Transfer tray with remarkably improved battery cell transfer efficiency and battery cell activation system including same

Abstract

Disclosed are a transfer tray with remarkably improved battery cell transfer efficiency and a battery cell activation system including same. According to an aspect of the present embodiment, provided are a transfer tray capable of significantly improving battery cell transfer efficiency, and a battery cell activation system including same and capable of significantly reducing battery cell transfer time.

Description

A transfer tray that significantly improves the transfer efficiency of battery cells and a battery cell activation system including the same.

[0001] The present invention relates to a transfer tray that significantly improves the transfer efficiency of battery cells and a battery cell activation system that includes the same and significantly reduces the transfer time of battery cells.

[0002] The content described in this section merely provides background information for the present embodiment and does not constitute prior art.

[0003] In general, secondary batteries are rechargeable and capable of large capacities. Representative examples include nickel-cadmium, nickel-metal hydride, and lithium-ion batteries. Secondary batteries can be manufactured in flexible pouches, offering the advantage of relatively flexible shape.

[0004] Secondary batteries include pouches and battery cells. A secondary battery comprises a cell pouch, with battery cells arranged inside, and a polymer outer material corresponding to the pouch encasing the battery cells.

[0005] Meanwhile, inspections must be conducted to ensure that the manufactured secondary batteries have the electrical characteristics intended for their design and that each cell is free of short circuits. Accordingly, manufactured secondary battery cells are transferred from cell trays to an activation device, where they are seated and activated.

[0006] At this time, since the secondary battery cells have a considerably thin film form, there is a risk of damage or detachment during the transportation process. Accordingly, conventionally, when transporting manufactured secondary battery cells from a cell tray to an activation device, only a small number of secondary battery cells were held, and the transportation was carried out at a relatively significantly slow speed. For example, when transporting battery cells to an activation device that performs activation by placing 36 battery cells at a time, two cells were held from the cell tray, transported, and placed (transported) to the activation device. Accordingly, in order for the activation device to activate the characteristics of the battery cells, the battery cells had to be transported a total of 18 times before activation could proceed. Since the shape of the battery cells cannot be changed, the aforementioned problem could not be avoided conventionally.

[0007] One embodiment of the present invention aims to provide a transfer tray capable of significantly improving the transfer efficiency of battery cells and a battery cell activation system including the same.

[0008] In addition, one embodiment of the present invention aims to provide a battery cell activation system capable of significantly reducing the transport time of battery cells.

[0009] According to one aspect of the present embodiment, a transport tray for placing battery cells to be transported thereon is provided, the transport tray comprising: a frame for providing a space in which the remaining configuration within the transport tray is implemented; a protrusion having a structure protruding in one axial direction of the frame; a support sheet for allowing battery cells to be placed thereon; a plurality of support sheet support sections, which are included in a number greater than the number of battery cells to be activated at one time, and which support the support sheets; a guide section which is implemented in a form connected to both ends within the frame in one axial direction of the frame so that the support sheet support sections can move along the transport tray; and a restoring member which is disposed on each of the support sheet support sections and applies a restoring force to both support sheet support sections connected thereto.

[0010] According to one aspect of the present embodiment, the protrusion is characterized by having a structure that protrudes in a ‘ㄷ’ shape.

[0011] According to one aspect of the present embodiment, the protrusion is characterized in that it is implemented along the long axis direction of the frame.

[0012] According to one aspect of the present embodiment, the restoring member is characterized in that it is implemented with an elastic material.

[0013] According to one aspect of the present embodiment, the restoring member is characterized in that it is implemented as a spring.

[0014] According to one aspect of the present embodiment, a transport tray for placing battery cells to be transported thereon comprises a frame that provides a space for implementing the remaining configuration within the transport tray, a protrusion having a structure protruding in one axial direction of the frame, a support sheet that allows battery cells to be placed thereon, a plurality of support sheet supports that are included in a number greater than the number of battery cells to be activated at one time and that support the support sheets, a guide part that is implemented in a form connected to both ends within the frame in the one axial direction of the frame so that the support sheet supports can move along the support sheet, and a restoring member that is disposed on each of the support sheet supports and applies a restoring force to both of the support sheet supports connected thereto, wherein the transport tray is characterized in that the protrusions are gripped by an external device and move at the same time.

[0015] According to one aspect of the present embodiment, the protrusion is characterized by having a structure that protrudes in a ‘ㄷ’ shape.

[0016] According to one aspect of the present embodiment, the transport tray is characterized in that it further includes a reinforcing frame connected to the frame at one end and to the protrusion at the other end, thereby structurally reinforcing the protrusion.

[0017] According to one aspect of the present embodiment, the protrusion is characterized in that it is implemented along the long axis direction of the frame.

[0018] According to one aspect of the present embodiment, the transport tray is characterized in that the protrusion is gripped by an external device introduced in the longitudinal axis direction of the frame.

[0019] According to one aspect of the present embodiment, a transport tray for placing battery cells to be transported thereon is provided, the transport tray comprising: a frame that provides a space for implementing the remaining configuration within the transport tray; a protrusion having a structure protruding in one axial direction of the frame; a support sheet that allows battery cells to be placed thereon; a plurality of support sheet support sections that are included in a number greater than the number of battery cells to be activated at one time and that support the support sheets; a guide section that is implemented in a form connected to both ends within the frame in one axial direction of the frame so that the support sheet support sections can move along the transport tray; and a restoring member that is disposed on each of the support sheet support sections and applies a restoring force to both of the support sheet support sections connected thereto, wherein the transport tray is moved at once by having the protrusions gripped by an external device, and the transport tray is characterized in that the entire transport tray is seated on an activation device for activating the battery cells.

[0020] According to one aspect of the present embodiment, the frame is characterized in that it is mounted on the activating device.

[0021] According to one aspect of the present embodiment, the restoration member is characterized in that both ends of the frame and the support sheet support can be positioned apart from each other.

[0022] According to one aspect of the present embodiment, a battery cell activation system is provided, comprising: a cell tray transport device that receives cell trays storing battery cells to be activated, and holds and transports the battery cells; a battery cell transport device that holds and transports battery cells to be activated from a cell tray arranged at a position close to the cell tray transport device; a transport tray that places battery cells to be transported by the battery cell transport device; a battery cell activator that activates electrical characteristics of battery cells placed thereon in a preset environment; and a stacker train that holds the transport tray and transports it as a whole to the battery cell activator and sets it thereon.

[0023] According to one aspect of the present embodiment, the cell tray transport device is characterized by including a space in which a cell tray can be placed, and a transport means for transporting the placed cell tray.

[0024] According to one aspect of the present embodiment, the transport means is characterized in that it is a conveyor belt or a roller.

[0025] According to one aspect of the present embodiment, the cell tray transport device is characterized in that it receives a cell tray into a position and moves the cell tray clockwise or counterclockwise from the position.

[0026] According to one aspect of the present embodiment, the cell tray transport device is characterized in that it moves the cell tray to a position where the battery cell transport device can grip the battery cells within the cell tray.

[0027] According to one aspect of the present embodiment, the battery cell transfer device is characterized in that it grips the battery cell within the cell tray and transfers it to the transfer tray.

[0028] According to one aspect of the present embodiment, the battery cell transfer device is characterized in that it captures battery cells within the cell tray and then transfers them to the transfer tray while distributing the gap between the battery cells.

[0029] According to one aspect of the present embodiment, the battery cell activator is characterized in that it includes a plurality of units.

[0030] According to one aspect of the present embodiment, the battery cell activator is characterized in that it is stacked and arranged in an m*n configuration.

[0031] According to one aspect of the present embodiment, the stacker crane is characterized by moving on three axes, gripping the transport tray and settling it on a battery cell activator at one position.

[0032] As described above, according to one aspect of the present embodiment, the transport efficiency of battery cells transported for activation is significantly improved, thereby simplifying the process and thus improving the production volume of battery cells per hour.

[0033] In addition, according to one aspect of the present embodiment, there is an advantage in that the transport time of the battery cell can be significantly shortened.

[0034] FIG. 1 is a plan view of a battery cell activation system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] FIG. 2 is a front view of a battery cell activation system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a battery cell transport device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] FIGS. 4 and 5 are perspective views of a battery cell transfer according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of a link member and a link member connecting portion according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a first link member connecting portion according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a second link member connecting portion according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] FIG. 9 is a drawing illustrating the configuration of a battery cell gripper according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 10 is a perspective view of a transport tray according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] Fig. 11 is a perspective view of a support sheet support according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] FIG. 12a is a perspective view of a stacker crane according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] FIG. 12b is a perspective view of a stacker crane according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] FIGS. 13a and 13b are drawings showing an example of operation of a phage frame according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] FIG. 13c is a drawing showing a grip frame according to the first embodiment of the present invention gripping a transport tray.

[0048] FIG. 14a and FIG. 14b are drawings showing an example of operation of a grip frame and a grip part according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] Figure 14c is a drawing showing a gripper according to a second embodiment of the present invention gripping a transport tray.

[0050] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a battery cell activator according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] FIG. 16 is a drawing showing a transfer tray mounted on a battery cell activator according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] Fig. 17 is a perspective view of a jig plate according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] FIG. 18 is a side view of a jig plate on which a transfer tray is mounted according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] FIG. 19 is a drawing illustrating the configuration of a battery cell gripper according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] FIG. 20 is an enlarged view of a portion of a battery cell gripper according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0056] FIG. 21 is a drawing illustrating the configuration of a battery cell gripper according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0057] The present invention is susceptible to various modifications and embodiments. Specific embodiments are illustrated and described in detail in the drawings. However, this is not intended to limit the present invention to specific embodiments, but rather to encompass all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and technical scope of the present invention. Throughout the description of each drawing, similar reference numerals have been used to designate similar components.

[0058] Terms such as first, second, A, and B may be used to describe various components, but these components should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used solely to distinguish one component from another. For example, without departing from the scope of the present invention, a first component may be referred to as a second component, and similarly, a second component may also be referred to as a first component. The term "and / or" includes a combination of multiple related items described herein or any of multiple related items described herein.

[0059] When a component is referred to as being "connected" or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that it may be directly connected or connected to that other component, but that there may be other components intervening. Conversely, when a component is referred to as being "directly connected" or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components intervening.

[0060] The terminology used in this application is solely for the purpose of describing specific embodiments and is not intended to limit the present invention. Singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. It should be understood that terms such as "comprise" or "have" in this application do not preclude the presence or possibility of addition of features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in the specification.

[0061] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein, including technical or scientific terms, have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention belongs.

[0062] Terms defined in commonly used dictionaries should be interpreted to have a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant technology, and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly defined in this application.

[0063] In addition, each configuration, process, procedure or method included in each embodiment of the present invention may be shared within a scope that is not technically inconsistent with each other.

[0064] FIG. 1 is a plan view of a battery cell activation system according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a front view of a battery cell activation system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0065] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a battery cell activation system (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a cell tray transport device (110), a battery cell transfer device (120), a transfer tray (130), a stacker crane (140), a battery cell activation device (150), and a control device (not shown).

[0066] A battery cell activation system (100) activates battery cells, particularly battery cells loaded into a pouch-type battery. The battery cell activation system (100) applies preset pressure and temperature to the battery cells. The battery cell activation system (100) causes each battery cell to repeat charging and discharging under the applied temperature and pressure, thereby imparting or activating electrical characteristics to the battery cells.

[0067] At this time, when transferring the battery cells in the cell tray transported from the cell tray transport device (110) to the battery cell activator (150) for activating, the battery cell activation system (100) does not transfer the battery cells one by one, but transfers all battery cells to be activated at once using the transfer tray (130). Since the battery cells to be activated are transported while being seated in the transfer tray (130), the occurrence of damage or detachment during the transport process can be fundamentally prevented. In addition, since there is no concern about damage or detachment of the battery cells during the transport process, the battery cell activation system (100) can transfer the battery cells to the battery cell activator (150) for activating the battery cells at a significantly faster speed than in the past.

[0068] The cell tray transport device (110) receives cell trays storing battery cells to be activated, and allows the battery cell transport device (120) to grip and transport them. The cell tray transport device (110) includes a space in which the cell trays can be placed, and includes a transport means for transporting the placed cell trays, such as a conveyor belt or rollers. Accordingly, the cell tray transport device (110) receives the aforementioned cell trays to a position (112 or 118), and moves the introduced cell trays clockwise (in the direction of 114, 116, and 118 when introduced through 112) or counterclockwise (in the direction of 116, 114, and 112 when introduced through 118) from the position. For example, a situation in which a cell tray is introduced to a first position (118) in the cell tray transport device (110) will be described. When a cell tray is introduced into the first position (118), the cell tray transport device (110) moves the battery cell transport device (120) to the second position (116), where the battery cells in the cell tray can be held. As the battery cells are transported, the empty cell tray is moved to the third position (114) and the fourth position (112) and discharged to the outside. The reverse is true when the cell tray is introduced into the fourth position (112) in the cell tray transport device (110).

[0069] When a cell tray is introduced or discharged to or from the first position (118) or the fourth position (112) of the cell tray transport device (110), the cell tray may be positioned at the corresponding position and then moved up and down. For example, assuming that the cell tray is introduced to the first position (118) and discharged from the fourth position (112), the first position (118) of the cell tray transport device (110) may initially be lowered. Thereafter, when the cell tray including the battery cell for activation moves to the first position (118), the first position (118) of the cell tray transport device (110) is raised and lowered. The cell tray transport device (110) raises and lowers the first position (118) and then moves the cell tray to the second position (116). Conversely, when the empty cell tray moves to the fourth position (112), the cell tray transport device (110) lowers the fourth position (112) and discharges the empty cell tray to the outside.

[0070] The battery cell transport device (120) picks up and transports battery cells to be activated from a cell tray placed at a location (114 or 116) close to the device.

[0071] The battery cell transfer device (120) grips battery cells that are relatively densely arranged within a cell tray, distributes the battery cells at appropriate intervals, and transfers them to a transfer tray (130). A description of each component of the battery cell transfer device (110) will be described below with reference to FIGS. 3 to 9 and FIGS. 19 to 21.

[0072] The transfer tray (130) places battery cells transported by the battery cell transport device (120). The transfer tray (130) places battery cells (requiring activation) inside itself, and places them in the state in which the battery cells for activation should be placed in the battery cell activator (150). Accordingly, when the transfer tray (130) is transported as a whole by the stacker crane (140) and settled on the battery cell activator (150), the battery cell activator (150) can activate all battery cells placed in the transfer tray (130). As the battery cells are placed on the transfer tray (130), all battery cells requiring activation can be transported at once, and damage or detachment may not occur during the transport process. The specific structure of the transfer tray (130) will be described later with reference to FIGS. 10 and 11.

[0073] The stacker crane (140) grips the transport tray (130) and transports it as a whole to the battery cell activator (150). The stacker crane (140) moves back and forth between the position where the transport tray (130) is arranged and the position where each battery cell activator (150) is arranged, and transports the transport tray (130) to each battery cell activator (150). As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, each battery cell activator (150) is arranged within a certain space and can be stacked and arranged in an m*n configuration. The stacker crane (140) moves on three axes, grips the arranged transport tray (130), and places the gripped transport tray (130) on the battery cell activator at an appropriate position. The specific structure of the stacker crane (140) will be described later with reference to FIGS. 12 to 14.

[0074] The battery cell activator (150) creates a preset environment for a plurality of battery cells to be installed and activates their electrical characteristics. The battery cell activator (150) receives each transport tray (130) transported by the stacker crane (140). Since the transport tray (130) is received by the stacker crane (140) moving on three axes, the battery cell activator (150) can be placed in a stacked form without having to be placed only on one plane as in the related art. Accordingly, the battery cell activator (150) can simultaneously activate a plurality of battery cells even in a relatively narrow area without having to occupy an excessively large area to activate battery cells in parallel as in the related art.

[0075] The battery cell activator (150) electrically connects to the installed battery cells and then applies a preset amount of pressure and a preset temperature to the battery cells. The battery cell activator (150) can apply relatively uniform pressure and temperature to each battery cell compared to conventional methods. While pressure is applied to each battery cell, the battery cell activator (150) supplies power to each battery cell. The battery cell activator (150) repeatedly charges and discharges the battery cells under the aforementioned circumstances. When the battery cells are repeatedly charged and discharged under the aforementioned circumstances, electrical characteristics are imparted to the battery cells and they are activated. The battery cell activator (150) activates the battery cells by performing the aforementioned operations. A description of each component of the battery cell activator (150) will be described below with reference to FIGS. 15 to 18.

[0076] A control device (not shown) controls the aforementioned operations of each component in the battery cell activation system (100).

[0077] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a battery cell transport device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0078] Referring to FIG. 3, a battery cell transfer device (110) according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a first rail (310), a second rail (315), a first motor (320), a second motor (323), a third motor (326), a guide body (330), a screw (340), a nut (350), a first shaft (360), a battery cell transfer (370), and a fixed frame (380).

[0079] The first rail (310) is formed as an axis (x-axis, hereinafter referred to as the 'first axis') connecting the cell tray transport device (110) and the arranged transport tray (130). The first rail (310) is arranged on a support (305) having a preset height (z-axis direction) so that the guide body (330) can move along the first axis.

[0080] The first rails (310) are arranged in two pieces facing each other so that both guide bodies (330) can be arranged on each first rail (310). Each first rail (310) is spaced apart from each other so that a fixed frame (380), a second rail (315), and a guide body (330) can be arranged therebetween. By arranging the guide body (330) on each first rail (310), the fixed frame (380) and the battery cell transfer (370) connected thereto are also arranged.

[0081] The second rail (315) is connected to one side of the guide body (330) and is formed with an axis (z-axis, hereinafter referred to as “second axis”) that moves the fixed frame (380) connected thereto closer to or further away from the cell tray or transport tray (130) placed at the second position (116) or the third position (114) of the cell tray transport device (110). The second rail (315) is connected to one side of the guide body (330) and moves together with the guide body (330) moving along the first rail (310). Meanwhile, the second rail (315) is connected to the fixed frame (380) on the other side so that the fixed frame (380) and the battery cell transfer (370) connected thereto can move in the first axis direction together with the guide body (330). At the same time, the second rail (315) allows the fixed frame (380) and the battery cell transfer (370) to move on the second axis.

[0082] The second rails (315) are also arranged in two units facing each other so that a fixed frame (380) can be placed on each second rail (315). The second rails (315) are positioned apart from each other by the length (on the second axis) of the fixed frame (380) so that the fixed frame (380) and the battery cell transfer (370) connected thereto can be placed.

[0083] The first motor (320) supplies power to the guide body (330) to move along the first axis on the first rail (310). The first motors (320) can be placed on each of the first rails (310), and the two can be linked to each other to supply power of the same magnitude.

[0084] The second motor (323) supplies power to the fixed frame (380) connected to one side of the second rail (315) to raise and lower on the second axis. The second motor (323) may also be placed on each of the second rails (315), and the two may be linked to each other to supply power of the same magnitude.

[0085] The third motor (326) supplies power to move the two battery cell transfers (370) closer to or further away from each other along the first shaft (360) (moving on the first axis).

[0086] The guide body (330) is connected to the first rail (310) on one side and to the second rail (315) on the other side, and moves the second rail (315) along the first axis. For example, the guide body (330) is implemented in an ‘L’ shape, and is connected to the first rail (310) on the lower side (the side facing the activator or tray) and to the second rail (315) on the side. In particular, a guide part (not shown) that can move along the first rail (310) is formed on the lower side of the guide body (330), and can move along the first axis by receiving power from the first motor (320). Meanwhile, since the guide body (330) is connected to the second rail (315) on the other side, the second rail (315) and the fixed frame (380) that moves along the second rail (315) move together along the first axis. Accordingly, the fixed frame (380) and the battery cell transfer (370) connected thereto can be moved along the first axis by the guide body (330) to approach the tray (140) or to approach the battery cell activator (150).

[0087] The screw (340) and nut (350) are powered by the third motor (326) to move each battery cell transfer (370) away from or toward each other on the first axis.

[0088] The screw (340) is powered by the third motor (326) and rotates. The screw (340) is placed on a fixed frame (380) and fixed so as to be able to rotate without being displaced from its original position. Meanwhile, the nut (350) is located outside (farther from the center) than the connection part (413, described later with reference to FIG. 4) inside the battery cell transfer (370) with respect to the center of the screw (340), and moves closer to or farther from the center of the screw (340) as the screw (340) rotates. The connection part (413) inside the battery cell transfer (370) is placed at a position of the screw (340) and moves together with the movement of the nut (350).

[0089] The first shaft (360) is arranged coaxially with the screw (360) on the fixed frame (380) to support the battery cell transfer (370). The connection portion (416) within the battery cell transfer (370) is mounted on the first shaft (360). The connection portion (416) moves on the first shaft (360) along with the movement of the battery cell transfer (370) (by the nut (350)). Accordingly, the weight of the battery cell transfer (370) is not applied entirely to the screw (340), but is distributed to the first shaft (360) and the screw (340). The first shaft (360) distributes and supports the weight of the battery cell transfer (370) and increases the lifespan of the screw (340).

[0090] The battery cell transfer (370) moves along the first axis by the guide body (330) and along the second axis by the fixed frame (380), and holds and transfers the battery cells in the tray (140) or the battery cell activator (150). The battery cell transfer (370) moves along the first axis by the guide body (330) moving along the first rail (310), and along the second axis by the fixed frame (380) moving along the second rail (315). Accordingly, the battery cell transfer (370) can move to the tray (140) containing the battery cells for activation or the battery cell activator (120) that has completed activation.

[0091] Meanwhile, the battery cell transfer (370) is connected to the screw (340) and the first shaft (360) and grips the battery cells. The battery cell transfer (370) moves to the cell tray or the transfer tray (130) according to the operation of the above-described configuration. However, each battery cell arranged within the two is arranged with a different width (length along an axis perpendicular to both the first axis and the second axis). Accordingly, the battery cell transfer (370) can move each gripper (Gripper, described later with reference to FIG. 9) along an axis perpendicular to both the first axis and the second axis (y-axis, hereinafter referred to as the 'third axis') to grip the battery cells within the cell tray or to place the gripped battery cells on the transfer tray (130). Since the spacing between battery cells in the tray (140) or battery cell activator (150) is determined, each gripper is positioned at an interval equal to the respective spacing to grip each battery cell. A detailed description of the battery cell (370) will be described later with reference to FIG. 9 and FIGS. 19 to 21.

[0092] The fixed frame (380) is connected to each second rail (315) and fixes the screw (340), the nut (350), the first shaft (360) and the battery cell transfer (370). The fixed frame (380) is connected to each second rail (315) between the second rails (315), moves along the second axis along the second rail (315) and moves along the first axis along the guide body (330) connected to the second rail (315). The fixed frame (380) moves along each axis and moves the parts fixed to it together with itself.

[0093] FIGS. 4 and 5 are perspective views of a battery cell transfer according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0094] Referring to FIGS. 4, 5a and 5b, a battery cell transfer (370) according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a frame (410), a first connecting portion (413), a second connecting portion (416), a rail (420, 425), a sliding groove (430), a sliding coupling portion (435), a first link member connecting portion (440), a second link member connecting portion (445), a link member (450), a battery cell gripper (460), a motor (470), a screw (480), a nut (485), a first sensor (490) and a second sensor (495).

[0095] The frame (410) provides a space for each component within the battery cell transfer (370) to be located or operated, and is connected to the fixed frame (380) to support each component within the battery cell transfer (370).

[0096] The frame (410) is positioned so that two of them face each other with respect to the fixed frame (380), so that two battery cell transfers (370), including itself, can be positioned so as to face each other with respect to the fixed frame (380).

[0097] The first connecting portion (413) is a structure that protrudes from the frame (410) toward the fixed frame (380), and is coupled with the screw (340) to move the battery cell transfer (370) on the first axis. The first connecting portion (413) is implemented in a shape that can be coupled with the screw (340), for example, a shape that includes a hollow portion (not shown) inside having a cross-sectional area equal to or larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the screw (340), and is connected to the screw (340). The first connecting portion (413) is coupled with the screw (340), and allows the entire frame (410) and itself (413) to move accordingly by the operation of the screw (340) and the nut (350). Accordingly, the first connecting portion (413) moves the battery cell transfers (370) facing each other toward or away from each other.

[0098] The second connecting portion (416) is a structure that protrudes from the frame (410) toward the fixed frame (380) like the first connecting portion (413), and is coupled with the first shaft (360) to support the weight of the battery cell transfer (370). The second connecting portion (416) is coupled with the first shaft (360) and moves together with the first shaft (360) according to the movement of the first connecting portion (413). The second connecting portion (416) is not moved by a separate power source, but is passively moved by the movement of the first connecting portion (413). The second connecting portion (416) is coupled with the first shaft (360) and supports the weight of the battery cell transfer (370) by distributing it together with the first connecting portion (413).

[0099] Rails (420, 425) are formed at corresponding positions centered on the sliding groove (430) on the frame (410), thereby preventing the battery cell gripper (460) from coming off and moving it. The battery cell gripper (460) is connected to the rail (420, 425) by a guide part (916, described later with reference to FIG. 9) and moves along the rail (420, 425) on a third axis. That is, each gripper (460) moves in the same direction along the third axis, and moves in a direction closer to or farther away from each other.

[0100] However, the frame (410) may not have only one pair of rails formed, but two or more rails may be formed. As described above, the guide portion (916) in the battery cell gripper (460) is connected to the rail and moves on the rail. However, in order to grip the battery cells arranged in the tray (140), the gap between each battery cell gripper (460) must be considerably narrow. The gap between each battery cell gripper (460) may have to be narrower than the guide portion (916). In this case, when only one pair of rails is formed in the frame (410), a problem occurs in that each battery cell gripper (460) does not have the gap required to grip the battery cells arranged in the tray (140). To solve this problem, two or more pairs of rails are formed in the frame (410), and adjacent battery cell grippers (460) are connected to different rails by the guide portion (916) and move on the rail. Accordingly, any spacing may be provided between each battery cell gripper (460).

[0101] A sliding home (430) is formed in the frame (410) along a third axis, so that the sliding joint (435) moves along the third axis within the frame.

[0102] The sliding joint (435) moves closer to or farther away from each other within the sliding groove (430) by the operation of the motor (470), the screw (480), and the nut (485). The screw (480) is arranged on the third axis, and the nut (485) is arranged on the screw (480) and is coupled with a part of the sliding joint (435) and moves together with it. Power is supplied from the motor (470) and the screw (480) rotates, and the sliding joint (435) moves closer to or farther away from each other along the sliding groove (430) according to the rotation of the screw (480). A part of the sliding joint (435) can protrude from the inside of the frame (410) (in the direction in which the two frames face each other) to the outside of the frame (410) (in the direction in which the two frames do not face each other) through the sliding groove (430). As the sliding joint (435) protrudes, the link member can be connected to the protruding portion of the sliding joint (435).

[0103] The first link member connecting portion (440) has a hinge structure and fixes the link member (450) and the battery cell gripper (460) so that the link member (450) rotates. The first link member connecting portions (440) at both ends close to the sliding coupling portion (435) are connected to the link member (450) and the battery cell gripper (460), but are connected to the sliding coupling portion (435). Accordingly, the first link member connecting portion (440) receives a force in the third axial direction from the sliding coupling portion (435) and transmits it to the link member (450) and the battery cell gripper (460).

[0104] Meanwhile, the second link member connecting portion (445) has a hinge structure and is connected to the link members (450a and 450b) respectively, thereby allowing the link members (450) to rotate.

[0105] Link members (450a, 450b) are arranged in pairs to cross each other in an 'X' shape, and a first link member connection part (440) is connected to the intersection (center) of the two members, and a second link member connection part is connected to each end of the link member (450). A more specific structure is described with reference to FIGS. 6 to 8.

[0106] FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of a link member and a link member connecting portion according to one embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a first link member connecting portion according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a second link member connecting portion according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0107] Referring to FIGS. 6A and 6B, the link member (450) and the link member connecting portions (440, 445) are connected in this manner. When the first link member connecting portion (440) receives an external force in the third axis direction from the sliding connecting portion (435), each link member (450) connected to the first link member connecting portion (440) rotates. The link members (450) rotate so as to move away from each other (the angle therebetween increases) or closer to each other. For example, when the link members (450) connected to the first link member connecting portion (440) move away from each other, each link member connected to the second link member connecting portion (445) approaches each other (the angle therebetween decreases). In this way, as the link members connected to the first link member connecting portion (440) move away from each other and the link members connected to the second link member connecting portion (445) move closer to each other, the sliding coupling portion (435) moves closer to each other, and the gap between the respective battery cell grippers (460) connected to the first link member connecting portion (440) decreases. Conversely, when the link members (450) connected to the first link member connecting portion (440) move closer to each other, the respective link members connected to the second link member connecting portion (445) moves away from each other. In this way, as the link members connected to the first link member connecting portion (440) move closer to each other and the link members connected to the second link member connecting portion (445) move farther away from each other, the sliding coupling portion (435) moves farther away from each other, and the gap between the respective battery cell grippers (460) connected to the first link member connecting portion (440) increases. As the link member (450) and each link member connecting portion (440, 445) are connected as described above, the gap between each battery cell gripper (460) is adjusted using the force transmitted from the sliding connecting portion (435).

[0108] At this time, since each link member (450) is intersected and connected in an 'X' shape, a link member (450b) that is relatively close to the frame (410) and a link member (450a) that is relatively far from the frame (410) are distinguished at any link member connection portion (440, 445). At this time, the link member (450b) includes a protrusion (610) that protrudes at both ends in a direction toward the link member (450a) (a direction away from the frame (410). A connecting hole (615) into which a connecting member (not shown) such as a screw can be connected is implemented. The connecting member (not shown) is connected to the connecting hole (615), and the connecting member (not shown) comes into physical contact with the link member (450a) connected to the second link member connection portion (445). By using this, the coupling member (not shown) coupled to the coupling hole (615) can adjust the degree to which the link member (450a) rotates at the second link member connection portion (445). Even if the link member (450) and the link member connection portions (440, 445) are manufactured under the same process conditions and in the same environment, a microscopic tolerance inevitably occurs. Therefore, even if the gap between each battery cell gripper (460) is adjusted to be as close as possible (by moving the sliding coupling portions (435) to be as close to each other as possible), the gap between each battery cell gripper (460) may vary slightly due to the aforementioned tolerance. This may not be fatal if the gap between battery cells is above a certain level, such as in the battery cell activator (150). However, if the gap between battery cells is below a certain level, such as the gap between battery cells arranged in the tray (140), the aforementioned error may be fatal. To resolve this, the link member (450b) includes a protrusion (610) and a joining hole (615), and a joining member (not shown) can be joined to each joining hole (615) at a preset depth.Here, the preset depth means a depth such that the gap between the first link member connecting portions (440) is the same when the link members connected to the second link member connecting portions (445) are close to each other. The depth at which the connecting portions (not shown) are connected to the connecting holes (615) in each link member (450b) may be different. Accordingly, even if a tolerance occurs in each configuration during the manufacturing process, this can be resolved by connecting the connecting portions (not shown) to each connecting hole (615) to the preset depth.

[0109] Meanwhile, the first link member connecting portion (440) is connected to the link member (450) and the battery cell gripper (460) as shown in FIG. 7.

[0110] Referring to Fig. 7, the first link member connecting portion (440) is connected to each link member (450a, 450b) and bearings (710a to 710d), and a spacer (720) is arranged for each bearing (710a to 710d). The first link member connecting portion (440) includes the bearing (710) and the spacer (720) so that no tolerance (play) occurs in the direction of the rotation axis.

[0111] On the other hand, the second link member connecting portion (445) is connected to each link member (450a, 450b) as shown in FIG. 8.

[0112] Referring to FIG. 8, the second link member connecting portion (445) is also connected to the link member (450) by including a bearing (710), but instead of including a spacer, it includes a stopper (810) at the outermost side (farthest from the frame) to prevent the bearing (710) from coming off.

[0113] Since the link member connecting portions (440, 445) have different shapes, the following advantages are provided. Since the first link member connecting portion (440) connects not only the link member but also the battery cell gripper (460), it does not allow any movement in the direction of the rotation axis. However, if the bearings (710) continuously rotate and operate without any play, the bearings (710) may wear out or be damaged.

[0114] On the other hand, since the second link member connecting portion (445) has axial play, not only is wear and tear like the first link member connecting portion (440) prevented, but also the reduction in lifespan due to fatigue occurring in the bearing (710) within the first link member connecting portion (440) can be mitigated.

[0115] Referring again to FIGS. 4 and 5, a plurality of battery cell grippers (460) are implemented (as many as the number of battery cells) to grip each battery cell. The specific structure of the battery cell gripper (460) will be described later with reference to FIGS. 9 and 19 to 21.

[0116] The motor (470), screw (480), and nut (485) perform the aforementioned operation and move the sliding coupling (435) from the sliding groove (430) onto the third axis. As the sliding coupling (435) moves, the link members (450) rotate along with it by the link member connecting members (440, 445), thereby adjusting the spacing between the respective battery cell grippers (460).

[0117] The first sensor (490) senses whether the battery cell gripper (460) has completely gripped the battery cell. The first sensor (490) determines whether the second frame (920, described later with reference to FIGS. 9 and 19 to 21) has risen above a preset height. The first sensors (490) are arranged at both ends of the frame (410), and one of the first sensors irradiates light and the other receives light at a preset height (in the second axial direction) based on when the second link frame (920) has descended the most. If the battery cell gripper (460) grips the battery cell without any particular abnormality, the second link frame (920) descends along the slide rail (912, described later with reference to FIG. 9) due to the weight of the battery cell. Unless there is any particular abnormality, the second link frame (920) maintains the state of being lowered along the slide rail (912). On the other hand, if a battery cell or other configuration collides with the battery cell gripper (460), the second link frame (920) may rise. The first sensor (490) detects this abnormal rise of the second link frame (920) within the battery cell gripper (460) and determines whether the battery cell gripper (460) has completely gripped the battery cell or whether an abnormality has occurred.

[0118] The second sensor (495), on the other hand, senses whether the battery cell gripper (460) is holding a battery cell. Like the first sensor (490), the second sensor (495) is positioned at both ends of the frame (410), with one sensor irradiating light and the other receiving light. However, unlike the first sensor (490), the second sensor (495) transmits and receives light at a position relatively lower than the height at which the battery cell can be positioned in the second axis direction when the battery cell gripper (460) is holding a battery cell. The second sensor (495) transmits and receives light at the corresponding height and senses whether the battery cell gripper (460) has released the battery cell it is holding.

[0119] FIG. 9 is a drawing illustrating the configuration of a battery cell gripper according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0120] Referring to FIG. 9, a battery cell gripper (460) according to one embodiment of the present invention includes first to third link frames (910 to 930), a slide rail (912), a link member fixing pin (914), a guide portion (916, 925), a stopper support portion (918), an actuator (940), a cylinder (950), a hinge axis (960), a bearing (965), a grip portion (970), a grip body (974), a grip protrusion (978), an angle detection sensor (980), an angle adjustment shaft (985), a sensor fixing hole (987), a first stopper (990), and a second stopper (995).

[0121] The first link frame (910) is connected to the rails (420, 425) and supports the remaining components within the battery cell gripper (460). The first link frame (910) uses a guide portion (916) to enable the battery cell gripper (460) to be connected to the rails (420, 425) and to move along the third axis along the rails.

[0122] The third link frame (930) supports configurations capable of gripping battery cells within the battery cell gripper (460).

[0123] The second link frame (920) connects the first link frame (910) and the third link frame (930).

[0124] A slide rail (912) is formed within the first link frame (910) so that the second link frame (920) can be raised and lowered (on the second axis) along the guide portion (925). The second link frame (920) is normally lowered by its own weight or by the weight of the battery cell when the grip portion (970) holds the battery cell.

[0125] However, if the grip portion (970) fails to grip the battery cell and collides with the battery cell or other components, the second link frame (920) moves up and down along the slide rail (912). If the slide rail (912) does not exist, when the grip portion (970) collides with other components, the impact force is directly transmitted to each component. This may cause damage to the grip portion (970) or other components (such as battery cells). The slide rail (912) prevents damage to each component in the aforementioned situation.

[0126] As illustrated in FIG. 9c, the link member fixing pin (914) protrudes in the direction in which the first link member connecting portion (440) is coupled to the battery cell gripper (460), thereby fixing the first link member connecting portion (440) to the battery cell gripper (460). Accordingly, the first link member connecting portion (440) can couple the link member (450) and the battery cell gripper (460).

[0127] The guide unit (916) is connected to the rail (420, 425) and moves the first link frame (910) and all components connected or formed therewith on the real (on the third axis).

[0128] The stopper support (918) is formed at the far end of the first link frame (910) from the rail (420, 425) to provide a space for the stopper (990, 995) to be placed. The stopper support (918) places and supports the stopper (990, 995).

[0129] The actuator (940) is connected to the cylinder (950) and raises and lowers the cylinder (950) (on the second axis) so as to move closer to or further away from the grip projection (978). The actuator (940) is implemented as a pneumatic cylinder or the like and supplies power to enable the cylinder (950) connected thereto to rise and lower.

[0130] The cylinder (950) is positioned within the third link frame (930) and is raised and lowered by receiving power from the actuator (940). The cylinder (950) is positioned within a guide tube (not shown) formed to have a cross-sectional area equal to or larger than its own cross-sectional area within the third link frame (930), and is raised and lowered without disengagement. Meanwhile, the end (955) close to the grip protrusion (978) of the cylinder (950) is implemented in a wedge shape. Since the corresponding end (955) of the cylinder (950) is implemented in a wedge shape, the cylinder (950) can naturally enter between the grip protrusions (978) without resistance as it descends.

[0131] At this time, the cylinder (950), particularly the wedge-shaped end (955), may be implemented with a heat-treated component. Conventionally, the cylinder (950) has been implemented with a resin gel or a non-heat-treated component, but there was a problem that it quickly wears out due to frequent contact with grip protrusions and the like. To prevent this, the cylinder (950), particularly the end (955), is implemented with a heat-treated component to minimize wear.

[0132] The hinge axis (960) allows the grip body (974) to rotate around itself. The hinge axis (960) is located at a point of the grip body (974) and operates the grip body (974) using the lever principle. That is, when the grip protrusions (978) are opened by the end (955) of the cylinder, the gap between the grip portions (970) narrows, and when the end (955) of the cylinder is separated and the gap between the grip protrusions (978) narrows, the gap between the grip portions (970) widens.

[0133] The bearing (965) and the grip body (974) are connected to the hinge axis (960) and rotate around the hinge axis and operate on the principle of a lever. The grip body (974) is implemented in two pieces, and a part of the position where the hinge axis is to be placed is etched in the shape of the hinge axis (960) so that the hinge axis (960) can be placed. Since two grip bodies (974) must be placed with the hinge axis in the middle, one of the grip bodies (974) is etched in a semicircle. The bearing (965) is placed in the etched portion. The grip body (974) rotates around the hinge axis (960), and the grip portion (970) and the grip protrusion (978) operate on the principle of a lever.

[0134] Here, the bearing (965) may be implemented as two parts having a step, such as a flange bearing, with different diameters at one end and the other end. The other ends (ends with relatively smaller diameters) of the two parts may be arranged to face each other, and accordingly, a space is formed in the bearing (965) (between one end of each part) in which a part of the grip body (974) can be arranged. The distance between the one end of each part in the bearing (965) is implemented to be the same as the thickness of a part of the grip body (974), so that the bearing (965) and the grip body (974) can be prevented from being separated from each other.

[0135] The grip portion (970) is formed with a preset area at one end of the grip body (974), and moves away from or closer to each other according to the operation of the cylinder (950) to hold the battery cell.

[0136] The grip portion (970) is formed with a preset area at one end of the grip body (974). As described above, the grip body (974) is implemented in two pieces, and the grip portion (970) is also formed on each grip body (974). The grip portion (970) has a preset area, so that when a battery cell is located between the gaps between the grip portions (970), the battery cell can be gripped with the area. Accordingly, damage to the grip portion (970) or the battery cell that may occur when gripping at one point is prevented.

[0137] The grip protrusion (978) is formed in a protruding shape at the other end of the grip body (974). The grip protrusion (978) protrudes in a cylindrical shape, thereby allowing the end (955) of the cylinder to smoothly enter between the grip protrusions (978). When the end (955) of the cylinder enters between the grip protrusions (978), the two (978) spread apart, and the gap of the grip portion (970) decreases.

[0138] The angle detection sensor (980) detects whether a battery cell is placed between the grip portions (970). The angle detection sensors (980) are placed on each battery cell gripper (460) and are placed facing each other to irradiate light from one to the other. However, the angle detection sensors (980) are not placed on the same line, but are placed diagonally, such as in the ' / ' direction, to irradiate and receive light. When the angle detection sensors (980) irradiate light on the same line, there may be cases where the battery cell is not detected. To resolve this, a pair of angle detection sensors (980) are placed diagonally to detect the battery cell.

[0139] The angle adjustment shaft (985) adjusts the light emission direction and light reception direction of the angle detection sensor (980). The angle adjustment shaft (985) is arranged adjacent to the angle detection sensor (980) and changes the light emission direction and light reception direction of the angle detection sensor (980) according to its rotation. In order to grip the battery cells in the tray (140), each battery cell gripper (460) moves to have a relatively narrow gap. Accordingly, the light irradiated from the angle detection sensor (980) in one battery cell gripper (460) can proceed to the angle detection sensor (980) in another adjacent battery cell gripper (460). The angle adjustment shaft (985) adjusts the light emission direction and light reception direction of the angle detection sensor (980) in each battery cell gripper (460) to prevent the occurrence of the above-mentioned problem.

[0140] The sensor fixing hole (987) allows the angle detection sensor (980) whose angle is adjusted by the angle adjustment shaft (985) to be fixed. The sensor fixing hole (987) receives a fixing means (not shown, for example, a fixing bar, etc.) into its interior, so that the angle adjustment shaft (985) no longer tilts the angle detection sensor (980) (adjusts the light emission direction and light receiving direction).

[0141] The first stopper (990) is arranged on the lower surface of the stopper support (918) facing the third link frame (930) to prevent damage due to collision between the cylinder (950) and the stopper support (918). The cylinder (950) can be powered by the actuator (940) and rise to the stopper support (918). At this time, if there is no separate configuration, the cylinder (950) and the stopper support (918) may collide, and a problem may occur in which one or both of them is damaged. To prevent this, the first stopper (990) is arranged on the aforementioned surface of the stopper support (918) to prevent damage to both (918, 950).

[0142] The second stopper (995) is disposed between the stopper support (918) and the second link frame (920) on the upper surface of the stopper support (918) (the surface opposite to the surface on which the first stopper is disposed). The second stopper (995) prevents collision between the second link frame (920) and the stopper support (918) and reduces the lateral moment generated in the guide portion (916) due to movement of the battery cell gripper (460).

[0143] The second stopper (995) is positioned at the aforementioned location to prevent damage to both the second link frame (920) and the support member (918) due to collision, like the first stopper (990).

[0144] The second stopper (995) reduces the lateral moment generated in the guide portion (916). The guide portion (916) has a characteristic of being vulnerable to the lateral moment that inevitably occurs. In particular, since the weight of all components of the battery cell gripper (460) is applied to the guide portion (916), the guide portion (916) becomes vulnerable to the lateral moment (moment in the first axis direction and the third axis direction). To prevent this, the stopper support portion (918) and the second stopper (995) have the structure shown in FIG. 9d.

[0145] The second stopper (995) includes a groove (997) that is recessed toward its center on a surface facing the stopper support (918). Meanwhile, the stopper support (918) includes a protrusion (999) that protrudes toward the second stopper (995) in a shape corresponding to the groove (997) on a surface facing the second stopper (995). In this way, when the second stopper (995) is placed on the stopper support (918), the groove (997) and the protrusion (999) are additionally coupled. Accordingly, the guide part (916) becomes more robust to the moment applied to the first axis (x-axis direction in FIG. 9d) and the third axis (y-axis direction in FIG. 9d) by the combination of the two (997, 999), and the (unnecessary and unintended) movement of the second link frame (920) toward the corresponding axis can be minimized.

[0146] At this time, the protrusion (999) can be implemented as a headless bolt, and a screw thread can be implemented in the stopper support (918). The protrusion (999) is connected to the stopper support (918) by screw connection, and the degree of protrusion can be adjusted. Accordingly, the bonding strength (fastening force) of the protrusion (999) and the stopper support (918) can be improved, and the degree of protrusion of the protrusion (999) can also be adjusted as needed.

[0147] Meanwhile, in FIG. 9d, a groove (997) is illustrated in the second stopper (995) and a protrusion (999) is illustrated in the stopper support (918), but this is not necessarily limited thereto. The groove (997) may be implemented in the stopper support (918) and the protrusion (999) may be implemented in the second stopper (995), and may have the aforementioned features.

[0148] FIG. 19 is a drawing showing the configuration of a battery cell gripper according to another embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 20 is an enlarged view showing a portion of a battery cell gripper according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0149] Referring to FIGS. 19 and 20, a battery cell gripper (460) according to another embodiment of the present invention includes first to third link frames (910 to 930), a slide rail (not shown), a link member fixing pin (not shown), a guide portion (not shown), a stopper support portion (not shown), an actuator (940), a plate detection sensor (1910, 1915), a plate fixing portion (1920), a plate (1930), a guide groove (1935), an LM guide (1940), a hinge shaft (960), a bearing (965), a grip portion (970), a grip protrusion (1950), a grip body (1960), an angle detection sensor (980), an angle adjustment shaft (985), a first stopper (990), and a second stopper (995). Here, the first to third link frames (910 to 930), slide rail (not shown), link member fixing pin (not shown), guide portion (not shown), stopper support portion (not shown), actuator (940), hinge axis (960), bearing (965), grip portion (970), angle detection sensor (980), angle adjustment shaft (985), first stopper (990), and second stopper (995) perform the same operation as the same configuration in the battery cell gripper (460) according to one embodiment of the present invention, and therefore, a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0150] The plate detection sensor (1910, 1915) detects the movement of the actuator (940) and thus detects the movement of the plate (1930). The plate (1930) is raised or lowered according to the operation of the actuator (940). The plate detection sensor (1910, 1915) detects the actuator (940) that raises or lowers the plate (1930) and thus detects whether the plate (1930) is raised or lowered. According to the physical connection between the grip projection (1950) and the guide groove (1935) in the plate (1930), the grip portion (970) physically moves together with the movement of the plate (1930). That is, detecting the movement of the plate (1930) is equivalent to detecting the movement of the grip portion (970). If a foreign substance is located between the grip portions (970) and the gap between the grip portions (970) cannot be narrowed, the movement of the plate (1930) is also restricted. The plate detection sensor (1910, 1915) detects the movement of the plate (1930) in this way and determines whether the gap between the grip portions (970) cannot be narrowed or widened due to a foreign substance, etc.

[0151] The plate fixing member (1920) transmits power transmitted from the actuator (940) to the plate (1930). The plate fixing member (1920) is connected to the actuator (940) at one end and to the plate (1930) at the other end, and transmits power transmitted from the actuator (940) to the plate (1930). Accordingly, the plate fixing member (1920) and the plate (1930) are raised or lowered according to the power provided by the actuator (940).

[0152] The plate (1930) is raised and lowered by the actuator (940) and the gap between the grip parts (970) is adjusted.

[0153] The plate (1930) includes at least two guide grooves (1935) at the opposite end from the end where the plate fixing member (1920) is located. Each guide groove (1935) is formed at the end of the plate (1930) in a direction perpendicular to the direction of movement of the plate (1930), but is formed in the shape of a diagonal line in which one end is close to another. A grip protrusion (1950) is arranged within the guide groove (1935). When the plate (1930) is raised or lowered, the grip protrusion (1950) moves along the guide groove (1935), and the grip body (974) and the grip portion (970) are rotated by the hinge axis (960). Accordingly, the gap between the grip portions (970) becomes closer or farther apart. In this way, the plate (1930) includes a guide groove (1935), and by arranging the grip projection (1950) within the guide groove (1935), the grip portion (970) etc. rotates.

[0154] The LM guide (1940) is positioned between the third link frame (930) and the plate (1930) to assist in the raising and lowering of the plate (1930). The LM guide (1940) assists in the raising and lowering of the plate (1930) at the aforementioned position and prevents the plate (1930) from being displaced from the moving axis.

[0155] The grip projection (1950) is formed in a protruding shape at the other end (the end farthest from the grip portion) of the grip body (974), or is connected (to the grip body) in a protruding shape at the other end of the grip body (974) and moves along the guide groove (1935). The grip projection (1950) includes a fixed shaft (2054) and a rotating roller (2058) arranged on the outside thereof. The rotating roller (2058) comes into contact with one surface of the guide groove (1935) and moves along the guide groove (1935) according to the elevation and descent of the plate (1930). As described above, since the guide grooves (1935) are formed diagonally, and one end thereof is formed so as to be close to the other, the spacing between the grip protrusions (1950) remains constant even when the plate (1930) is raised and lowered, but the relative positions of the grip protrusions (1950) before and after the plate (1930) is raised and lowered change. Accordingly, the grip protrusions (1950) move along the guide grooves (1935), and the grip body (974) and the grip portion (970) rotate by the hinge axis (960).

[0156] The grip body (1960) includes a grip portion (970) formed or connected to a predetermined area at one end, and a grip protrusion (1950) formed or connected to a protruding shape at the other end. The grip body (1960) has a thickness equivalent to the spacing of the space formed within the bearing (965) as described above, excluding the grip portion (970) and the grip protrusion (1950). Accordingly, the grip bodies (1960) have a form in which they are stacked vertically. Accordingly, the grip protrusions (1950) also have a spacing between them in the vertical direction.

[0157] Meanwhile, the grip portion (970) may include a silicone-coated surface (975) as a surface facing each other. The silicone-coated surface (975) is formed by coating a silicone component on the surfaces facing each other between the grip portions (970), and can improve the frictional force and thereby improve the gripping force of the grip portion (970) for the battery cell. Conventionally, the silicone was implemented in a form in which it was adhered to the aforementioned surface of the grip portion, but after a certain period of time, the silicone may detach from the grip portion and fall off into the battery, etc. To prevent this, the grip portion (970) may include a silicone-coated surface (975).

[0158] FIG. 21 is a drawing illustrating the configuration of a battery cell gripper according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0159] Referring to FIG. 21, a battery cell gripper (460) according to another embodiment of the present invention includes first to third link frames (910 to 930), a slide rail (not shown), a link member fixing pin (not shown), a guide portion (not shown), a stopper support portion (not shown), an actuator (940), a cylinder (950), a grip projection guiding plate (2110), a guide groove (2115), a hinge shaft (960), a bearing (965), a grip portion (970), a grip projection (2130), a grip body (1960), a grip projection fixing portion (2120), an angle detection sensor (980), an angle adjustment shaft (985), a first stopper (990), and a second stopper (995). Here, the first to third link frames (910 to 930), slide rail (not shown), link member fixing pin (not shown), guide portion (not shown), stopper support portion (not shown), actuator (940), hinge axis (960), bearing (965), grip portion (970), grip body (1960), angle detection sensor (980), angle adjustment shaft (985), first stopper (990), and second stopper (995) perform the same operation as the same configuration in the battery cell gripper (460) according to one embodiment of the present invention or the battery cell gripper (460) according to another embodiment of the present invention, and therefore, a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0160] The grip projection guiding plate (2110) is connected to the end (close to the grip projection) of the cylinder (950) and rotates the grip portion (970) according to the movement of the cylinder (950).

[0161] The grip projection guiding plate (2110) is connected to the aforementioned end of the cylinder (950) and rises and falls along with the rise and fall of the cylinder (950).

[0162] At this time, the grip projection guiding plate (2110) includes at least two guide grooves (2115). The guide grooves (2115) are each formed in the same direction as the movement direction of the grip projection guiding plate (2110), but are formed in the shape of a diagonal line in which one end of each of the guide grooves approaches each other. The grip projection (2130) is arranged within the guide groove (2115), and the grip portion (970) and the like rotate as described above.

[0163] Meanwhile, a grip protrusion fixing portion (2120) is formed at the other end of the grip body (1960), and a grip protrusion (2130) is formed or connected to the grip protrusion fixing portion (2120) in a protruding form. The grip protrusion fixing portion (2120) formed in the grip body (1960) positioned at the bottom has a shape protruding upward, and the grip protrusion fixing portion (2120) formed in the grip body (1960) positioned at the top has a shape protruding downward. Accordingly, the grip protrusion fixing portion (2120) has a surface in contact with the grip protrusion guiding plate (2110) so that the surface has the same area.

[0164] As the grip protrusion fixing portion (2120) is formed, the grip protrusions (2130) can be positioned at the same height in the direction in which the grip protrusion guiding plate (2110) moves. The grip protrusions (2130) are formed at the same height, and move closer or further away from each other along the guide groove (2115) to rotate the grip portion (970).

[0165] Figure 10 is a perspective view of a transport tray according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0166] Referring to FIG. 10, a transport tray (130) according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a frame (1010), a protrusion (1020), a reinforcing frame (1025), a guide portion (1030), a support sheet support portion (1040), a support sheet (1050), and a restoration member (1070).

[0167] The frame (1010) provides a space for the remaining configuration within the transfer tray (130) to be implemented, and allows the battery cell activator (140) to be mounted on the configuration. The frame (1010) has a rectangular shape elongated along one axis, so that the support sheet supports (1040) and the battery cells (1060) to be placed on the support sheet (1050) can be arranged parallel to each other in the direction of the axis along its long axis.

[0168] A protrusion (1020) is implemented along the longitudinal axis of the frame (1010). The protrusion (1020) may have a structure that protrudes from the frame (1010) in a 'ㄷ' shape along the longitudinal axis of the frame (1010). As the protrusion (1020) is implemented, a stacker crane (140) to be described later can grip the protrusion (1020) to transport the transport tray (130).

[0169] The reinforcing frame (1025) is connected to the frame (1010) at one end and to the protrusion (1020) at the other end, thereby structurally reinforcing the protrusion (1020). As described above, the protrusion (1020) is a portion gripped by the stacker crane (140), and corresponds to a portion where an external force is applied. Accordingly, as the reinforcing frame (1025) is implemented in the form described above, the protrusion (1020) is structurally reinforced, thereby making the protrusion (1020) more resistant to external force.

[0170] The guide part (1030) is implemented in a form connected to both ends of the frame (1010) in the long axis direction, so that the support sheet support part (1040) can move along it.

[0171] The support sheet support member (1040) is included in a number that is one more than the number of battery cells (1060) to be activated at one time, and supports the support sheet (1050). As the support sheet support member (1040) is included in a number that is one more than the total number of battery cells (1060) to be activated within the cell tray, and supports the support sheet (1050), each battery cell (1060) can be placed on the support sheet (1050) supported by the support sheet support member (1040).

[0172] As the support sheet support member (1040) has the structure illustrated in FIG. 11, it can move along the guide member (1030) and move away from or closer to each other while supporting the support sheet.

[0173] Fig. 11 is a perspective view of a support sheet support according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0174] Referring to FIG. 11, a support sheet support member (1040) according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a support sheet support bar (1110), a support sheet link member (1115), a support sheet fixing member (1120), a link frame (1130), a link home (1135), and a guide hole (1140).

[0175] The support sheet support bar (1110) includes upper and lower surfaces implemented as flat surfaces and supports the support sheet with its upper surface. In order to fully support the support sheet (1050), the upper surface of the support sheet support bar (1110) is implemented as a flat surface. Meanwhile, the lower surface of the support sheet support bar (1110) is also implemented as a flat surface so that it can be fully seated on the battery cell activator (150), more specifically, on the jig plate (1530) described below.

[0176] A support sheet link portion (1115) is implemented at both ends (in the longitudinal direction) of a support sheet support bar (1110). The support sheet link portion (1115) is structurally connected to a link groove (1135) in a link frame (1130) at both ends of the support sheet support bar (1110), so that the support sheet support bar (1110) can be connected to the link frame (1130). For example, the support sheet link portion (1115) has a structure that protrudes in the height direction (the axial direction connecting the upper and lower surfaces of the support sheet support bar) from the support sheet support bar (1110), and thus is connected to a link groove (1135) implemented so that the entrance has a narrower width than the structure. Accordingly, the support sheet link portion (1115) prevents at least the support sheet support bar (1110) from leaving the link frame (1130) in the longitudinal direction.

[0177] The support sheet fixing member (1120) is coupled to the support sheet support bar (1110) and fixes the support sheet (1050). With the support sheet support bar (1110) and the support sheet fixing member (1120) separated, the support sheet (1050) is placed on the support sheet support bar (1110). Thereafter, the support sheet fixing member (1120) is coupled onto the support sheet support bar (1110) and fixes the support sheet (1050).

[0178] The link frame (1130) is coupled to both ends of the support sheet support bar (1110) in the longitudinal direction, and connects the support sheet support bar (1110) and the guide hole (1140). The link frame (1130) includes a link groove (1135) inside to be coupled to the support sheet support bar (1110), and its upper surface is coupled to the guide hole (1140). Accordingly, the support sheet support portion (1040) can be coupled to and fixed to the guide portion (1030) by the guide hole (1140), and the support sheet support portion (1040) can move along the guide portion (1030).

[0179] As described above, the link frame (1130) is coupled with the support sheet support bar (1110) including a link groove (1135). The link groove (1135) includes an entrance implemented with a relatively narrow width and an interior implemented with a wider width, so that the support sheet link portion (1115) can be introduced into its interior and coupled with itself. Accordingly, the two components (1115, 1135) are coupled, and the support sheet support bar (1110) and the link frame (1130) are completely coupled in the longitudinal direction.

[0180] The guide hole (1140) is coupled to the link frame (1130) at the top of each link frame (1130) and includes a through hole to allow the guide portion (1030) to pass through its interior. As the guide portion (1030) passes through the guide hole (1140), the support sheet support portion (1040) can move closer to or further away from each other along the guide portion (1030).

[0181] Referring again to FIG. 10, the support sheet (1050) is supported by the support sheet support member (1040) so that a battery cell (1060) can be placed thereon.

[0182] The restoring member (1070) is arranged between each support sheet support (1040), more specifically, between the guide holes (1140) of each support sheet support (1040), to prevent distortion of the two support sheet supports (1040) connected thereto and to maintain equilibrium. For example, the restoring member (1070) may be formed of an elastic material such as a spring. Accordingly, when each support sheet support (1040) moves closer to or farther away from each other, the restoring member (1070) allows each support sheet support (1040) to move without distortion and while maintaining equilibrium. As described below, the support sheet supports (1040) are moved closer to or farther away from each other by the battery cell activation device (150), and the restoring member (1070) allows the support sheet supports (1040) to move uniformly without distortion.

[0183] Additionally, the restoring member (1070) can assist in the restoration by applying a restoring force to the support sheet support portion (1040) so that it returns to a position close to each other or to its initial shape by the battery cell activating device (150). As described above, the restoring member (1070) can be made of an elastic material. The restoring member (1070) can assist in the restoration by applying a restoring force to the support sheet support portion (1040), thereby allowing the support sheet support portion (1040) to return to a position close to each other or to its initial shape more quickly and smoothly by the battery cell activating device (150). For example, the support sheet support portion (1040) arranged most centrally can be fixed within the frame (1010). In this case, the support sheet supports (1040) can be moved away from each other, and when the movement is completed, they are placed close to each other with respect to the center of the transfer tray (130) by the restoration member (1070) (as illustrated in FIG. 10). Since the support sheet supports (1040) are placed close to each other with respect to the center of the transfer tray (130) in a state where they do not move, the two ends of the frame (1010) and the support sheet supports (1040) can be positioned apart from each other in the long axis direction. Accordingly, when the transfer tray (130) is placed on the battery cell activator (150) by the stacker crane (140), the battery cell (1060) can be prevented from colliding with other components within the battery cell activator (150).

[0184] FIG. 12a is a perspective view of a stacker crane according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0185] Referring to FIG. 12A, a stacker crane (140) according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a grip frame (1210), a grip portion (1215), a guide portion (1220), a motor (not shown), a support frame (1230), a connecting portion (1235), a link frame (1240), a roller (1243), a guide portion (1246), a frame contact surface (1249), a crane (1250), a guide rail (1260), a guide body (1270), and a motor (1280).

[0186] The grip frame (1210) moves along the third axis or the longitudinal axis of the transport tray (130) along the guide portion (1220) and grips the protrusion (1020) of the transport tray (130) using the grip portion (1215). The grip frame (1210) moves along the third axis or the longitudinal axis of the transport tray (130) and moves closer to or further away from the transport tray (130) in the corresponding axial direction. The operation of the grip frame (1210) and the structure of the grip portion (1215) are illustrated in FIG. 13.

[0187] FIGS. 13a and 13b are drawings showing an example of the operation of a grip frame according to the first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 13c is a drawing showing a grip frame according to the first embodiment of the present invention gripping a transport tray.

[0188] Referring to FIGS. 13a and 13b, as described above, the phage frame (1210) moves in the longitudinal axis direction of the transport tray (130) along the guide portion (1220), and moves closer to or further away from the transport tray (130) in the axial direction.

[0189] Referring to FIG. 13c, the grip frame (1210) includes a grip section (1215), and the grip section (1215) includes a plurality of connecting plates (1310), a grip plate (1320), a first hinge (1330), and a second hinge (1335).

[0190] The connecting plate (1310) is connected to the phage frame (1210) on one side and to the phage plate (1320) on the other side, thereby connecting the two (1210, 1320).

[0191] The grip plate (1320) is connected to the connecting plate (1310) on one side, and contacts the protrusion (1020) of the transport tray (130) on the other side, and grips the transport tray (130). The grip plate (1320) may be implemented as a flat surface, but may include a groove (not shown) having the same shape as the protrusion (1020) within a portion (more preferably, a central portion) thereof. Accordingly, when the grip plate (1320) contacts the protrusion (1020), the protrusion (1020) is settled within the groove (not shown), thereby allowing it to be more completely fixed and gripped.

[0192] The first hinge (1330) connects the grip frame (1210) and each connecting plate (1310) with a hinge structure, so that the connecting plate (1310) rotates. Each connecting plate (1310) is connected to the grip frame (1210) by the first hinge (1330), and moves in a direction parallel to the grip frame (1210) or in a direction perpendicular thereto (toward the protrusion).

[0193] The second hinge (1335) connects each connecting plate (1310) and the grip plate (1320) with a hinge structure, thereby allowing the grip plate (1320) to rotate. Even if each connecting plate (1320) moves (rotates) in the aforementioned direction by the first hinge (1330), the second hinge (1335) causes the grip plate (1320) to continuously rotate in a direction parallel to the protrusion (1020).

[0194] As the gripper (1215) has the structure described above and operates, the gripper frame (1210) can grip the protrusion (1020) of the transfer tray (130).

[0195] Referring again to FIG. 12, the guide portion (1220) allows the grip frame (1210) to move along itself. The guide portion (1220) is arranged toward the long axis of the third axis or the transport tray (130), and allows the grip frame (1210) arranged on it to move along itself in the same axial direction. The grip frame (1210) may be arranged and connected to the guide portion (1220) by a structure such as a rail (not shown).

[0196] A motor (not shown) supplies power to enable the grip frame (1210) to move along the guide portion (1220). Accordingly, the grip frame (1210) can move in the long axis direction of the third axis or transport tray (130).

[0197] The support frame (1230) is implemented in an 'L' shape and supports the guide part (1220) or the guide part (1220) and the motor (not shown) on the lower side, and is connected to the link frame (1240) on the side. The support frame (1230) is coupled to the link frame (1240) on the side, and in particular, the guide part (1246) formed in the link frame (1240) and a roller (not shown), etc., so that it rises and falls along the guide part (1246) in the link frame (1240). Meanwhile, the support frame (1230) supports the guide part (1220) or the guide part (1220) and the motor (not shown) on the lower side, and raises and falls the components it supports together with itself. As a result, the grip frame (1210) can move in the second axis direction.

[0198] The connecting portion (1235) is implemented at a position within the support frame (1230), more preferably at the upper side, and is connected to a rope (not shown) within the crane (1250). The connecting portion (1235) is connected to a rope (not shown) within the crane (1250) and allows the support frame (1230) to be raised and lowered by receiving power from the crane (1250).

[0199] The link frame (1240) is connected to the support frame (1230) and the guide body (1270), and allows the support frame (1230) to move along with itself, while allowing the support frame (1230) to move together with the movement of the guide body (1270). As described above, the link frame (1240) is connected to the support frame (1230), and is connected to the guide body (1270) by the frame contact surface (1249). Accordingly, the link frame (1240) allows the support frame (1230) to be raised and lowered by the crane (1250) (the gripping frame moves in the second axis direction), while allowing the support frame (1230) to move in the first axis direction by the movement of the guide body (1270).

[0200] A roller (1243) is implemented at one end of the link frame (1240) (the end furthest from the frame contact surface). The roller (1243) enables a rope (not shown) within the crane (1250) to be connected from the crane (1250) to the connecting portion (1235), while simultaneously enabling power to be smoothly transmitted from the crane (1250) to the connecting portion (1235) by the rope (not shown).

[0201] The guide part (1246) is implemented on one side of the link frame (1240) and is combined with the support frame (1230), allowing the support frame (1230) to move along the link frame (1240).

[0202] The crane (1250) includes a rope (not shown) and applies an attractive force or a repulsive force to a configuration connected to itself by winding the rope (not shown). The crane (1250) is arranged on one side of the link frame (1240) and winds the rope (not shown) including the rope (not shown). At this time, as described above, since the rope (not shown) is connected to the connecting portion (1235) within the support frame (1230), when the crane (1250) winds the rope (not shown), the support frame (1230) can be raised or lowered along the rope (not shown).

[0203] The guide rail (1260) is arranged in the first axis direction so that the guide body (1270) arranged on it can move along the first axis.

[0204] The guide body (1270) is coupled to the guide rail (1260) on one side and connected to the frame contact surface (1249) of the link frame (1240) on the other side. The guide body (1270) allows itself and the link frame (1240) connected thereto to move along the first axis along the guide rail (1260). Accordingly, the grip frame (1210) can move in the first axis direction.

[0205] The motor (1280) provides power to enable the guide body (1270) to move along the guide rail (1260).

[0206] Since the stacker crane (140) has the structure described above, it can grip the entire transfer tray (130) and transport the gripped transfer tray (130) in any direction in three dimensions. Accordingly, since the battery cells for activation are not transported individually to the battery cell activator (150) but the entire transfer tray (130) is transported, the problem that occurs when the battery cells are transported individually as in the past can be fundamentally solved. In addition, even if the battery cell activator (150) is stacked and arranged in an m*n configuration, the stacker crane (140) can transport and settle the transfer tray (130) to any battery cell activator (150) without difficulty.

[0207] Meanwhile, the stacker crane (140) may have a structure as shown in FIG. 12b and FIG. 14.

[0208] FIG. 12b is a perspective view of a stacker crane according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0209] Referring to FIG. 12b, a stacker crane (140) according to a second embodiment of the present invention has the same configuration as that of the stacker crane (140) according to the first embodiment of the present invention, but includes a gripping portion (1290) instead of a gripping portion (1215), and additionally includes a sensor portion (1295).

[0210] The stacker crane (140) also grips the protrusion (1020) of the transport tray (120) using the gripping part (1290). However, unlike the gripping part (1215), the gripping part (1290) operates in a form in which the gripping groove reciprocates along a guide rather than having a hinge structure, thereby gripping the protrusion (1020) of the transport tray (120). The structure and operation of the gripping part (1215) will be described later with reference to FIG. 14.

[0211] The sensor unit (1295) is positioned within a preset radius from the gripper unit (1290) to sense the distance between the gripper unit (1290) and the protrusion (1020) of the transport tray (120). The sensor unit (1295) senses the distance between the two, so as to determine whether the gripper unit (1290) has reached a position where it can grip the protrusion (1020). As will be described later, the length of the gripper groove (1430) in the gripper unit (1290) extended by the gripper groove moving unit (1420) is fixed. Therefore, the sensor unit (1295) determines whether the distance between the two matches the corresponding length (the length to which the gripper groove can extend). In this case, the gripper groove (1420) extends toward the protrusion (1020), so that the protrusion (1020) can be gripped.

[0212] FIG. 14a and FIG. 14b are drawings showing an example of operation of a grip frame and a gripping unit according to a second embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 14c is a drawing showing a gripping unit according to the second embodiment of the present invention gripping a transport tray.

[0213] Referring to FIGS. 14a to 14c, the grip section (1290) according to the second embodiment includes a grip groove guide (1410), a grip groove moving section (1420), and a grip groove (1430).

[0214] The phage home guide (1410) is implemented on the phage frame (1210) to move the phage home moving part (1420) closer to or further away from the transport tray (130) in the short axis direction of the transport tray (130). The phage home guide (1410) includes a guide hole therein to allow the phage home moving part (1420) to flow in and out, thereby allowing the phage home moving part (1420) to move as described above.

[0215] The phage home moving part (1420) moves within the guide hole of the phage home guide (1410) and is coupled with the phage home (1430) at one end to move the phage home (1430) in the aforementioned direction. Accordingly, the phage home (1430) can move along the phage home guide (1410) by the phage home moving part (1420) to approach the protrusion (1020) of the transport tray (130) or move away from it.

[0216] The gripping groove (1430) engages with the transport tray (120), more specifically, the protrusion (1020), to grip the transport tray (1020). The gripping groove (1430) includes a groove in which the protrusion (1020) can be seated. The width of the groove (the length in the short axis direction of the transport tray) is implemented to be at least equal to the width of the protrusion (1020) or greater than the width of the protrusion (1020). Similarly, the depth of the groove (the length in the direction perpendicular to the short axis direction and the long axis direction of the transport tray) is also implemented to be at least equal to the depth of the protrusion (1020) or greater than the depth of the protrusion (1020). Accordingly, the gripping groove (1430) can safely seat the protrusion (1020) within its groove.

[0217] Meanwhile, as described above, the grip groove (1430) and the protrusion (1020) are adjusted to be positioned apart by the extendable length of the grip groove moving part (1420) based on the sensing of the sensor (1295). Accordingly, when the grip groove (1430) is extended toward (moved closer to) the protrusion (1020) by the grip groove moving part (1420), the grip groove (1430) places the protrusion (1020) within its groove and grips it.

[0218] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a battery cell activator according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 16 is a drawing showing a transfer tray mounted on a battery cell activator according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0219] Referring to FIG. 15, a battery cell activator (150) according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a pressure member (1510), a jig press plate (1520), a pressure plate (1525), a jig plate (1530), a battery cell fixing module (1540), a first rail (1550), a second rail (1555), a frame (1560), a first fixing plate (1564), a second fixing plate (1568), a pressure sensor (1570), a support plate (1580), an elastic member (1585), and a guide cylinder (1590).

[0220] The battery cell activator (150) activates battery cells (1060) within a transport tray (130) that is transported by a stacker crane (140) and settled thereon. As illustrated in FIG. 6, the frame (1010) of the transport tray (130) is mounted on a pressure member (1510) and a jig press plate (1520), and the battery cells (1060) arranged between the support sheets (1050) within the transport tray (130) are arranged between the jig plates (1530). That is, the transport tray (130) is settled by the battery cell activator (150), and an environment is formed in which the battery cells (1060) can be arranged between the jig plates (1530) and activated. In particular, since the restoring member (1070) included in the transfer tray (130) separates the two ends of the frame (1010) and the support sheet support member (1040) from each other, the transfer tray (130) can be installed on the battery cell activator (150) without damage to the battery cell (1060), and activation can proceed smoothly. Accordingly, the battery cell activator (150) can activate the electrical characteristics of the battery cells simply and quickly.

[0221] The pressurizing member (1510) receives power from the outside and pressurizes the jig press plate (1520). The pressurizing member (1510) may be implemented as a configuration that receives rotational power, such as a jack screw, and converts it into linear reciprocating motion, or may be implemented as a configuration that receives power and performs linear reciprocating motion.

[0222] The jig press plate (1520) receives pressure from the pressurizing member (1510) and applies pressure to each jig plate (1140) and the battery cells placed between the jig plates. The jig press plate (1520) may include a pressurizing portion (not shown) and a wing portion (not shown).

[0223] The jig press plate (1520) is implemented in a rectangular shape with a length that is relatively longer than the height.

[0224] The pressurizing member (not shown) is physically connected to the pressurizing member (1510) and receives pressure from the pressurizing member (1510) to pressurize another member.

[0225] The wing portion (not shown) is a portion extending in each longitudinal direction from the pressurizing portion (not shown) and disperses the pressure transmitted by the pressurizing member (1510). By dispersing the pressure through the presence of the wing portion (not shown), the jig press plate (1520) can apply uniform pressure to the battery cells placed between the jig press plate (1520) and the jig plate.

[0226] The pressure plate (1525) is placed on the opposite side of the jig press plate (1520) and receives the pressure transmitted through the jig press plate (1520) and the jig plate (1530).

[0227] The jig plates (1530) are comprised of one more battery cell than the number of battery cells to be activated at one time, and pressurize the battery cells by placing them between them. The jig plates (1530) and the battery cells placed between the jig plates (1530) are illustrated in FIGS. 17 and 18.

[0228] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a jig plate according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 18 is a side view of a jig plate on which a transfer tray is mounted according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0229] Referring to FIGS. 17 and 18, a jig plate (1530) according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a jig frame (1710), a guide hole (1714), a rail (1718), a pad (1720), and a pad fixing plate (1730).

[0230] The jig frame (1710) provides a space in which other components within the jig plate (1530) may be placed or fixed. The jig frame (1710) has a constant area and width (length in the direction in which the pressure member applies pressure in FIG. 15) so that each component may be placed and fixed.

[0231] Meanwhile, as illustrated in FIG. 18, when the transfer tray (130) is installed on the battery cell activator (150), the support sheet support member (1040) can be installed on the jig frame (1710). When installed in this manner, the support sheet (1050) and the battery cell (1060) supported by the support sheet (1050) can be placed between the jig frames (1710).

[0232] The guide hole (1714) is formed as a through hole in the jig frame (1710) so that the guide cylinder (1590) can pass through the jig plate (1530). As the guide cylinder (1590) passes through the guide hole (1714), the jig plate (1530) moves along the axis (third axis) formed by the cylinder along the guide cylinder (1590).

[0233] The rail (1718) is formed along the jig frame (1710) at the lowest end of the jig frame (1710) so as to move the battery cell fixing module (1540) coupled to the rail (1718) in the direction of the rail (1718). Since the jig plate (1530) including the jig frame (1710) must pressurize the battery cell mounted thereon, it is arranged to face the first axis and moves along the third axis to pressurize the battery cell. The rail (1718) is formed toward the first axis at the aforementioned position. Accordingly, the battery cell fixing module (1540) coupled to the rail (1718) can move along the rail (1718) along the first axis and move toward the battery cell or away from the battery cell.

[0234] The pad (1720) is placed on a surface facing an adjacent jig plate (1530) within the jig frame (1710) to prevent damage to the battery cell during the process of pressurizing the battery cell. The pad (1720) is made of a material that is elastic or has a hardness below a preset standard (not hard) to cushion the impact when in contact with the battery cell and prevent damage due to contact.

[0235] The pad fixing plate (1730) fixes the pad (1720) to the aforementioned surface of the jig frame (1710). The pad fixing plate (1730) is fixed to the jig frame (1710) by the fixing member (1335). Meanwhile, the pad fixing plate (1730) fixes the pad to one portion (e.g., the center). For example, the pad fixing plate (1730) may include a structure in which a pad can be arranged and coupled to one portion, or may be engraved in the shape of a pad to fix the pad in various ways.

[0236] Referring again to FIGS. 15 and 16, the battery cell fixing module (1540) moves along the third axis and the first axis, fixes the battery cell placed between the jig plates (1530), and pressurizes the battery cell. Two battery cell fixing modules (1540) are included and are placed facing each other to fix the battery cell, particularly the electrodes within the battery cell, from both sides.

[0237] The first rail (1550) is arranged on the third axis on the frame (1560) so that each battery cell fixing module can move closer or further away from each other.

[0238] The second rail (1555) is arranged on the first axis below the frame (1560) to move each frame (1560) toward or away from each other (the first axis). The second rail (1555) is arranged on the first axis below the frame (1560), and the frame (1560) includes a guide portion (not shown) at the bottom and is connected to the second rail (1555). Accordingly, the frame (1560) moves along the second rail (1555) on the first axis to move each frame (1560) toward or away from each other.

[0239] The frame (1560) supports each battery cell fixing module (1540) and the first rail (1550) and provides a space for them to be placed. The frames (1560) can be moved closer or further apart from each other along the second rail (1555), and the battery cell fixing modules (1540) can be moved closer or further apart from each other along the rail (1718).

[0240] The first fixed plate (1564) fixes the press member (1510) so that the press member (1510) can be combined with the jig press plate (1520) without detachment and completely pressurize the jig press plate (1520).

[0241] The second fixed plate (1568) fixes the pressure sensor (1570) and maintains a gap between itself and the support plate (1580) at which the pressure sensor (1570) can be placed.

[0242] The pressure sensor (1570) senses the pressure applied to the support plate (1580). The pressure sensor (1570) senses the pressure applied to the support plate (1580) between the second fixed plate (1568) and the support plate (1580), and senses the magnitude of the pressure applied to each battery cell. The jig press plate (1520) is pressed by the pressing member (1510) and presses each jig plate (1530), and the jig plates (1530) and the battery cells arranged therebetween transmit the pressure to the adjacent jig plate (1530) by the pressing, and are simultaneously compressed toward the support plate (1580). Finally, pressure is transmitted to the support plate (1580) to reduce the gap between the jig plates (1530), and the pressure sensor (1570) senses this.

[0243] The elastic member (1585) transmits the pressure transmitted to the pressure plate (1525) to the support plate (1580) while preventing the pressure plate (1525) from colliding with the support plate (1580) while being subjected to pressure.

[0244] The guide cylinder (1590) is positioned so as to penetrate the guide hole (1714) of each jig plate (1530), and allows the jig plates (1530) to move along the axis on which the guide cylinder (1590) is positioned. Both ends of the guide cylinder (1590) are fixed to each of the fixed plates (1164, 1168), and are positioned on the third axis by penetrating the guide hole (1714) of each jig plate (1530). Accordingly, when the jig plate (1530) is pressed by the jig press plate (1520), it can move along the guide cylinder (1590).

[0245] The above description is merely an example of the technical idea of ​​the present embodiment, and those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications and variations can be made without departing from the essential characteristics of the present embodiment. Therefore, the present embodiments are not intended to limit the technical idea of ​​the present embodiment, but rather to explain it, and the scope of the technical idea of ​​the present embodiment is not limited by these embodiments. The scope of protection of the present embodiment should be interpreted by the claims below, and all technical ideas within a scope equivalent thereto should be interpreted as being included in the scope of rights of the present embodiment.

[0246]

[0247] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0248] This patent application claims priority under 35 USC § 119(a) of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0004721, filed in Korea on January 11, 2024, and Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0013271, filed in Korea on January 29, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference herein. In addition, this patent application claims priority in countries other than the United States for the same reasons, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference herein.

Claims

1. In a transfer tray for placing battery cells that are transferred by themselves, A frame providing space in which the remaining components within the above transport tray may be implemented; A protrusion having a structure protruding in one axial direction of the above frame; A support sheet that allows battery cells to be placed on top of it; A plurality of support sheet supports, each of which includes one more number of battery cells than the number of battery cells to be activated at one time, and supporting the support sheet; A guide part implemented in a form connected to both ends of the frame in the direction of one axis of the frame so that the support sheet support part can move along it; and A restoring member that is placed on each support sheet support and applies restoring force to both support sheet supports connected to it. A transport tray characterized by including a .

2. In paragraph 1, The above protrusion is, A transport tray characterized by having a protruding structure in the shape of the letter ‘ㄷ’.

3. In paragraph 1, The above protrusion is, A transport tray characterized in that it is implemented along the long axis direction of the above frame.

4. In paragraph 1, The above restoration part is, A transport tray characterized by being implemented with a material having elasticity.

5. In paragraph 4, The above restoration part is, A transport tray characterized by being implemented with a spring.

6. In a transfer tray for placing battery cells that are transferred by themselves, A frame providing space in which the remaining components within the above transport tray may be implemented; A protrusion having a structure protruding in one axial direction of the above frame; A support sheet that allows battery cells to be placed on top of it; A plurality of support sheet supports, each of which includes one more number of battery cells than the number of battery cells to be activated at one time, and supporting the support sheet; A guide part implemented in a form connected to both ends of the frame in the direction of one axis of the frame so that the support sheet support part can move along it; and Each support sheet support member is arranged to include a restoring member that applies restoring force to both support sheet supports connected to it, The above transport tray is a transport tray characterized in that the protrusions are gripped by an external device and moved simultaneously.

7. In paragraph 6, The above protrusion is, A transport tray characterized by having a protruding structure in the shape of the letter ‘ㄷ’.

8. In paragraph 7, A transport tray characterized by further comprising a reinforcing frame connected to the frame at one end and the projection at the other end to structurally reinforce the projection.

9. In paragraph 6, The above protrusion is, A transport tray characterized in that it is implemented along the long axis direction of the above frame.

10. In paragraph 9, The above transfer tray, A transport tray characterized in that the protrusion is gripped by an external device introduced in the longitudinal axis direction of the frame.

11. In a transfer tray for placing battery cells that are transferred by themselves, A frame providing space in which the remaining components within the above transport tray may be implemented; A protrusion having a structure protruding in one axial direction of the above frame; A support sheet that allows battery cells to be placed on top of it; A plurality of support sheet supports, each of which includes one more number of battery cells than the number of battery cells to be activated at one time, and supporting the support sheet; A guide part implemented in a form connected to both ends of the frame in the direction of one axis of the frame so that the support sheet support part can move along it; and Each support sheet support member is arranged to include a restoring member that applies restoring force to both support sheet supports connected to it. A transfer tray characterized in that the above transfer tray is moved simultaneously by having a protrusion gripped by an external device, and the entire transfer tray is settled on an activation device for activating a battery cell.

12. In paragraph 11, The above frame is, A transport tray characterized by being mounted on the above-mentioned activating device.

13. In paragraph 11, The above restoration part is, A transport tray characterized in that the two ends of the frame and the support sheet support can be positioned apart from each other.

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