Contamination-resistant battery cell carrier

Abstract

The present invention provides a contamination-resistant battery cell carrier comprising: a lower carrier (100) including a lower plate (110) on which one or more battery cells (50) are mounted; and an upper carrier (200) including an upper plate (210) that is disposed above the lower carrier (100) and the one or more battery cells (50) and is coupled to the lower carrier (100), one or more hoppers (220) that are arranged to pass through the upper plate (210) and respectively contact the one or more battery cells (50), and a barrier (230) that is formed to protrude upward from the upper plate (210). Each of the one or more hoppers (220) may be open at the top and bottom and may include an upper injection port (222) that contacts an electrolyte injector and a lower injection port (224) that contacts a respective battery cell (50). Accordingly, an electrolyte may be injected into each battery cell (50) via each hopper (220), or the electrolyte inside each battery cell (50) may leak or splash to the outside of the battery cell (50). The barrier (230) may entirely surround the one or more hoppers (220).

Description

My pollution-free battery cell carrier

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority from Republic of Korea Patent Application No. 10-2024-0023485, dated February 19, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] The present invention relates to a contamination-resistant battery cell carrier, which can be used without stopping the battery cell manufacturing process even when electrolyte contamination occurs, and which can extend the cleaning cycle because frequent cleaning of manufacturing equipment or carriers is not required, and which is easy to clean.

[0003] Typically, lithium secondary batteries are manufactured by placing an electrode assembly consisting of a cathode, anode, and a separator into a cylindrical or rectangular metal can, followed by a pouring process to inject electrolyte into the can, and an activation process to activate the battery by performing a predetermined charging and discharging cycle. To increase productivity during these pouring and activation processes, battery cell carriers are used to enable simultaneous pouring and charging / discharging of multiple cells, and to facilitate the transport of multiple cells.

[0004] A battery cell carrier may include a lower carrier on which a plurality of battery cells are mounted, and an upper carrier having a plurality of hoppers and coupled to the lower carrier. Each hopper may include an upper inlet that contacts an electrolyte injector and a lower inlet that contacts each battery cell. An electrolyte may be injected into each battery cell through each hopper. In addition, since each hopper is open upward and downward, the interior of each battery cell may be pressurized or increased within a chamber for an activation process. In other words, the injection process and the activation process may be performed while a plurality of battery cells are mounted on the battery cell carrier.

[0005] When the injection process and activation process are performed with multiple battery cells installed in the battery cell carrier in this way, there is an advantage of improved productivity, but since the hopper of the battery cell carrier is interposed between the battery cell and the electrolyte injector, the electrolyte leakage area (lower inlet and upper inlet) increases, resulting in aggravated electrolyte contamination of the process equipment and the battery cell carrier, which requires frequent cleaning of the process equipment or carrier, which increases the manufacturing cost of the battery cell and the maintenance cost of the process equipment or carrier.

[0006] If the carrier contaminated with electrolyte is not cleaned, problems such as weakened adhesion between the hopper and the battery cell, failure or instability in the connection / separation of the carrier and the transport device, failure or instability in the connection / separation of the upper and lower carriers, and damage, deformation, and increased wear of the carrier may occur.

[0007] Therefore, there is a need for a battery cell carrier that eliminates or reduces the above-described problems that arise from the use of a battery cell carrier.

[0008] A related prior art document is Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2019-0094830.

[0009] The present invention has been devised to solve the above-described problems, and aims to provide a battery cell carrier that is easy to clean and is resistant to contamination, so that the battery cell manufacturing process can be continued even when electrolyte contamination occurs, the manufacturing equipment or carrier does not need to be cleaned frequently, and thus the cleaning cycle can be extended.

[0010] The present invention aims to provide a contamination-resistant battery cell carrier that improves battery cell productivity and reduces maintenance costs of manufacturing equipment or carriers and battery cell manufacturing costs.

[0011] The present invention aims to provide an anti-contamination battery cell carrier that prevents failure or instability in fastening or separating a carrier and a transport device due to electrolyte contamination.

[0012] The present invention aims to provide a contamination-resistant battery cell carrier capable of stably performing electrolyte injection even when electrolyte contamination occurs and preventing or reducing leakage or scattering of electrolyte during electrolyte injection or impregnation.

[0013] The present invention aims to provide a contamination-resistant battery cell carrier that solves or alleviates problems of alignment failure or instability of the upper carrier and the lower carrier due to electrolyte contamination, and damage, deformation or wear of the upper carrier or the lower carrier caused by applying excessive force to align the upper carrier and the lower carrier due to alignment failure or instability.

[0014]

[0015] The technical objectives of the present invention are not limited to the purposes mentioned above. Other objectives and advantages of the present invention not mentioned above can be understood through the following description and will be more clearly understood through the embodiments of the present invention. Furthermore, it will be readily apparent that the objectives and advantages of the present invention can be realized by the means and combinations thereof set forth in the claims.

[0016] To solve the above-described problem, the present invention provides an anti-contamination battery cell carrier (10) including a lower carrier (100); and an upper carrier (200).

[0017] The above-mentioned lower carrier (100) may include a lower plate (110) on which one or more battery cells (50) are mounted.

[0018] The upper carrier (200) may be configured to include a top plate (210), one or more hoppers (220), and a barrier (230).

[0019] The above upper plate (210) can be placed on top of the lower carrier (100) and the one or more battery cells (50).

[0020] The above upper plate (210) can be combined with the lower carrier (100).

[0021] The above one or more hoppers (220) may be arranged through the upper plate (210).

[0022] The above one or more hoppers (220) can each be in contact with the above one or more battery cells (50).

[0023] The above barrier (230) can be formed by protruding upward from the upper plate (210).

[0024] Each of the above one or more hoppers (220) can be opened vertically.

[0025] Each of the above one or more hoppers (220) may include an upper inlet (222) and a lower inlet (224).

[0026] The upper injection port (222) can be in contact with the electrolyte injector.

[0027] The above lower injection port (224) can come into contact with each of the above battery cells (50).

[0028] Accordingly, the electrolyte may be injected into each battery cell (50) through each of the hoppers (220), or the electrolyte inside each battery cell (50) may leak or scatter outside the battery cell (50).

[0029] The above barrier (230) can entirely surround one or more hoppers (220).

[0030] In addition, to solve the above-described problem, the present invention provides an anti-contamination battery cell carrier (10) including a lower carrier (100); and an upper carrier (200).

[0031] The above-mentioned lower carrier (100) may include a lower plate (110) on which one or more battery cells (50) are mounted.

[0032] The upper carrier (200) may be configured to include a top plate (210) and one or more hoppers (220).

[0033] The above upper plate (210) can be placed on top of the lower carrier (100) and the one or more battery cells (50).

[0034] The above upper plate (210) can be combined with the lower carrier (100).

[0035] The above one or more hoppers (220) may be arranged through the upper plate (210).

[0036] The above one or more hoppers (220) can each be in contact with the above one or more battery cells (50).

[0037] Each of the above one or more hoppers (220) can be opened vertically.

[0038] Each of the above one or more hoppers (220) may include an upper inlet (222) and a lower inlet (224).

[0039] The upper injection port (222) can be in contact with the electrolyte injector.

[0040] The above lower injection port (224) can come into contact with each of the above battery cells (50).

[0041] Accordingly, the electrolyte may be injected into each battery cell (50) through each of the hoppers (220), or the electrolyte inside each battery cell (50) may leak or scatter outside the battery cell (50).

[0042] The above lower carrier (100) or upper carrier (200) may include a fastening portion (240).

[0043] The above fastening portion (240) can be placed at the edge of the lower plate (110) or upper plate (210).

[0044] The above fastening part (240) can be fastened to a transport device.

[0045] The above lower plate (110) or upper plate (210) may include a discharge hole (212).

[0046] The above discharge hole (212) may be formed inside the above fastening part (240).

[0047] The above discharge hole (212) can be opened upwards and downwards.

[0048] In one embodiment, the fastening portion (240) may include a fastening hole (242).

[0049] The above fastening hole (242) is formed to penetrate in a direction intersecting the vertical direction, and may be formed to penetrate in a direction from the outside to the inside of the lower plate (110) or the upper plate (210).

[0050] The above fastening hole (242) can be connected to the above discharge hole (212).

[0051] In one embodiment, the fastening hole (242) may be connected to the discharge hole (212) in the direction in which the fastening hole (242) is formed through.

[0052] In one embodiment, the lower plate (110) may have one or more mounting grooves (112) into which one or more battery cells (50) are each inserted.

[0053] The above lower carrier (100) may include one or more pushers (120).

[0054] The above one or more pushers (120) may be respectively positioned inside the one or more mounting grooves (112), but may be positioned lower than each of the battery cells (50) mounted in each of the mounting grooves (112).

[0055] Each of the above pushers (120) may include a mounting plate (122) and a first elastic member (124).

[0056] The above-mentioned mounting plate (122) can be placed at the bottom of each of the above-mentioned battery cells (50).

[0057] Each of the above battery cells (50) can be mounted on the above mounting plate (122).

[0058] The above-mentioned mounting plate (122) can be moved up and down along the inner surface of each of the above-mentioned mounting grooves (112).

[0059] The above first elastic member (124) can be placed at the lower portion of the mounting plate (122).

[0060] The above first elastic member (124) can press the mounting plate (122) upward.

[0061] The above-mentioned mounting plate (122) may include a first chamfer (C1) formed at the upper outer end to be inclined downward toward the outside.

[0062] In one embodiment, the mounting plate (122) may include a second chamfer (C2) formed at the lower outer end to slope upwardly toward the outside.

[0063] In one embodiment, the subcarrier (100) may include one or more alignment members (130).

[0064] The above one or more alignment members (130) may be formed by protruding upward from the lower plate (110).

[0065] The upper carrier (200) may include one or more alignment holes (250).

[0066] The above one or more alignment holes (250) can be formed vertically through the upper plate (210).

[0067] One or more alignment members (130) can be inserted into or penetrate each of the one or more alignment holes (250).

[0068] Each of the alignment members (130) may include an alignment guide member (132) and an alignment fixing member (134).

[0069] The cross-sectional area of ​​the above alignment guide portion (132) may gradually increase from the top to the bottom.

[0070] The above alignment fixing part (134) can be formed to extend downward from the lower end of the alignment guide part (132).

[0071] The above alignment fixing member (134) may have the same cross-sectional area up and down.

[0072] At least a portion of each of the above alignment holes (250) can be in contact with each of the above alignment fixing members (134) having a cross-sectional shape and size corresponding to the cross-sectional shape and size of each of the above alignment fixing members (134).

[0073] In one embodiment, each of the alignment fixing members (134) may have a cylindrical shape and a circular cross-section.

[0074] At least a portion of each of the alignment holes (250) may be in contact with the alignment fixing member (134) having a shape and size of a circular cross-section corresponding to the shape and size of the circular cross-section of each of the alignment fixing members (134).

[0075] According to embodiments of the present invention, a contamination-resistant battery cell carrier (10) may include a lower carrier (100) including a lower plate (110) on which one or more battery cells (50) are mounted; and an upper plate (210) disposed above the lower carrier (100) and the one or more battery cells (50) and coupled to the lower carrier (100), one or more hoppers (220) disposed through the upper plate (210) and each in contact with the one or more battery cells (50), and a barrier (230) formed to protrude upward from the upper plate (210). Each of the one or more hoppers (220) may include an upper inlet (222) that is open vertically and contacts an electrolyte injector, and a lower inlet (224) that contacts each of the battery cells (50). Accordingly, the electrolyte may be injected into each battery cell (50) through each hopper (220), or the electrolyte inside each battery cell (50) may leak or scatter outside the battery cell (50). The barrier (230) may entirely surround one or more hoppers (220).

[0076] Accordingly, even if the electrolyte leaks or scatters on the upper surface of the upper plate (210) when the electrolyte is injected into the battery cell (50) or the inside of the battery cell (50) is pressurized or depressurized, most of the leaked or scattered electrolyte collects inside the barrier (230), so the major area contaminated with the electrolyte can be limited and controlled. Accordingly, even if electrolyte contamination occurs, the battery cell (50) manufacturing process can be continued without stopping, and since the carrier (10) does not need to be cleaned frequently, the carrier (10) cleaning cycle can be extended and cleaning can be made easier. Accordingly, the productivity of the battery cell (50) can be improved, and the maintenance cost of the carrier (10) and the manufacturing cost of the battery cell (50) can be reduced.

[0077] In addition, since the main area contaminated with the electrolyte can be limited to a predetermined area (e.g., inside the barrier (230)) that is not affected by the electrolyte contamination, problems due to the electrolyte contamination can be prevented or reduced even if the electrolyte leaks or scatters. For example, problems such as failure or instability in fastening / separating the carrier (10) and the transport device due to the electrolyte contamination, weakening of the adhesion between the battery cell (50) and the hopper (220), failure or instability in separating the upper carrier (200), and increased wear of the alignment member (130) or alignment hole (250) due to this, can be prevented from occurring.

[0078] In addition, since the barrier (230) is formed to entirely surround one or more hoppers (220), the area around the upper inlet (222) of each hopper (220) where electrolyte leakage frequently occurs can be easily isolated with a simple configuration at low cost, and the spread of electrolyte contamination can be effectively prevented.

[0079] According to embodiments of the present invention, a contamination-resistant battery cell carrier (10) may include a lower carrier (100) including a lower plate (110) on which one or more battery cells (50) are mounted; and an upper carrier (200) including an upper plate (210) disposed above the lower carrier (100) and the one or more battery cells (50) and coupled to the lower carrier (100), and one or more hoppers (220) disposed through the upper plate (210) and each in contact with the one or more battery cells (50). Each of the one or more hoppers (220) may include an upper inlet (222) that is open vertically and contacts an electrolyte injector, and a lower inlet (224) that contacts each of the battery cells (50). Accordingly, the electrolyte may be injected into each battery cell (50) through each of the hoppers (220), or the electrolyte inside each battery cell (50) may leak or scatter outside the battery cell (50). The lower carrier (100) or the upper carrier (200) may include a fastening portion (240) that is arranged at the edge of the lower plate (110) or the upper plate (210) and fastened to a transport device. The lower plate (110) or the upper plate (210) may include a discharge hole (212) that is formed inside the fastening portion (240) and is opened vertically.

[0080] Accordingly, the electrolyte leaking or flying from the inside of the lower plate (110) or upper plate (210) (e.g., the lower inlet (224) or the upper inlet (222)) can be easily discharged to the outside of the carrier (10) through the discharge hole (212) formed inside the fastening portion (240). Accordingly, electrolyte contamination of the fastening portion (240) can be prevented or the degree of electrolyte contamination can be reduced, thereby preventing failure or instability in the fastening or separation of the carrier (10) and the transport device.

[0081] In addition, even if electrolyte contamination occurs in or around the fastening portion (240), the battery cell (50) manufacturing process can be continued without interruption, and since the carrier (10) does not need to be frequently cleaned, the carrier (10) cleaning cycle can be extended and cleaning can be made easier. Accordingly, the productivity of the battery cell (50) can be improved, and the maintenance cost of the carrier (10) and the manufacturing cost of the battery cell (50) can be reduced.

[0082] According to embodiments of the present invention, the fastening portion (240) may include a fastening hole (242) formed penetrating in a direction intersecting the vertical direction and penetrating in a direction from the outside to the inside of the lower plate (110) or the upper plate (210). The fastening hole (242) may be in communication with the discharge hole (212).

[0083] Accordingly, even if leaked or scattered electrolyte flows into the fastening hole (242) of the fastening portion (240), it can be easily discharged to the outside of the carrier (10) through the discharge hole (212). Accordingly, it is possible to prevent or reduce the degree of the fastening hole (242) from being narrowed or blocked by the electrolyte or the inner surface of the fastening hole (242) from becoming sticky due to the electrolyte. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the fastening or separation of the carrier (10) and the transport device from failing or becoming unstable.

[0084] In addition, even if electrolyte contamination occurs in the fastening hole (242), the battery cell (50) manufacturing process can be continued without interruption, and since the carrier (10) does not need to be frequently cleaned, the carrier (10) cleaning cycle can be extended and cleaning can be made easier. Accordingly, the productivity of the battery cell (50) can be improved, and the maintenance cost of the carrier (10) and the manufacturing cost of the battery cell (50) can be reduced.

[0085] In addition, foreign substances such as electrolyte inside the fastening hole (242) can be easily removed by pushing them into the discharge hole (212) inside the fastening hole (242). Accordingly, since the fastening hole (242) can be easily cleaned, the maintenance cost of the carrier (10) and the manufacturing cost of the battery cell (50) can be reduced.

[0086] According to embodiments of the present invention, the fastening hole (242) can be communicated with the discharge hole (212) in the direction in which the fastening hole (242) is formed through.

[0087] Accordingly, foreign substances such as electrolyte inside the fastening hole (242) can be easily pushed into the discharge hole (212) inside the fastening hole (242) and removed. Accordingly, since the fastening hole (242) can be easily cleaned, the maintenance cost of the carrier (10) and the manufacturing cost of the battery cell (50) can be reduced.

[0088] According to embodiments of the present invention, the lower plate (110) may have one or more mounting grooves (112) into which one or more battery cells (50) are each inserted. The lower carrier (100) may include one or more pushers (120) each disposed inside one or more mounting grooves (112) and disposed lower than each of the battery cells (50) mounted in each of the mounting grooves (112). Each of the pushers (120) may include a mounting plate (122) disposed below each of the battery cells (50) and on which each of the battery cells (50) is mounted, and capable of moving up and down along the inner surface of each of the mounting grooves (112), and a first elastic member (124) disposed below the mounting plate (122) and capable of pressing the mounting plate (122) upward. The above-mentioned mounting plate (122) may include a first chamfer (C1) formed at the upper outer end to be inclined downward toward the outside.

[0089] Accordingly, since the friction between the inner surface of the mounting plate (122) and the mounting groove (112) is reduced when the mounting plate (122) moves up and down, even if the leaked or scattered electrolyte flows between the inner surface of the mounting plate (122) and the mounting groove (112) and impedes the up and down movement of the mounting plate (122), the mounting plate (122) can be prevented from being caught (stuck) in the mounting groove (112). Accordingly, the pressing force of the first elastic member (124) can be appropriately transmitted to the battery cell (50) through the mounting plate (122), so that the battery cell (50) and the lower injection port (224) of the hopper (220) can be brought into close contact. Accordingly, the electrolyte injection can be performed stably, and leakage or scattering of the electrolyte can be prevented or reduced when the electrolyte is injected or impregnated.

[0090] In addition, even if electrolyte contamination occurs in the pusher (120), the battery cell (50) manufacturing process can be continued without interruption, and since the carrier (10) does not need to be frequently cleaned, the carrier (10) cleaning cycle can be extended and cleaning can be made easier. Accordingly, the productivity of the battery cell (50) can be improved, and the maintenance cost of the carrier (10) and the manufacturing cost of the battery cell (50) can be reduced.

[0091] According to embodiments of the present invention, the mounting plate (122) may include a second chamfer (C2) formed at the lower outer end to be inclined upwardly toward the outside.

[0092] Accordingly, since the friction between the mounting plate (122) and the inner surface of the mounting groove (112) is reduced when the mounting plate (122) moves up and down, even if the leaked or scattered electrolyte flows between the mounting plate (122) and the inner surface of the mounting groove (112) and impedes the up and down movement of the mounting plate (122), the mounting plate (122) can be prevented from being caught (stuck) in the mounting groove (112). Accordingly, the pressing force of the first elastic member (124) can be properly transmitted to the battery cell (50) through the mounting plate (122), so that the battery cell (50) and the lower injection port (224) of the hopper (220) can be brought into close contact. Accordingly, the electrolyte injection can be performed stably, and leakage or scattering of the electrolyte can be prevented or reduced when the electrolyte is injected or impregnated.

[0093] In addition, even if electrolyte contamination occurs in the pusher (120), the battery cell (50) manufacturing process can be continued without interruption, and since the carrier (10) does not need to be frequently cleaned, the carrier (10) cleaning cycle can be extended and cleaning can be made easier. Accordingly, the productivity of the battery cell (50) can be improved, and the maintenance cost of the carrier (10) and the manufacturing cost of the battery cell (50) can be reduced.

[0094] According to embodiments of the present invention, the lower carrier (100) may include one or more alignment members (130) that are formed to protrude upward from the lower plate (110). The upper carrier (200) may include one or more alignment holes (250) that are formed to penetrate vertically through the upper plate (210) and into which the one or more alignment members (130) are respectively inserted or penetrated. Each alignment member (130) may include an alignment guide portion (132) whose cross-sectional area gradually increases from the top to the bottom, and an alignment fixing portion (134) that extends downward from the lower end of the alignment guide portion (132) and has the same cross-sectional area vertically. At least a portion of each alignment hole (250) may have a cross-sectional shape and size corresponding to the cross-sectional shape and size of each of the alignment fixing portions (134) and may come into contact with each of the alignment fixing portions (134).

[0095] Accordingly, it is possible to prevent or reduce leakage or scattering of electrolyte from flowing between the alignment fixing portion (134) of the alignment member (130) and the inner surface of the alignment hole (250). Accordingly, a problem in which the alignment member (130) cannot be separated from the lower carrier (100) or cannot be separated stably due to the alignment member (130) being stuck or caught (caught) on the inner surface of the alignment hole (250) by the electrolyte, or a problem in which the alignment member (130) or the alignment hole (250) is damaged, deformed, or worn due to excessive force being applied to separate the upper carrier (200) from the lower carrier (100), can be solved or alleviated. In addition, it is possible to prevent or reduce the degree of narrowing or blocking of the alignment hole (250) by the electrolyte or the inner surface of the alignment hole (250) becoming sticky due to the electrolyte. Accordingly, the problem of not being able to align or stably align the upper carrier (200) with the lower carrier (100) or the problem of the alignment member (130) or the alignment hole (250) being damaged, deformed or worn due to excessive force being applied to align the upper carrier (200) with the lower carrier (100) can be solved or alleviated.

[0096] In addition, even if electrolyte contamination occurs in the alignment member (130) or the alignment hole (250), the battery cell (50) manufacturing process can be continued without interruption, and since the carrier (10) does not need to be frequently cleaned, the carrier (10) cleaning cycle can be extended and cleaning can be made easier. Accordingly, the productivity of the battery cell (50) can be improved, and the maintenance cost of the carrier (10) and the manufacturing cost of the battery cell (50) can be reduced.

[0097] According to embodiments of the present invention, each of the alignment fixing members (134) may have a cylindrical shape and a circular cross-section. At least a portion of each of the alignment holes (250) may be in contact with the alignment fixing members (134) having a circular cross-section shape and size corresponding to the circular cross-section shape and size of each of the alignment fixing members (134).

[0098] Accordingly, the alignment fixing member (134) and the alignment hole (250) do not wear out easily, so they can be maintained in a shape and size that correspond to each other. Accordingly, a state in which leaked or scattered electrolyte is prevented or reduced from flowing between the alignment fixing member (134) of the alignment member (130) and the inner surface of the alignment hole (250) can be maintained. Accordingly, the problem of failure or instability in the alignment combination or separation of the upper carrier (200) and the lower carrier (100) and the resulting increased wear of the alignment member (130) or the alignment hole (250) can be solved or alleviated.

[0099] In addition to the effects described above, specific effects of the present invention are described below while explaining specific details for carrying out the invention.

[0100] FIGS. 1 to 5 are a perspective view, a perspective exploded view, a front view, a front exploded view, and a plan view showing an internal contamination battery cell carrier according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0101] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 6-6' of Figure 5.

[0102] Figure 7 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of Figure 6.

[0103] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 8-8' of Figure 5.

[0104] [Explanation of symbols]

[0105] 10: My pollution-free battery cell carrier

[0106] 50: Electrode cell

[0107] 100: Subcarrier

[0108] 110: Lower plate 112: Fixing groove

[0109] 120: Pusher

[0110] 122: Fixing plate 124: First elastic member

[0111] C1: First chamfer C2: Second chamfer

[0112] 130: Alignment member

[0113] 132: Alignment guide part 134: Alignment fixing part

[0114] 136: Body 138: Second elastic member

[0115] 200: Upper carrier

[0116] 210: Top plate 212: Discharge hole

[0117] 220: Hopper

[0118] 222: Upper inlet 224: Lower inlet

[0119] 230: Barrier

[0120] 240: Fastening part 242: Fastening hole

[0121] 250: Alignment hole

[0122] [Representative]

[0123] Fig. 1

[0124] The above-described objects, features, and advantages will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, so that those skilled in the art can easily practice the technical idea of ​​the present invention. In describing the present invention, if it is determined that a detailed description of known technologies related to the present invention may unnecessarily obscure the gist of the present invention, a detailed description thereof will be omitted. Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, the same reference numerals are used to indicate the same or similar components.

[0125] Although terms like "first" and "second" are used to describe various components, these components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used merely to distinguish one component from another, and unless otherwise specified, a "first" component may also be a "second" component.

[0126] Throughout the specification, unless otherwise specifically stated, each element may be singular or plural.

[0127] Hereinafter, the phrase "any configuration is placed on (or below)" a component or "on (or below)" a component may mean that any configuration is placed in contact with the upper surface (or lower surface) of said component, and that other configurations may be interposed between said component and any configuration placed on (or below) said component.

[0128] Additionally, when it is described that a component is "connected," "coupled," or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that the components may be directly connected or connected to one another, but that other components may also be "interposed" between the components, or that each component may be "connected," "coupled," or "connected" through another component.

[0129] As used herein, singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. In this application, terms such as "consisting of" or "comprising" should not necessarily be construed to include all of the components or steps described in the specification, and should be construed to mean that some of the components or steps may not be included, or that additional components or steps may be included.

[0130]

[0131] FIGS. 1 to 5 are a perspective view, a perspective exploded view, a front view, a front exploded view, and a plan view illustrating an internal contamination-resistant battery cell carrier according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 6-6' of FIG. 5. FIG. 7 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of FIG. 6. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 8-8' of FIG. 5.

[0132]

[0133] [Pollution-Free Battery Cell Carrier]

[0134] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 7, an internal contamination battery cell carrier (10) according to one embodiment may include a lower carrier (100) and an upper carrier (200).

[0135] The lower carrier (100) may include a lower plate (110). The lower carrier (100) may include one or more pushers (120). The lower carrier (100) may include one or more alignment members (130). The lower carrier (100) may include a fixing member (140).

[0136] One or more battery cells (50) can be mounted on the lower plate (110).

[0137] The lower plate (110) may have one or more mounting grooves (112) into which one or more battery cells (50) are each inserted (Fig. 6, Fig. 7).

[0138] One or more pushers (120) may be respectively positioned inside one or more mounting grooves (112), but may be positioned lower than each of the battery cells (50) mounted in each mounting groove (112).

[0139] Each pusher (120) may include a mounting plate (122) and a first elastic member (124).

[0140] Each mounting plate (122) may be placed below each battery cell (50). Each battery cell (50) may be mounted on each mounting plate (122). Each mounting plate (122) may be moved up and down along the inner surface of each mounting groove (112). The vertical movement may be achieved by the first elastic member (124) described below.

[0141] The mounting plate (122) may include a first chamfer (C1). The mounting plate (122) may include a second chamfer (C2).

[0142] The first chamfer (C1) can be formed so as to slope downward toward the outside at the upper outer end of the mounting plate (122).

[0143] Accordingly, since the friction between the inner surface of the mounting plate (122) and the mounting groove (112) is reduced when the mounting plate (122) moves up and down, even if the leaked or scattered electrolyte flows between the inner surface of the mounting plate (122) and the mounting groove (112) and impedes the up and down movement of the mounting plate (122), the mounting plate (122) can be prevented from being caught (stuck) in the mounting groove (112). Accordingly, the pressing force of the first elastic member (124) can be appropriately transmitted to the battery cell (50) through the mounting plate (122), so that the battery cell (50) and the lower injection port (224) of the hopper (220) can be brought into close contact. Accordingly, the electrolyte injection can be performed stably, and leakage or scattering of the electrolyte can be prevented or reduced when the electrolyte is injected or impregnated.

[0144] In addition, even if electrolyte contamination occurs in the pusher (120), the battery cell (50) manufacturing process can be continued without interruption, and since the carrier (10) does not need to be frequently cleaned, the carrier (10) cleaning cycle can be extended and cleaning can be made easier. Accordingly, the productivity of the battery cell (50) can be improved, and the maintenance cost of the carrier (10) and the manufacturing cost of the battery cell (50) can be reduced.

[0145] The second chamfer (C2) can be formed at the lower outer end to slope upwards toward the outside.

[0146] Accordingly, since the friction between the mounting plate (122) and the inner surface of the mounting groove (112) is reduced when the mounting plate (122) moves up and down, even if the leaked or scattered electrolyte flows between the mounting plate (122) and the inner surface of the mounting groove (112) and impedes the up and down movement of the mounting plate (122), the mounting plate (122) can be prevented from being caught (stuck) in the mounting groove (112). Accordingly, the pressing force of the first elastic member (124) can be properly transmitted to the battery cell (50) through the mounting plate (122), so that the battery cell (50) and the lower injection port (224) of the hopper (220) can be brought into close contact. Accordingly, the electrolyte injection can be performed stably, and leakage or scattering of the electrolyte can be prevented or reduced when the electrolyte is injected or impregnated.

[0147] In addition, even if electrolyte contamination occurs in the pusher (120), the battery cell (50) manufacturing process can be continued without interruption, and since the carrier (10) does not need to be frequently cleaned, the carrier (10) cleaning cycle can be extended and cleaning can be made easier. Accordingly, the productivity of the battery cell (50) can be improved, and the maintenance cost of the carrier (10) and the manufacturing cost of the battery cell (50) can be reduced.

[0148] The first elastic member (124) may be placed at the lower portion of the mounting plate (122). The first elastic member (124) may be capable of pressing the mounting plate (122) upward.

[0149] One or more alignment members (130) may be formed to protrude upward from the lower plate (110) (Figs. 1 to 4).

[0150] Each alignment member (130) may include an alignment guide portion (132) and an alignment fixing portion (134). Each alignment member (130) may include a body portion (136). Each alignment member (130) may include a second elastic member (138).

[0151] The cross-sectional area of ​​the alignment guide portion (132) may gradually increase from the top to the bottom. When the alignment guide portion (132) is inserted into or penetrated into the alignment hole (250) described below, the upper carrier (200) may be aligned with the lower carrier (100) and combined.

[0152] The alignment fixing member (134) may be formed to extend downward from the lower end of the alignment guide member (132). The alignment fixing member (134) may have the same cross-sectional area up and down. The upper carrier (200) may be aligned and fixed to the lower carrier (100) when the alignment fixing member (134) comes into contact with the inner surface of the alignment hole (250). For example, at least a portion of each alignment hole (250) described below may have a cross-sectional shape and size corresponding to the cross-sectional shape and size of each alignment fixing member (134). In addition, at least a portion of each alignment hole (250) may come into contact with each alignment fixing member (134).

[0153] Accordingly, it is possible to prevent or reduce leakage or scattering of electrolyte from flowing between the alignment fixing portion (134) of the alignment member (130) and the inner surface of the alignment hole (250). Accordingly, a problem in which the alignment member (130) cannot be separated from the lower carrier (100) or cannot be separated stably due to the alignment member (130) being stuck or caught (caught) on the inner surface of the alignment hole (250) by the electrolyte, or a problem in which the alignment member (130) or the alignment hole (250) is damaged, deformed, or worn due to excessive force being applied to separate the upper carrier (200) from the lower carrier (100), can be solved or alleviated. In addition, it is possible to prevent or reduce the degree of narrowing or blocking of the alignment hole (250) by the electrolyte or the inner surface of the alignment hole (250) becoming sticky due to the electrolyte. Accordingly, the problem of not being able to align or stably align the upper carrier (200) with the lower carrier (100) or the problem of the alignment member (130) or the alignment hole (250) being damaged, deformed or worn due to excessive force being applied to align the upper carrier (200) with the lower carrier (100) can be solved or alleviated.

[0154] In addition, even if electrolyte contamination occurs in the alignment member (130) or the alignment hole (250), the battery cell (50) manufacturing process can be continued without interruption, and since the carrier (10) does not need to be frequently cleaned, the carrier (10) cleaning cycle can be extended and cleaning can be made easier. Accordingly, the productivity of the battery cell (50) can be improved, and the maintenance cost of the carrier (10) and the manufacturing cost of the battery cell (50) can be reduced.

[0155] Each alignment fixing member (134) may have a cylindrical shape and a circular cross-section. At this time, at least a portion of each alignment hole (250) may be in contact with the alignment fixing member (134) with a circular cross-section shape and size corresponding to the circular cross-section shape and size of each alignment fixing member (134).

[0156] Accordingly, the alignment fixing member (134) and the alignment hole (250) do not wear out easily, so they can be maintained in a shape and size that correspond to each other. Accordingly, a state in which leaked or scattered electrolyte is prevented or reduced from flowing between the alignment fixing member (134) of the alignment member (130) and the inner surface of the alignment hole (250) can be maintained. Accordingly, the problem of failure or instability in the alignment combination or separation of the upper carrier (200) and the lower carrier (100) and the resulting increased wear of the alignment member (130) or the alignment hole (250) can be solved or alleviated.

[0157] The body part (136) may be positioned on the lower side of the alignment fixing part (134). The body part (136) may be formed to extend vertically. The body part (136) may be coupled to the lower plate (110). The cross-sectional area of ​​the body part (136) may be larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the alignment fixing part (134). The body part (136) may support the upper carrier (200).

[0158] The second elastic member (138) may be installed on the body portion (136). At least a portion of the second elastic member (138) may be positioned above the body portion (136). The second elastic member (138) may at least partially surround the alignment fixing member (134).

[0159] The second elastic member (138) can press the upper carrier (200) upward. Accordingly, when the fixing member (140) is a hook as shown in the drawing, the fixing member (140) can be maintained in a state of being connected to the upper carrier (200) by the second elastic member (138). In addition, the hopper (220) of the upper carrier (200) can be brought into close contact with the electrolyte injector by the second elastic member (138). In addition, the second elastic member (138) can absorb impact.

[0160] The fixed part (140) may be a hook. The fixed part (140) may be fastened to the upper carrier (200). By fastening the fixed part (140), the lower carrier (100) and the upper carrier (200) may be coupled.

[0161]

[0162] The upper carrier (200) may include a top plate (210) and one or more hoppers (220). The upper carrier (200) may include a barrier (230). The upper carrier (200) may include one or more alignment holes (250).

[0163] The upper plate (210) can be placed on top of the lower carrier (100) and one or more battery cells (50). The upper plate (210) can be combined with the lower carrier (100).

[0164] One or more hoppers (220) may be positioned through the top plate (210). One or more hoppers (220) may each be in contact with one or more battery cells (50).

[0165] Each of the one or more hoppers (220) may be opened upwardly and downwardly. Each of the one or more hoppers (220) may include an upper inlet (222) and a lower inlet (224).

[0166] The upper inlet (222) can be in contact with the electrolyte injector.

[0167] The lower inlet (224) can come into contact with each battery cell (50).

[0168] Accordingly, the electrolyte may be injected into each battery cell (50) through each hopper (220), or the electrolyte inside each battery cell (50) may leak or scatter outside the battery cell (50).

[0169] For example, when injecting electrolyte into a battery cell (50), the electrolyte may leak or fly out because there is no seal between the upper injection port (222) and the electrolyte injector or between the lower injection port (224) and the battery cell (50).

[0170] In addition, when the carrier (10) is placed in the chamber to inject electrolyte into the battery cell (50) or to impregnate the battery cell (50) with electrolyte and the inside of the chamber is pressurized or depressurized, the electrolyte may leak or fly when the inside of the battery cell (50) is pressurized or depressurized.

[0171] The barrier (230) can be formed by protruding upward from the top plate (210).

[0172] The barrier (230) may entirely surround one or more of the hoppers (220).

[0173] Accordingly, even if the electrolyte leaks or scatters on the upper surface of the upper plate (210) when the electrolyte is injected into the battery cell (50) or the inside of the battery cell (50) is pressurized or depressurized, most of the leaked or scattered electrolyte collects inside the barrier (230), so the major area contaminated with the electrolyte can be limited and controlled. Accordingly, even if electrolyte contamination occurs, the battery cell (50) manufacturing process can be continued without stopping, and since the carrier (10) does not need to be cleaned frequently, the carrier (10) cleaning cycle can be extended and cleaning can be made easier. Accordingly, the productivity of the battery cell (50) can be improved, and the maintenance cost of the carrier (10) and the manufacturing cost of the battery cell (50) can be reduced.

[0174] In addition, since the main area contaminated with the electrolyte can be limited to a predetermined area (e.g., inside the barrier (230)) that is not affected by the electrolyte contamination, problems due to the electrolyte contamination can be prevented or reduced even if the electrolyte leaks or scatters. For example, problems such as failure or instability in fastening / separating the carrier (10) and the transport device due to the electrolyte contamination, weakening of the adhesion between the battery cell (50) and the hopper (220), failure or instability in separating the upper carrier (200), and increased wear of the alignment member (130) or alignment hole (250) due to this, can be prevented from occurring.

[0175] In addition, since the barrier (230) is formed to entirely surround one or more hoppers (220), the area around the upper inlet (222) of each hopper (220) where electrolyte leakage frequently occurs can be easily isolated with a simple configuration at low cost, and the spread of electrolyte contamination can be effectively prevented.

[0176] Meanwhile, the lower carrier (100) or the upper carrier (200) may include a fastening portion (240). For example, as shown in the drawing, the upper carrier (200) may include a fastening portion (240).

[0177] The fastening member (240) may be placed on the edge of the lower plate (110) or the upper plate (210). The fastening member (240) may be fastened to an external transport device.

[0178] Referring further to Fig. 8, the lower plate (110) or the upper plate (210) may include a discharge hole (212) formed inside the fastening portion (240) and open vertically. The discharge hole (212) may be a groove (notch) formed by recessing inward from the outer surface of the lower plate (110) or the upper plate (210), or a through hole formed vertically penetrating inside the edge of the lower plate (110) or the upper plate (210). For example, as shown in the drawing, the discharge hole (212) may be this groove (notch) (Figs. 1, 2, 5, and 8).

[0179] Accordingly, the electrolyte leaking or flying from the inside of the lower plate (110) or upper plate (210) (e.g., the lower inlet (224) or the upper inlet (222)) can be easily discharged to the outside of the carrier (10) through the discharge hole (212) formed inside the fastening portion (240). Accordingly, electrolyte contamination of the fastening portion (240) can be prevented or the degree of electrolyte contamination can be reduced, thereby preventing failure or instability in the fastening or separation of the carrier (10) and the transport device.

[0180] In addition, even if electrolyte contamination occurs in or around the fastening portion (240), the battery cell (50) manufacturing process can be continued without interruption, and since the carrier (10) does not need to be frequently cleaned, the carrier (10) cleaning cycle can be extended and cleaning can be made easier. Accordingly, the productivity of the battery cell (50) can be improved, and the maintenance cost of the carrier (10) and the manufacturing cost of the battery cell (50) can be reduced.

[0181] The fastening portion (240) may include a fastening hole (242).

[0182] The fastening hole (242) may be formed penetrating in a direction intersecting the vertical direction (e.g., horizontal direction). The fastening hole (242) may be formed penetrating in a direction from the outside to the inside of the lower plate (110) or the upper plate (210).

[0183] The fastening hole (242) can be connected to the discharge hole (212).

[0184] Accordingly, even if leaked or scattered electrolyte flows into the fastening hole (242) of the fastening portion (240), it can be easily discharged to the outside of the carrier (10) through the discharge hole (212). Accordingly, it is possible to prevent or reduce the degree of the fastening hole (242) from being narrowed or blocked by the electrolyte or the inner surface of the fastening hole (242) from becoming sticky due to the electrolyte. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the fastening or separation of the carrier (10) and the transport device from failing or becoming unstable.

[0185] In addition, even if electrolyte contamination occurs in the fastening hole (242), the battery cell (50) manufacturing process can be continued without interruption, and since the carrier (10) does not need to be frequently cleaned, the carrier (10) cleaning cycle can be extended and cleaning can be made easier. Accordingly, the productivity of the battery cell (50) can be improved, and the maintenance cost of the carrier (10) and the manufacturing cost of the battery cell (50) can be reduced.

[0186] In addition, foreign substances such as electrolyte inside the fastening hole (242) can be easily removed by pushing them into the discharge hole (212) inside the fastening hole (242). Accordingly, since the fastening hole (242) can be easily cleaned, the maintenance cost of the carrier (10) and the manufacturing cost of the battery cell (50) can be reduced.

[0187] The fastening hole (242) can be connected to the discharge hole (212) in the direction in which the fastening hole (242) is formed through.

[0188] Accordingly, foreign substances such as electrolyte inside the fastening hole (242) can be easily pushed into the discharge hole (212) inside the fastening hole (242) and removed. Accordingly, since the fastening hole (242) can be easily cleaned, the maintenance cost of the carrier (10) and the manufacturing cost of the battery cell (50) can be reduced.

[0189] One or more alignment holes (250) may be formed vertically through the upper plate (210). One or more alignment members (130) may be inserted into or pass through each of the one or more alignment holes (250).

[0190] At least a portion of each alignment hole (250) may have a cross-sectional shape and size corresponding to the cross-sectional shape and size of each alignment fixing member (134). At least a portion of each alignment hole (250) may be in contact with each alignment fixing member (134).

[0191] As described above, in the case where each alignment fixing member (134) has a cylindrical shape and a circular cross-section, at least a portion of each alignment hole (250) can come into contact with the alignment fixing member (134) having a circular cross-section shape and size corresponding to the circular cross-section shape and size of each alignment fixing member (134).

[0192]

[0193] It should be understood that the above-described embodiments are illustrative in all respects and not restrictive, and the scope of the present invention will be determined by the claims that follow, rather than by the detailed description set forth above. Furthermore, the meaning and scope of the claims that follow, as well as all possible modifications and variations derived from their equivalent concepts, should be construed as encompassing the scope of the present invention.

[0194] Although the present invention has been described with reference to the drawings exemplified above, it is to be understood that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments and drawings disclosed herein, and that various modifications may be made by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technical idea of ​​the present invention. Furthermore, even if the operational effects according to the configuration of the present invention have not been explicitly described while describing the embodiments of the present invention, it is natural that the effects predictable by the corresponding configuration should also be acknowledged.

Claims

1. A lower carrier (100) including a lower plate (110) on which one or more battery cells (50) are mounted; and An upper carrier (200) is comprised of an upper plate (210) arranged on top of the lower carrier (100) and the one or more battery cells (50) and coupled to the lower carrier (100), one or more hoppers (220) arranged through the upper plate (210) and each in contact with the one or more battery cells (50), and a barrier (230) formed by protruding upward from the upper plate (210). Each of the above one or more hoppers (220) includes an upper inlet (222) that is open vertically and contacts an electrolyte injector and a lower inlet (224) that contacts each of the battery cells (50). Accordingly, the electrolyte may be injected into each battery cell (50) through each of the hoppers (220), or the electrolyte inside each battery cell (50) may leak or scatter outside the battery cell (50). The above barrier (230) entirely surrounds one or more of the hoppers (220). My pollution cell carrier.

2. A lower carrier (100) including a lower plate (110) on which one or more battery cells (50) are mounted; and It comprises an upper carrier (200) which is arranged on top of the lower carrier (100) and the one or more battery cells (50) and is combined with the lower carrier (100), and one or more hoppers (220) which are arranged through the upper plate (210) and come into contact with each of the one or more battery cells (50). Each of the above one or more hoppers (220) includes an upper inlet (222) that is open vertically and contacts an electrolyte injector and a lower inlet (224) that contacts each of the battery cells (50). Accordingly, the electrolyte may be injected into each battery cell (50) through each of the hoppers (220), or the electrolyte inside each battery cell (50) may leak or scatter outside the battery cell (50). The lower carrier (100) or upper carrier (200) includes a fastening part (240) that is arranged at the edge of the lower plate (110) or upper plate (210) and is fastened to a transport device. The lower plate (110) or upper plate (210) includes a discharge hole (212) formed inside the fastening portion (240) and open upward and downward. My pollution cell carrier.

3. In claim 2, The above fastening part (240) includes a fastening hole (242) formed penetrating in a direction intersecting the vertical direction and formed penetrating in a direction from the outside to the inside of the lower plate (110) or the upper plate (210). The above-mentioned fastening hole (242) is a contamination-resistant battery cell carrier that is connected to the above-mentioned discharge hole (212).

4. In claim 3, The above fastening hole (242) is a contamination-resistant battery cell carrier that communicates with the discharge hole (212) in the direction in which the fastening hole (242) is formed through.

5. In any one of claims 1 to 4, The above lower plate (110) has one or more mounting grooves (112) into which one or more battery cells (50) are each inserted, The lower carrier (100) includes one or more pushers (120) each positioned inside one or more of the mounting grooves (112) and positioned lower than each of the battery cells (50) mounted in each of the mounting grooves (112). Each of the above pushers (120) includes a mounting plate (122) that is positioned at the bottom of each of the above battery cells (50) and on which each of the above battery cells (50) is mounted, and is capable of moving up and down along the inner surface of each of the mounting grooves (112), and a first elastic member (124) that is positioned at the bottom of the mounting plate (122) and is capable of pressing the mounting plate (122) upward. The above-mentioned mounting plate (122) includes a first chamfer (C1) formed to slope downward toward the outside at the upper outer end. My pollution cell carrier.

6. In claim 5, The above-mentioned mounting plate (122) is an anti-contamination battery cell carrier including a second chamfer (C2) formed to be inclined upwardly toward the outside at the lower outer end.

7. In any one of claims 1 to 6, The above lower carrier (100) includes one or more alignment members (130) formed by protruding upward from the lower plate (110), The upper carrier (200) includes one or more alignment holes (250) formed vertically through the upper plate (210) and through which one or more alignment members (130) are each inserted or penetrated. Each of the alignment members (130) includes an alignment guide part (132) whose cross-sectional area gradually increases from the top to the bottom, and an alignment fixing part (134) that extends downward from the bottom of the alignment guide part (132) and has the same cross-sectional area from top to bottom. At least a portion of each of the above alignment holes (250) has a cross-sectional shape and size corresponding to the cross-sectional shape and size of each of the above alignment fixing members (134) and is in contact with each of the above alignment fixing members (134). My pollution cell carrier.

8. In claim 7, Each of the above alignment fixing parts (134) has a cylindrical shape and a circular cross-section, An anti-contamination battery cell carrier, wherein at least a portion of each of the above alignment holes (250) has a shape and size of a circular cross-section corresponding to the shape and size of the circular cross-section of each of the above alignment fixing members (134) and is in contact with the alignment fixing members (134).

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