Workpiece switching system, workpiece switching method, and battery production line

Abstract

A workpiece switching system, a workpiece switching method and a battery production line. The switching system comprises: a storage mechanism, which can store a plurality of workpieces in layers in a first direction; a conveying mechanism (2), which can move in the first direction to convey the workpieces into the storage mechanism or to pick up the workpieces from the storage mechanism; a switching mechanism (3), which can move, in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, between a first state, in which the switching mechanism is configured to be on standby, and a second state, in which the switching mechanism is configured to cooperate with the conveying mechanism (2) to transfer the workpieces. The switching method is executed by means of the switching system after a switching instruction is received, and comprises: removing an old workpiece; using the switching mechanism (3) to move the old workpiece to a switching position and transferring the old workpiece to the load-less conveying mechanism (2); using the conveying mechanism (2) to transfer the old workpiece carried thereon back to the storage mechanism; using the load-less conveying mechanism (2) to pick up a new workpiece from the storage mechanism and transfer the new workpiece to the switching mechanism (3); and moving, back to a standby position, the switching mechanism (3) carrying the new workpiece. The battery production line comprises a switching system, which is configured to switch between different pressing plates required when welding.

Description

Workpiece switching system, workpiece switching method, and battery production line Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of battery production equipment, and in particular to a switching system and a corresponding switching method for workpieces, especially pressure plates, and a battery production line utilizing such a switching system and method. Background Art

[0002] Laser welding is commonly used in battery production lines. However, to accommodate different module welding needs, different types of copper nozzle pressure plates must be replaced at the welding station, but this results in low efficiency in pressure plate replacement.

[0003] Summary of the Invention

[0004] In view of the above problems, the present application provides a workpiece switching system and a corresponding method for switching workpieces to solve the problem of low efficiency in workpiece switching, such as platen changeover.

[0005] In the first aspect, the present application provides a workpiece switching system, which includes: a storage mechanism for storing a plurality of workpieces in layers along a first direction; a conveying mechanism capable of moving along the first direction to transport the workpiece to the storage mechanism or extract the workpiece from the storage mechanism; a switching mechanism capable of moving between a first state and a second state along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, the switching mechanism being configured to be on standby in the first state, and the switching mechanism being configured to cooperate with the conveying mechanism in the second state to transfer the workpiece.

[0006] Using this workpiece switching system to replace the workpiece required in the first state, such as switching the copper nozzle pressure plate required in the welding station, can improve the efficiency of workpiece replacement such as pressure plate replacement in a mechanized manner and reduce the required manpower.

[0007] In some embodiments, the storage mechanism includes a power assembly disposed thereon, the power assembly being drivably connected to the conveying mechanism, and the conveying mechanism being driven by the power assembly to move along the first direction. Utilizing such a power assembly, the conveying mechanism can move relative to a storage level or relative to a switching platform during operation, depending on the situation.

[0008] In some embodiments, the storage mechanism further includes guide members symmetrically arranged on both sides of the storage mechanism along a third direction perpendicular to the first and second directions and connected to the conveying mechanism, such that when the conveying mechanism is driven by the power assembly, the guide members synchronously guide the movement of the conveying mechanism along the first direction. Such guide members can guide the conveying mechanism when the conveying mechanism is driven by the power assembly on the storage mechanism, thereby allowing the conveying mechanism to move smoothly along the V direction, referred to as the first direction.

[0009] In some embodiments, the storage mechanism and the switching mechanism are sequentially arranged along the second direction, and the switching mechanism is configured to be movable along the second direction between a standby position and a switching position; wherein the standby position corresponds to the first state, in which an old workpiece is placed on the switching mechanism or the switching mechanism is unloaded; and the switching position corresponds to the second state, in which the switching mechanism and the conveying mechanism are configured to cooperate to transfer the old workpiece on the switching mechanism to the unloaded conveying mechanism or to enable the unloaded switching mechanism to receive a new workpiece from the conveying mechanism. This arrangement facilitates cooperation between the storage mechanism, the switching mechanism, and the conveying mechanism to perform workpiece replacement, such as platen remodeling.

[0010] In some embodiments, the conveyor mechanism is configured to align the layer of the storage mechanism storing the workpieces in the second direction by moving in the first direction, or to approach the switching mechanism at the switching position and align with the switching mechanism in the first direction by moving in the first direction. This arrangement facilitates the separation and replacement of workpieces, such as press plates.

[0011] In some embodiments, the switching mechanism includes a switching platform configured to be movable along the second direction between the standby position and the switching position; wherein, in the standby position, the switching platform is away from the storage mechanism; and in the switching position, the switching platform is close to the storage mechanism. This facilitates the switching platform's transition between the standby position and the switching position.

[0012] In some embodiments, the switching mechanism further includes at least two bottom support members disposed on the lower surface of the switching platform at both ends in a third direction perpendicular to the first and second directions. Such bottom support members can hold a workpiece, such as a pressure plate, supported by the switching platform to prevent it from falling.

[0013] In some embodiments, the bottom support member is retractable and includes a card insert configured to be inserted into and withdrawn from the workpiece, thereby enabling the bottom support member to simply extend or retract to support or release the workpiece, such as a pressure plate, when needed.

[0014] In some embodiments, the bottom support member is configured to move with the switching platform to the switching position; in the switching position, the conveyor mechanism, under the action of the power assembly and the guide member connected thereto, can move in the first direction toward the switching platform, thereby docking with the switching platform to transfer the old workpiece to the unloaded conveyor mechanism or to receive the new workpiece from the conveyor mechanism. The bottom support member can enhance the safety of workpieces, such as pressure plates, during transfer in the switching position.

[0015] In some embodiments, the switching platform includes a plurality of positioning members for cooperating with and positioning the workpiece, such positioning members allowing the workpiece, such as a pressure plate, to be positioned after being moved to the switching platform to prevent its position from shifting.

[0016] In some embodiments, the positioning members are disposed on the lower surface of the switching platform and arranged on at least two opposing sides of the switching platform. The positioning members are configured to engage and securely engage at least two positioning portions of the workpiece. This eliminates the need to manually adjust the positioning error of a workpiece, such as a pressure plate, after the workpiece is returned to the standby position by the switching platform.

[0017] In some embodiments, the workpiece switching system further includes a clamping mechanism configured to move toward the switching platform in the first direction to clamp the workpiece carried by the switching platform. This clamping mechanism allows a workpiece, such as a pressure plate, to be clamped in place at the standby position. Furthermore, it helps positioning members, such as pins, on the switching platform to further penetrate into corresponding portions, such as corresponding holes, of a workpiece, such as a pressure plate, thereby precisely positioning the workpiece, such as a pressure plate.

[0018] In some embodiments, the switching mechanism further includes a support configured to support the switching platform in a manner allowing the switching platform to slide thereon in the second direction; the clamping mechanism is slidably connected to the support in the first direction. This arrangement facilitates the raising and lowering of the clamping mechanism to clamp and release a workpiece, such as a pressure plate, relative to the switching platform.

[0019] In some embodiments, the switching mechanism further includes a frame for supporting the support; the workpiece switching system further includes at least two anti-fall components configured to prevent the clamping mechanism from falling; the at least two anti-fall components are diagonally arranged and slidably mounted on the frame along the third direction. The anti-fall components are provided to prevent the clamping mechanism from falling in the event of a gas outage, and their sliding arrangement facilitates movement between a prevention position and an avoidance position.

[0020] In some embodiments, the conveyor mechanism includes a workpiece positioning component mounted thereon, the workpiece positioning component being configured to engage with the workpiece to position the workpiece. This facilitates initial positioning of a workpiece, such as a pressure plate, when the workpiece is on the conveyor mechanism, by engaging with the workpiece positioning component to prevent the workpiece, such as the pressure plate, from shifting during movement.

[0021] In some embodiments, the workpiece positioning component includes a latch member, which is configured to be inserted into the workpiece through a receptacle on a lower surface of the workpiece when the workpiece is positioned on the conveyor mechanism. By inserting the latch on the conveyor mechanism into a receptacle on a workpiece, such as a pressure plate, the workpiece, such as the pressure plate, can be initially positioned in a simple manner, reducing the possibility of displacement of the workpiece, such as the pressure plate, during movement of the conveyor mechanism.

[0022] In some embodiments, the switching platform further includes an automatic pipe connection module, which is slidably mounted on the switching platform along a third direction perpendicular to the first and second directions. The workpiece includes a complementary automatic pipe connection module, which is fixedly mounted on the workpiece and configured to dock with the complementary automatic pipe connection module on the workpiece to connect the pipes when the workpiece is in place on the switching platform. This pipeline integration allows for rapid connection and separation of pipes between the workpiece (here, the pressure plate) and the platform, thereby saving labor.

[0023] In some embodiments, the storage mechanism is a multi-layered structure distributed along the first direction, with each layer accommodating at least one workpiece. This facilitates retrieving required workpieces, such as press plates, from the storage mechanism, such as a press plate library, and storing replaced workpieces, such as press plates, in the storage mechanism, such as a press plate library.

[0024] In some embodiments, the storage mechanism is configured to be movable along the second direction between a working position and a maintenance position, wherein the working position is close to the switching mechanism, and the maintenance position is spaced apart from the switching mechanism. The movable, for example, slidable, arrangement of the storage mechanism, such as the platen magazine, facilitates removal of the storage mechanism, such as the platen magazine, when necessary, so that an operator can inspect and repair it.

[0025] In a second aspect, the present application provides a switching method for switching workpieces, wherein the switching method is performed using the aforementioned workpiece switching system. Upon receiving a switching instruction, the method executes:

[0026] - Dismantle old workpieces;

[0027] - moving the old workpiece to the switching position using the switching mechanism and transferring it to the unloaded conveying mechanism;

[0028] - enabling the conveying mechanism to transport the carried old workpieces back to the storage mechanism;

[0029] - causing the unloaded conveying mechanism to extract a new workpiece from the storage mechanism and transfer the new workpiece to the switching mechanism;

[0030] - Moving the switching mechanism carrying the new workpiece back to the standby position.

[0031] Therefore, the entire workpiece switching process, such as the platen change process, is carried out in a mechanized rather than manual manner, thereby improving efficiency, shortening changeover time, and saving manpower.

[0032] In some embodiments, removing the old workpiece includes: moving the clamping mechanism in a first direction away from the switching mechanism to release the old workpiece from the lower surface of the switching platform of the switching mechanism; the positioning member of the switching platform still partially engages the old workpiece. This allows the workpiece, such as a pressure plate, to be released from the clamping mechanism while still being partially retained by the positioning member.

[0033] In some embodiments, the bottom support component of the switching mechanism is kept inserted into the old workpiece while the old workpiece is loosened from the switching platform, so that the loosened old workpiece, such as an old pressing plate, can be held by the bottom support component and will not fall.

[0034] In some embodiments, when the switching mechanism carrying the old workpiece moves to the switching position along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, the unloaded conveying mechanism moves along the first direction close to the switching platform to a docking position. This facilitates the conveying mechanism to receive or deliver workpieces such as press plates from or to the switching platform.

[0035] In some embodiments, transferring the old workpiece to the unloaded conveyor mechanism includes: completely disengaging the positioning member of the switching platform from the old workpiece; inserting a latch of the conveyor mechanism into a receptacle of the old workpiece; and withdrawing the bottom support member of the switching mechanism from the old workpiece. This allows for preliminary positioning of the old workpiece, such as an old pressure plate, on the conveyor mechanism during transfer, preventing it from shifting during descent of the conveyor mechanism.

[0036] In some embodiments, causing the conveyor mechanism to transport the loaded old workpiece back to the storage mechanism includes: returning the loaded conveyor mechanism to its initial position and returning the unloaded switching mechanism to the standby position; and moving the conveyor mechanism in a first direction to the height of the empty workpiece layer of the storage mechanism to return the loaded old workpiece to the corresponding storage location. This allows the conveyor mechanism to quickly return old workpieces, such as old pressure plates, and retrieve new workpieces, such as new pressure plates, thereby accelerating switching speeds.

[0037] In some embodiments, causing the unloaded conveyor mechanism to extract a new workpiece from the storage mechanism includes: moving the unloaded conveyor mechanism along a first direction to a height of a layer of workpieces to be extracted in the storage mechanism; and moving the new workpiece from a corresponding storage location onto the aligned conveyor mechanism. The conveyor mechanism enables simple and rapid extraction of new workpieces, such as new platens, thereby improving switching efficiency.

[0038] In some embodiments, causing the unloaded conveyor mechanism to extract a new workpiece from the storage mechanism further includes: activating workpiece moving components on the layer of workpieces to be extracted and on the conveyor mechanism to move the new workpiece onto the conveyor mechanism; and when the new workpiece is moved into position on the conveyor mechanism, inserting a latch on the conveyor mechanism into a receptacle for the new workpiece. This firstly enables a new workpiece, such as a new press plate, to be automatically transferred from a storage mechanism, such as a press plate library, to the conveyor mechanism through mechanical means, and then preliminarily positions the new workpiece, such as a new press plate, on the conveyor mechanism to reduce the risk of the new workpiece, such as a new press plate, shifting during subsequent movement of the conveyor mechanism.

[0039] In some embodiments, transferring the new workpiece to the switching mechanism includes: returning the conveyor mechanism carrying the new workpiece to its initial position; moving the unloaded switching mechanism to the switching position; moving the conveyor mechanism in a first direction toward the switching mechanism to a docking position adjacent to the switching platform of the switching mechanism; and inserting the bottom member of the switching mechanism into the new workpiece, with the positioning member of the switching platform partially engaging with the new workpiece. This allows for the rapid transfer of a new workpiece, such as a new platen, while also increasing safety during transfer.

[0040] In some embodiments, moving the switching mechanism carrying the new workpiece back to the standby position includes: moving the conveying mechanism away from the switching mechanism in a first direction back to its initial position, so as not to interfere with the switching mechanism's return to the standby position.

[0041] In some embodiments, moving the switching mechanism carrying the new workpiece back to the standby position further includes: using a clamping mechanism to clamp the new workpiece; and moving a fall prevention component under the clamping mechanism. This allows the clamping mechanism to secure the new workpiece, such as a new pressure plate, when it is brought to the standby position by the switching mechanism, while also preventing the clamping mechanism from falling due to air loss, thereby improving work safety.

[0042] In some embodiments, removing the old workpiece includes disengaging the automatic pipe connection module from its complementary automatic pipe connection module on the old workpiece by sliding the automatic pipe connection module on the switching platform of the switching mechanism in a third direction perpendicular to the first and second directions, in a direction opposite to the connection pipe. This allows all pipe connections between the platform and the workpiece, such as the pressure plate, to be disengaged at once, thereby expediting the separation of the old workpiece, such as the old pressure plate, from the switching platform.

[0043] In some embodiments, moving the switching mechanism carrying the new workpiece back to the standby position includes sliding an automatic pipe connection module on the switching platform in a third direction perpendicular to the first and second directions toward the pipe connection, thereby engaging a complementary automatic pipe connection module on the new workpiece. This allows all pipe connections between the platform and the new workpiece, such as a new platen, to be completed at one time, thereby accelerating the installation of the new workpiece, such as a new platen, on the switching platform.

[0044] On the third aspect, the present application provides a battery production line, which includes a battery welding station. The battery welding station includes the aforementioned workpiece switching system for switching different types of copper nozzle pressure plates required for battery welding.

[0045] According to some embodiments of the present application, the battery production line utilizes a switching system for the workpiece of the battery welding station, which is a pressure plate, and can quickly and mechanizedly switch the copper nozzle pressure plate of the welding station required at the welding station, thereby improving the overall battery production efficiency.

[0046] The above description is only an overview of the technical solution of the present application. In order to more clearly understand the technical means of the present application, it can be implemented in accordance with the contents of the specification. In order to make the above and other purposes, features and advantages of the present application more obvious and easy to understand, the specific implementation methods of the present application are listed below. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0047] Various other advantages and benefits will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the detailed description of the preferred embodiment below. The accompanying drawings are for illustration purposes only and are not to be considered as limiting the present application. The same reference numerals are used throughout the drawings to represent the same components. In the drawings:

[0048] FIG1 is a structural perspective view of a switching system according to some embodiments of the present application as viewed from the switching platform side, wherein the switching platform is in a standby position;

[0049] FIG2 is a side view of a switching system according to some embodiments of the present application, wherein the switching platform is in a standby position;

[0050] FIG3 is another side view of the switching system according to some embodiments of the present application, wherein the switching platform is in the switching position;

[0051] FIG4 is a schematic diagram of a platen library according to some embodiments of the present application, viewed from the side facing the switching platform;

[0052] FIG5 is a side view of a platen magazine and a conveying mechanism slidably connected to the platen magazine according to some embodiments of the present application;

[0053] FIG6 is a top view of a platen magazine and a conveying mechanism slidably connected to the platen magazine according to some embodiments of the present application;

[0054] FIG7 is a view of a support plate portion of a conveying mechanism according to some embodiments of the present application as viewed from the longitudinal side;

[0055] FIG8 is a view of a switching mechanism according to some embodiments of the present application, as viewed from a side opposite to the platen magazine;

[0056] FIG9 is an enlarged detail view of the portion surrounded by circle I in FIG8 ;

[0057] FIG10 is a side view of a copper nozzle pressure plate used in some embodiments of the present application as viewed from the longitudinal direction;

[0058] FIG11 is a bottom view of the copper nozzle pressure plate used in some embodiments of the present application, showing the copper nozzle side of the pressure plate surface;

[0059] FIG12 is a top view of the copper nozzle pressure plate used in some embodiments of the present application, showing the pressure plate surface opposite to the copper nozzle side;

[0060] FIG13 is a diagram of an automatic pipe connection module integrated on a copper nozzle pressure plate used in some embodiments of the present application, in which case the module is a quick-connect female pipe connector;

[0061] FIG14 is a bottom perspective view of a clamping mechanism according to some embodiments of the present application;

[0062] FIG. 15 is a view of the clamping mechanism of some embodiments of the present application as viewed from the longitudinal side.

[0063] Marking description: 1 Press plate library; 2 Conveying mechanism 21 Bracket 22 Connecting block 23 Support plate 24 Latch 27 Latch 26 Press plate moving part 3 Switching mechanism 31 Switching platform; 32 Slide rail 33 Support 34 Bottom cover part 341 Insert block 342 Cylinder 343 Sliding assembly 36 Integrated pipeline quick-connect male connector 37 Pipe 38 Slide rail slider assembly 4 Copper nozzle press plate 41 Dust extraction pipe 42 Copper nozzle 43 Pipe quick-connect female connector 44 Groove 45 Hole 46, 47 Socket 5 Clamping mechanism 51 Clamping frame 52 Main column 53 Reinforcement rod 54 Slide rail slider assembly 55 Cylinder 56 Support block 57 Lower crossbeam 6 Anti-fall component 61 Anti-fall column 7 Frame 8 Base 9 Slide rail 12 Copper nozzle cleaning mechanism 16 Servo motor; 17 Reducer; 18 screw rod module; 19 slide bar assembly DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0064] The following embodiments of the technical solution of the present application will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The following embodiments are only used to more clearly illustrate the technical solution of the present application and are therefore only examples and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the present application.

[0065] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which this application belongs; the terms used herein are only for the purpose of describing specific embodiments and are not intended to limit this application; the terms "including" and "having" and any variations thereof in the specification and claims of this application and the above-mentioned figure descriptions are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusions.

[0066] In the description of the embodiments of this application, the technical terms "first" and "second" are used only to distinguish different objects and should not be understood to indicate or imply relative importance or implicitly specify the quantity, specific order, or primary and secondary relationship of the indicated technical features. In the description of the embodiments of this application, the meaning of "plurality" is more than two, unless otherwise clearly and specifically defined.

[0067] References herein to "embodiments" mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiments may be included in at least one embodiment of the present application. The appearance of this phrase in various places in the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor does it constitute an independent or alternative embodiment that is mutually exclusive of other embodiments. It is understood, both explicitly and implicitly, by those skilled in the art that the embodiments described herein may be combined with other embodiments.

[0068] In the description of the embodiments of this application, the term "and / or" is simply a description of the association relationship between associated objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent the following three situations: A exists alone, A and B exist simultaneously, and B exists alone. In addition, the character " / " in this document generally indicates that the associated objects are in an "or" relationship.

[0069] In the description of the embodiments of the present application, the term "multiple" refers to more than two (including two). Similarly, "multiple groups" refers to more than two groups (including two groups), and "multiple pieces" refers to more than two pieces (including two pieces).

[0070] In the description of the embodiments of the present application, the technical terms "center", "longitudinal", "lateral", "length", "width", "thickness", "up", "down", "front", "back", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inside", "outside", "clockwise", "counterclockwise", "axial", "radial", "circumferential", etc., indicating the orientation or position relationship, are based on the orientation or position relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing the embodiments of the present application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore cannot be understood as a limitation on the embodiments of the present application.

[0071] In the description of the embodiments of the present application, unless otherwise expressly specified or limited, technical terms such as "installed," "connected," "connected," and "fixed" should be understood in a broad sense. For example, they can refer to fixed connections, detachable connections, or integration; mechanical connections or electrical connections; direct connections or indirect connections through an intermediate medium; internal connections between two components or interactions between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meanings of the above terms in the embodiments of the present application based on specific circumstances.

[0072] Judging from the current market development, the application of power batteries is becoming more and more extensive. Power batteries are not only used in energy storage power systems such as hydropower, thermal power, wind power, and solar power stations, but are also widely used in electric vehicles such as electric bicycles, electric motorcycles, and electric vehicles, as well as in military equipment and aerospace, among other fields.

[0073] As the application areas of power batteries continue to expand, their market demand is also constantly increasing. Correspondingly, battery production technology, including equipment and methods, has become increasingly important. In battery production equipment, automatic laser welding is often used to weld the battery cell poles and connecting plates together. In order to adapt to modules with diverse structures, the pressure plate needs to be replaced. However, the pressure plate weighs dozens or even hundreds of kilograms, and it often requires the cooperation of multiple people to dismantle the original copper nozzle pressure plate, replace it with a new copper nozzle pressure plate, readjust the relative position of the positioning pressure plate and the pole, and then reconnect the protective gas and dust extraction pipelines, and modify the gas circuit battery valve control logic. This makes the changeover efficiency low. In addition, due to the small space in the welding room, the process of moving the pressure plate up and down to install it is difficult, and it is also easy to cause harm to personnel.

[0074] Based on the above considerations, in order to address the issues of low platen changeover efficiency, high labor costs, and poor safety, in-depth research has revealed the potential for a program-controlled, automated platen switching system and corresponding switching method. A project blueprint can be created for each platen model. This allows for quick, automatic switching of the platen model using a single click on the control panel based on the project blueprint. To this end, a specially designed platen switching system includes a platen storage system that stores multiple different platen models, a platen conveyor mechanism that transfers and retrieves plates from the storage system, and a switching mechanism that coordinates with the conveyor mechanism to transfer old plates to an empty conveyor mechanism or to receive new plates from the conveyor mechanism. When a platen changeover is required, the operator selects the project blueprint for the desired platen model in the control system to activate the platen switching system, thereby achieving automatic platen changeover. This system not only improves changeover efficiency but also saves labor and improves personnel safety.

[0075] The switching system and method disclosed in the embodiments of this application can be used, but is not limited to, in production lines for batteries used in vehicles, ships, or aircraft, or more specifically, in welding stations to switch between different types of copper nozzle pressure plates. In fact, this switching system and method can be more broadly applied to structures such as those in warehousing where frequent tooling changes are required.

[0076] In addition, the battery produced by welding using the switching system and method disclosed in the embodiment of the present application can be used in, but not limited to, electrical devices such as vehicles, ships, or aircraft. A power supply system comprising an electrical device including the battery disclosed in the present application can be used.

[0077] The electrical devices using the batteries of the embodiments of the present application as power sources may include, but are not limited to, mobile phones, tablets, laptop computers, electric toys, electric tools, battery-powered vehicles, electric cars, ships, spacecraft, and the like. The electric toys may include fixed or mobile electric toys, such as game consoles, electric car toys, electric ship toys, and electric airplane toys, and the spacecraft may include airplanes, rockets, space shuttles, and spacecraft, and the like.

[0078] For ease of explanation, the following embodiments utilize a switching system for a copper nozzle pressure plate used in a welding station for battery production, as described in some embodiments of the present application. The copper nozzle pressure plate is a tool used for busbar welding, used to press the tabs and terminals together, protect the welding area, and provide shielding gas and dust removal within the welding area.

[0079] As described above, some embodiments of the present application propose a battery production line, which includes a battery welding station. The battery welding station includes a switching system as shown in Figures 1-2, which is used to switch different models of copper nozzle pressure plates required when welding batteries, such as the copper nozzle pressure plate 4 shown in Figures 10-12.

[0080] According to some embodiments of the present application, a platen switching system is provided as shown in Figures 1-3. The platen switching system includes: a platen library 1, which serves as a storage mechanism for storing a plurality of platens 4 in layers along a first direction; a conveyor mechanism 2, which can move along the first direction to transport the platens 4 into the platen library 1 or extract the platens 4 from the platen library 1; and a switching mechanism 3, which can move along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction between a first state and a second state. In the first state, the switching mechanism 3 is configured to be in a standby state. In the second state, the switching mechanism 3 is configured to cooperate with the conveyor mechanism 2 to transfer the platens 4.

[0081] First, for clarity, the coordinate system (V, L, T) is indicated in the relevant figures. The first direction is relative to height, such as the platen storage height, and corresponds to the V direction. The second direction, perpendicular to the first direction (V), is relative to width, such as the platen storage width, and corresponds to the T direction. The third direction, mentioned below, is perpendicular to the first and second directions and is relative to length, such as the platen storage length, or the platen length, and corresponds to the L direction.

[0082] Furthermore, as mentioned above, the so-called storage mechanism refers to a mechanism for storing workpieces such as press plates or other tooling, which may be a press plate warehouse or other tooling warehouse.

[0083] As can be seen from Figures 1 and 4 , the platen storage 1 for storing the platens 4 can be divided, for example, along a V-direction from bottom to top into first, second, third, and fourth layers, with each layer housing a different type of copper nozzle platen 4. This arrangement is not restrictive. More or fewer layers for copper nozzle platens can be arranged as needed. Alternatively, one layer, such as the second layer, can be free of copper nozzle platens and instead used to house the copper nozzle cleaning mechanism 12 shown in Figure 2 , which is also partially visible in Figure 1 .

[0084] The conveyor mechanism 2 can be seen in Figures 1-3 and 5. The conveyor mechanism 2 is configured to move upward or downward along a V-direction. Figure 5 only illustrates the upward movement direction F1 of the conveyor mechanism 2, and also shows a platen 4 positioned on the conveyor mechanism 2. The conveyor mechanism 2 can move to a desired storage level to return a platen 4 on the conveyor mechanism 2 to the corresponding storage level, or retrieve a desired platen 4 from the corresponding storage level when the conveyor mechanism 2 is empty.

[0085] More specifically, the platen 4 rests on a moving element (not visible in the figure) within the platen storage layer. For example, the moving element is achieved by a chain driven by a motor, such as a three-phase motor, which rotates rollers, with the platen 4 resting on the rollers. A similar moving element (not visible in the figure) may also be provided on the conveyor mechanism 2. Alternatively, such a platen moving element may be provided by a motor-driven pallet belt of the conveyor mechanism 2.

[0086] The switching mechanism 3 can be seen in Figures 1-3. Figures 1-2 show the switching mechanism 3 in a first position, away from the platen magazine 1. This first position is a standby position, in which a platen 4 is shown positioned on the switching mechanism 3. The switching mechanism 3 includes a switching platform 31. In the standby position, the switching platform 31 can be used as a welding platform. Figure 3 shows the switching mechanism 3 in a second position, having moved in the direction F2 shown in Figure 2 toward the platen magazine 1, ready to dock with the conveyor mechanism 2 for transferring the platen 4.

[0087] Therefore, the so-called first state and second state are two different states of the switching mechanism 3, specifically, its switching platform 31 relative to the storage mechanism, such as the platen magazine 1. The first state is the standby state as described above. In this state, the platform 31 is either in the welding position and is used only as a welding platform, or the platform 31 is used as a switching preparation platform for the platen 4, for example, to release the platen 4 from the platform 31 in preparation for subsequent switching as described later; the second state is the working state of the mechanism 3, specifically, its platform 31 as the switching platform, which is used to exchange the old and new platens 4 with the storage mechanism, such as the platen magazine 1, through the conveying mechanism 2 as the switching position described later.

[0088] By using this switching system, the required press plate 4 can be extracted from the press plate warehouse 1 in a mechanized manner, or the press plate removed from the standby position can be transported back to the press plate warehouse 1, so as to mechanizedly cut off the old press plate and replace it with a new one, thereby improving the efficiency of press plate change and reducing manpower.

[0089] Furthermore, a project blueprint can be pre-defined for each platen in the platen library 1, and simple logic can be used to control the call and storage of the platen 4. To change models, simply click the one-touch switch button on the control screen, and the PLC (Programmable Logic Controller: A programmable logic controller with a microprocessor for automated control, which can load control instructions into memory for storage and execution at any time) issues a switch command, automatically operating the switching system to change the platen model, significantly reducing changeover time and manpower.

[0090] Here, it is still necessary to emphasize that the switching system according to some embodiments of the present application is not limited to being used for workpieces such as copper nozzle pressure plates.

[0091] According to some embodiments of the present application, the platen library 1 includes a power assembly arranged thereon, which is drive-connected to the conveying mechanism 2 , and the conveying mechanism 2 can move along the V direction driven by the power assembly.

[0092] The so-called power component here refers to a component that can drive the conveying mechanism 2 to move so that it can extract the pressing plate 4 from the storage mechanism (here, the pressing plate library 1) or return it to the pressing plate library.

[0093] Referring to FIG4 , the power assembly includes a servo motor 16. The servo motor 16 is fixed in the middle of the top of the platen magazine 1, for example. The servo motor 16 is connected to a reducer 17 located at the end of the top of the platen magazine 1 via an output shaft on each side. The reducer 17 is connected to a corresponding screw module 18. Two screw modules 18 are fixed on both sides of the platen magazine 1 along the entire height of the platen magazine 1 in the approximate middle of the side surface, as shown in FIG5 .

[0094] With this arrangement, when the servo motor 16 is working, the rotational motion output by it is converted into linear motion of the screw slider through the screw connected to the servo motor, thereby driving the transmission mechanism 2 connected to the screw slider to move along the V direction.

[0095] Of course, in addition to the servo motor 16 and the screw module 18, other methods such as a servo motor and a chain can also be used to implement this power assembly.

[0096] The power assembly as described above can convert rotational motion into linear motion, thereby driving the transmission mechanism 2 connected to the screw slider 18 of the power assembly to translate along the V direction.

[0097] Through this power component, the conveying mechanism 2 can move along the V direction or to the required storage layer to extract or put back the pressure plate 4, or move between the initial position and the docking position relative to the switching platform 31 in the switching area to retrieve the pressure plate 4 from the switching platform 31 or transfer the pressure plate 4 to the switching platform 31.

[0098] According to some embodiments of the present application, the platen library 1 also includes a guide component, which is symmetrically arranged on both sides of the platen library 1 along the L direction and connected to the conveying mechanism 2, so that when the conveying mechanism 2 is driven by the power assembly, the guide component synchronously guides the movement of the conveying mechanism 2 along the V direction.

[0099] Therefore, it is clear that the so-called guide component refers to a component that guides the conveying mechanism 2 during its movement.

[0100] Referring to Figure 5 , the guide assembly includes a slide bar and slider assembly 19, which is disposed along a side of the platen magazine 1 near the conveyor mechanism 2. The conveyor mechanism 2 is connected to the slider of the slide bar and slider assembly 19 on one side and to the slider of the screw module 18 on the other side via a connecting block 22, for example, a triangular bracket 21. Here, the screw module 18 of the power assembly and the slide bar and slider assembly 19 of the guide assembly are both symmetrically arranged on either side of the platen magazine 1.

[0101] As the servo motor 16 operates, driving the conveyor 2 in the V direction via the screw module 18 and the screw slider, the conveyor 2 is guided by the connected slide bar and slider assembly 19, moving synchronously upward or downward along the slide bars on both sides. The slide bar and slider assembly 19 thus serves as a guide for the conveyor 2.

[0102] Thus, the guide component can guide the conveying mechanism 2 to move smoothly along the V direction when the conveying mechanism 2 is driven to move by the power assembly on the platen magazine 1.

[0103] According to some embodiments of the present application, as shown in Figures 1-3, the platen library 1 and the switching mechanism 3 are arranged in sequence along the T direction. A switching space for switching the platen 4 is thus formed between the platen library 1 and the switching mechanism 3. The switching mechanism 3 is configured to be able to move between the standby position and the switching position along the T direction. For example, as shown in Figure 1, the switching mechanism 3 may include two supports 33. A slide rail 32 is fixedly mounted on each of the two supports 33, and each of the slide rails 32 extends along the T direction. The switching platform 31 of the switching mechanism 3 cooperates with the corresponding slide rails 32 at both ends along the L direction through sliders on its lower surface (not visible in the figure), so that it can slide between the standby position and the switching position. Therefore, the switching platform 31 can be slidably supported on the two supports 33 along the L direction.

[0104] The standby position corresponds to the aforementioned first standby state. In the standby position, a pressure plate 4 is placed on the switching mechanism 3 (see Figures 1-2 ), or the switching mechanism 3 is unloaded. The switching position corresponds to the aforementioned second state. In the switching position, the switching mechanism 3 and the conveyor mechanism 2 can cooperate to transfer an old workpiece 4 on the switching mechanism 3 to the unloaded conveyor mechanism 2, or to enable the unloaded switching mechanism 3 to receive a new workpiece 4 from the conveyor mechanism 2. Figure 3 shows the switching mechanism 3 in the switching position, more specifically, its switching platform 31.

[0105] As can also be seen from Figure 1, in the switching system, the switching mechanism 3, specifically its switching platform 31, carrying a platen 4, is currently in the standby position, while the unloaded conveyor mechanism 2 is in its low initial position. The low initial position of the conveyor mechanism 2 is, for example, approximately aligned with the lowest level of the platen storage. Of course, this is merely exemplary, and a suitable initial position of the conveyor mechanism 2 can be set as needed.

[0106] There is a free area between the platen storage 1 and the switching platform 31 in the standby position. This area forms the switching space, also known as the switching zone, where the switching platform 31 and the conveyor mechanism 2 connect to replace the platen 4 during operation. In Figure 1, relative to the V direction, the conveyor mechanism 2 is located at the bottom of this switching space in its initial position.

[0107] During operation of the switching system, the switching platform 31 slides in the direction indicated by arrow F2 in Figure 2 into the switching space, assuming a switching position (see Figure 3 ). In this position, the switching platform 31 is positioned adjacent to the platen magazine 1. As shown in Figure 3 , the switching platform 31, carrying the platen 4, is located at the upper portion of the switching space relative to the V direction, while the conveyor mechanism 2 remains in its lowered initial position.

[0108] This arrangement facilitates the coordination among the press plate magazine 1 , the switching mechanism 3 and the conveying mechanism 2 to change the press plate 4 .

[0109] According to some embodiments of the present application, the conveying mechanism 2 is capable of aligning the pressure plate layer of the pressure plate library 1 in the T direction by moving along the V direction, or is capable of approaching the switching mechanism 3 in the switching position by moving upward along the V direction and aligning with the switching mechanism 3 in the V direction.

[0110] Referring to Figures 6-7 , the conveyor mechanism 2 includes a pallet portion 23. Two platen moving components 26 are provided at both ends of the pallet portion 23 along the L direction. These components can be similar to the platen moving components provided on the platen storage layer. These moving components have been described previously and will not be further described here. The conveyor mechanism 2 also includes a bracket 21, as previously described with reference to Figure 5 , which connects the conveyor mechanism 2 to the power assembly and guide components.

[0111] Advantageously, the length of the supporting plate portion 23 along the L direction may be substantially the same as the length of the pressing plate magazine 1 , as shown in FIG6 .

[0112] When the conveying mechanism 2 slides along the V direction to the desired pressure plate storage layer, it is advantageous that the pressure plate moving component 26 can be aligned with the pressure plate moving component of the corresponding pressure plate storage layer along the T direction, so as to facilitate the pressure plate 4 to move from the pressure plate warehouse 1 to the support plate part 23 of the conveying mechanism 2 to its position, or to facilitate the pressure plate 4 placed on the pressure plate moving component such as a roller on the support plate part 23 of the conveying mechanism 2 to be driven by the roller to be moved back to the corresponding empty storage layer of the pressure plate warehouse 1.

[0113] When the conveyor mechanism 2 needs to dock with the switching platform 3, the conveyor mechanism 2 moves upward in the switching space along the V direction from its initial position until it approaches the switching mechanism 3, more specifically, approaches the docking position aligned with the switching platform 31, so that the old pressure plate 4 can be transferred from the switching platform 31 to the conveyor mechanism 2 or the new pressure plate 4 carried by the conveyor mechanism 2 can be transferred to the switching platform 31. In the docking position, the conveyor mechanism 2 is close to but slightly lower than the switching platform 31 in the switching position.

[0114] With the help of the conveying mechanism 2 that slides along the V direction and the switching platform 31 that can slide along the T direction, it is convenient to utilize the above-mentioned switching space to realize the separation and replacement of the new and old pressing plates 4.

[0115] According to some embodiments of the present application, as described above, the switching mechanism 3 includes a switching platform 31, which can move between a standby position and a switching position along the T direction; wherein, as shown in Figures 1-2, in the standby position, the switching platform 31 is away from the platen library 1; as shown in Figure 3, in the switching position, the switching platform 31 is close to the platen library 1.

[0116] In the standby position shown in Figures 1-2, a pressure plate 4 is placed on a switching platform 31. If the pressure plate 4 is a new one after a replacement, the switching platform 31 can now be used as a welding platform during welding at the welding station in the welding room. In fact, this platform 31 is a comprehensive platform that can be used as a welding platform in the standby position or as a switching platform when the pressure plate needs to be replaced.

[0117] As previously explained, the switching platform 31 slides in the T direction to a switching position (see Figure 3) adjacent to the platen magazine 1, where it can interface with the conveyor mechanism 2, by virtue of its sliders cooperating with the slide rails 32 on the support 33. It can also slide in the reverse direction, away from the platen magazine 1, back to the standby position shown in Figures 1-2. As previously mentioned, the slide rails 32 are fixedly mounted on the support 33, and both the slide rails 32 and the support 33 extend in the T direction. The switching platform 31 slides along the L direction, engaging the slide rails 32 via sliders located at its ends.

[0118] This arrangement facilitates the movement of the switching mechanism 3 , more precisely, the switching platform 31 , between the standby position and the switching position.

[0119] According to some embodiments of the present application, the switching mechanism 3 further includes at least two bottom-covering components 34 , which are provided on the lower surfaces of both side ends of the switching platform 31 in the L direction.

[0120] The so-called bottom protection component refers to a protective component arranged on the lower surface of the switching platform 31 for keeping the pressure plate 4 on the platform 31 to prevent the pressure plate 4 from falling off when the workpiece, here the pressure plate 4, is not fastened to the switching platform 31, for example, when the pressure plate 4 is loosened from the platform 31 or when the platform 31 receives the pressure plate 4 from the conveying mechanism 2.

[0121] This is particularly evident in Figures 8-9. One of the bottom support members 34 can be seen in Figure 9. Preferably, four bottom support members 34 are provided, two on each side, to cooperate with the grooves 44 on the pressure plate 4 shown in Figure 11. This is of course not restrictive.

[0122] This support member 34 is designed to hold the pressure plate 4 supported by the switching platform 31, preventing it from falling. This is particularly beneficial during the changeover of the pressure plate 4. As will be described below, when the pressure plate 4 on the switching platform 31 needs to be replaced, the clamping mechanism 5 descends to release the pressure plate 4. Without the support member 34, the pressure plate 4 would be at risk of falling.

[0123] According to some embodiments of the present application, the bottom cover component 34 is retractable and includes a card plug-in configured to be inserted into and withdrawn from the pressing plate 4 .

[0124] The card plug-in component refers to a component that is used to hold the pressure plate 4 on the platform 31 by being clipped into and / or inserted into the pressure plate, thereby forming a bottom support component.

[0125] Specifically, for example, as shown in FIG. 9 , the bottom cover component 34 includes an inserting block 341 forming the card plug-in unit. The inserting block 341 can be advantageously inserted into the end groove 44 of the pressing plate 4 through the action of a cylinder 342 .

[0126] Referring again to FIG9 , one can see an insert block 341 of a bottom support component 34, which has been inserted into the pressure plate 4. Specifically, the insert block 341 is pushed by the cylinder 342 and inserted into the end groove 44 of the pressure plate 4 carried by the switching platform 31. The cylinder 342 of the bottom support component 34 is fixed to the lower surface of the switching platform 31 through a connecting block, and the cylinder 342 is connected to the insert block 341 through a floating joint. The cylinder 342 is connected to a sliding assembly 343 on the opposite side of the connecting insert block 342, and the sliding assembly 343 is slidable by cooperating with a slide rail (not visible) fixed to the lower surface of the switching platform 31 through a slider. In this way, the insert block 341 can be inserted into and removed from the groove 44 of the pressure plate 4.

[0127] See also Figure 11 showing the pressing plate surface of the copper mouth side of the pressing plate 4. In fact, when the pressing plate 4 is placed in the pressing plate library 1 or on the conveying mechanism 2, or when carried by the switching platform 31, the pressing plate surface is always downward along the V direction.

[0128] As can be seen from Figure 11, four rectangular grooves 44 are provided at the edges of both ends of the pressure plate surface along the L direction. These grooves 44 are for inserting the insert blocks 341 of the bottom cover member 34. As mentioned above, four such bottom cover members 34 can be provided on the switching platform 31, for example, two on each side, to cooperate with these four grooves 44.

[0129] With this arrangement of the bottom cover member 34 , the bottom cover member 34 can be simply extended or retracted to cover or release the pressure plate 4 when needed.

[0130] According to some embodiments of the present application, the bottom support component 34 can move with the switching platform 31 to the switching position as shown in Figure 3; when in the switching position, the conveying mechanism 2 can move upward along the V direction close to the switching platform 31 under the action of the power assembly and guide component connected to it, thereby docking with the switching platform 31 to transfer the old pressure plate 4 on the switching platform 31 to the unloaded conveying mechanism 2 or receive a new pressure plate 4 from the conveying mechanism 2.

[0131] When the pressing plate 4 needs to be changed, the pressing plate 4 is released from the switching platform 31, but the pressing plate 4 can still be held on the switching platform 31 with the help of the bottom cover component 34. The pressing plate 4 held by the bottom cover component 34 moves to the switching position along the direction of the arrow F2 shown in Figure 2 with the switching platform 31. The unloaded conveying mechanism 2 then moves upward along the V direction to approach the switching platform 31 of the docking switching mechanism 3. When the pressing plate 4 is transferred to the conveying mechanism 2, specifically its support plate part 23, the bottom cover component 34 is withdrawn from the groove 44 of the pressing plate 4 by the action of the cylinder. When a new pressing plate 4 needs to be received from the conveying mechanism 2, the bottom cover component 34 of the switching mechanism 3 is inserted into the groove 44 of the new pressing plate 4 on the conveying mechanism 2, and then the switching platform 31 is moved back to its standby position with the new pressing plate 4.

[0132] The bottom support component 34 can prevent the pressing plate 4 from falling during the entire changing process, thereby enhancing work safety.

[0133] According to some embodiments of the present application, the switching platform 31 includes a plurality of positioning members, which are used to cooperate with and position the pressure plate 4 .

[0134] The positioning element itself is a component that positions the workpiece, here the pressing plate 4 , relative to the switching platform 31 .

[0135] In reality, when the pressing plate 4 is transferred from the conveyor mechanism 2 to the switching platform 31 and transported to the standby position, the position of the pressing plate 4 is not 100% accurate and there will be a certain error. The provision of such a positioning member allows the pressing plate 4 to be positioned by the positioning member and the pressing plate when the pressing plate 4 is transferred from the conveyor mechanism 2 and carried by the switching platform 31 to prevent the pressing plate 4 from shifting.

[0136] According to some embodiments of the present application, the plurality of positioning members are provided on the lower surface of the switching platform 31 and arranged on at least two opposite sides of the switching platform 31 , and the positioning members are used to cooperate and fix with at least two coordination portions of the pressure plate 4 .

[0137] The so-called coordination portion refers to a corresponding portion that cooperates with a corresponding component, here, a positioning piece on the switching platform 31 , to achieve positioning of the pressing plate 4 relative to the platform 31 .

[0138] Advantageously, the positioning member on the switching platform 31 includes at least two pins, which can be arranged diagonally on the lower surface of the switching platform 31 for example, and are used to be inserted into at least two diagonally arranged holes 45 (see Figure 11) in the upper surface of the pressure plate 4.

[0139] When the pin is inserted into the corresponding hole in the pressing plate 4, the pressing plate 4 can be positioned. However, this pin is smaller on the one hand and, as shown in Figures 8-9, has been inserted into the pressing plate on the other hand, so that the pin is not visible in the figures.

[0140] However, see Figures 11-12. These figures show two circular holes 45, here arranged diagonally, on the pressure plate 4. These holes 45 are used to insert two diagonally arranged pins of the switching platform 31 to position the pressure plate 4. The pins are sized to accurately position the pressure plate 4 and can be, for example, pointed pins, thereby allowing positional errors of the pressure plate 4 to be corrected.

[0141] Although two diagonally arranged pins are used on the switching platform 31, this is only exemplary and more pins can be provided as needed, or pins can be provided at other positions. Other pins besides pointed pins can also be used as long as the pressure plate positioning function can be achieved.

[0142] By using the positioning members such as pins arranged as described above, after the pressing plate 4 is transported back to the standby position (welding position) by the switching platform 31 , there is no need to manually readjust the positioning error of the pressing plate on the switching platform.

[0143] According to some embodiments of the present application, the switching system further includes a pressing mechanism 5 , which can move upward along a V direction toward the switching platform 31 to press the pressure plate 4 carried by the switching platform 31 .

[0144] The clamping mechanism is thus a mechanism which presses the workpiece, here the pressing plate 4 , against the platform 31 by a clamping action.

[0145] Such a pressing mechanism 5 can be seen in Figure 8. The pressing mechanism 5 shown in the figure is in a pressing position in which it presses the pressure plate 4.

[0146] With the help of this clamping mechanism 5, on the one hand, the pressure plate 4 can be clamped in place in the standby position (welding position); on the other hand, when clamping, the positioning parts such as pins on the switching platform 31 can further penetrate into the matching part of the pressure plate 4, here is the corresponding hole, so that the pressure plate 4 can be accurately positioned.

[0147] According to some embodiments of the present application, as previously described, referring to FIG8 , the switching mechanism 3 further includes a support 33 for supporting the switching platform 31 so as to allow the switching platform 31 to slide thereon in the T direction. The pressing mechanism 5 is slidably connected to the support 33 in the V direction.

[0148] Therefore, it is clear that the support is a supporting member for supporting the switching platform 31 .

[0149] For the clamping mechanism 5, please refer to Figures 14-15 in particular, where Figure 14 is a bottom perspective view of the clamping mechanism 5 according to some embodiments of the present application, and Figure 15 is a side view of the clamping mechanism 5 according to some embodiments of the present application as viewed from the length direction.

[0150] Specifically, as shown in FIG14 , the clamping mechanism 5 includes a clamping frame 51 . The clamping frame 51 , for example, includes four main columns 52 extending in the V direction and a top frame located in the plane (L, T). These four main columns 52 are fixed to the top frame at the four corners of the clamping frame 51 . Advantageously, but not necessarily, the clamping frame 51 may also include: an intermediate column, one parallel column between two main columns 52 aligned in the T direction; a lower crossbeam 57 along the T direction, connecting the two main columns 52 to the intermediate column, with the intermediate column then being connected between the upper and lower crossbeams 57 of the top frame along the T direction; and reinforcement rods 53 , as shown in FIG14-15 . The reinforcement rods 53 are arranged obliquely to connect the main columns 52 to the upper longitudinal beams of the top frame along the L direction. Four such reinforcement rods 53 are shown. This is, of course, merely exemplary. Other shapes of clamping frames are also contemplated.

[0151] The four main columns 52 of the compression frame 51 can be slidably connected to the support 33 along the V direction via slide rail and slider assemblies 54. Two of the main columns 52 in this arrangement are shown in Figure 8. For example, as shown in Figure 14, the sliders of the slide rail and slider assemblies 54 can be fixed to corresponding main columns 52, and their slide rails can be fixed to the support 33. Of course, the reverse arrangement is also contemplated.

[0152] In addition, the pressing frame 51 can be raised toward and lowered away from the switching platform 31 by, for example, a cylinder 55 shown in Figures 14-15. As shown in these figures, a cylinder 55 is provided between each of the two main columns 52 in the T direction. The cylinder 55 can be fixed to the support 33 via a connecting base, as shown in Figure 8.

[0153] During operation, the cylinder 55 can, for example, have its piston rod abut against the lower crossbeam 57 of the pressing frame 51, thereby pushing the pressing frame 51 upward along the V direction via the slide rail and slider assembly 54 until it presses the pressing plate 4 on the switching platform 31. When the cylinder 55 is reset, the pressing frame 51 slides downward along the V direction, thereby releasing the pressing plate 4 from the switching platform 31.

[0154] 14-15 , support blocks 56 made of metal, such as steel, may be provided around the top frame of the compression frame 51. The compression frame 51 contacts the pressing plate 4 via these support blocks 56 to compress the pressing plate 4, as shown in FIG8 .

[0155] The above arrangement facilitates the upward and downward movement of the pressing mechanism 51 along the V direction, thereby facilitating the pressing and releasing of the pressing plate 4 relative to the switching platform 31 .

[0156] According to some embodiments of the present application, as shown in Figure 8, the switching mechanism 3 also includes a frame 7 for supporting the support 33; the switching system also includes at least two anti-fall components 6 that can prevent the clamping mechanism 5 from falling; the at least two anti-fall components 6 are arranged diagonally and can be slidably installed on the frame 7 along the L direction.

[0157] The so-called anti-fall component refers to a protective component that prevents the pressing mechanism 5 from accidentally falling.

[0158] From Figure 8, one of the anti-falling components 6 can be seen below a main column 52 of the clamping mechanism 5 in the clamping position. In fact, such an anti-falling component 6 is also symmetrically provided in the diagonal direction that is not visible in Figure 8. Two such anti-falling components 6 can be seen in Figure 3.

[0159] The two anti-fall components 6 are diagonally arranged on the frame 7 and can slide along the L direction, so that when the clamping mechanism 5 presses the pressure plate 4, the anti-fall components 6 move to the bottom of the clamping mechanism 5 and are in the anti-fall position, and when the clamping mechanism 5 descends along the V direction, the anti-fall components 6 can slide along the L direction and move from under the clamping mechanism 5 to the avoidance position.

[0160] Referring to Figure 8, specifically, the anti-fall component 6 includes an anti-fall column 61. In the anti-fall position shown in the figure, the anti-fall column 61 is located below a main column 52 close to the clamping mechanism 5, but there is still a very small gap between the two. The anti-fall column 61 is slidably mounted on the frame 7 through a slide rail slider assembly. For example, the slider of the slide rail slider assembly of the anti-fall component 6 is mounted on the base of the anti-fall column 61, and the slide rail engaged by the slider is fixed to the frame 7. For example, the anti-fall column 61 can be pushed by a cylinder to move along the slide rail between its anti-fall position and avoidance position.

[0161] Such an arrangement allows the anti-fall column 61 visible in Figure 8 to slide along the L direction toward the left in Figure 8 when the clamping mechanism 5 descends, so as not to interfere with the descent of the clamping mechanism 5; and when the clamping mechanism 5 rises to the clamping position, the anti-fall column 61 automatically slides back to the right in Figure 8 to the anti-fall position below the clamping mechanism 5 through the cylinder and the slide rail slider assembly.

[0162] Of course, it is also conceivable to provide two similar anti-falling components 6 for the other two columns.

[0163] The anti-fall component 6 is provided to prevent the risk of the pressing mechanism 5 falling in the event of gas failure. The sliding arrangement of the anti-fall component 6 also facilitates the movement of the anti-fall position and the avoidance position.

[0164] According to some embodiments of the present application, the conveying mechanism 2 includes a platen positioning component for positioning the platen 4 by cooperating with the platen 4. The platen positioning component is mounted on the conveying mechanism 2, more specifically, on the support plate portion 23 of the conveying mechanism 2. In this regard, see Figure 6, which is a top view of the platen magazine 1 and the conveying mechanism 2 slidably connected to the platen magazine 1 according to some embodiments of the present application.

[0165] The pressing plate positioning component refers to a component that positions the pressing plate 4 relative to the conveying mechanism 2 thereon.

[0166] This positioning component is used to cooperate with the corresponding positioning part of the pressing plate 4 to initially position the pressing plate 4 when the pressing plate 4 flows from the pressing plate library 1 into the conveying mechanism 2 or is transferred from the switching platform 31 to the conveying mechanism 2. It can also prevent the pressing plate 4 from possible displacement during the movement of the conveying mechanism 2.

[0167] According to some embodiments of the present application, as shown in Figures 6-7, the pressure plate positioning component on the conveying mechanism 2 includes a latch member 24, which can be inserted into the pressure plate 4 from below through the sockets 46 and 47 on the lower surface of the pressure plate 4 through its latch when the pressure plate 4 is placed in place on the conveying mechanism 2.

[0168] The latch assembly is a component including the latch, cylinder, spring and sensor described below, which positions the pressure plate 4 on the conveying mechanism 2 by cooperating with the socket on the pressure plate through the latch, thereby constituting the pressure plate positioning component on the conveying mechanism 2.

[0169] For example, referring to Figure 6, two latch members 24 can be seen symmetrically located on both sides of the support plate portion 23 along the L direction. Each latch member 24 includes a latch 27, as shown in Figure 7 showing the support plate portion 23 of the conveying mechanism 2 viewed from the length direction (i.e., the L direction) according to some embodiments of the present application. The two latches 27 of the two latch members 24 are located between two pressure plate moving parts 26, such as rollers and chains, as shown in Figures 6-7. The latch member 24 may also include a cylinder, a spring, and a sensor (not shown in the figure). When the sensor senses that the pressure plate 4 moves into position on the conveying mechanism 2, the latch 27 is extended by the cylinder and inserted into the socket of the pressure plate 4 from below.

[0170] Referring to Figure 11 , which shows the pressure plate surface on the copper nozzle side, we can see the sockets 46 and 47 that mate with the latch 27 on the conveyor mechanism 2. Figure 11 exemplarily illustrates two waist-shaped sockets 46 on the right side of one end of the pressure plate 4 along the L direction, and two circular sockets 47 on the left side of the opposite end. Advantageously, when using the latch 27 to position the pressure plate 4, a waist-shaped socket 46 at one end and a circular socket 47 at the other end can be used diagonally. However, this arrangement is not restrictive. Other arrangements, shapes, or numbers of the sockets are also contemplated.

[0171] By inserting the latch 27 on the conveying mechanism 2 into the insertion holes 46 and 47 of the pressing plate 4, the pressing plate 4 can be initially positioned on the conveying mechanism 2, reducing the risk that the pressing plate 4 on the conveying mechanism 2 may deviate when the conveying mechanism 2 moves.

[0172] According to some embodiments of the present application, the switching platform 31 also includes a pipeline automatic connection module, which can be slidably installed on the switching platform 31 along the L direction; correspondingly, the pressure plate 4 includes a complementary pipeline automatic connection module, which is fixedly installed on the pressure plate 4. The pipeline automatic connection module on the switching platform can be engaged with the complementary pipeline automatic connection module on the pressure plate 4 to connect the pipeline when the pressure plate 4 is in place on the switching platform 31.

[0173] The automatic pipeline connection module and the complementary automatic pipeline connection module are integrated devices for realizing non-manual pipeline connection, and they cooperate with each other to automatically realize the connection of corresponding pipelines between the platform 31 and the pressure plate 4.

[0174] The automatic pipe connection module on the switching platform 31 is here an integrated pipe quick-connect male connector 36 shown in the enlarged detail of Figure 9. The complementary automatic pipe connection module on the pressure plate 4 is here an integrated pipe quick-connect female connector 43 shown in Figures 10 and 13.

[0175] Such an integrated pipe quick-connect male connector 36 is symmetrically provided at each end of the switching platform 31 along the L direction. As shown in Figure 9, the pipe quick-connect male connector 36 includes a pipe integration plate, and the pipe 37 is integrated on the plate surface that will face the integrated pipe quick-connect female connector 43 on the pressure plate 4.

[0176] In addition, each quick-connect male pipe connector 36 can be slidably mounted on the switching platform 31 along the L direction, for example, via two slide rail slider assemblies 38. Specifically, for example, two slide rails are fixed to the switching platform 31 along the L direction, and the quick-connect male pipe connector 36 is slidably engaged with the slide rails on the switching platform 31 via a connecting plate with sliders arranged below. When the pressure plate 4 is in place on the pressure plate switching platform 31 and a pipeline connection is required, the quick-connect male pipe connector 36 can be pushed, for example, by a cylinder, to slide toward the quick-connect female pipe connector 43 of the pressure plate 4, so that the pipe 37 is inserted into the corresponding orifice on the female connector 43. When the pipeline connection between the pressure plate 4 and the switching platform 31 needs to be disassembled, the cylinder on the switching platform 31 retracts and returns to its original position, causing the quick-connect male pipe connector 36 to move away from the quick-connect female pipe connector 43, thereby disconnecting the pipeline between them. This thus forms an automatic pipeline connection mechanism. As can be seen from Figure 9, the male connector 36 and the female connector 43 are now in a disengaged, separated state.

[0177] For the integrated pipe quick-connect female connector 43 fixedly mounted on the pressure plate 4, please refer to Figures 10 and 12-13, which exemplarily show the copper nozzle pressure plate 4 used in some embodiments of the present application at different angles. It should be noted that the pressure plate surface where the copper nozzle side is located is always facing downward in the V direction in the switching system. It can be seen from these figures that a pipeline assembly is fixed on the pressure plate surface opposite to the side where the copper nozzle 42 is located, that is, the pressure plate surface facing upward in the V direction, and the pipeline assembly includes a plurality of pipelines 41 connected to the copper nozzle. The four pipelines shown by way of example in these figures are dust removal pipelines. In fact, there are many other smaller pipelines such as protective gas pipelines that are not shown in the figures. As shown in Figure 10, it can be seen that a pipeline integrated plate 43, for example, a square, is fixed on each of the two end portions of the pressure plate 4 in its length, that is, in the L direction. As shown in Figure 13, a plurality of through-circular orifices are arranged on the pipeline integrated plate 43. The pressure plate pipes 41 are connected to corresponding holes on the pipe integration plate 43 on one side of the plate 43, while the holes on the other side of the pipe integration plate 43 are used to connect the pipes 37 on the switching platform 31 when the pressure plate 4 is placed in place on the switching platform 31. This forms a quick-connect female pipe joint.

[0178] When the pressure plate 4 is in place on the switching platform 31, the quick-insert female connector 43 integrated with the protective gas pipeline and the dust extraction pipeline is connected to the slidable male connector 36 on the switching platform 31, so that the pipelines can be quickly connected without manual reconnection of the gas line.

[0179] In this way, through pipeline integration, the pipelines between the pressure plate 4 and the switching platform 31 can be quickly connected and separated, thereby saving labor.

[0180] According to some embodiments of the present application, the pressing plate library 1 is a multi-layer structure distributed along the V direction, and each layer of the multi-layer structure can accommodate at least one pressing plate 4.

[0181] For example, the platen storage 1 can accommodate at least three types of platens 4 for different projects stored in at least three layers along the V direction. As previously described with reference to Figures 1 and 4, the platen storage 1 is, for example, a four-layer structure. This will not be repeated here.

[0182] This makes it easier to retrieve the required press plates 4 from the press plate library 1 for different projects and to store the replaced press plates 4 in the press plate library 1 .

[0183] According to some embodiments of the present application, the platen library 1 can move along the T direction between the working position and the maintenance position, wherein in the working position, the platen library 1 is close to the switching mechanism 3 (see Figures 1-3); in the maintenance position, the platen library 1 is separated from the switching mechanism 3 by a distance (not shown in the figure).

[0184] As shown in Figures 5-6, the platen magazine 1 is arranged on a base 8. The base 8 can be supported on the ground by multiple legs. Advantageously, slide rails 9 are provided on both sides of the base 8 along the L direction. The platen magazine 1 engages the slide rails 9 on the base 8 via sliders provided below it, allowing it to slide along the T direction.

[0185] This movable arrangement of the pressure plate storehouse 1, such as a slidable arrangement, makes it easy to remove the pressure plate storehouse 1 when needed, which is beneficial for operators to perform maintenance on it.

[0186] According to some embodiments of the present application, referring to Figures 1-3, a switching system for switching copper nozzle pressure plates is provided. The switching system includes, for example, a pressure plate warehouse 1 storing four different types of copper nozzle pressure plates 4 in four layers as shown in the figure, and also includes a conveying mechanism 2 that can slide along the V direction to extract the pressure plate 4 from the pressure plate warehouse 1 or return the pressure plate 4 to the pressure plate warehouse 1. The switching system also includes a switching mechanism 3, especially its switching platform 31, which can slide along the T direction between a standby position and a switching position. In the standby position, the old pressure plate is removed or a new pressure plate is installed relative to the switching platform 31. In the switching position, the switching platform 31 cooperates with the conveying mechanism 2 to transfer the old pressure plate 4 to the conveying mechanism 2 or receive the new pressure plate 4 from the conveying mechanism 2.

[0187] When the switching platform 31 carries the new pressing plate 4 back to the standby position, the pressing mechanism 5 rises along the V direction and presses the new pressing plate 4 .

[0188] In addition, the switching platform 31 is provided with at least two pins diagonally on its lower surface. When the pressing mechanism 5 presses the pressing plate 4, the two pins penetrate into the corresponding holes diagonally arranged on the pressing plate 4, thereby positioning the pressing plate 4.

[0189] Slidable integrated pipe quick-connect male connectors 36 are provided at both ends of the switching platform 31 along the L direction, and correspondingly, fixed integrated pipe quick-connect female connectors 43 are provided at both ends of the pressure plate 4. The quick-connect connectors 36 and 43 can be engaged to quickly connect the pipes on the platform and the pressure plate.

[0190] The following takes a press plate as an example to illustrate a method for switching press plates using a press plate switching system used in a welding station for producing batteries according to some embodiments of the present application.

[0191] According to some embodiments of the present application, after receiving the switching instruction, the switching method is executed using the pressure plate switching system of some embodiments of the present application: disassembling the old pressure plate 4; moving the old pressure plate 4 to the switching position using the switching mechanism 3 and transferring it to the empty conveying mechanism 2; making the conveying mechanism 2 transport the old pressure plate 4 back to the pressure plate library 1; making the empty conveying mechanism 2 extract the new pressure plate 4 from the pressure plate library 1 and transfer the new pressure plate 4 to the switching mechanism 3; moving the switching mechanism 3 carrying the new pressure plate 4 back to the standby position.

[0192] The entire platen change process is carried out mechanized rather than manually, thus saving manpower, improving efficiency and shortening changeover time.

[0193] According to some embodiments of the present application, disassembling the old pressure plate 4 includes: lowering the clamping mechanism 5 along the V direction away from the switching mechanism 3 to loosen the old pressure plate 4 from the lower surface of the switching platform 31, but at this time the pin of the switching platform 3 for positioning the pressure plate is still partially inserted in the old pressure plate, such as in its hole.

[0194] The pressing plate 4 to be replaced is released by descending the clamping mechanism 5 , but at this time the positioning pins on the switching platform 31 have not completely escaped from the pressing plate holes, and can partially play a role in holding the released pressing plate 4 .

[0195] According to some embodiments of the present application, while the old pressure plate 4 is loosened from the switching platform 31 , the bottom support component 34 of the switching mechanism 3 remains inserted into the old pressure plate 4 , for example, in the end groove 44 thereof.

[0196] In this way, although the pressing plate 4 is released from the pressing mechanism 5 , it can still be held by the bottom cover component 34 and will not fall due to the presence of the bottom cover component 34 .

[0197] According to some embodiments of the present application, when the switching mechanism 3 carrying the old pressing plate 4 moves to the switching position along the T direction, the unloaded conveying mechanism 2 moves upward along the V direction close to the switching platform 31 to the docking position.

[0198] In the switching space, the conveyor mechanism 2 is driven by a power assembly, such as the aforementioned servo motor 16 and lead screw module 18, to slide upward until it approaches the docking position with the switching platform 31. At this point, the conveyor mechanism 2 is aligned with the switching platform 31 of the switching mechanism 3 in the switching position along the V direction. At this docking position, the switching platform 31 and the conveyor mechanism 2 can perform a pressure plate handover.

[0199] This facilitates the conveying mechanism 2 to receive the press plate 4 from the switching platform 31 or deliver the press plate 4 to the switching platform 31 .

[0200] According to some embodiments of the present application, transferring the old pressure plate 4 to the unloaded conveying mechanism 2 includes: completely removing the pin of the switching platform 31 from the old pressure plate, such as its hole, inserting the pin 27 of the conveying mechanism 2 into the sockets 46 and 47 of the old pressure plate, and withdrawing the bottom support component 34 of the switching mechanism 3 from the old pressure plate 4.

[0201] This allows the old press plate 4 to be initially positioned on the conveying mechanism 2 during the transfer process, preventing it from being offset during the movement of the conveying mechanism 2 .

[0202] According to some embodiments of the present application, making the conveying mechanism 2 transport the old press plate 4 back to the press plate warehouse 1 includes: returning the conveying mechanism 2 carrying the old press plate 4 to its initial position, and returning the empty switching mechanism 3 to the standby position; moving the conveying mechanism 2 to the height of the empty press plate layer of the press plate warehouse 1, and returning the carried old press plate 4 to the corresponding storage position.

[0203] As mentioned above, the initial position of the conveyor mechanism 2 can be set as needed, for example, roughly aligned with the lowest first layer of the platen magazine 1. The descent and ascent of the conveyor mechanism 2 along the V direction are always achieved by driving the sliding of a power assembly such as the aforementioned servo motor 16 and screw module 18.

[0204] In this mechanized manner, the old pressing plate 4 can be quickly reset and the new pressing plate 4 can be extracted, which helps to speed up the changeover speed.

[0205] According to some embodiments of the present application, making the empty conveying mechanism 2 extract a new press plate 4 from the press plate library 1 includes: moving the empty conveying mechanism 2 to the height of the press plate layer to be extracted in the press plate library 1; and moving the new press plate 4 from its storage position to the aligned conveying mechanism 2.

[0206] The conveying mechanism 2 can be used to simply and quickly extract a new pressing plate, thereby improving the efficiency of the mold change and saving manpower.

[0207] According to some embodiments of the present application, making the unloaded conveying mechanism 2 extract a new press plate 4 from the press plate library 1 also includes: starting the press plate moving parts on the press plate layer to be extracted and on the conveying mechanism 2 to move the new press plate 4 onto the conveying mechanism 2; when the new press plate 4 moves into position on the conveying mechanism 2, the pin 27 on the conveying mechanism is inserted into the sockets 46 and 47 of the new press plate 4.

[0208] As previously explained, the pressure plate 4 is placed in its storage location on a moving component, such as the rollers of a chain roller assembly. An external motor drives the rollers to move the pressure plate 4 onto the aligned conveyor mechanism 2. Then, a similar moving component on the conveyor mechanism 2 moves the pressure plate 4 into position on the conveyor mechanism 2. When the sensor of the latch member 24 on the conveyor mechanism 2 senses that the pressure plate 4 is in position, the cylinder pushes the latch 27 outward and inserts it into the pressure plate receptacle.

[0209] Thus, the new pressing plate 4 can be automatically transferred from the pressing plate storage 1 to the conveying mechanism 2 by mechanical means, and then the new pressing plate 4 can be preliminarily positioned on the conveying mechanism 2 to reduce the risk of the pressing plate on it shifting during the subsequent movement of the conveying mechanism 2. In addition, this preliminary positioning also helps the pins on the switching platform 31 to position the pressing plate 4 later.

[0210] According to some embodiments of the present application, transferring the new pressure plate 4 to the switching mechanism 3 includes: returning the conveying mechanism 2 carrying the new pressure plate 4 to its initial position; moving the unloaded switching mechanism 3 to the switching position; moving the conveying mechanism 2 upward along the V direction to the docking position close to the switching platform 31; and inserting the bottom cover component 34 of the switching mechanism 3 into the new pressure plate 4, at which time the pin of the switching platform 31 is partially inserted into the corresponding hole of the new pressure plate 4.

[0211] This allows the handover process of the new pressing plate 4 to be completed quickly, while increasing safety during transfer.

[0212] According to some embodiments of the present application, moving the switching mechanism 2 carrying the new pressing plate 4 back to the standby position includes: moving the conveying mechanism 2 downward along the V direction away from the switching mechanism 3 back to its initial position.

[0213] This will not interfere with the return of the switching mechanism 3 to its standby position.

[0214] According to some embodiments of the present application, moving the switching mechanism 3 carrying the new pressing plate 4 back to the standby position includes: pressing the new pressing plate 4 with the pressing mechanism 5 ; and moving the anti-fall component 6 under the pressing mechanism 5 .

[0215] This allows, when the new pressing plate 4 is brought to the standby position by the switching mechanism 3 , on the one hand, the new pressing plate 4 is fastened by the clamping mechanism 5 , and on the other hand, the risk of the clamping mechanism 5 falling due to air loss is prevented, thereby improving work safety.

[0216] According to some embodiments of the present application, disassembling the old pressure plate 4 includes: disengaging the integrated pipe quick-connect male connector 36 serving as a pipe automatic connection module from the integrated pipe quick-connect female connector 43 on the old workpiece 4 serving as a complementary pipe automatic connection module by sliding the integrated pipe quick-connect male connector 36 on the switching platform 31 of the switching mechanism 3 along the L direction toward the opposite direction of the connection pipe.

[0217] This allows all pipe connections between the platform 31 and the press plate 4 to be disconnected at once, thereby speeding up the separation of the old press plate 4 from the switching platform 31 .

[0218] According to some embodiments of the present application, moving the switching mechanism 3 carrying the new pressure plate back to the standby position includes: sliding the integrated pipe quick-connect male connector 36 serving as a pipe automatic connection module along the L direction on the switching platform 31 toward the direction of the connecting pipe, so that the integrated pipe quick-connect male connector 36 engages with the integrated pipe quick-connect female connector 43 on the new pressure plate 4.

[0219] This allows all pipeline connections between the platform 31 and the pressure plate 4 to be completed at one time, thereby enabling the new pressure plate 4 to be installed in place on the switching platform 31 more quickly.

[0220] According to some embodiments of the present application, a battery production line is also provided, which includes a battery welding station. The battery welding station includes the aforementioned switching system for switching different types of copper nozzle pressure plates 4 required when welding batteries.

[0221] The battery production line utilizes the switching system of the battery welding station according to some embodiments of the present application, which can quickly switch the copper nozzle pressure plate 4 of the required model at the welding station in a mechanized manner, thereby improving the overall battery production efficiency.

[0222] In some embodiments of the present application, the PLC instructs to replace the pressure plate, so:

[0223] -The pressure plate 4 in the original welding position is ready to be returned to the pressure plate warehouse 1;

[0224] - The automatic pipe connection mechanism is reset, and the dust removal pipe and nitrogen pipe on the pressure plate 4 are disconnected from the pipe on the platform 31;

[0225] - The anti-fall cylinder of the pressing mechanism 5 is reset and the anti-fall component 6 is removed;

[0226] - The pressing mechanism 5 descends and resets, the pressing plate 4 leaves the lower surface of the switching platform 31, and the bottom support component 34 supports the pressing plate 4;

[0227] - The switching platform 31 carries the pressing plate 4 to the switching position for plate change;

[0228] - The conveying mechanism 2 rises, and its latch 27 positions the pressure plate 4. The conveying mechanism 2 continues to rise until the pressure plate 4 is separated from the bottom cover 34, and the bottom cover 34 is reset;

[0229] - The conveying mechanism 2 returns to the initial position, and the switching platform 31 switches to avoid;

[0230] - The pressure plate 4 is retracted into the corresponding storage position; if a non-return cylinder is provided, the non-return cylinder can also be activated to prevent the pressure plate 4 from escaping from the storage position;

[0231] - The conveyor mechanism 2 reaches the new platen storage position. If a non-return cylinder is provided, the non-return cylinder resets, allowing the platen 4 to flow into the conveyor mechanism 2 and be positioned by the latch 27;

[0232] - The conveying mechanism 2 returns to the initial position, and the pressure plate switching platform 31 reaches the switching position;

[0233] - The conveying mechanism 2 conveys the pressing plate 4 to the switching platform 31, and the bottom cover component 34 is inserted into the pressing plate 4;

[0234] - The switching platform 31 moves back to the standby position for welding, the pressing mechanism 5 rises to press the pressing plate 4, and the anti-fall component 6 slides to the anti-fall position;

[0235] -The automatic pipe connection mechanism works to complete the pipe connection.

[0236] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present application, rather than to limit them. Although the present application has been described in detail with reference to the aforementioned embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that they can still modify the technical solutions described in the aforementioned embodiments, or make equivalent replacements for some or all of the technical features therein. These modifications or replacements do not deviate the essence of the corresponding technical solutions from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present application, and they should all be included in the scope of the claims and specification of the present application. In particular, as long as there is no structural conflict, the various technical features mentioned in the various embodiments can be combined in any way. The present application is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, but includes all technical solutions that fall within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A workpiece switching system, in, The workpiece switching system comprises: - a storage mechanism for storing a plurality of workpieces in layers along a first direction; - a conveying mechanism, movable in the first direction to convey the workpiece into the storage mechanism or to extract the workpiece from the storage mechanism; - a switching mechanism capable of moving between a first state and a second state along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, wherein the switching mechanism is configured to be in standby state in the first state and is configured to cooperate with the conveying mechanism to transfer the workpiece in the second state.

2. The workpiece switching system according to claim 1, in, The storage mechanism includes a power assembly arranged thereon, the power assembly is drivingly connected to the transmission mechanism, and the transmission mechanism can move along the first direction driven by the power assembly.

3. The workpiece switching system according to claim 2, in, The storage mechanism also includes a guide component, which is symmetrically arranged on both sides of the storage mechanism along a third direction perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction and connected to the conveying mechanism, so that when the conveying mechanism is driven by the power assembly, the guide component synchronously guides the movement of the conveying mechanism along the first direction.

4. The workpiece switching system according to claim 3, in, The storage mechanism and the switching mechanism are arranged in sequence along the second direction, and the switching mechanism is configured to be movable between a standby position and a switching position along the second direction; Wherein, the standby position corresponds to the first state, and in the standby position, the old workpiece is arranged on the switching mechanism or the switching mechanism is unloaded; The switching position corresponds to the second state, in which the switching mechanism and the conveying mechanism are configured to cooperate to transfer the old workpiece on the switching mechanism to the empty conveying mechanism or to enable the empty switching mechanism to receive a new workpiece from the conveying mechanism.

5. The workpiece switching system according to claim 4, in, The conveying mechanism is configured to be able to align the workpiece layer of the storage mechanism in the second direction by moving in the first direction, or to approach the switching mechanism at the switching position and align with the switching mechanism in the first direction by moving in the first direction.

6. The workpiece switching system according to claim 4 or 5, in, The switching mechanism comprises a switching platform, and the switching platform is configured to be movable between the standby position and the switching position along the second direction; Wherein, in the standby position, the switching platform is away from the storage mechanism; In the switching position, the switching platform is close to the storage mechanism.

7. The workpiece switching system according to claim 6, in, The switching mechanism further includes at least two bottom-covering components, and the bottom-covering components are arranged on the lower surface of the switching platform at both side ends in a third direction perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction.

8. The workpiece switching system according to claim 7, in, The backup component is telescopic and includes a clamping and plugging member configured to be insertable into and withdrawable from the workpiece.

9. The workpiece switching system according to claim 7 or 8, wherein, the backup component is configured to be movable with the switching platform to the switching position; at the switching position, the conveying mechanism can move close to the switching platform along the first direction under the action of the power component and the guiding component connected thereto, so as to dock with the switching platform to transfer the old workpiece onto the empty conveying mechanism or receive the new workpiece from the conveying mechanism.

10. The workpiece switching system according to any one of claims 6 to 9, wherein, the switching platform includes a plurality of positioning members for cooperating with and positioning the workpiece.

11. The workpiece switching system according to claim 10, wherein, the positioning members are arranged on the lower surface of the switching platform and at least on opposite sides of the switching platform, and the positioning members are used for cooperating and fixing with at least two coordination parts of the workpiece.

12. The workpiece switching system according to claim 10 or 11, wherein, the workpiece switching system further includes a pressing mechanism configured to be movable along the first direction towards the switching platform to press the workpiece carried by the switching platform.

13. The workpiece switching system according to claim 12, wherein, the switching mechanism further includes a support for supporting the switching platform in a manner that allows the switching platform to slide thereon along the second direction; the pressing mechanism is slidably connected to the support along the first direction.

14. The workpiece switching system according to claim 13, wherein, the switching mechanism further includes a frame for supporting the support; the workpiece switching system further includes at least two anti-falling components configured to prevent the pressing mechanism from falling; the at least two anti-falling components are arranged diagonally and are slidably mounted on the frame along the third direction.

15. The workpiece switching system according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein, the conveying mechanism includes a workpiece positioning member mounted thereon for positioning the workpiece by cooperating with the workpiece.

16. The workpiece switching system according to claim 15, wherein, the workpiece positioning member includes a plugging member configured to be inserted into the workpiece through a jack on the lower surface of the workpiece by a plug when the workpiece is properly placed on the conveying mechanism.

17. The workpiece switching system according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein, The switching platform further includes a pipeline automatic connection module, which is slidably mounted on the switching platform along a third direction perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction; the workpiece includes a complementary pipeline automatic connection module, which is fixedly mounted on the workpiece, and the pipeline automatic connection module is configured to be able to engage with the complementary pipeline automatic connection module on the workpiece to connect the pipeline when the workpiece is in place on the switching platform.

18. The workpiece switching system according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein, the storage mechanism is a multi-layered structure distributed along the first direction, and each layer of the multi-layers accommodates at least one workpiece.

19. The workpiece switching system according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein, the storage mechanism is configured to be able to move between a working position and a maintenance position along the second direction. At the working position, the storage mechanism is close to the switching mechanism, and at the maintenance position, the storage mechanism is spaced apart from the switching mechanism by a certain distance.

20. A switching method for switching workpieces, wherein, the switching method is carried out by using the workpiece switching system according to any one of the foregoing claims, and the switching method is executed after receiving a switching instruction: - Disassemble the old workpiece; - Move the old workpiece to the switching position with the switching mechanism and transfer it to the empty transfer mechanism; - Make the transfer mechanism convey the carried old workpiece back to the storage mechanism; - Make the empty transfer mechanism extract a new workpiece from the storage mechanism and transfer the new workpiece to the switching mechanism; - Move the switching mechanism carrying the new workpiece back to the standby position.

21. The switching method according to claim 20, wherein, the disassembly of the old workpiece includes: - Move the pressing mechanism away from the switching mechanism along the first direction to loosen the old workpiece from the lower surface of the switching platform of the switching mechanism; - The positioning member of the switching platform still partially cooperates with the old workpiece.

22. The switching method according to claim 21, wherein, while loosening the old workpiece from the switching platform, keep the bottom part of the switching mechanism inserted in the old workpiece.

23. The switching method according to claim 22, wherein, When the switching mechanism carrying the old workpiece moves to the switching position along the second direction perpendicular to the first direction, make the empty transfer mechanism move along the first direction close to the switching platform to the docking position.

24. The switching method according to claim 22 or 23, wherein, Transferring the old workpiece to the empty transfer mechanism includes: - Completely remove the positioning member of the switching platform from the old workpiece; - Insert the pin of the transfer mechanism into the jack of the old workpiece; - Withdraw the bottom part of the switching mechanism from the old workpiece.

25. The switching method according to any one of claims 20 to 24, wherein, Making the transfer mechanism convey the carried old workpiece back to the storage mechanism includes: - Return the transfer mechanism carrying the old workpiece to its initial position, and return the empty switching mechanism to the standby position; - Move the transfer mechanism in the first direction to the height of the empty workpiece layer of the storage mechanism, and retract the carried old workpiece back to the corresponding storage location.

26. The switching method according to any one of claims 20 to 25, wherein, Extracting a new workpiece from the storage mechanism by the empty transfer mechanism includes: - Moving the empty transfer mechanism in the first direction to the height of the workpiece layer to be extracted of the storage mechanism; - Moving the new workpiece from the corresponding storage location onto the aligned transfer mechanism.

27. The switching method according to claim 26, wherein, Extracting a new workpiece from the storage mechanism by the empty transfer mechanism further includes: - Starting the workpiece moving components on the workpiece layer to be extracted and on the transfer mechanism to move the new workpiece onto the transfer mechanism; - When the new workpiece is in place on the transfer mechanism, inserting the pin on the transfer mechanism into the jack of the new workpiece.

28. The switching method according to any one of claims 20 to 27, wherein, Transferring the new workpiece to the switching mechanism includes: - Returning the transfer mechanism carrying the new workpiece to its initial position; - Moving the empty switching mechanism to the switching position; - Moving the transfer mechanism in the first direction towards the switching mechanism to the docking position near the switching platform of the switching mechanism; - Inserting the bottom support component of the switching mechanism into the new workpiece, and partially mating the positioning component of the switching platform with the new workpiece.

29. The switching method according to any one of claims 20 to 28, wherein, Moving the switching mechanism carrying the new workpiece back to the standby position includes: Moving the transfer mechanism in the first direction away from the switching mechanism back to its initial position.

30. The switching method according to any one of claims 20 to 29, wherein, Moving the switching mechanism carrying the new workpiece back to the standby position further includes: - Pressing the new workpiece with a pressing mechanism; - Moving the anti-falling component under the pressing mechanism.

31. The switching method according to any one of claims 20 to 30, wherein, Removing the old workpiece includes: Sliding the pipe automatic connection module on the switching platform of the switching mechanism in the third direction perpendicular to the first and second directions towards the opposite direction of the connection pipe, so that the pipe automatic connection module disengages from the complementary pipe automatic connection module on the old workpiece.

32. The switching method according to any one of claims 20 to 31, wherein, Moving the switching mechanism carrying the new workpiece back to the standby position includes: Sliding the pipe automatic connection module on the switching platform in the third direction perpendicular to the first and second directions towards the direction of the connection pipe, so that the pipe automatic connection module engages with the complementary pipe automatic connection module on the new workpiece.

33. A battery production line, characterized in that, The battery production line includes a battery welding station, and the battery welding station includes a workpiece switching system according to any one of claims 1 to 19 for switching the pressing plates required during battery welding.

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