The jellyroll type is formed by winding a separator between long sheet-shaped anodes and cathodes coated with active material; the stack type is formed by sequentially stacking multiple anodes and cathodes of a predetermined size with a separator in between; and the stack / folding type is a composite structure of the jellyroll and stack types. Among these, the jellyroll electrode assembly has the advantages of being easy to manufacture and having a high energy density per unit weight.

[0008] The jelly roll electrode assembly is in the form of a wound structure with a separator interposed between an anode and a cathode, each coated with an active material, and an anode tab protruding from the upper part of the electrode assembly is disposed on the anode, and a cathode tab protruding from the lower part of the electrode assembly can be disposed on the cathode.

[0009] During the manufacturing process of these cylindrical cells, the jellyroll electrode assembly may be damaged during the insertion process into the can. Therefore, it is required to be able to safely and stably insert the electrode assembly into the can. The problem to be solved

[0010] The present invention aims to provide an insertion guide and an insertion method for safely and stably inserting an electrode assembly into a can when inserting the electrode assembly into a can. means of solving the problem

[0011] An insertion guide according to one embodiment of the present invention is an insertion guide for guiding the insertion of an electrode assembly into a can in an insertion device for inserting an electrode assembly into a can, wherein the insertion guide comprises an insertion hole in the center for inserting the electrode assembly and is movably disposed in the insertion device.

[0012] In addition, the insertion guide includes a plurality of insertion guide members.

[0013] In addition, a plurality of the above-mentioned insertion guide members are arranged to be movable in directions away from and towards each other.

[0014] In addition, a plurality of the above-mentioned insertion guide members support the can.

[0015] In addition, the plurality of the above-mentioned insertion guide members form a single circle.

[0016] In addition, the insertion guide includes a spring that elastically supports each of the insertion guide members.

[0017] In addition, the insertion guide further includes a moving member that moves the insertion guide member.

[0018] In addition, the insertion guide member includes a guide member that guides the movement of the insertion guide member, and the guide member includes a guide hole in which a guide projection is disposed inside.

[0019] Additionally, the insertion guide comprises a first insertion guide member; and a second insertion guide member in contact with the first insertion guide member.

[0020] In addition, the first and second insertion guide members are each formed in a semicircular shape.

[0021] Additionally, the insertion guide comprises: a first insertion guide member; a second insertion guide member in contact with the first insertion guide member; a third insertion guide member in contact with the second insertion guide member; and a fourth insertion guide member in contact with the third insertion guide member.

[0022] In addition, the first, second, third, and fourth insertion guide members form a single circle.

[0023] In addition, an insertion method for inserting an electrode assembly into a can according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises inserting the electrode assembly into the can through an insertion guide, wherein the insertion guide comprises a plurality of insertion guide members, and when the electrode assembly is inserted into the can, one or more of the plurality of insertion guide members are moved.

[0024] In addition, when the electrode assembly is inserted into the can, the plurality of insertion guide members move in a direction away from each other.

[0025] In addition, after the electrode assembly is fully inserted into the can, the plurality of insertion guide members are moved back to their original positions.

[0026] In addition, a plurality of the above-mentioned insertion guide members are moved by a moving member.

[0027] In addition, the plurality of the above-mentioned insertion guide members are each elastically supported by a spring. Effects of the invention

[0028] The insertion guide and insertion method for inserting an electrode assembly into a can according to the present invention can safely and stably insert the electrode assembly into a can without damaging the electrode assembly when inserting the electrode assembly into a can. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0029] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating a cylindrical battery cell in one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a cross-sectional view of a cylindrical battery cell in one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 3 is a detailed cross-sectional view of a cylindrical battery cell in one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 4 is a drawing for explaining that a current collector plate is coupled to an electrode assembly in one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 5 is a plan view of a jelly roll can insertion device in one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 6 is a front view of a can insertion device for a jelly roll in one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 7 is a partial detailed view of FIG. 6, and FIG. 8 is a drawing illustrating that a can and an electrode assembly are arranged on the upper and lower parts of an insertion guide in the first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 9 is a plan view of an insertion guide coupled to a support plate in the first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 10 is a drawing showing the insertion guide of FIG. 9 in an opened state, and FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating the process of inserting an electrode assembly into a can in one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 12 is a plan view of an insertion guide coupled to a support plate in a second embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 13 is a drawing showing the insertion guide of FIG. 12 in an opened state, and FIG. 14 is a plan view of an insertion guide coupled to a support plate in a third embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 15 is a drawing showing the insertion guide of FIG. 14 in an opened state. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0030] The advantages and features of the present invention and the methods for achieving them will become clear by referring to the embodiments described below in detail together with the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below but may be implemented in various different forms. These embodiments are provided merely to ensure that the disclosure of the present invention is complete and to fully inform those skilled in the art of the scope of the invention, and the present invention is defined only by the scope of the claims. Accordingly, in some embodiments, well-known process steps, well-known device structures, and well-known techniques are not specifically described to avoid the present invention being interpreted ambiguously. Throughout the specification, like reference numerals refer to like components.

[0031] In drawings, thicknesses may be enlarged to clearly represent multiple layers and regions. Throughout the specification, the same reference numerals are used for similar parts. When a part such as a layer, film, region, or plate is described as being "above" another part, this includes not only cases where it is "immediately above" another part, but also cases where there is another part in between. Conversely, when a part is described as being "immediately above" another part, it means that there is no other part in between. Furthermore, when a part such as a layer, film, region, or plate is described as being "below" another part, this includes not only cases where it is "immediately below" another part, but also cases where there is another part in between. Conversely, when a part is described as being "immediately below" another part, it means that there is no other part in between.

[0032] Before describing the insertion guide and insertion method for inserting the electrode assembly into a can according to one embodiment of the present invention, the battery cell (100) is first described.

[0033] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating a cylindrical battery cell in one embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a cross-sectional view of a cylindrical battery cell in one embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 3 is a detailed cross-sectional view of a cylindrical battery cell in one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 4 is a drawing for explaining that a current collector plate is coupled to an electrode assembly in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] The battery cell (1) may include an electrode assembly (10), a battery housing (20), a first current collector plate (30), a battery cap (40), a sealing gasket (50), a second current collector plate (60), a rivet (70), and an insulating part (80). The battery cell (1) including the electrode assembly (10) is not limited to the shape of the battery cell (1) shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 and can be applied to batteries of other shapes. The battery cell (1) may be a cylindrical secondary battery (cylindrical battery cell).

[0035] The electrode assembly (10) may be provided in a cylindrical shape having a core and an outer surface, wherein a first electrode (e.g., a negative electrode), a second electrode (e.g., a positive electrode), and a separator interposed between these electrodes are wound around a winding axis. The electrode assembly (10) may be a jelly-roll type electrode assembly. An additional separator may be provided on the outer surface of the electrode assembly (10) for insulation from the battery housing (20). The electrode assembly (10) may be provided without limitation to have a winding structure well known in the art of the present invention.

[0036] The first electrode of the electrode assembly (10) may include a first electrode current collector and a first electrode active material applied on one or both sides of the first electrode current collector. A non-coated portion in which the first electrode active material is not applied may exist at one end (upper portion) in the width direction (a direction parallel to the height direction of the battery cell) of the first electrode. That is, the first electrode may include a first non-coated portion (11) that is exposed to the outside of the separator and is not coated with active material at one long end along the winding direction, and a first retaining portion coated with active material. The first non-coated portion (11) may be provided at the upper portion based on the height direction of the electrode assembly (10) housed within the battery housing (20). At least a portion of the first non-coated portion (11) may be used as an electrode tab itself. The first non-coated portion (11) may be, for example, a negative electrode tab.

[0037] The second electrode of the electrode assembly (10) may include a second electrode current collector and a second electrode active material applied on one or both sides of the second electrode current collector. Based on the width direction (height direction) of the second electrode (12), a non-coated portion where the second electrode active material is not applied may exist at the other end. That is, the second electrode may include a second non-coated portion (12) that is exposed to the outside of the separator and where the active material is not coated at the other long end along the winding direction, and a second retaining portion coated with the active material. The second non-coated portion (12) may be provided at the bottom based on the height direction of the electrode assembly (10) housed within the battery housing (20). At least a portion of the second non-coated portion (12) may be used as an electrode tab itself. The second non-coated portion (12) may be, for example, a positive electrode tab.

[0038] The battery housing (20) may be a roughly cylindrical receptacle with an opening formed on one side. The battery housing (20) may be provided with a conductive metal material. The battery housing (20) may be configured to accommodate the electrode assembly (10) of the secondary battery. The side of the battery housing (20) and the lower surface located opposite the opening (20a) may be formed integrally. The battery housing (20) may be configured to accommodate the electrode assembly (10) and the electrolyte through the opening (20a) formed on its upper side.

[0039] The battery housing (20) may have a beading portion (21) formed in an end region adjacent to an opening (20a) provided at the top thereof, and a crimping portion (22) formed on the beading portion (21). The beading portion (21) has a shape in which the outer circumference of the battery housing (20) is pressed in to a predetermined depth. The beading portion (21) may have a shape in which it is pressed inward in the region between the opening (20a) of the battery housing (20) and the internal receiving space that accommodates the electrode assembly (10).

[0040] The beading portion (21) may provide a support surface on which a sealing gasket (50) and a battery cap (40) can be seated. Additionally, the beading portion (21) may provide a support surface on which at least a portion of the edge perimeter of the first current collector plate (30) can be seated and joined. At least a portion of the edge perimeter of the current collector plate (30), at least a portion of the edge perimeter of the sealing gasket (50), and at least a portion of the edge perimeter of the battery cap (40) can be seated on the upper surface of the beading portion (21). The beading portion (21) may be formed by pressing the outer circumference of the battery housing (20) inward in an area adjacent to the opening (20a) of the battery housing (20) while the electrode assembly (10) is received within the battery housing (20) through the opening (20a).

[0041] In order to stably support the first current collector plate (30), the battery cap (40), and the sealing gasket (50), the upper surface of the beading portion (21) may have a shape that extends along a direction approximately parallel to the lower surface of the battery housing (20), that is, a shape that extends in a direction approximately perpendicular to the side wall of the battery housing (20). The beading portion (21) can function as a support portion on which the battery cap (40), etc., is seated, while preventing the electrode assembly (10), which has a size corresponding to the inner diameter of the internal receiving space of the battery housing (20), from coming out through the opening (20a) formed at the top of the battery housing (20).

[0042] The crimping portion (22) extends upward from the beading portion (21) and is formed on the upper part of the beading portion (21). The crimping portion (22) has a bent shape that extends to wrap around the edge perimeter and part of the upper surface of the battery cap (40) placed on the upper part of the beading portion (21). The battery cap (40) is fixed on the beading portion (21) by the crimping portion (22). The crimping portion (22) may have a shape that extends inward in the radial direction (centripetal direction) of the battery cell (1) from the upper perimeter of the battery housing (20). The crimping portion (22) is provided in an area corresponding to the edge perimeter of the upper surface of the battery cap (40) to fix the battery cap (40) and prevent the battery cap (40) from moving upward.

[0043] The upper portion of the crimping portion (22) is formed by bending so that it extends inward by a predetermined distance along the radial direction of the battery cell (1) to wrap around a part of the upper surface of the battery cap (40), thereby securing the perimeter of the upper surface of the battery cap (40). The perimeter area of ​​the battery cap (40) is interposed between the upper portion of the crimping portion (22) and the beading portion (21) and is secured to the battery housing (20), covering the opening (20a) of the battery housing (20).

[0044] The first current collector plate (30) is housed inside the battery housing (20). The first current collector plate (30) is made of a conductive metal material and can be electrically connected to the electrode assembly (10). The first current collector plate (30) can be electrically connected to the battery housing (20). That is, the first current collector plate (30) can electrically connect the first electrode of the electrode assembly (10) and the battery housing (20). The first current collector plate (30) may be provided with a support portion (31), a tab coupling portion (32), and a housing coupling portion (33).

[0045] The support portion (31) and the tab connecting portion (32) of the first current collector plate (30) may be positioned on the upper part of the electrode assembly (10). The support portion (31) may be positioned on one side of the electrode assembly (10). The tab connecting portion (32) may extend from the support portion (31) and be connected to the first non-reinforced portion (11) of the electrode assembly (10). For example, the tab connecting portion (32) may be connected to the electrode assembly (10) by welding a certain area while seated on the first non-reinforced portion (11) of the electrode assembly (10). The tab connecting portion (32) of the first current collector plate (30) may be located below the lower surface of the beading portion (21).

[0046] A through hole may be formed in the first collector plate (30) to allow flames generated inside the battery cell (1) to escape smoothly. Accordingly, even if a thermal runaway phenomenon occurs on the side of the electrode assembly (10), the flames and venting gas generated from the electrode assembly (10) can be smoothly discharged through the through hole without being blocked by the first collector plate (30) located on the upper side of the electrode assembly (10). Therefore, it is possible to prevent the flames from moving toward the beading part (21) located in the vicinity of the electrode assembly (10) and the first collector plate (30) and causing pinholes in the beading part (21), and to prevent the fire from spreading to other battery cells (1) located around the battery cell (1) where the fire occurred.

[0047] The support member (31) may be provided with a current collector hole (H2) formed at a position corresponding to a winding hole (H1) formed approximately in the center of the electrode assembly (10). The winding hole (H1) and the current collector hole (H2), which are in communication with each other, do not need to function as a passage for a welding rod or laser beam for welding between the electrode terminal of the electrode assembly (10) and the current collector, or between the electrode terminal and a lead tab (not shown). Therefore, the energy density of the electrode assembly (10) can be increased by reducing the size of the winding hole (H1) and the current collector hole (H2). If the diameter of the current collector hole (H2) is excessively smaller than the diameter of the winding hole (H1), the hole formed in the winding hole (H1) may be obscured, which may reduce liquid injection performance. Accordingly, so that the current collector hole (H2) does not obstruct the winding hole (H1) formed in the core of the electrode assembly (10), it may have a diameter substantially the same as or larger than that of the winding hole (H1) of the electrode assembly (10).

[0048] The housing coupling portion (33) may be connected to the inner surface of the battery housing (20) by extending from the support portion (31) to a periphery area. The housing coupling portion (33) may be electrically connected to the inner surface of the battery housing (20) by extending from the support portion (31). For example, the housing coupling portion (33) may be connected to the upper surface of the beading portion (21) on the inner surface of the battery housing (20).

[0049] The inner diameter of the battery housing (20) in the area where the beading portion (21) is formed may be smaller than the diameter of the electrode assembly (10). For stable contact and connection, the beading portion (21) may have a shape that extends along a direction approximately parallel to the lower surface of the battery housing (20), that is, a direction approximately perpendicular to the side wall of the battery housing (20). The housing connection portion (33) may be welded to the upper surface of the beading portion (21). For welding the connection between the battery housing (20) and the first current collector plate (30), for example, laser welding, ultrasonic welding, or spot welding may be applied.

[0050] A battery cap (40) may be provided to cover an opening (20a) of a battery housing (20). The battery cap (40) may be coupled to the battery housing (20) to seal the opening (20a) of the battery housing (20) through a crimping process via a sealing gasket (50). The battery cap (40) may be provided with a venting portion (41) formed to prevent an increase in internal pressure caused by gas generated inside the battery housing (20).

[0051] The venting portion (41) may be configured to break when the internal pressure of the battery housing (20) increases above a certain level. The venting portion (41) is formed in a part of the battery cap (40) and may be a structurally weaker area than the surrounding area so that it can easily break when pressure is applied to the inside due to thermal runaway, etc. For example, the venting portion (41) may be an area having a thinner thickness compared to the surrounding area. The venting portion (41) may be formed as a roughly circular closed loop.

[0052] The battery cap (40) can cover an opening (20a) formed on one side of the battery housing (20). The battery cap (40) can be secured by a crimping portion (22) formed on the top of the battery housing (20).

[0053] A sealing gasket (50) is interposed between the battery housing (20) and the battery cap (40), and between the first current collector plate (30) and the battery cap (40), to improve fixing strength and sealing performance of the battery housing (20). The sealing gasket (50) seals the upper opening of the battery housing (20) between the battery cap (40) and the crimping portion (22) of the battery housing (20), and can electrically insulate the battery housing (20) and the battery cap (40). The sealing gasket (50) may include a material having insulating and elastic properties. The sealing gasket (50) may include, for example, a polymer resin.

[0054] Accordingly, the first current collector plate (30) may be interposed between the beading portion (21) of the battery housing (20) and the sealing gasket (50). The first current collector plate (30) interposed between the beading portion (21) and the sealing gasket (50) may be secured by the bending of the crimping portion (22) extending upward from the beading portion (21). The sealing gasket (50) is provided to surround the battery cap (40) to seal the space between the battery cap (40) and the battery housing (20). The sealing gasket (50) serves to maintain airtightness between the battery housing (20) and the battery cap (40). A rivet (70) is inserted into and joined to an opening formed in the bottom portion (23) of the battery housing (20). An insulating portion (80) may be interposed between the rivet (70) and the opening of the battery housing (20). The insulating part (80) can insulate the rivet (70) from the battery housing (20).

[0055] FIG. 4 is a drawing illustrating that current collector plates (30, 60) are attached to the upper and / or lower surfaces of an electrode assembly (10), and the first and second current collector plates (30, 60) can be joined to the electrode assembly (10) by welding.

[0056] In the first electrode current collector of the first electrode, a plurality of notching tabs may be formed along the longitudinal direction on the edge of the first electrode current collector in the first uncoated portion (11) where the electrode active material is not coated, and similarly, in the second electrode current collector of the second electrode, a plurality of notching tabs may be formed along the longitudinal direction on the edge of the second electrode current collector in the second uncoated portion (12) where the electrode active material is not coated.

[0057] In this way, the first and second unoccupied portions (11, 12) in which notching tabs are formed at the first and second electrodes can each be bent in the direction of the core, and the first and second current collector plates (30, 60) can be welded to the first and second unoccupied portions (11, 12) of the first electrode and / or the second electrode that are bent in the direction of the core.

[0058] Meanwhile, FIGS. 6 and 7 illustrate an insertion device (1000) for inserting a jelly roll electrode assembly (10) into a cylindrical can (120), which is a battery housing (20), in this embodiment.

[0059] In one embodiment of the present invention, the insertion device (1000) may include a rotation axis (300), a rotating plate (350), a can support member (400) on which a can (120), which is a battery housing (20), is supported, an insertion guide (500), and an electrode assembly support member (600).

[0060] In this embodiment, the rotation axis (300) is positioned vertically and rotates by means of a driving means. The rotating plate (350), the can support member (400), and the insertion guide (500) are connected to the rotation axis (300) and can rotate together.

[0061] The rotating plate (350) may be formed in the shape of a disc, and a rotation axis (300) may be coupled to the center of the rotating plate (350) so that the rotating plate (350) can be rotated according to the rotation of the rotation axis (300). An insertion guide (500) is supported on the rotating plate (350) so that the insertion guide (500) can rotate together with the rotation of the rotating plate (350).

[0062] The above can support member (400) is positioned around a rotation axis (300) to support a can (120), which is a cylindrical battery housing (20). Specifically, a plurality of can support members (400) are spaced apart by a certain angle along the circumferential direction of the rotation axis (300) and connected to the rotation axis (300), so that as the rotation axis (300) rotates, the plurality of can support members (400) can rotate together while supporting the can (120), which is a battery housing (20).

[0063] The above insertion guide (500) can guide the jelly roll electrode assembly (10) to be inserted into a can (120), which is a cylindrical battery housing (20). Specifically, the insertion guide (500) is positioned directly below the can support member (400) and connected to a rotating plate (350) so that it can rotate together with the can support member (400) according to the rotation of the rotation axis (300).

[0064] As shown in FIG. 8, the insertion guide (500) can be coupled to the support plate (370) of the insertion device (1000), and the support plate (370) can rotate together with the rotation of the rotation axis (300). The support plate (370) can be formed in the shape of a disc, a circular ring, etc. A coupling hole (371) to which the insertion guide (500) is coupled can be formed in the support plate (370). Accordingly, the central part of the insertion guide (500) where the insertion hole (510) is formed can be coupled to the coupling hole (371), and the outer part of the insertion guide (500) which is positioned outside the central part can be positioned on the upper surface of the support plate (370) in the form of a flange. A guide hole (507) can be formed on the outer part of the insertion guide (500), and a guide projection (508) that is inserted into the guide hole (507) can be formed on the upper part of the support plate (370).

[0065] Accordingly, a plurality of insertion guides (500) may be spaced apart at regular intervals along the circumferential direction of the rotation axis (300), and each insertion guide (500) may be spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the rotation axis (300) below the can support member (400).

[0066] The insertion guide (500) may be entirely in the shape of a disc and may have an insertion hole (510) penetrating through the center. The insertion guide (500) may be formed in a shape divided into a plurality of pieces (501, 502, 503, 504, 505, 506), and the plurality of pieces (501, 502, 503, 504, 505, 506) may be formed to form a single disc shape. The insertion guide (500) may be formed in the shape of a circular ring or a donut, as shown in FIGS. 8 and 9. The insertion hole (510) may be circular.

[0067] As shown in FIG. 9, the insertion guide (500) may include a first insertion guide member (501) and a second insertion guide member (502) in a plurality of pieces, and the first insertion guide member (501) and the second insertion guide member (502) may form a single disc shape, and an insertion hole (510) may be formed in the center of the single disc.

[0068] The first insertion guide member (501) and the second insertion guide member (502) may each be formed in a semicircular shape, and both ends of the first and second insertion guides (501, 502) may be in contact with each other. Additionally, the first and second insertion guides (501, 502) may be arranged to be movable so as to move away from each other while in contact, and may be arranged to be movable so as to move closer to each other while in a distant state. The first insertion guide member (501) and the second insertion guide member (502) may each include a guide member that guides the movement, and the guide members of the first insertion guide member (501) and the second insertion guide member (502) may each include a guide hole (507) and a guide projection (508) inserted into the guide hole (507).

[0069] The guide holes (507) of the first and second insertion guides (501, 502) can be formed radially around the insertion hole (510), and each guide hole (507) can be arranged in a straight line.

[0070] The guide projection (508) may be in a form that is coupled to or connected to the support plate (370). With the guide projection (508) inserted into the guide hole (507), the first and second insertion guides (501, 502) may move apart (spread apart) or close together (close). The upper portion of the guide projection (508) may be larger than the width of the guide hole (507) at the top of the guide hole (507). By doing so, the first and second insertion guides (501, 502) may not be separated from the support plate (370).

[0071] The first and second insertion guides (501, 502) can each be elastically supported by a spring (550).

[0072] Accordingly, the first and second insertion guides (501, 502) are each elastically supported by a spring (550), so that as the electrode assembly (10) is inserted into the insertion guide (500), the first and second insertion guides (501, 502) can move apart from each other (spread apart), and after the electrode assembly (10) is fully inserted into the can (120), the first and second insertion guides (501, 502) can move closer (close in) by the restoring force of the spring (550) and return to their original positions. As shown in FIG. 9, the spring (550) can be placed on the outside of the first and second insertion guides (501, 502), respectively, and one end of the spring (550) can be supported by a separate support member. The first insertion guide member (501) may be pressed in the direction of the second insertion guide member (502) by a spring (550), and the second insertion guide member (502) may be pressed in the direction of the first insertion guide member (501) by a spring (550). As another example, the spring (550) may be placed inside the guide hole (507). In this case, one end of the spring (550) may be supported at one end of the guide hole (507), and the other end of the spring (550) may be supported by the guide projection (508). As another example, the spring (550) may be replaced with an elastic member.

[0073] The inner surface of the insertion hole (510) may sequentially include a can seating portion (520), an intermediate guide portion (525), and a lower insertion portion (530) from top to bottom. That is, the inner surface of the first and second insertion guides (501, 502) forming the insertion hole (510) may each include a can seating portion (520), an intermediate guide portion (525), and a lower insertion portion (530) (see FIG. 8).

[0074] The can mounting portion (520) may be located above the insertion hole (510), and the can (120) may be mounted on the can mounting portion (520). The state in which the can (120) is mounted on the can mounting portion (520) may be such that the battery housing (20) is inverted and mounted on the can mounting portion (520) with the upper part of the battery housing (20) open and the battery cap (40) is not attached to the battery housing (20) as illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 3.

[0075] The inner diameter of the can seating portion (520) may be larger than the inner diameter of the intermediate guide portion (525). Accordingly, the can seating portion (520) may be formed with a step upward from the top of the intermediate guide portion (525). The can seating portion (520) may be formed so that the inner diameter gradually increases from the bottom upward. In this way, by forming the can seating portion (520) so that the inner diameter gradually increases upward, the insertion of the can (120) can be easily performed.

[0076] The intermediate guide (525) can be positioned in the middle of the insertion hole (510) and on the lower side of the can seating portion (520). When the electrode assembly (10) is inserted into the can (120), the intermediate guide (525) of the insertion guide (500) can guide the electrode assembly (10), and the electrode assembly (10) can be inserted into the can (120) through the intermediate guide (525). The inner diameter of the intermediate guide (525) may be the same from the top to the bottom.

[0077] The lower insertion part (530) may be positioned below the intermediate guide part (525). The inner diameter of the lower insertion part (530) may be larger than the inner diameter of the intermediate guide part (525). Accordingly, the lower insertion part (530) may be formed with a step downward from the bottom of the intermediate guide part (525). By forming the inner diameter of the lower insertion part (530) larger than that of the intermediate guide part (525), the electrode assembly (10) can be easily inserted into the lower insertion part (530).

[0078] Additionally, the lower portion of the inner surface of the insertion hole (510) may be formed so that the inner diameter gradually increases as it goes downward.

[0079] With the cylindrical can (120) seated on the can seating portion (520) which is the upper part of the insertion hole (510), the electrode assembly (10) can be raised from below and inserted into the can (120) through the insertion hole (510) of the insertion guide (500).

[0080] As shown in FIG. 4, a current collector plate (30, 60) may be attached to the top and / or bottom of the electrode assembly (10), and the attached current collector plate (30, 60) may protrude slightly to the outside of the electrode assembly (10) due to poor concentricity, etc. In this case, during the process of inserting the electrode assembly (10) into the can (120), the current collector plate (30, 60) attached to the bottom of the electrode assembly (10) may interfere with the insertion guide (500).

[0081] In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, while the electrode assembly (10) is being inserted into the can (120), the insertion guide (501, 502) is pushed outward by a part protruding outward from the electrode assembly (10), so that the electrode assembly (10) can be inserted into the can (120) safely and stably without damage to the electrode assembly (10).

[0082] The above electrode assembly support member (600) can support each jelly roll electrode assembly (10).

[0083] Specifically, a plurality of electrode assembly support members (600) may be arranged along the circumferential direction of the rotating plate (350), and each electrode assembly support member (600) may be spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the rotation axis (300) below the insertion guide (500).

[0084] Additionally, the electrode assembly support member (600) and the electrode assembly (10) may be positioned below the rotating plate (350) and rotatably positioned on a separate rotating plate. Accordingly, a plurality of electrode assembly support members (600) may be positioned along the circumferential direction of a separate rotating plate.

[0085] A pusher (650) can be connected to the upper part of the electrode assembly support member (600), and as the electrode assembly support member (600) rises, the pusher (650) rises so that the electrode assembly (10) can be inserted into the can (120).

[0086] In this embodiment, the process of inserting a jelly roll electrode assembly (10) into a cylindrical can (120), which is a battery housing (20), using an insertion device (1000) is described as follows: a plurality of can support members (400) and a plurality of insertion guides (500) may be arranged around a rotation axis (300).

[0087] In a state where a jelly roll electrode assembly (10) is supported on each electrode assembly support member (600) and a can (120), which is a cylindrical battery housing (20), is supported on each can support member (400), a rotation shaft (300) can be rotated by a driving means such as a motor.

[0088] As the rotation of the rotation axis (300) occurs, the can support member (400) and the insertion guide (500) rotate together around the rotation axis (300).

[0089] Additionally, the electrode assembly support member (600) has a support leg (610) positioned at the bottom, and the lower end of the support leg (610), which is positioned via a rotating plate (350), can move on the base plate (240). The support leg (610) is connected to a connecting member (253), and a movement guide member (252) positioned at one end of the connecting member (253) is inserted into the slide groove (251) of the lower cam (250). The movement guide member (252) may be, for example, a roller. The slide groove (251) in the lower cam (250) positioned on the base plate (240) may have an upward section where the height increases from the base plate (240) and a downward section where the height decreases.

[0090] Accordingly, the moving guide member (252) moves along the slide groove (251) and moves up and down, and the rising section and the falling section can be formed as curves.

[0091] When the moving guide member (252) rises along the rising section, the support leg (610) can rise, and as the support leg (610) rises, the electrode assembly support member (600) can rise. As the electrode assembly support member (600) rises, the jelly roll electrode assembly (10) supported by the pusher (650) of the electrode assembly support member (600) rises and can be inserted into the lower part of the insertion hole (510).

[0092] Meanwhile, the can support member (400) can rotate together with the insertion guide (500) according to the rotation of the rotation axis (300), and the can support member (400) can rotate while supporting the can (120), which is a cylindrical battery housing (20).

[0093] And, the electrode assembly support member (600) and the pusher (650) rise so that the electrode assembly (10) can be inserted into the lower insertion part (530) of the insertion hole (510).

[0094] FIG. 11 is a drawing illustrating the process of inserting an electrode assembly (10) into a can (120) through an insertion guide (500).

[0095] In the method for inserting an electrode assembly into a can according to the present embodiment, the electrode assembly is inserted into the can through an insertion guide, and the insertion guide comprises a plurality of insertion guide members, and when the electrode assembly is inserted into the can, one or more of the plurality of insertion guide members may be moved.

[0096] The process of inserting the electrode assembly (10) into the can (120) is explained in more detail.

[0097] With the can (120) seated on the can seating portion (525) of the insertion guide (500) (see FIG. 11(a)), the electrode assembly support member (600) and the pusher (650) continue to rise so that the electrode assembly (10) can pass through the middle guide portion (525) of the insertion hole (510) and be inserted into the can (120) (see FIG. 11(b)).

[0098] At this time, the can (120) can be stably supported by the insertion guide (500) and smoothly inserted into the can (120).

[0099] The electrode assembly (10) may have a portion that protrudes outward by the current collector plate (30, 60), and at this time, while the electrode assembly (10) is being inserted into the can (120), the first insertion guide member (501) and / or the second insertion guide member (502) may be pushed outward by the portion that protrudes outward from the electrode assembly (10) (see FIG. 11(c)). Specifically, as shown in FIG. 10, the first insertion guide member (501) and / or the second insertion guide member (502) may be pushed outward as the relative position of the guide projection (508) within the guide hole (507) changes. In this way, the first insertion guide member (501) and / or the second insertion guide member (502) can be moved outward by the part protruding outward from the electrode assembly (10), so that the electrode assembly (10) can be safely and stably inserted into the can (120) without damage to the electrode assembly (10).

[0100] Then, when the protruding part of the electrode assembly (10) completely passes through the insertion guide (500) or the electrode assembly (10) is completely inserted into the can (120), the first and second insertion guides (501, 502) can be moved in a direction closer to each other by the spring and then come into contact with each other to return to their original state (see FIG. 11(d)).

[0101] After the electrode assembly (10) is fully inserted into the can (120), which is the battery housing (20), the electrode assembly support member (600) and the pusher (650) can be lowered.

[0102] In this way, the jelly roll electrode assembly (10) can be inserted into the can (120) by the insertion device (1000).

[0103] Meanwhile, FIGS. 12 and 13 are drawings illustrating an insertion guide (500) according to a second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a plan view of an insertion guide coupled to a support plate in the second embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 13 is a drawing illustrating the insertion guide of FIG. 12 in an opened state.

[0104] The difference between the second embodiment of the present invention and the first embodiment is that in the first embodiment, the insertion guide (500) is divided into first and second insertion guide members (501, 502), whereas in the second embodiment, it is divided into four pieces.

[0105] That is, in the second embodiment, the insertion guide (500) may include a first insertion guide member (503), a second insertion guide member (504), a third insertion guide member (506), and a fourth insertion guide member (505) in a plurality of pieces, and the first insertion guide member (503), the second insertion guide member (504), the third insertion guide member (506), and the fourth insertion guide member (505) may form a single disc shape, and an insertion hole (510) may be formed in the center of the single disc.

[0106] The first, second, third, and fourth insertion guide members (503, 504, 505, 506) may each be formed in the shape of a quarter circle, and each insertion guide member (503, 504, 505, 506) may be in contact with both insertion guide members (503, 504, 505, 506). In addition, the first, second, third, and fourth insertion guide members (503, 504, 505, 506) may be movably arranged to move away from each other while in contact, and may be movably arranged to move closer to each other while in a separated state. The first, second, third, and fourth insertion guide members (503, 504, 505, 506) may each include a guide hole (507) and a guide projection (508) inserted into the guide hole (507).

[0107] The guide holes (507) of the first, second, third, and fourth insertion guide members (503, 504, 505, 506) may be formed radially around the insertion hole (510), and guide projections (508) may be inserted into each guide hole (507).

[0108] In addition, similar to the first embodiment, the first, second, third, and fourth insertion guide members (503, 504, 505, 506) can be elastically supported by their respective springs (550).

[0109] The inner surface of the insertion hole (510) may sequentially include a can seating portion (520), an intermediate guide portion (525), and a lower insertion portion (530) from top to bottom. That is, the inner surface of the first, second, third, and fourth insertion guide members (503, 504, 505, 506) forming the insertion hole (510) may each include a can seating portion (520), an intermediate guide portion (525), and a lower insertion portion (530).

[0110] In the second embodiment as well, one or more of the first, second, third, and fourth insertion guide members (503, 504, 505, 506) move outward by a portion protruding outward from the electrode assembly (10), so that the electrode assembly (10) can be safely and stably inserted into the can (120) without damage to the electrode assembly (10). After the electrode assembly (10) is inserted into the can (120), it can be returned to its original position as shown in FIG. 12. Other configurations and effects are the same as those in the previous embodiment, so a detailed description thereof is omitted here.

[0111] FIGS. 14 and FIGS. 15 are drawings illustrating an insertion guide (500) according to a third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14 is a plan view of an insertion guide coupled to a support plate in the third embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 15 is a drawing illustrating the insertion guide of FIG. 14 in an opened state.

[0112] The difference between the insertion guide (500) according to the third embodiment of the present invention and the first embodiment is that in the third embodiment, a moving member (560) is disposed instead of a spring (550). The moving member (560) may be for moving the first insertion guide member (501) and the second insertion guide member (502). The moving member (560) may move the first insertion guide member (501) and the second insertion guide member (502) in a direction away from each other and in a direction closer to each other. The moving member (560) may be disposed on the first insertion guide member (501) and the second insertion guide member (502), respectively, and each moving member (560) may move each insertion guide (501, 502).

[0113] In this embodiment, the moving member (560) may be an actuator, a drive motor, a linear motor, a cylinder, etc. As the moving member (560), the cylinder may have a piston rod coupled to the cylinder body connected to each insertion guide (501, 502) and may be operated by pneumatic or hydraulic pressure. If the moving member (560) is a motor, each insertion guide (501, 502) may be moved linearly by a rack and pinion gear, etc.

[0114] In the third embodiment, the process of inserting the electrode assembly (10) into the can (120) by means of the insertion guide (500) is described as follows with reference to FIG. 11.

[0115] With the can (120) seated on the can seating portion (525) of the insertion guide (500) (see FIG. 11(a)), the electrode assembly support member (600) and the pusher (650) continue to rise so that the electrode assembly (10) can pass through the middle guide portion (525) of the insertion hole (510) and be inserted into the can (120) (see FIG. 11(b)).

[0116] And, when the electrode assembly (10) is inserted into the can (120) by about 50% (in the longitudinal direction of the electrode assembly (10)), the first and second insertion guides (501, 502) can be moved away from each other (away from the electrode assembly (10)) by the moving member (560) as shown in FIG. 11(c) and FIG. 15.

[0117] In the third embodiment, when the electrode assembly (10) is inserted into the can (120), the insertion guide members (501, 502) are actively moved by the moving member (560), thereby more reliably preventing the electrode assembly (10) from being damaged by the insertion guide (500), and thus, the electrode assembly (10) can be safely and stably inserted into the can (120).

[0118] However, if the insertion guide (500) separates or spreads too much, it may not be able to support the can (120). Therefore, the insertion guide (500) may be moved by a few millimeters to support the can (120). For example, the insertion guide (500) may be moved by about 1 mm or within 1 mm and may spread.

[0119] Then, when the electrode assembly (10) is fully inserted into the can (120) (see FIG. 11(d)), the insertion guide (500) can be moved back to its original position and closed by the moving member (560).

[0120] After the electrode assembly (10) is fully inserted into the can (120), which is the battery housing (20), the electrode assembly support member (600) and the pusher (650) can be lowered.

[0121] In this way, the jelly roll electrode assembly (10) can be inserted into the can (120) by the insertion device (1000). The other configuration and effects are the same as those of the previous embodiment.

[0122] As described above, the present invention has been explained with reference to preferred embodiments, but it is not limited to the above embodiments. The insertion guide (500) may be divided into pieces such as three, in addition to the two or four pieces exemplified above, and various changes and modifications may be made by a person skilled in the art to which the invention belongs, without departing from the spirit of the invention. Explanation of the symbols

[0123] 1 : Battery cell 10 : Electrode assembly 20: Battery housing 30: First current collector plate 40: Battery Cap 50 : Sealing gasket 60: Second tribunal 120 : Can 300 : Rotation axis 400 : Can support member 500 : Insertion guide 501 : First insertion guide member 502: Second insertion guide member 600: Electrode assembly support member 650 : Pusher

Claims

Claim 1 An insertion guide for guiding the insertion of an electrode assembly into a can in an insertion device for inserting an electrode assembly into a can, wherein the insertion guide includes an insertion hole in the center for inserting the electrode assembly and is movably disposed in the insertion device. Claim 2 In claim 1, the insertion guide comprises a plurality of insertion guide members. Claim 3 In paragraph 2, the plurality of insertion guide members are insertion guides capable of moving in directions away from each other and in directions closer to each other. Claim 4 In paragraph 2, the plurality of insertion guide members are insertion guides that support the can. Claim 5 In paragraph 2, the plurality of insertion guide members are insertion guides that form a single circle. Claim 6 In paragraph 2, the insertion guide comprises a spring that elastically supports each of the insertion guide members. Claim 7 In paragraph 2, the insertion guide further comprises a moving member that moves the insertion guide member. Claim 8 In paragraph 3, the insertion guide member is an insertion guide comprising a guide hole in which a guide projection is disposed inside. Claim 9 In claim 1, the insertion guide comprises: a first insertion guide member; and a second insertion guide member in contact with the first insertion guide member. Claim 10 In claim 9, the first and second insertion guide members are each insertion guides formed in a semicircular shape. Claim 11 In claim 1, the insertion guide comprises: a first insertion guide member; a second insertion guide member in contact with the first insertion guide member; a third insertion guide member in contact with the second insertion guide member; and a fourth insertion guide member in contact with the third insertion guide member. Claim 12 In Clause 11, the above-mentioned insertion guide members 1, 2, 3, and 4 are insertion guides forming a single circle. Claim 13 An insertion method for inserting an electrode assembly into a can, wherein the electrode assembly is inserted into the can through an insertion guide, the insertion guide comprises a plurality of insertion guide members, and when the electrode assembly is inserted into the can, one or more of the plurality of insertion guide members are moved. Claim 14 In paragraph 13, an insertion method in which a plurality of insertion guide members move away from each other when the electrode assembly is inserted into the can. Claim 15 In claim 14, an insertion method in which a plurality of insertion guide members are moved back to their original positions after the electrode assembly is fully inserted into the can. Claim 16 In paragraph 13, the insertion method wherein a plurality of the above-mentioned insertion guide members are moved by a moving member. Claim 17 In paragraph 13, the insertion method wherein a plurality of the above-mentioned insertion guide members are each elastically supported by a spring.

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