Cylindrical secondary battery manufacturing apparatus and manufacturing method

Abstract

The present invention relates to a cylindrical secondary battery manufacturing apparatus and manufacturing method, and to a cylindrical secondary battery manufacturing apparatus in which line balancing may be effectively performed in a circulation manufacturing line. According to an embodiment of the present invention, a cylindrical secondary battery manufacturing apparatus and manufacturing method may be provided which enable automatic determination of the appropriate number of carriers circulating in the circulation manufacturing line through a master carrier, which is distinguished from a general carrier, and a sensor that senses the master carrier.

Description

Cylindrical secondary battery manufacturing device and manufacturing method

[0001] The present invention relates to a cylindrical secondary battery manufacturing device and a manufacturing method, and more particularly, to a cylindrical secondary battery manufacturing device and a manufacturing method capable of effectively performing line balancing in a circulation manufacturing line.

[0002] With the proliferation of portable, small-sized electronic devices, the development of new types of secondary batteries, such as nickel-metal hydride batteries and lithium secondary batteries, is rapidly progressing. Recently, lithium secondary batteries are being widely used not only in power tools but also in automobiles.

[0003] A lithium secondary battery is a battery that uses carbon such as graphite as an anode active material, an oxide containing lithium as an anode material, and a non-aqueous solvent as an electrolyte.

[0004] These secondary batteries are manufactured in the form of a battery assembly, with the electrode assembly, in which the positive electrode, separator, and negative electrode are sequentially measured, housed in an outer packaging such as a pouch or cylindrical can. Subsequently, an electrolyte is injected into the battery assembly using an electrolyte injection device. Depending on the shape of the outer packaging, secondary batteries can be categorized into pouch, cylindrical, and prismatic types.

[0005] Pouch-type secondary batteries offer the advantage of high energy density per volume due to their relatively small volume and weight of the outer packaging. Furthermore, when forming battery modules using pouch-type secondary batteries, the small voids also provide the advantage of high energy density per volume.

[0006] Cylindrical secondary batteries have the advantage of being manufactured faster than other types of secondary batteries, and the cylindrical can (outer material) and cap can be manufactured using nickel-plated steel sheets, so the secondary batteries themselves have the advantage of high durability and strength.

[0007] The manufacturing process for a cylindrical secondary battery may include the following steps. First, a process of inserting an electrode assembly into a cylindrical can may be performed. At this time, the negative electrode of the electrode assembly may be electrically connected to the can.

[0008] After the insertion process, a filling process may be performed in which an electrolyte is filled inside the cylindrical can. Subsequently, a casing process may be performed in which the positive electrode of the electrode assembly is connected to the cap, and the cap is then joined to the cylindrical can.

[0009] After the casing process is completed, the outer surface of a cylindrical secondary battery may be contaminated with electrolyte. This electrolyte can cause welding damage between the can and cap or lead to insulation failures. Therefore, a cleaning process is typically performed after the casing process is completed.

[0010] The cleaning process may include a cleaning process for cleaning a cylindrical secondary battery using a cleaning solution, a blower process for removing the cleaning solution remaining in the cylindrical secondary battery after the cleaning process using air flow, and a drying process for evaporating the cleaning solution after the blower process.

[0011] Figure 1 illustrates an example of a cylindrical secondary battery manufacturing device.

[0012] A plurality of process equipment (10, 20, 30) are connected through a circulation manufacturing line (40). Cylindrical cans or cylindrical secondary batteries are transported along the circulation manufacturing line while mounted on a carrier (see FIGS. 2 and 3) and circulated. That is, each process equipment may be a part of a circulation manufacturing line.

[0013] The above manufacturing device includes a first device (10), a second device (20), and a third device (30). The first device may be a washing device, the second device may be a blower device, and the third device may be a drying device. In addition, the first device may be an insertion device, a filling device, and a casing device. That is, a plurality of continuous processes can be continuously performed through a single circulating manufacturing line (40).

[0014] After the cylindrical can or cylindrical secondary battery is mounted on the carrier, it is fed into the first equipment, i.e., the first equipment (10). Afterwards, the carrier loaded with the cylindrical can or cylindrical secondary battery passes through the equipment sequentially so that the corresponding processes can be performed. The cylindrical can or cylindrical secondary battery is separated from the carrier discharged from the last equipment, i.e., the third equipment (30). Then, the empty carrier can further move along the circulation manufacturing line (40) to accommodate the cylindrical can or cylindrical secondary battery and then be fed back into the first equipment.

[0015] Here, the circulation manufacturing line (40) can be said to be a closed path including each of the equipment (10, 20, 30), a buffer line (41) between the first equipment (10) and the second equipment (20), a buffer line (42) between the second equipment (20) and the third equipment (30), and a return line (43) between the third equipment (30) and the first equipment (10).

[0016] The buffer line (41, 42) is a transport path for carriers to be fed and waited for the next process after the previous process is completed, and the return line (43) can be said to be a transport path for carriers to be resupplied to the first equipment (10) after all processes are completed.

[0017] Therefore, for each process equipment to perform its process at optimal efficiency, the process speeds of other process equipment in succession must also be optimally controlled. In other words, a manufacturing line balance or circulation line balance must be achieved. This balance requires maintaining an optimal number of carriers circulating through the current circulation manufacturing line.

[0018] However, as the manufacturing process progresses, some carriers may deviate from the circulation manufacturing line, and some defective cylindrical cans or secondary batteries may be detected and forcibly removed from the circulation manufacturing line along with the carriers. Consequently, insufficient carriers in the circulation manufacturing line may disrupt the line balance, resulting in significant waiting times in certain process equipment. While operators can add carriers to the circulation manufacturing line, excessive carriers may also disrupt the line balance, resulting in significant waiting times in certain process equipment.

[0019] Due to these problems, there is a need to find a way to optimally manage and control the quantity of carriers in a circular manufacturing line.

[0020] The purpose of the present invention is to solve the problems of conventional cylindrical secondary battery manufacturing devices.

[0021] Through one embodiment of the present invention, it is intended to provide a secondary battery manufacturing device and manufacturing method capable of optimally managing and controlling the quantity of carriers introduced into a circulation manufacturing line.

[0022] Through one embodiment of the present invention, it is intended to provide a secondary battery manufacturing device and manufacturing method capable of setting an optimal carrier quantity and easily detecting shortage and excess of the carrier quantity.

[0023] Through one embodiment of the present invention, it is intended to provide a secondary battery manufacturing device and manufacturing method capable of efficient operation by maintaining line balance by optimizing the number of carriers and thereby preventing an increase in waiting time before performing a process.

[0024] Through one embodiment of the present invention, it is intended to provide a secondary battery manufacturing device and manufacturing method capable of easily optimizing the number of carriers simultaneously with or during operation of the secondary battery manufacturing device.

[0025] In order to achieve the above-described object, according to one embodiment of the present invention, in a cylindrical secondary battery manufacturing device in which a carrier on which a cylindrical secondary battery is mounted is transported and circulated in a circulation manufacturing line to manufacture a cylindrical secondary battery, a cylindrical secondary battery manufacturing device can be provided that can detect a common carrier and a master carrier that are distinguished from each other to determine the quantity of carriers circulated through the circulation manufacturing line. In other words, a cylindrical secondary battery manufacturing device and a manufacturing method that can automatically determine whether the number of carriers introduced into the manufacturing device is appropriate can be provided.

[0026] In order to achieve the above-described object, according to one embodiment of the present invention, a cylindrical secondary battery manufacturing device for manufacturing a cylindrical secondary battery by transporting and circulating a carrier on which a cylindrical secondary battery is mounted in a circulation manufacturing line, the cylindrical secondary battery manufacturing device comprising: a plurality of general carriers that are introduced into the circulation manufacturing line; a master carrier that is distinct from the general carriers and is introduced into the circulation manufacturing line; a sensor that is provided at a specific position of the circulation manufacturing line and detects the master carrier; a positioner that is provided at a specific position of the circulation manufacturing line and detects the general carrier to generate a signal; and a controller that counts the number of general carriers circulated in the circulation manufacturing line based on a signal generated by the positioner in one cycle from detection of the master carrier through the sensor to detection of the next master carrier.

[0027] The above master carrier can be input into the above circulation manufacturing line one by one.

[0028] An interface may be provided for inputting an appropriate quantity of carriers circulating in the above-mentioned circulating manufacturing line.

[0029] An alarm may be included to generate a notification if the number of counted carriers exceeds the appropriate quantity and a preset error. Furthermore, the interface may display the number of carriers calculated per cycle.

[0030] The sensor may include an alarm that generates a notification if the master carrier is not detected for a preset period of time, thereby indicating that the master carrier has abnormally deviated from the circulating manufacturing line.

[0031] The above general carrier and master carrier may be formed to have the same shape and size but be visually distinct.

[0032] At least a portion of the outer surface of the master carrier may be formed of a conductive material that conducts current when in contact with the sensor. Accordingly, the sensor can sense only whether the master carrier is in contact, without sensing whether a general carrier is in contact.

[0033] The process equipment for performing a specific process is included, and the circulating manufacturing line may include an input buffer line in which input and waiting of carriers input into the process equipment are performed, and an exhaust buffer line in which discharge and waiting of carriers output from the process equipment are performed.

[0034] It is preferable that the above sensor be provided near the above input buffer line.

[0035] Before the carrier is discharged through the discharge buffer line, a defective discharge port may be provided through which defective secondary batteries are discharged. The defective discharge port may be provided so that the carrier is discharged away from the circulation manufacturing line. The defective discharge port is preferably provided with an auxiliary sensor for detecting the master carrier. Of course, the defective discharge port may be provided with a positioner for detecting the carrier.

[0036] The above process equipment is provided in multiple units, and the input buffer line and the discharge buffer line may be provided between the process equipment.

[0037] Among the above multiple process equipment, a return line is provided between the input buffer line of the first process equipment and the output buffer line of the last process equipment, so that the carrier can be circulated through the entire circulation manufacturing line.

[0038] It is preferable that the above sensor and positioner be provided in the final process equipment.

[0039] The above plurality of process equipment may include washing equipment, blower equipment, and drying equipment.

[0040] In order to achieve the above-described object, according to one embodiment of the present invention, a cylindrical secondary battery manufacturing device for manufacturing a cylindrical secondary battery by transporting and circulating a carrier on which a cylindrical secondary battery is mounted in a circulation manufacturing line, the cylindrical secondary battery manufacturing device comprising: a positioner for detecting a general carrier among a plurality of carriers inputted into the circulation manufacturing line and generating a signal; a sensor for detecting a master carrier among a plurality of carriers inputted into the circulation manufacturing line; and a controller for counting the number of general carriers circulating in the circulation manufacturing line through the positioner in one cycle from detection of the master carrier through the sensor to detection of the next master carrier, thereby determining whether the number of carriers circulating in the circulation manufacturing line is appropriate.

[0041] It is preferable that the above master carrier has the same shape and size as the above general carrier, but is visually and materially distinct.

[0042] The above master carrier can be input into the above circulation manufacturing line one by one.

[0043] It is preferable that the above master carrier be provided with an auxiliary sensor that detects that the above master carrier has left the above circulation manufacturing line and is discharged to a defective discharge port where defective secondary batteries are discharged.

[0044] The above manufacturing device preferably further includes an interface for inputting an appropriate quantity of carriers circulating in the circulating manufacturing line; and an alarm device for generating an alarm when the number of counted carriers deviates from the appropriate quantity by a preset error.

[0045] In order to achieve the above-described purpose, according to one embodiment of the present invention, a method for manufacturing a cylindrical secondary battery may be provided, including a step of detecting a master carrier in a circulating manufacturing line through a sensor to start one cycle; a step of detecting and counting carriers in the circulating manufacturing line through a positioner; a step of re-detecting the master carrier in the circulating manufacturing line to end one cycle and determining whether the number of carriers counted per cycle is appropriate; and a step of notifying that the number of carriers is abnormal.

[0046] A circulating manufacturing line may be equipped with one master carrier, and one cycle of the master carrier circulating around the circulating manufacturing line may be referred to as one cycle. To easily set or define one cycle, the time period from detection of the master carrier to re-detection may be referred to as one cycle. A circulating manufacturing line may be equipped with multiple carriers in addition to the master carrier. The sum of the number of master carriers and the number of general carriers may be referred to as the total number of carriers.

[0047] Carriers can leave the circular manufacturing line for a variety of reasons. This loss of carriers can result in an insufficient number of carriers being loaded onto the circular manufacturing line. This embodiment automatically detects this inadequacy and notifies the operator that additional carriers are needed.

[0048] Specifically, according to the present embodiment, it is preferable that the step of counting the number of carriers discharged from the circulation manufacturing line through the auxiliary positioner is included, and the number of carriers counted per cycle is calculated by subtracting the number of carriers discharged.

[0049] Specifically, according to the present embodiment, a step may be included in which the master carrier is detected and discharged from the circulation manufacturing line through an auxiliary sensor and a notification is performed.

[0050] It is preferable to include a step of performing a departure notification of the master carrier when the master carrier is not re-detected within a preset time in the above-described circulation manufacturing line.

[0051] Through one embodiment of the present invention, it is intended to provide a secondary battery manufacturing device and manufacturing method capable of optimally managing and controlling the quantity of carriers introduced into a circulation manufacturing line.

[0052] Through one embodiment of the present invention, it is intended to provide a secondary battery manufacturing device and manufacturing method capable of setting an optimal carrier quantity and easily detecting shortage and excess of the carrier quantity.

[0053] Through one embodiment of the present invention, it is intended to provide a secondary battery manufacturing device and manufacturing method capable of efficient operation by maintaining line balance by optimizing the number of carriers and thereby preventing an increase in waiting time before performing a process.

[0054] Through one embodiment of the present invention, it is intended to provide a secondary battery manufacturing device and manufacturing method capable of easily optimizing the number of carriers simultaneously with or during operation of the secondary battery manufacturing device.

[0055] Figure 1 illustrates the layout of a conventional cylindrical secondary battery manufacturing device.

[0056] Figure 2 shows the disassembled appearance (before combining) of a general carrier and a cylindrical secondary battery.

[0057] Figure 3 shows the disassembled appearance (before combination) of the master carrier and the cylindrical secondary battery.

[0058] Figure 4 illustrates the arrangement of a cylindrical secondary battery manufacturing device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0059] Figure 5 illustrates the mounting positions of the sensor assembly and the auxiliary sensor assembly in the standard equipment of the cylindrical secondary battery manufacturing device.

[0060] Figure 6 illustrates the contact appearance of the carrier and the sensor assembly,

[0061] Figure 7 illustrates the contact appearance of the carrier and the auxiliary sensor assembly,

[0062] Figure 8 illustrates a control configuration of a cylindrical secondary battery manufacturing device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0063] Figure 9 illustrates a control flow of a cylindrical secondary battery manufacturing device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0064] Hereinafter, with reference to the attached drawings, a cylindrical secondary battery manufacturing device according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail.

[0065] First, a carrier applicable to one embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 2 and 3.

[0066] As illustrated in FIG. 2, the battery (100) includes a cylindrical case (110) and a cap (120), with the central portion of the cap (120) forming a positive electrode and the central portion of the lower surface of the case forming a negative electrode. FIG. 2 illustrates a central cross-section of the carrier (130).

[0067] The cylindrical case (110) or battery (100) may be fed into and discharged from process equipment while being partially contained in a carrier (130). When all processes are completed, the battery (100) is separated from the carrier (130).

[0068] The carrier (130) may be formed by assembling multiple parts into a single carrier. For example, a main body (131), a lower body (132), and a coupling pin (133) may be assembled together to form a single carrier. The carrier (130) may be formed in a hollow cylindrical shape.

[0069] An insertion groove (131a) into which a cylindrical case or battery is inserted may be formed on the upper part of the carrier (130), and a fluid inlet (132a) may be formed on the lower part. The insertion groove (131a) may be formed at a certain depth on the upper part of the carrier (130). The diameter of the insertion groove (13) may be formed to be somewhat larger than the diameter of the battery (100). The lower part of the battery (10) may be inserted into the insertion groove (131a) at a certain depth, and the insertion depth may be about 1 / 5 to 1 / 3 of the length of the battery (100). The case (110) or the battery (10) is transported along the circulation manufacturing line while mounted on the carrier (130), i.e., in an upright state.

[0070] The fluid inlet (132a) may be formed to be connected from the lower portion of the carrier (130) to the insertion groove (131a), and the diameter of the fluid inlet (132a) may be formed to be smaller than the diameter of the insertion groove (131a) and the diameter of the battery. Through the fluid inlet, cleaning liquid or air may be supplied and discharged from the outside to the case (110).

[0071] The carrier (130) may be formed entirely of an insulating material. It may be formed of a rubber material to protect the case or battery during transport. In particular, the main body (131) and the lower body (132) may be formed of an insulating material, and may be formed of the same material. The coupling pin (133) may be a spring pin, and through holes (131b, 132b) for insertion and fixation of the coupling pin (133) may be formed in the main body (131) and the lower body (132), respectively.

[0072] Fig. 3 illustrates a master carrier (140), and in particular, a central cross-section of the master carrier (140) is illustrated. The carrier illustrated in Fig. 2 may be referred to as a general carrier to distinguish it from the master carrier. That is, the carrier may include a general carrier and a master carrier.

[0073] The above cylindrical case (110) or battery (100) can be fed into and discharged from process facilities while being partially contained in the master carrier (140). When all processes are completed, the battery (100) is separated from the master carrier (140).

[0074] The master carrier (140) may be formed by assembling multiple parts into a single carrier. For example, it may include a main body (141), a lower body (142), and a coupling pin (143), and may further include an outer ring (144) and a fixing ring (145), and these parts may be assembled together to form a single carrier. The master carrier (140) may be formed in a cylindrical shape having a hollow cavity.

[0075] An insertion groove (141a) into which a cylindrical case or battery is inserted may be formed on the upper part of the master carrier (140), and a fluid inlet (142a) may be formed on the lower part. The insertion groove (141a) may be formed at a certain depth at the upper part of the carrier (140).

[0076] The fluid inlet (142a) may be formed to be connected from the lower portion of the carrier (140) to the insertion groove (141a), and the diameter of the fluid inlet (142a) may be formed to be smaller than the diameter of the insertion groove (141a) and the diameter of the battery. Through the fluid inlet, cleaning liquid or air may be supplied and discharged from the outside to the case (110).

[0077] The carrier (140) may be formed entirely of an insulating material. It may be formed of a rubber material to protect the case or battery during transport. In particular, the main body (141), the lower body (142), and the fixing ring (145) may be formed of an insulating material, and may be formed of the same material. The coupling pin (143) may be a spring pin, and through holes (141b, 142b, 145b) for inserting and fixing the coupling pin (133) may be formed in the main body (141), the lower body (142), and the fixing ring (145), respectively.

[0078] As illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3, the general carrier and the master carrier may have the same shape and size. However, they may be formed to be visually distinct. For example, they may be distinguished by differences in overall or partial color, differences in wording, or differences in the presence or absence of wording. Specifically, a phrase indicating the master carrier may be engraved on the upper surface (141c) of the master carrier (140).

[0079] Meanwhile, the master carrier may include an outer ring (144), which, unlike other components, may be formed of a conductive material. For example, it may be formed of stainless steel. The outer ring (144) is inserted into the lower part of the main body (141), and then a fixing ring (145) is inserted into the lower part of the main body (141). Since the fixing ring (145) is fixed to the main body (141) through the coupling pin (143), the outer ring (144) can be fixed to the main body (141).

[0080] Of course, the general carrier and the master carrier may have different shapes or detailed configurations than those shown, but it is desirable to provide detailed configurations that can distinguish between the two through a sensor. In the present embodiment, the general carrier and the master carrier can be distinguished and detected by the sensor through the presence or absence of the outer ring (144). For example, the sensor can be fixedly mounted at a specific location to detect only the master carrier among the general carriers and master carriers being transported. A detailed description of this will be provided later.

[0081] Hereinafter, a cylindrical secondary battery manufacturing device according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 4.

[0082] As illustrated, a cylindrical secondary battery manufacturing device according to an embodiment of the present invention may be identical to or similar to the conventional manufacturing device illustrated in FIG. 1. However, according to this embodiment, line balancing can be effectively performed through the addition of some components and some control logic.

[0083] According to this embodiment, the first equipment (210), the second equipment (220), and the third equipment (230) are connected in series so that each process can be performed in series. Each equipment can form part of a single circulating manufacturing line (240).

[0084] Here, each piece of equipment may be configured to perform the same process. For example, the first piece of equipment (210) may be a cleaning device that performs the cleaning process, blower process, and drying process for cylindrical secondary batteries. The secondary battery cleaned by the first piece of equipment (210) may then be repeatedly cleaned by passing through the second piece of equipment (220) and the third piece of equipment (230). For example, three cleaning processes may be performed consecutively.

[0085] Of course, each piece of equipment may perform different processes. For example, the first piece of equipment (210) may be a washing machine performing a washing process, the second piece of equipment (220) may be a blower machine performing a blower process, and the third piece of equipment (230) may be a drying machine performing a drying process.

[0086] Meanwhile, a plurality of detailed equipments forming a circulation manufacturing line (240) may be provided, and two detailed equipments may form one circulation manufacturing line (240) or four or more detailed equipments may form one circulation manufacturing line (240).

[0087] According to this embodiment, the carrier can be used by dividing it into a general carrier and a master carrier.

[0088] The above master carrier (140) is different from a general carrier (150), but can perform the carrier's unique function, that is, the battery receiving and transport function.

[0089] The secondary battery manufacturing device (200) may include a sensor assembly (239). The sensor assembly (239) may be equipped to detect a master carrier (140).

[0090] The above sensor assembly (239) may be provided at a specific location on the continuous circulation path of the circulation manufacturing line (240). Here, the specific location may be the initial input location of the carrier in the manufacturing device (200) or its vicinity. If the manufacturing device (200) is connected to multiple pieces of equipment, the specific location may be the last piece of equipment, for example, near the input buffer line (235) of the third equipment (230) or the location where the process of the third equipment (230) begins.

[0091] The above master carrier moves in a circular motion along the circular manufacturing line (240) unless there are special circumstances. Therefore, the period between the time the sensor assembly (239) detects the master carrier and the time the master carrier is re-detected can be referred to as one cycle of the manufacturing device. Here, when one master carrier (140) is introduced into the manufacturing device, one cycle means the period during which all carriers (130, 140) move along the circular manufacturing line (240) and then return to their original positions.

[0092] For example, the first equipment (210) may include a plurality of process wheels (212), a plurality of input wheels (211), and an output wheel (213). The carriers (130, 140) transferred to the first input wheel (211) through the input buffer line (215) are moved to the process wheel (211) as the input wheel (211) rotates. At this time, the process wheel (211) also rotates.

[0093] The above-mentioned input wheel (211) is provided between process wheels (212) and serves to input the carrier discharged from the previous process wheel (212) to the next process wheel (212). As an example, three input wheels (212) and three process wheels (212) are illustrated in FIG. 4. As each process wheel (212) rotates, the corresponding process can be performed.

[0094] The carrier (130, 140) discharged from the final process wheel is moved to the discharge buffer line (216) through the discharge wheel (213) and then moved to the next equipment.

[0095] Meanwhile, during the process of carrying out the process through the first equipment (210), a defective secondary battery may be detected, and the defective secondary battery may be discharged from the circulation manufacturing line (240) to the discharge line (217) or the defective discharge port. Through the operation of the defective wheel (214) connected to the discharge wheel (213), the defective secondary battery may be discharged to the defective discharge port together with the carrier.

[0096] According to the present embodiment, each of the defective discharge outlets or defective discharge lines (217, 227, 228) of the equipment (210, 220, 230) may be provided with an auxiliary sensor assembly (218, 228, 238) capable of detecting the discharged master carrier (140).

[0097] The auxiliary sensor assembly may be configured with the same structure as the aforementioned sensor assembly. Furthermore, the auxiliary sensor assembly may be configured to perform the same function as the aforementioned sensor assembly. However, the auxiliary sensor assembly and the sensor assembly may differ only in their mounting locations. For this reason, the purposes of detecting a mist carrier through the auxiliary sensor assembly and the sensor assembly may differ.

[0098] As described above, in a normal case, for example, when the master carrier (140) continuously circulates along the circulation manufacturing line, i.e., when the cycle is repeated, the sensor assembly (239) may have the purpose of confirming the cycle and checking the quantity of general carriers (130) per cycle as described below. In an abnormal case, for example, when the case or battery accommodated by the master carrier (140) is defective, the master carrier (140) is discharged through the defective discharge port. Therefore, the master carrier does not exist on the circulation manufacturing line (240). In this case, the auxiliary sensor assembly is required to detect the absence of the master carrier.

[0099] Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 5, the mounting positions of the sensor assembly (239) and the auxiliary sensor assembly (238) will be described in more detail through the final equipment of the manufacturing device (200), that is, the third equipment (230). The detailed mechanisms and configurations described may be the same or similar to the first and second equipment. Here, the final equipment may be referred to as the reference equipment. This is because the definition and completion of one cycle can be detected and determined through the reference equipment, and also the number of carriers used in one cycle or the number of carriers normally circulating in the circulation manufacturing line (240) can be determined through this.

[0100] A plurality of input wheels (231), a plurality of process wheels (232), an output wheel (233), and a defective wheel (234) are provided, and a wheel housing (231b, 232b, 233b, 234b) is provided to surround at least a portion of each wheel. Each wheel performs its respective role while rotating around the center of the housing. A plurality of grooves or slots (231a, 232a, 233a, 234a) are formed in each wheel, and a carrier (130, 140) is inserted between the housing and the slots so that the carrier (130, 140) moves. That is, the carrier moves as the wheel rotates. The corresponding process can be performed through this movement process of the carrier.

[0101] It is preferable that the sensor assembly (239) be provided in the vicinity of the first input wheel (231) of the reference equipment (230), more specifically, in the wheel housing (231b). That is, it is preferable that the sensor assembly (239) is not installed in other equipment (210, 220). It is preferable that the sensor assembly (239) is provided only in one specific location of the circulation manufacturing line (240).

[0102] Since each equipment (210, 220, 230) is equipped with a defective discharge port (217, 227, 237), it is preferable that the defective discharge port (237) of the reference equipment (230) also be equipped with an auxiliary sensor assembly (238).

[0103] Here, the sensor assembly (239) may be configured to perform at least two functions. For example, it may function as a sensor for detecting the master carrier (240). This sensor may be a vision sensor, but may also be a contact sensor for immediate sensing.

[0104] As described above, unlike the general carrier (130), the outer surface of the master carrier (140) is provided with a conductive material. When the contact sensor comes into contact with the conductive material, a specific signal is generated, indicating that the master carrier (140) has been detected. On the other hand, when the general carrier (130) comes into contact with the contact sensor, the contact sensor may not generate a signal. Therefore, when one master carrier (140) is introduced into the circulation manufacturing line (140), the period between detection and re-detection of the master carrier can be referred to as one cycle.

[0105] Here, a means may be required to detect the number of carriers circulating in one cycle. The number of carriers may be the number of general carriers, or may be the number of general carriers plus the number of one master carrier. The sensor assembly (239) may be provided for counting the number of such carriers.

[0106] Specifically, the sensor assembly (239) may function as a positioner that generates a specific signal upon contact with the carrier (130, 140). For example, it may be a positioner that converts a physical change caused by contact into an electrical signal and outputs it. For example, it may be a cam positioner.

[0107] A cycle is defined and determined by detecting and re-detecting the master carrier via a contact sensor, and the number of carriers per cycle can be counted via a positioner. Ultimately, it is possible to determine whether the number of carriers per cycle is appropriate.

[0108] Meanwhile, the master carrier may be discharged through the defective discharge port and may fall out of the circulation manufacturing line (240). In this case, it becomes impossible to determine whether one cycle has been performed, and consequently, the number of carriers per cycle cannot be counted. Therefore, it is desirable to be able to determine whether the master carrier has fallen out of the circulation manufacturing line (240). To this end, an auxiliary sensor assembly (238) identical to or similar to the sensor assembly (239) may be provided.

[0109] The auxiliary sensor assembly (238) is located near the defective discharge port (239) and detects the discharged master carrier (140). When the auxiliary sensor assembly (238) detects the master carrier (140), since the master carrier (140) is absent in the circulation manufacturing line (240), an alarm may be generated as described below.

[0110] Below, the sensor assembly (239) and the auxiliary sensor assembly (238) will be described in more detail with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7.

[0111] Figure 6 illustrates the mounting position and contact structure of the sensor assembly (239).

[0112] When inserted into the slot (231a) of the input wheel, the carrier (130, 140) slides or rolls along the housing (231b) as the input wheel rotates.

[0113] The sensor assembly (239) may include a contact sensor (239c), and the contact sensor (239c) repeatedly comes into contact with the carrier (130, 140) while in a fixed state. Here, since the master carrier (140) has a conductive outer surface, the contact sensor (239c) may generate a detection signal of the master carrier (140) through conduction. On the other hand, there may be no need to detect a general carrier (130).

[0114] The sensor assembly (239) may include a positioner (239b), and the positioner (239b) repeatedly comes into direct or indirect contact with the carrier (130, 140) while in a fixed state. Through a configuration that physically changes upon contact, such as a cam (not shown), the positioner (239b) can generate a corresponding signal whenever the carrier (130, 140) comes into contact. Here, since the positioner (239b) generates the corresponding signal based on physical displacement or rotational displacement, it can generate a signal upon contact without distinguishing between a general carrier and a master carrier. The number of such contact signals is counted, and thereby the number of carriers per cycle can be calculated.

[0115] Here, the contact sensor (239c) and positioner (239b) may be configured separately rather than as a single assembly and positioned and mounted individually. However, for accurate calculation of the number of carriers per cycle and ease of installation, it is preferable to implement them as a single assembly. The sensor assembly (230) may include a sensor mount (239a) for mounting and fixing the contact sensor (239c) and positioner (239b).

[0116] Fig. 7 illustrates the mounting position and contact structure of the auxiliary sensor assembly (238). The auxiliary sensor assembly (238) may have the same structure as the sensor assembly (239), but only the mounting position may be different.

[0117] That is, the auxiliary sensor assembly (238) is provided to detect the master carrier (140) discharged together with the defective battery from the defective discharge wheel (234), and therefore, it is preferably provided near the entrance of the defective discharge port or defective discharge line. Accordingly, the auxiliary sensor assembly (238) may include a contact sensor (238c) that generates a signal when in contact with a conductive material. That is, by detecting contact with the outer ring (144) of the master carrier (140), it is possible to detect discharge of the master carrier.

[0118] Here, the auxiliary sensor assembly (238) can also detect the discharged carrier without distinguishing between the master carrier and the general carrier. That is, like the sensor assembly (239), the auxiliary sensor assembly (238) can also include a positioner (238c). In addition, it can also include a sensor mount (238a). By counting the contact signal detected through the positioner (238c), the quantity of carriers discharged from the circulation manufacturing line (240) can be calculated. Of course, in this case, it is preferable that the total quantity of carriers discharged as defective from each piece of equipment (210, 220, 230) is counted.

[0119] Through this defect counting, the number of carriers discharged as defective per cycle or the number of defective cells can be calculated. These results can be used to verify the yield of the manufacturing equipment or to determine the number of additional carriers to be added.

[0120] Below, the control configuration of the manufacturing device (200) is described in detail.

[0121] The master carrier is detected through a sensor assembly (239) or a contact sensor (239c), which is preferably only provided in the reference device (230). Therefore, the contact sensor (239c) here is a sensor for defining and confirming one cycle, and thus can be referred to as a master sensor. Of course, the reference device (230) is provided with a contact sensor (239c) that detects defective discharge of the master carrier, and this can be referred to as a master auxiliary sensor, distinct from the master sensor.

[0122] The sensor assembly (239) of the reference equipment (230) includes a positioner (239c) and generates a signal whenever the carrier comes into contact with the positioner (239c).

[0123] Other facilities (210, 220) other than the standard facility are each equipped with an auxiliary sensor assembly (218), and the auxiliary sensor assemblies (218, 228) may include a master auxiliary sensor (218c, 228c).

[0124] The control unit or controller (260) can be implemented in the form of a PLC (programmable logic controller), and the controller (260) receives signals through contact sensors (239c, 238c) and signals through a positioner (239c). Based on these signals, the controller (260) determines whether one cycle is performed and also calculates the number of carriers per one cycle. That is, the controller (260) counts signals to calculate the number of carriers.

[0125] The interface (270) can be implemented in the form of an HMI (human machine interface), and various operation information of the device (200) can be displayed and operation variables can be input through the interface (270).

[0126] Specifically, the operator can input the appropriate number of carriers per cycle through the interface (270). That is, the operator can input the quantity that allows the manufacturing device (200) to operate at optimal efficiency. At this time, the operator can also input the allowable error range.

[0127] The controller (260) can compare the calculated carrier quantity with the input carrier quantity. The controller (260) can determine whether the calculated carrier quantity is outside the allowable error range. At this time, the controller can determine whether the quantity is excessive or insufficient. In other words, if the carrier quantity is determined to be abnormal, the operator can be notified of this through the alarm device (250). The alarm (250) can be performed audibly or visually. An alarm device such as a beeper or buzzer can be provided, and an alarm device such as an oval lamp on site can be provided. Here, the notification can also be performed through the interface (270). Of course, it would be more desirable for the interface (270) and the alarm device (250) to perform the notification in parallel.

[0128] The worker can check the shortage or excess of carrier quantity through notification and easily replenish or remove carrier.

[0129] The controller (260) can confirm that the master carrier has departed from the circulation manufacturing line (240) through signals from the master auxiliary sensors (218c, 228c, 238c). In this case, the controller (260) can provide an alarm to the worker through the alarm device (250). Of course, the alarm can also be provided through the interface (270).

[0130] The worker can confirm the departure of the master carrier through an alarm and add the master carrier to the circulation manufacturing line (240).

[0131] Hereinafter, a control method of a manufacturing device (200) according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 9.

[0132] The manufacturing device (200) performs the process while operating. The assembly process or cleaning process of a cylindrical secondary battery can be performed. The assembly process or cleaning process can be divided into multiple sub-processes, and each sub-process can be performed using respective sub-equipment.

[0133] The manufacturing device (200) is continuously connected and circulated through a single circulation manufacturing line, and the manufacturing of the mounted secondary battery can be performed while the carrier circulates along the circulation manufacturing line.

[0134] When the manufacturing device (200) starts operating, detection of the master carrier (S10) can be performed. When detection of the master carrier (S10) is performed for the first time, it can be determined (S11) that the cycle has started. In other words, it can be determined that the cycle has started. This detection of the master carrier (S10) is performed via a contact sensor (238c), and the detection signal is transmitted to the controller (260), so that the controller (260) can determine that the cycle has started.

[0135] When the cycle starts, the contact signal of each carrier is detected to perform a quantity count (S12) of the carriers. The contact signal of the positioner (238b) can be transmitted to the controller (260) to perform the quantity count. This quantity count can be performed continuously.

[0136] When the master carrier finishes its cycle and starts cycling again, the master carrier is re-detected (S13). Here, master carrier detection signifies the end point of one cycle. That is, when the master carrier is re-detected, the controller (260) determines that one cycle is over (S14) and determines whether the count is appropriate (S15).

[0137] That is, the number of carriers counted during one cycle is compared with the preset number of carriers to determine whether it is appropriate. If it exceeds or falls below the preset error range, a notification (S19) may be performed. At this time, the notification allows the operator to remove or add carriers. If the number of counted carriers is appropriate, the count is initialized (S16) and the cycle is restarted (S11). That is, the point in time when the master carrier is re-detected can be set as the start point of a new cycle, and the point in time when the master carrier is re-detected can be determined as the end point of a new cycle.

[0138] Because the appropriateness of the number of carriers is determined each time the cycle is repeated, the number of carriers can be controlled and managed very effectively and efficiently.

[0139] Meanwhile, the master carrier may be removed from the circulating manufacturing line due to a fall, etc., or may be removed abnormally from the circulating manufacturing line. In this case, detection of the master carrier, particularly re-detection (S13), becomes impossible. To prevent this problem, an expected period for one cycle may be preset. The expected period may be set to two cycles, taking into account the average one-cycle period.

[0140] If the master carrier is not detected in the re-detection of the master carrier (S13), a judgment on whether the count has been exceeded (S17) can be performed. If the count has not been exceeded, since one cycle is in progress, the re-detection (S13) can be repeatedly performed.

[0141] If the master carrier is not detected and the count exceeds the expected count, especially if the master carrier is not detected until the expected count is exceeded, a master carrier departure may be determined and an alarm (S18) may be issued. This alarm may allow the operator to insert the master carrier into the circulating manufacturing line. Detection of the master carrier after this alarm point may be considered detection for cycle start (S10).

[0142] Additionally, the master carrier may leave the circulation manufacturing line during the process of discharging defective batteries. This master carrier departure occurs after the initial master carrier detection, i.e., after the cycle starts. Therefore, in the step of re-detecting the master carrier (S13), detection of the master carrier through the contact sensors (218c, 228c, 238c) may be performed at the step of determining that the count has exceeded (S17) without the master carrier being re-detected.

[0143] That is, if a defective discharge of a master carrier is detected in a case where the count is not exceeded, a notification (S18) requesting addition of a master carrier may be performed similarly.

[0144] The use and detection of these master carriers allows for the management and control of an appropriate number of carriers. This allows for optimal control and maintenance of line balance, facilitating production management and increasing production efficiency.

[0145] As described in the detailed description of the invention.

Claims

1. In a cylindrical secondary battery manufacturing device in which a carrier equipped with a cylindrical secondary battery is transported and circulated in a circulation manufacturing line to manufacture a cylindrical secondary battery, A plurality of general carriers are introduced into the above-mentioned circular manufacturing line; A master carrier that is distinguished from the above general carrier and is put into the above circular manufacturing line; A sensor provided at a specific location in the above-mentioned circular manufacturing line for detecting the master carrier; A positioner provided at a specific location in the above-mentioned circular manufacturing line to detect the above-mentioned general carrier and generate a signal; and A cylindrical secondary battery manufacturing device characterized by including a controller that counts the number of general carriers circulating in the circulation manufacturing line based on a signal generated from the positioner in one cycle from detection of the master carrier through the sensor to detection of the next master carrier.

2. In paragraph 1, A cylindrical secondary battery manufacturing device characterized in that the above master carrier is input into the above circulation manufacturing line one by one.

3. In paragraph 1, A cylindrical secondary battery manufacturing device characterized by including an interface for inputting an appropriate quantity of carriers circulated in the above-mentioned circulation manufacturing line.

4. In paragraph 3, A cylindrical secondary battery manufacturing device characterized by including an alarm that generates a notification when the number of the counted carriers deviates from the appropriate quantity and a preset error.

5. In paragraph 3, A cylindrical secondary battery manufacturing device characterized by including an alarm that generates a notification when the master carrier is not detected by the sensor for a preset time.

6. In paragraph 1, A cylindrical secondary battery manufacturing device characterized in that the above general carrier and the master carrier have the same shape and size but are formed to be visually distinct.

7. In paragraph 6, A cylindrical secondary battery manufacturing device, characterized in that at least a portion of the outer surface of the master carrier is formed of a conductive material that conducts current when in contact with the sensor.

8. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 7, A cylindrical secondary battery manufacturing device comprising process equipment for performing a specific process, wherein the circulating manufacturing line comprises an input buffer line in which input and waiting of carriers input into the process equipment are performed, and an exhaust buffer line in which discharge and waiting of carriers output from the process equipment are performed.

9. In paragraph 8, A cylindrical secondary battery manufacturing device characterized in that the above sensor is provided near the input buffer line.

10. In paragraph 9, A cylindrical secondary battery manufacturing device characterized in that a defective discharge port is provided through which defective secondary batteries are discharged out of the circulation manufacturing line before carriers are discharged through the discharge buffer line.

11. In paragraph 10, A cylindrical secondary battery manufacturing device characterized in that the above-mentioned defective discharge port is provided with an auxiliary sensor for detecting the above-mentioned master carrier.

12. In paragraph 8, A cylindrical secondary battery manufacturing device characterized in that the above process equipment is provided in multiple units, and an input buffer line and an output buffer line are provided between the process equipment.

13. In a cylindrical secondary battery manufacturing device in which a carrier equipped with a cylindrical secondary battery is transported and circulated in a circulation manufacturing line to manufacture a cylindrical secondary battery, A positioner that detects multiple carriers inserted into the above-mentioned circular manufacturing line and generates a signal; A sensor for detecting a master carrier among multiple carriers introduced into the above-mentioned circulation manufacturing line; and A cylindrical secondary battery manufacturing device characterized in that it includes a controller that counts the number of carriers circulating in the circulation manufacturing line through the positioner in one cycle from detection of the master carrier through the sensor to detection of the next master carrier, and determines whether the number of carriers circulating in the circulation manufacturing line is appropriate.

14. In paragraph 13, The above master carrier is a cylindrical secondary battery manufacturing device characterized by having the same shape and size as a general carrier, but being visually and materially distinct.

15. In paragraph 13, A secondary battery manufacturing device characterized in that it includes an auxiliary sensor that detects that the master carrier has left the circulation manufacturing line and is discharged into a defective discharge port through which defective secondary batteries are discharged.

16. In paragraph 17, An interface for entering the appropriate quantity of carriers circulating in the above-mentioned circulating manufacturing line; and A cylindrical secondary battery manufacturing device characterized by including an alarm that generates a notification when the number of the counted carriers deviates from the appropriate quantity by a preset error.

17. Step of starting one cycle by detecting the master carrier in the circular manufacturing line through a sensor; A step of detecting and counting carriers in the above-mentioned circular manufacturing line through a positioner; A step of re-detecting the master carrier in the above-mentioned circulating manufacturing line to end one cycle and determine whether the number of carriers counted per one cycle is appropriate; and A method for manufacturing a cylindrical secondary battery, comprising a notification step performed in the event of an abnormality in the number of carriers.

18. In paragraph 17, A method for manufacturing a cylindrical secondary battery, comprising: a step of counting the number of carriers discharged from the circulation manufacturing line through an auxiliary positioner, wherein the number of carriers counted per cycle is calculated by deducting the number of discharged carriers.

19. In Article 17, A method for manufacturing a cylindrical secondary battery, characterized in that it includes a step of detecting the master carrier being discharged from the circulation manufacturing line through an auxiliary sensor and performing a notification.

20. In paragraph 17, A method for manufacturing a cylindrical secondary battery, characterized in that it includes a step of performing a departure notification of the master carrier when the master carrier is not re-detected within a preset time in the above-mentioned circulation manufacturing line.

Images