In-line inspecting device for battery cells

Abstract

Provided is a battery cell inspecting device installed on a cylindrical battery cell production line to inspect all battery cells during production. The computed tomography device of the inspection device comprises: an imaging tube for simultaneously irradiating multiple battery cells with X-rays in a limited area; and individual detectors for respectively receiving the X-rays having passed through the battery cells. A processing unit generates high-resolution image data by up-scaling low-resolution image data captured at a high speed through artificial intelligence. The processing unit performs point extraction for an inspection item from the up-scaled image data by using a rule-based approach and also performs the extraction by using artificial intelligence in parallel therewith.

Description

In-line battery cell tester

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0081406, filed June 21, 2024, and Korean Patent Application No. 10-2025-0070704, filed May 29, 2025, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] The present invention relates to a battery cell inspection device, and more particularly, to a battery cell inspection device that is installed in a production line for cylindrical battery cells and is capable of inspecting all battery cells being produced.

[0003] A cylindrical battery cell is manufactured by housing an electrode assembly wound in a jelly-roll shape within a metal can. During the manufacturing process, electrode terminals are installed within the can, a bond is formed for electrical connection between the electrode assembly housed within the can and the electrode terminal, a cap is assembled to seal the opening of the can, and a bond is also formed for electrical connection between the electrode assembly and the can.

[0004] In this process, riveting processing is performed to fix the electrode terminal to the can, plastic processing is performed to form a beading portion and a crimping portion on the can, and welding processing is performed to make an electrical connection between parts.

[0005] Whether or not these processing results are defective can be confirmed through an inspection process during or after the battery cell is manufactured.

[0006] Traditionally, to check for defects in these battery cells, workers would extract a portion of the cells from production and inspect them. Because this manual inspection was performed manually, it was time-consuming, labor-intensive, and impractical for a comprehensive inspection.

[0007] Therefore, there were concerns about quality degradation, as not all battery cells could be inspected for defects. Furthermore, even if defects were detected, corrective action could not be immediately implemented in the production line.

[0008] Cylindrical battery cells, especially those made of metal cans, are difficult to visually inspect for their internal structure, so they are inspected using computed tomography (CT). However, if the intensity (density) of the X-rays used in CT scanning is low or the object rotates quickly during imaging, the resolution of the imaging results deteriorates.

[0009] However, increasing the X-ray density to obtain high-resolution images shortens the life of the X-ray generation tube. Furthermore, slowing the rotation speed of the object to obtain high-resolution images lengthens the inspection time. These phenomena make battery cell inspection difficult.

[0010] Meanwhile, in CT scans, the wider the scan area, the shorter the lifespan of the imaging tube and the longer the scan time. Therefore, when multiple scan areas exist in different locations on a single specimen, capturing localized images of each area may be more advantageous than capturing the entire specimen. Furthermore, alignment of the specimen is crucial to improving scan speed and image quality.

[0011] Considering this, when photographing multiple inspection areas on a single specimen, it is common to align the specimen on a rotating device, move the photographing tube and detector to each inspection area, and rotate the specimen in place with the rotating device each time each inspection area of ​​the specimen is photographed.

[0012] However, this type of imaging method requires the movement of a heavy imaging tube and a large-area detector, and the imaging tube and detector must also be aligned to positions corresponding to each inspection area of ​​the object to be inspected. Therefore, the size of the device for moving and aligning the imaging tube and detector inevitably increases. Therefore, this type of inspection method has the problem of being difficult to apply to production lines with limited free space, and thus difficult to apply to the full inspection of products.

[0013] The present invention has been devised to solve the above-described problems, and aims to provide a battery cell inspection device capable of performing high-accuracy inspection while reducing the intensity of X-rays emitted for inspection and shortening the inspection time.

[0014] The present invention aims to provide a battery cell inspection device capable of in-line full inspection by shortening the inspection time.

[0015] The present invention aims to provide a battery cell inspection device that can be compactly constructed so as to be applicable to a narrow production line.

[0016] The present invention aims to provide a battery cell inspection device that is compact and capable of inspecting a test object while accurately aligning it.

[0017] The present invention aims to provide a battery cell inspection device that can extend the maintenance and replacement cycle of the inspection device by extending the life of an X-ray tube by suppressing an increase in the intensity of X-rays radiated for inspection.

[0018] The present invention seeks to provide a battery cell inspection device capable of minimizing the input of manpower.

[0019] The present invention aims to provide a battery cell inspection device capable of immediately identifying the cause of a product defect and immediately reflecting measures therefor in the production line.

[0020] The technical objectives of the present invention are not limited to the aforementioned purposes. Other unmentioned objectives and advantages of the present invention 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.

[0021] The present invention provides a battery cell inspection device that is placed on a battery cell production line and is capable of performing a full inspection on battery cells being produced.

[0022] The above battery cell may be a battery cell manufactured from a metal can.

[0023] The above metal can may have a cylindrical shape extending in the axial direction.

[0024] An electrode assembly can be accommodated inside the above can.

[0025] A cap for closing the opening of the can can be assembled on either of the first axial end and the second axial end of the can.

[0026] An electrode terminal may be installed on either the first or second axial end of the above can.

[0027] The above electrode terminal can be installed through the can or cap.

[0028] The above electrode terminal may be installed with a gasket interposed therebetween so as to be electrically insulated from the can or cap.

[0029] The edge of the cap may be press-fitted to the can through a gasket.

[0030] The above can may be provided with a beading portion and a crimping portion by beading and crimping to secure the cap.

[0031] The first electrode of the above electrode assembly can be electrically connected by being bonded to the electrode terminal.

[0032] The second electrode of the electrode assembly can be electrically connected by being bonded to at least one of the can and the cap.

[0033] The battery cells to which the above battery cell inspection device can be applied are not limited to battery cells having the above-described structure.

[0034] The above battery cell inspection device includes a transfer line for transferring the battery cell, and a computed tomography device installed on the transfer line.

[0035] The above computed tomography device can be placed between the inspection waiting area and the selection waiting area, which are respectively placed upstream and downstream on the movement path of the transport line.

[0036] In one example, the computed tomography device may be positioned at a location corresponding to the examination waiting area.

[0037] The above computed tomography device includes a photographing tube that radiates X-rays to a predetermined photographing position, and a detector placed on the opposite side with the photographing position in between.

[0038] The above detector detects X-rays passing through the test object at the above shooting position and acquires shape data.

[0039] The above battery cell inspection device includes a handler for handling the battery cell for the computed tomography.

[0040] The above handler performs a first operation of picking up a plurality of battery cells waiting in the inspection waiting area of ​​the transfer line and moving them so that the photographing target area is placed at the photographing position.

[0041] The above handler performs a second operation of rotating the battery cell located at the photographing position during computed tomography.

[0042] The handler can move the battery cell to a first position so that a first photographing target portion of the plurality of picked up battery cells is positioned at a photographing position, and then rotate the battery cell, and move the battery cell to a second position so that a second photographing target portion of the plurality of picked up battery cells is positioned at a photographing position, and then rotate the battery cell.

[0043] The first photographing target portion and the second photographing target portion may include the axial first end and the second end of the battery cell.

[0044] The above handler performs a third operation of returning the battery cells for which shooting has been completed to the transfer line.

[0045] In one example, the third operation may be an operation of returning the battery cell to the inspection waiting area. The battery cell returned to the inspection waiting area may be moved to the sorting waiting area by the transfer line.

[0046] In another example, the third operation may be an operation of transferring the battery cell to a sorting waiting area of ​​the transfer line.

[0047] In one example, the handler may have a plurality of grippers each for gripping a plurality of battery cells.

[0048] The above-mentioned gripping portion can grip the axial first end or the second end of the battery cell. Preferably, the gripping portion can grip the axial first end of the battery cell.

[0049] The handler may be provided with a plurality of rotating parts, each of which rotates a plurality of gripping parts. Preferably, the rotating parts may rotate the battery cell about the central axis of the battery cell.

[0050] Each of the above-described gripping portions may have at least one pressure portion installed radially movable with respect to the rotational center of each of the above-described rotating portions.

[0051] At least a portion of the pressurized portion that comes into contact with the battery cell may include a material that is transparent to the X-rays.

[0052] The above handler may be equipped with a lifting unit that elevates a plurality of rotating parts.

[0053] The above-mentioned lifting unit can lift and lower the plurality of rotating units as one unit.

[0054] In another example, the handler may be a robot arm that implements all of the first, second and third actions.

[0055] In a specific example, the robot arm may include a gripping portion for holding the battery cell, a rotating portion for rotating the gripping portion, an arm portion for supporting the rotating portion, and an elevating portion for elevating the arm portion.

[0056] The above-mentioned gripping portion can grip the axial first end or the second end of the battery cell.

[0057] The above rotating part can rotate the battery cell about the central axis of the battery cell.

[0058] The above arm portion can swing or pivot relative to the lifting portion.

[0059] The above arm portion may have a joint.

[0060] The above arm portion can be extended in length.

[0061] The above photographing tube irradiates X-rays to the photographing target area of ​​the battery cell placed at the above photographing position.

[0062] The above detector detects X-rays passing through the battery cell to obtain shape data.

[0063] The above processing unit can process shape data acquired by the detector.

[0064] The above computed tomography device can have one imaging tube irradiate X-rays to two or more battery cells.

[0065] The detector of the above-mentioned computed tomography device may include two or more individual detectors, each corresponding to two or more battery cells. Accordingly, shape data of two or more battery cells can be individually acquired through the corresponding individual detectors.

[0066] The above handler can independently rotate each battery cell placed at the above shooting position.

[0067] The two or more battery cells may be arranged along a second direction intersecting a first direction, which is the central direction in which X-rays are irradiated between the photographing tube and the detector.

[0068] The above-mentioned photographing target area may include the axial first end and the second end of the battery cell.

[0069] The above-mentioned photographing tube can locally irradiate X-rays to the photographing target area of ​​the two or more battery cells. This is basically similar to a closed-type tube in that the radiation range is localized, but it can be said to be a hybrid type that has the characteristics of both the closed type and the open type in that the radiation angle is adjusted by expanding or reducing it to the required range.

[0070] The radiation angle of the X-ray may be wide in a second direction intersecting with a first direction, which is the central direction in which the X-ray is irradiated between the photographing tube and the detector, and narrow in a third direction intersecting with both the first direction and the second direction and parallel to the axial direction of the battery cell.

[0071] The third direction in which the battery cell moves between the first position and the second position may be a direction intersecting both the first direction and the second direction.

[0072] The lifting unit of the handler can lift the battery cell so that the axial first end and the axial second end of the battery cell are each positioned at a shooting position.

[0073] The direction in which the above-mentioned lifting unit lifts the battery cell may be parallel to the axial direction of the battery cell.

[0074] The direction in which the above-mentioned lifting unit lifts the battery cell may be parallel to the third direction.

[0075] The above battery cell inspection device may further include a carrier on which the battery cell is transported by the transport line in a mounted state.

[0076] The above battery cell inspection device may further include an alignment member for aligning the position of the battery cell that has reached the inspection waiting area.

[0077] The above alignment member may include an alignment portion that aligns the position of the battery cell with respect to the transport direction and width direction of the transport line.

[0078] The above alignment member can align the position of the battery cell by aligning the carrier transported by the transport line while the battery cell is placed thereon.

[0079] The alignment member may include a stopper portion that supports the carrier in a direction opposite to the direction in which the handler picks up the battery cell.

[0080] The above processing unit can construct primary data based on the shape data.

[0081] The above processing unit can construct secondary data by layering the inspection area from the constructed primary data.

[0082] The above processing unit can upscale the secondary data using artificial intelligence.

[0083] For the learning of the above artificial intelligence, matching data can be constructed for multiple battery cells by matching high-resolution images captured while rotating the same battery cell at a first speed with low-resolution images captured while rotating at a second speed that is faster than the first speed.

[0084] The constructed matching data can be accumulated.

[0085] During the above computed tomography process, the handler rotates the battery cell at a second speed.

[0086] The above artificial intelligence can upscale low-resolution images captured while the battery cells rotate at a second speed into high-resolution images by learning matching data for multiple battery cells.

[0087] The above processing unit can extract points for determining whether an inspection item is defective from an upscaled image, determine whether it is defective based on the extracted points according to a judgment criterion, and determine a transfer path of a battery cell waiting in the sorting waiting area based on whether it is defective.

[0088] The above point extraction can be done by artificial intelligence.

[0089] For the learning of the above artificial intelligence, point data can be constructed by extracting accurate points from upscaled images for multiple battery cells.

[0090] The established point data can be accumulated.

[0091] The above artificial intelligence can extract points for determining whether an inspection item is defective or not from an upscaled image by learning point data for multiple battery cells.

[0092] The above transport line may include a main line having the inspection waiting area and the sorting waiting area, and a defective discharge line branching from the main line in the sorting waiting area.

[0093] Battery cells determined to be defective by the above processing unit can be transferred from the sorting waiting area to the defective discharge line.

[0094] The above transport line may include a return line connecting the defective discharge line and the main line.

[0095] The above return line can extend from the re-inspection return area adjacent to the defective discharge line to the merging waiting area provided upstream of the inspection waiting area of ​​the main line.

[0096] To verify the defectiveness determination by the above-mentioned processing unit of the battery cell, the presence or absence of defects in the battery cells delivered to the defective discharge line may be checked by personnel on at least some of the battery cells. This verification may be performed by providing the worker with a computed tomography image of the battery cell in question.

[0097] In the above-mentioned re-inspection area, battery cells whose defects have been confirmed by the operator can be transferred from the defective discharge line to the return line. Battery cells on the return line can then be transferred to the inspection waiting area of ​​the main line via the merging waiting area.

[0098] According to the present invention, the first and second axial ends of a cylindrical battery cell are photographed, respectively, and the first ends of a plurality of battery cells are photographed together, and the second ends of a plurality of battery cells are photographed together, thereby shortening the photographing time.

[0099] According to the present invention, the radiation angle of X-rays can be locally limited, thereby ensuring a long lifespan of the photographing tube.

[0100] According to the present invention, in order to photograph different examination positions of a test subject, the test subject can be moved while the photographing tube and detector are fixed, and the test subject can be rotated while being accurately aligned with respect to the photographing tube and detector.

[0101] According to the present invention, a battery cell inspection device can be built compactly, so that it can be applied without much difficulty even to a production line with limited free space.

[0102] According to the present invention, by utilizing artificial intelligence that learns to match high-resolution images and low-resolution images for the same battery cell, the shooting time is shortened and the X-ray density is suppressed, thereby up-scaling the captured low-resolution images into high-resolution images, thereby increasing the replacement cycle of the shooting tube, shortening the inspection time, and increasing the reliability of the inspection results.

[0103] According to the present invention, artificial intelligence that has learned the exact locations of points for determining whether or not an image is defective extracts points from the image to be inspected, thereby increasing the accuracy of point extraction and preventing over-inspection.

[0104] According to the present invention, the inspection time for the battery cell is short, the life of the X-ray tube is long, and a battery cell inspection device including a computed tomography device can be installed in-line to perform a full inspection.

[0105] 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.

[0106] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an embodiment of a battery cell inspected by a battery cell inspecting device of the present invention.

[0107] Figure 2 is a side cross-sectional view of the battery cell of Figure 1.

[0108] Figure 3 is a plan view of a battery cell inspection device of the first embodiment according to the present invention.

[0109] Fig. 4 is a perspective view showing a state in which a battery cell is further transported along the main line of the transport line in the battery cell inspection device of Fig. 3.

[0110] Fig. 5 is a perspective view showing a state in which a battery cell in the inspection waiting area is picked up by the battery cell inspection device of Fig. 4 and the photographing target area of ​​the picked up battery cell is moved to the photographing position.

[0111] Fig. 6 is a plan view of the battery cell inspection device of Fig. 5.

[0112] Fig. 7 is a plan view showing a state in which a battery cell in a photographing position is rotated and X-rays are emitted to perform computed tomography in the battery cell inspection device of Fig. 6.

[0113] Fig. 8 is a perspective view showing a state in which a battery cell is raised in the battery cell inspection device of Fig. 5 and another photographing target part of the battery cell is placed in a photographing position.

[0114] FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing a state in which the battery cell inspection device of FIG. 8 transfers the battery cell for which the computerized tomography has been completed to the sorting waiting area and picks up other battery cells in the inspection waiting area.

[0115] Figure 10 is a first perspective view of a battery cell inspection device of a second embodiment according to the present invention.

[0116] Fig. 11 is a second perspective view of the battery cell inspection device of Fig. 10.

[0117] Fig. 12 is a perspective view showing a state in which a battery cell is further transported along the main line of the transport line in the battery cell inspection device of Fig. 10.

[0118] Fig. 13 is a plan view of the battery cell inspection device of Fig. 12.

[0119] Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XIV-XIV of Figure 13.

[0120] Figure 15 shows a state in which the alignment member in Figure 14 moves forward in the width direction of the transfer line to align the positions of the battery cells in the inspection waiting area.

[0121] Figure 16 shows a state in which the grip part is lowered by the lifting part in Figure 15.

[0122] Figure 17 shows a state in which the pressurized portion of the gripping portion in Figure 16 moves radially to grip the axial first end of the battery cell.

[0123] Fig. 18 shows a state in which the lifting unit in Fig. 17 is raised to the first position by the lifting unit, and the first photographing target portion of the battery cell is positioned at the photographing position, and the rotating unit rotates to perform a computed tomography scan of the first photographing target portion.

[0124] Fig. 19 shows a state in which the lifting unit in Fig. 18 is raised to a second position by the lifting unit, and the second photographing target portion of the battery cell is positioned at the photographing position, and the rotating unit rotates to perform a computed tomography scan of the second photographing target portion.

[0125] FIG. 20 is a first perspective view showing a state in which the battery cell is moved to a sorting waiting area by the transfer line after the handler in FIG. 19 returns the battery cell to the transfer line.

[0126] Figure 21 is a flowchart showing the computerized tomography and defect determination process of the battery cell inspection device of the embodiment.

[0127] Figure 22 is a secondary data image constructed by cross-sectionalizing the inspection area from the first data constructed by photographing the target area of ​​the battery cell at a high rotation speed.

[0128] Figure 23 is a secondary data image constructed by cross-sectionalizing the inspection area from the first data constructed by photographing another target area of ​​the battery cell at a high rotation speed.

[0129] Figure 24 is a secondary data image constructed by cross-sectionalizing the inspection area from the first data constructed by photographing the target area of ​​the battery cell at a slow rotation speed.

[0130] Figure 25 is a secondary data image constructed by cross-sectionalizing the inspection area from the first data constructed by photographing another target area of ​​the battery cell at a slow rotation speed.

[0131] [Explanation of symbols]

[0132] 10: Battery cell 11: Can 111: Beading part 112: Crimping part 12: Rivet terminal 13: Rivet gasket 14: Electrode assembly 15: First collector plate 16: Second collector plate 17: Cap 18: Sealing gasket 19: Insulator 20: Computed tomography device 21: Die 22: Photographic tube A: Radiation area P5: Photographic position 30: Detector 31: First detector 32: Second detector 40: Transfer line 41: Main line 42: Defect discharge line 43: Return line P1: Inspection waiting area P2: Selection waiting area P3: Re-inspection return area P4: Merge waiting area 50: Handler 51: First handler 52: Second handler 53: Gripping part 531: Pressing part 54: Rotating part 55: Lifting section 551: Lifting member 553: Lifting guide 56: Arm section 60: Processing section 70: Carrier 80: Aligning member 83: Aligning section 85: Stopper section 87: Aligning guide

[0133] 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.

[0134] 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.

[0135] Throughout the specification, unless otherwise specifically stated, each element may be singular or plural.

[0136] 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.

[0137] 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.

[0138] 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.

[0139] Throughout the specification, when we refer to "A and / or B", this means A, B, or A and B, unless otherwise stated, and when we refer to "C to D", this means C or more and D or less, unless otherwise stated.

[0140] Hereinafter, a preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0141] In describing the embodiments, the "transport direction" refers to the direction in which battery cells are transported by a transport line, such as a linear track or conveyor belt. The transport direction can be understood as transport from upstream to downstream. In other words, battery cells located upstream can be transported and moved downstream.

[0142] The present invention provides a battery cell inspection device capable of performing a full inspection on battery cells (10) being produced by being placed on a production line of battery cells (10).

[0143] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the battery cell (10) is a battery cell (10) that can be inspected for defects through computed tomography, and has an electrode assembly (14) built into the interior of a cylindrical metal can (11).

[0144] The electrode assembly (14) may be in the form of a jelly-roll in which the first electrode and the second electrode are wound around a core with a separator interposed therebetween. The first electrode of the electrode assembly (14) includes a non-coated portion exposed to the first axial end, and the non-coated portion may be bent radially inward. The second electrode of the electrode assembly (14) includes a non-coated portion exposed to the first axial end, and the non-coated portion may be bent radially inward.

[0145] A first collector plate (15) that is joined to the uncoated portion of the first electrode is laminated on the axial first end of the electrode assembly (14). Similarly, a second collector plate (16) that is joined to the uncoated portion of the second electrode is laminated on the axial second end of the electrode assembly (14).

[0146] A rivet terminal (12) is installed through the axial first end of the can (11). The rivet terminal (12) is installed through the can (11) with a rivet gasket (13) interposed therebetween, thereby sealing the internal space of the can (11) from the external space. In addition, the rivet terminal (12) is electrically insulated from the can (11).

[0147] An insulator (19) is interposed between the first collector plate (15) of the electrode assembly (14) and the first end of the can (11). Accordingly, the first collector plate (15) is electrically insulated from the can (11).

[0148] The central portion of the first collector plate (15) is electrically connected by being joined to a rivet terminal (12). Accordingly, the rivet terminal (12) can form a first electrode terminal of the first polarity.

[0149] The above can (11) is beaded while containing the electrode assembly (14). The second current collector (16) comes into contact with the beaded portion (111) thus formed.

[0150] The opening provided at the axial second end of the can (11) is closed by a cap (17). The edge of the cap (17) can be placed on the beading portion (111) with a sealing gasket (18) interposed therebetween. Then, when the axial second end of the can (11) is crimped radially inward to form a crimping portion (112), the edge of the cap (17) is press-fixed to the can (11) with the sealing gasket (18) interposed therebetween.

[0151] The above battery cell (10) has many parts arranged at the first axial end and the second axial end and undergoes many manufacturing processes.

[0152] Accordingly, it can be said that there is a high need for inspection of the manufacturing results of the axial first end and the axial second end of the battery cell (10) for defects.

[0153] Meanwhile, it is self-evident that the structure of the battery cell (10) to which the inspection device for the battery cell (10) can be applied is not limited to the structure described above. If efficient inspection is possible by applying the battery cell inspection device described below, the battery cell inspection device of the present invention can also be applied to a manufacturing line for battery cells of other structures.

[0154] Referring to FIGS. 3 to 9, a battery cell inspection device according to the present invention includes a transfer line (40) for transferring the battery cell (10), and a computed tomography device (20) installed on the transfer line (40).

[0155] In the embodiment, the transport line is presented as being configured as a conveyor. However, the configuration of the transport line is not limited to this, and various other transport lines, such as linear tracks, can be applied.

[0156] The above transfer line (40) may include a main line (41) through which many battery cells are mainly transferred, a defective discharge line (42) branching from the main line (41), and a return line (43) whose upstream side is arranged adjacent to the downstream side of the defective discharge line (42) and whose downstream side joins the main line (41).

[0157] The above computed tomography device (20) is placed on the main line (41). Upstream of the computed tomography device (20) on the main line (41) is a section in which battery cells (10) are transported for the computed tomography, and immediately before the computed tomography device (20), an inspection waiting area (P1) is provided in which battery cells (10) wait for the imaging.

[0158] Downstream of the computed tomography device (20) in the above main line (41) is a section where the battery cell (10) that has completed the computed tomography begins to be transported again, and the battery cell (10) is placed between the sorting waiting area (P2) where it waits for the result of the defective judgment near the computed tomography device (20).

[0159] In the above sorting waiting area (P2), the main line (41) and the defective discharge line (42) branch off. The battery cells (10) in the sorting waiting area (P2) are continuously transported along the main line (41) if the defective judgment result is no problem, and are transported toward the defective discharge line (42) if the defective is judged to be defective. The battery cells (10) transported along the main line (41) are transported to the next process.

[0160] Downstream of the above-mentioned defective discharge line (42), a re-inspection return area (P3) adjacent to the above-mentioned return line (43) is provided. The above-mentioned return area (P3) is an area where a worker directly inspects an image processed through direct computed tomography and transfers a battery cell (10) determined not to be defective to the return line (43). Accordingly, the over-inspected normal battery cell (10) can be returned to the upstream. The downstream of the above-mentioned return line (43) joins the main line (41) upstream of the above-mentioned inspection waiting area (P1). That is, the joining waiting area (P4) of the above-mentioned return line (43) is arranged upstream of the main line (41) from the above-mentioned inspection waiting area (P1).

[0161] The above computed tomography device (20) includes a photographing tube (22) that radiates X-rays to a predetermined photographing position (P5), and a detector (30) placed on the opposite side with the photographing position (P5) in between.

[0162] The above-described photographing tube (22) and detector (30) can be installed in the die (21). The main line (41) extends across the die (21). The photographing tube (22) is arranged on the first side of the main line (41), and the detector (30) is arranged on the second side of the main line (41), which is opposite the first side.

[0163] The above detector (30) detects X-rays that have passed through the test object at the above shooting position (P5) and acquires shape data.

[0164] The above battery cell inspection device includes a handler (50) for handling the battery cell (10) for the computed tomography.

[0165] The above handler (50) performs a first operation of picking up a plurality of battery cells (10) waiting in the inspection waiting area (P1) of the transfer line (40) and moving them so that the photographing target area is placed in the photographing position (P5), a second operation of rotating the battery cells (10) located in the photographing position (P5) during computed tomography, and a third operation of transferring the battery cells (10) for which the photographing has been completed toward the sorting waiting area (P2) of the transfer line (40).

[0166] The above handler (50) can repeatedly perform the first to third operations. Each of the first to third operations may be implemented through separate equipment and actuators, or may be implemented through a single integrated device.

[0167] The handler (50) of the embodiment may have a structure that integrates a gripping part (53) that holds the battery cell (10), a rotating part (54) that rotates the gripping part (53), an arm part (56) that supports the rotating part (54), and an elevating part (55) that elevates the arm part (56).

[0168] The above-mentioned gripping portion (53) grips the axial first end of the battery cell (10). The above-mentioned gripping portion (53) may be made of a material having high X-ray transmittance. Accordingly, the gripping portion (53) can be prevented from affecting the imaging results when performing a computed tomography scan of the first end of the battery cell (10).

[0169] The above-mentioned rotating part (54) is connected to the above-mentioned gripping part (53), and the gripping part (53) rotates together with the rotation of the above-mentioned rotating part (54). Accordingly, when the above-mentioned rotating part (54) rotates, the above-mentioned battery cell (10) rotates about the central axis of the above-mentioned battery cell (10). Accordingly, the above-mentioned second operation can be implemented.

[0170] The above arm (56) can swing or pivot relative to the lifting member (55), and may have joints or be elastic in length as needed. Accordingly, the first and third operations can be implemented.

[0171] The battery cell inspection device of the embodiment is implemented so that two battery cells (10) can be photographed simultaneously by one photographing tube (22). Accordingly, the handler (50) includes a first handler (50) and a second handler (50) that each handle two battery cells (10).

[0172] The photographing target portion of the battery cell (10) includes the axial first end and the second end of the battery cell (10). The first end and the second end are each photographed separately.

[0173] The two battery cells (10) are arranged along a second direction intersecting with a first direction, which is the central direction in which X-rays are irradiated between the photographing tube (22) and the detector (30). In an embodiment, the first direction is a direction crossing the main line (41), and the second direction is a direction parallel to the transport direction of the main line (41).

[0174] The above photographing tube (22) irradiates X-rays to the photographing target area of ​​the battery cell (10) placed at the photographing position (P5).

[0175] Referring to FIGS. 5 to 7, first, one photographing tube (22) irradiates X-rays to the first axial end of two battery cells (10) positioned at the photographing position (P5). Then, the first and second handlers (51, 52) independently rotate the pair of battery cells (10) positioned at the photographing position (P5).

[0176] The above detector (30) detects X-rays that have passed through the battery cell (10) and acquires shape data.

[0177] The above detector (30) includes first and second detectors (31, 32) corresponding to two battery cells (10) that are photographed simultaneously, respectively. Accordingly, shape data of the two battery cells (10) that are simultaneously irradiated with X-rays are individually acquired through the corresponding first and second detectors (31, 32).

[0178] The above-mentioned photographing tube (22) can locally irradiate X-rays in the first direction to the first end of two battery cells (10) arranged in the second direction. This is similar to a closed-type tube in basic principle and performance, but in that the radiation range is controlled compared to the closed-type tube, it can be said to be a hybrid type having both the characteristics of the closed type and the open type.

[0179] The radiation area (A) of the X-ray may be set to be wide enough to irradiate both battery cells (10) in the second direction, while being set to be considerably narrow enough to irradiate a portion of a first end portion of the battery cell (10) in the third direction, which intersects both the first and second directions and is parallel to the axial direction of the battery cell (10). In one example, the radiation angle in the second direction may be 120 degrees. In one example, the radiation angle in the third direction may be 40 degrees or less.

[0180] By setting the radiation angle in this way, multiple battery cells (10) can be photographed simultaneously with a single photographing tube. This can be made possible by limiting the radiation area of ​​the X-ray to the area to be inspected as described above.

[0181] The battery cell (10) can be displaced in the height direction by the lifting member (55). Referring to Fig. 8, after photographing the axial first end of the battery cell (10), the lifting member (55) can raise the battery cell (10). The direction in which the lifting member (55) raises and lowers the battery cell (10) can be an up-down direction, which can be parallel to the axial direction of the battery cell (10).

[0182] Accordingly, the axial second end of the battery cell (10) can be placed at the photographing position (P5). Then, as described above, the battery cell (10) is rotated again and X-rays are irradiated to perform computed tomography on the axial second end of the battery cell (10).

[0183] When the photographing of the first and second axial ends of a pair of battery cells (10) is completed, a pair of handlers (51, 52) place the battery cells (10) on the main line (41). Accordingly, the battery cells (10) for which the photographing is completed are moved to the sorting waiting area (P2) as illustrated in Fig. 9.

[0184] And the computerized tomography device (20) and handler (50) take pictures of the next battery cell (10).

[0185] The configuration of the handler (50) is not limited to the structure of the gripping portion (53), rotating portion (54), lifting portion (55), and arm portion (56) described above, and can be implemented in various forms as long as it has a structure capable of handling the battery cell (10) as described above.

[0186] Referring to FIGS. 10 to 20 below, a second embodiment of a handler (50) implemented with a structure different from that of the first embodiment described above will be described. In describing the second embodiment, any overlapping descriptions with those of the first embodiment will be omitted. Matters not described in the second embodiment can be understood from the description of the first embodiment.

[0187] A battery cell inspection device of a second embodiment includes a transfer line (40) for transferring the battery cell (10), and a computed tomography device (20) installed on the transfer line (40). The battery cell (10) may be cylindrical, and the transfer line (40) transfers the battery cell (10) in an upright position. The transfer line (40) may be configured as a conveyor.

[0188] The battery cell (10) can be transported along the transport direction of the transport line (40) while being placed on a carrier (70). The carrier (70) may be in the form of a container that is open upwards. The carrier (70) may have a bottom portion that supports the axial second end of the battery cell (10) and a side wall portion that supports the side surface of the battery cell (10). The lower end of the battery cell (10) can be transported while being seated on the carrier (70). The axial first end of the battery cell (10) is exposed upward while being seated on the carrier (70).

[0189] The above-described computed tomography device (20) is arranged on the main line (41). According to the second embodiment, the computed tomography device (20) is arranged at a position corresponding to an inspection waiting area (P1) provided on the main line (41). The area upstream of the computed tomography device (20) on the main line (41) is a section in which a battery cell (10) is transported for the computed tomography, and the area downstream of the computed tomography device (20) on the main line (41) is a section in which a battery cell (10) that has completed the computed tomography begins to be transported again.

[0190] The sorting waiting area (P2) where the battery cell (10) waits for the defective judgment result is placed downstream from the inspection waiting area (P1).

[0191] The above computed tomography device (20) includes a photographing tube (22) that radiates X-rays to a predetermined photographing position (P5) as shown in FIGS. 18 and 19, and a detector (30) positioned on the opposite side with the photographing position (P5) interposed therebetween.

[0192] The above-described photographing tube (22) and detector (30) can be installed in the die (21). The main line (41) extends across the die (21). The photographing tube (22) is arranged on the first side of the main line (41), and the detector (30) is arranged on the second side of the main line (41), which is opposite the first side.

[0193] In the die (21), an alignment member (80) is installed to align the positions of a pair of battery cells (10) that have been transported along the main line (41) and reached the inspection waiting area (P1). The alignment member (80) can align the positions of the battery cells (10) by aligning a carrier (70) transported by the transport line while the battery cells (10) are placed thereon.

[0194] The alignment member (80) may be positioned lower than the photographing tube (22) and the detector (30). In addition, the alignment member (80) may be positioned closer to the transfer line (40) than the photographing tube (22) and the detector (30).

[0195] The alignment member (80) is installed so as to be able to slide on an alignment guide (87) extending in a direction parallel to the width direction of the transfer line. The alignment member (80) can slide in the width direction of the transfer line to approach the transfer line or move away from the transfer line under the guidance of the alignment guide (87).

[0196] According to an embodiment, the alignment members (80) are respectively arranged on both sides of the transfer line. A pair of alignment members (80) are arranged to face each other with the inspection waiting area (P1) interposed therebetween. Each alignment member (80) has a pair of arc-shaped groove-shaped alignment portions (83) that surround the carriers (70) of a pair of battery cells (10) arranged in the inspection waiting area (P1).

[0197] As illustrated in FIGS. 12 to 14, when the alignment member (80) is withdrawn from the inspection waiting area (P1) and the carrier (70) carrying the battery cell (10) arrives at the inspection waiting area (P1), a pair of alignment members (80) advance to wrap the side of the carrier (70) with the alignment portion (83). Accordingly, as illustrated in FIG. 15, the carrier (70) is precisely aligned in the transport direction and width direction of the transport line in the inspection waiting area (P1). The arc-shaped groove shape of the alignment portion (83) naturally guides the position of the carrier (70) to the alignment position and supports the carrier (70).

[0198] The alignment member (80) further includes a stopper portion (85) that faces the upper end of the side wall of the carrier (70) and restricts upward movement of the carrier (70). The stopper portion (85) supports the carrier (70) in a direction opposite to the direction in which the handler (50) picks up the battery cell (10). Accordingly, when the handler (50) picks up the battery cell (10) mounted on the carrier (70), the stopper portion (85) supports the carrier (70) so that it is not picked up together.

[0199] The embodiment discloses a structure in which one alignment member (80) is guided by a pair of alignment guides (87) that are elongated and thin. However, the shape and number of the alignment guides (87) need not be limited thereto. In addition, the embodiment discloses a structure in which both of the pair of alignment members (80) slide. However, it is of course possible to implement a structure in which one of the alignment members (80) is fixed and only the other alignment member (80) moves. In addition, the embodiment discloses that both of the pair of alignment members (80) are provided with an alignment portion (83) in the form of an arc-shaped groove. However, the alignment portion (83) may be provided on only one of the alignment members (80). In other words, various modifications that can implement the function of the alignment member (80) disclosed in the embodiment are applicable.

[0200] The above battery cell inspection device includes a handler (50) for handling the battery cell (10) for the computed tomography.

[0201] The above handler (50) performs a first operation of picking up a plurality of battery cells (10) waiting in the inspection waiting area (P1) of the transfer line (40) and moving them so that the photographing target area is placed in the photographing position (P5), a second operation of rotating the battery cells (10) located in the photographing position (P5) during computed tomography, and a third operation of returning the battery cells (10) for which the photographing has been completed to the inspection waiting area (P1) of the transfer line (40).

[0202] The handler (50) can move the battery cells (10) to a first position so that the first photographing target portion of the plurality of picked-up battery cells (10) is positioned at the photographing position, and then rotate the battery cells (10), and move the battery cells (10) to a second position so that the second photographing target portion of the plurality of picked-up battery cells (10) is positioned at the photographing position, and then rotate the battery cells (10). That is, the first operation and the second operation can be repeated corresponding to the photographing location.

[0203] The embodiment exemplifies that the axial first end, i.e., the upper end, of a pair of battery cells (10) is placed at a shooting position and then photographed, and then the axial second end, i.e., the lower end, of a pair of battery cells (10) is placed at a shooting position and then photographed.

[0204] The handler (50) is provided with a plurality of gripping portions (53) that each grip a plurality of battery cells. The gripping portions (53) can grip the first or second axial ends of the battery cells (10). The embodiment discloses a pair of gripping portions (53) that each grip the upper ends of a pair of battery cells (10).

[0205] The handler (50) has a plurality of rotating parts (54) that each rotate a plurality of gripping parts (53). The plurality of rotating parts (54) independently rotate the plurality of battery cells (10) by independently rotating the plurality of gripping parts (53). The rotating parts (54) rotate the battery cells (10) about their central axes. The embodiment discloses a pair of rotating parts (54) that each rotate a pair of gripping parts (53).

[0206] The gripping portion (53) rotated by the rotating portion (54) is provided with at least one pressing portion (531) that is installed to be radially movable with respect to the rotation center of the rotating portion (54). Preferably, the movement may be in the form of a sliding movement. The embodiment discloses that three pressing portions (531) are provided that are arranged at equal intervals along the circumferential direction. That is, the pressing portions (531) are arranged at 120-degree intervals.

[0207] The above-mentioned pressurizing portion (531) has a shape that can wrap around the upper surface and side surface of the cylindrical battery cell (10). For example, the pressurizing portion (531) has an arc-shaped side wall portion and a fan-shaped upper surface portion. As the pressurizing portion (531) moves radially inward and grips the upper surface of the cylindrical battery cell (10), the central axis of the battery cell (10) can be aligned with the central axis of rotation of the rotating portion (54).

[0208] At least the portion of the pressurizing portion (531) that comes into contact with the battery cell may include a material that is transparent to X-rays. Preferably, the pressurizing portion (531) is made of a material that is transparent to X-rays, so that the pressurizing portion (531) does not interfere with the imaging when performing a computed tomography scan of the upper portion of the battery cell (10).

[0209] The handler (50) above has a lifting unit (55) that raises and lowers a plurality of rotating parts (54). Preferably, the lifting unit (55) can raise and lower the plurality of rotating parts (54) as a whole. In an embodiment, a structure is disclosed in which a pair of rotating parts (54) are installed on one lifting unit (55), and a pair of rotating parts (54) are raised and lowered together by the lifting unit (55).

[0210] The above-mentioned lifting unit (55) is provided with a lifting guide (553) extending in the vertical direction, and an lifting member (551) that is guided by the lifting guide (553) to ascend and descend. According to an embodiment, a pair of lifting guides (553) are arranged laterally spaced apart, and the lifting member (551) is guided to ascend and descend by the pair of lifting guides (553). A pair of rotating members (54) are connected to the lifting member (551) to enable the member to ascend and descend as one unit.

[0211] Referring to FIGS. 15 and 16, in order to pick up the battery cell (10) aligned in the inspection waiting area (P1) by the alignment member (80), the elevating member (551) is lowered to a position where the gripping member (53) can grip the battery cell (10). Then, as illustrated in FIG. 17, the gripping member (53) slides radially inward to grip the upper portion of the battery cell (10).

[0212] Next, as illustrated in FIG. 18, the lifting member (551) is raised to a first position so that the upper portion, which is the first photographing target portion of the battery cell (10), is positioned at the photographing position (P5), and a pair of rotating parts (54) rotate the gripping part (53), respectively, to perform a computed tomography scan of the first photographing target portion of the battery cell (10).

[0213] And, as shown in Fig. 19, the lifting member (551) is raised to a second position so that the lower part, which is the second photographing target area of ​​the battery cell (10), is positioned at the photographing position (P5), and a pair of rotating parts (54) rotate the gripping part (53) respectively to perform a computed tomography scan of the second photographing target area of ​​the battery cell (10).

[0214] After the entire target area has been photographed in this manner, the lifting member (551) is lowered so that the battery cell (10) can be seated on the carrier (70). With the battery cell (10) seated on the carrier (70), the gripping member (53) slides radially outward to release the grip on the battery cell (10).

[0215] Next, in order not to interfere with the transport of the battery cell (10), as shown in FIG. 14, the lifting member (551) is raised and the alignment member (80) is retracted from the carrier (70), and the carrier (70) on which the battery cell (10) is installed is transported to the sorting waiting area (P2) by the transport line (40) as shown in FIG. 20.

[0216] The above handler (50) and alignment member (80) can perform the above-described operation repeatedly to perform computed tomography on battery cells (10) transported by the transport line (40).

[0217] The battery cell inspection device of the second embodiment is implemented so that two battery cells (10) can be photographed simultaneously by one handler (50) and one photographing tube (22).

[0218] The processing unit (60) processes the shape data acquired by the individual detectors (31, 32). The processing unit (60) can construct primary data of a three-dimensional stereoscopic shape based on the shape data continuously acquired by the detectors. In addition, the processing unit (60) can construct secondary data of a two-dimensional planar shape by cross-sectionalizing the inspection area from the constructed primary data. The secondary data can be images such as those illustrated in FIGS. 22 and 23, for example.

[0219] The above processing unit (60) extracts points for determining whether the inspection item is defective from the secondary data image, and determines whether it is defective according to the judgment criteria set based on the extracted points.

[0220] And, depending on whether or not it is judged to be defective, the transport path of the battery cell (10) waiting in the sorting waiting area (P2) is determined.

[0221] According to the present invention, in order to increase the data processing speed, as illustrated in FIG. 21, after the shooting of the first end is completed, the processing unit immediately performs the first data construction, the second data construction, the point extraction, and the defective judgment, and at the same time, the computed tomography device can perform the shooting of the second end in parallel.

[0222] According to the present invention, artificial intelligence is applied to increase the speed of computed tomography.

[0223] First, the above processing unit (60) can upscale the secondary data using artificial intelligence.

[0224] In order to learn artificial intelligence that performs up-scaling processing, matching data can be constructed for multiple battery cells (10) by matching high-resolution images (see FIGS. 24 and 25) captured while rotating the same battery cell (10) at a first speed and low-resolution images (see FIGS. 22 and 23) captured while rotating at a second speed that is faster than the first speed, and the data can be accumulated. In one example, the first speed can be about 60 sec / rev, and the second speed can be 24 sec / rev.

[0225] The above artificial intelligence can upscale low-resolution images captured while the battery cells (10) rotate at a second speed into high-resolution images by learning matching data for multiple battery cells (10). This allows for the generation of images with a resolution comparable to that captured at the first speed, even when the battery cells are captured at the second speed.

[0226] Accordingly, in the computed tomography process for in-line inspection, the battery cell (10) can be rotated at a second speed by the handler (50) to take pictures, thereby further increasing the inspection speed.

[0227] Meanwhile, according to the present invention, the processing unit (60) can apply artificial intelligence when extracting points for determining whether an inspection item is defective or not from an upscaled image as shown in FIGS. 24 and 25.

[0228] In order to learn artificial intelligence that extracts points, point data can be built by extracting accurate points from upscaled images for multiple battery cells (10), and the point data can be accumulated. Such point data can be continuously accumulated during the verification process for battery cells (10) that are automatically judged as defective by the processing unit (60). As described above, during the process of verifying battery cells (10) transferred to the defective discharge line (42), the worker can accurately set points for inspection in the upscaled image, and through this, not only can the verification of over-inspection be performed, but also the point extraction accuracy of the artificial intelligence can be continuously improved.

[0229] The above artificial intelligence can supplement rule-based extraction by more accurately extracting points for determining whether an inspection item is defective in an upscaled image by learning point data for multiple battery cells (10).

[0230] For example, if the rule-based extraction point and the artificial intelligence extraction point that are being processed in parallel by the above processing unit (60) are different, the battery cell (10) is first sent to the defective discharge line (42), and then, as described above, a worker directly views the image to check for over-inspection, thereby supplementing the rule-based point extraction and further increasing the accuracy of the artificial intelligence point extraction. In addition, a worker is deployed only when necessary to check the point extraction, thereby minimizing the deployment of manpower.

[0231] According to the battery cell inspection device of the embodiment described above, the imaging and judgment time can be reduced, enabling in-line installation on production lines and enabling comprehensive inspection. Furthermore, while enabling high-precision inspection, the intensity of the X-rays emitted for inspection can be reduced, extending the life of the imaging tube and extending the maintenance and component replacement cycle of the battery cell inspection device.

[0232] In addition, according to the above battery cell inspection device, inspection accuracy can be increased while minimizing the input of manpower, the cause of product defects can be immediately identified, and since it is installed in-line, measures to eliminate the cause of product defects can be immediately reflected in the production line.

[0233] 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.

[0234] 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 transfer line for transporting battery cells; A computed tomography device installed on the above transport line; A handler that picks up a plurality of battery cells waiting in the inspection waiting area of ​​the above-mentioned transfer line, moves them so that the photographing target area is positioned at the photographing position, rotates the battery cells positioned at the photographing position during computed tomography, and returns the battery cells that have completed photographing to the transfer line; and A battery cell inspection device including a processing unit that processes data obtained by photographing the battery cell in the computer tomography device; The above computed tomography device: A photographing tube that irradiates X-rays to the photographing target area of ​​the battery cell placed at the above photographing position; and A detector is disposed opposite the photographing tube with the photographing position in between, and detects X-rays that have passed through the battery cell to obtain shape data; A battery cell inspection device in which the handler moves the battery cell to a first position so that a first photographing target portion of the plurality of picked up battery cells is positioned at a photographing position, and then rotates the battery cell, and moves the battery cell to a second position so that a second photographing target portion of the plurality of picked up battery cells is positioned at a photographing position, and then rotates the battery cell.

2. In claim 1, one photographing tube irradiates X-rays to two or more battery cells, A battery cell inspection device, wherein the two or more battery cells are arranged along a second direction intersecting a first direction, which is the central direction in which X-rays are irradiated between the photographing tube and the detector.

3. A battery cell inspection device according to claim 2, wherein the third direction in which the battery cell moves between the first position and the second position intersects both the first direction and the second direction.

4. A battery cell inspection device according to claim 1, wherein the photographing tube locally irradiates X-rays to the photographing target area of ​​two or more battery cells.

5. In claim 4, the radiation angle of the X-ray is wide in a second direction intersecting with a first direction, which is the central direction in which the X-ray is irradiated between the photographing tube and the detector, and narrow in a third direction intersecting with both the first direction and the second direction and parallel to the axial direction of the battery cell. A battery cell inspection device.

6. A battery cell inspection device according to claim 1, wherein the detector comprises two or more individual detectors each corresponding to two or more battery cells.

7. A battery cell inspection device according to claim 1, wherein the handler independently rotates each of the battery cells placed at the photographing position.

8. A battery cell inspection device according to claim 1, wherein the handler has a plurality of gripping sections each for gripping a plurality of battery cells.

9. In claim 8, the battery cell includes a cylindrical can extending in the axial direction, The first and second photographing target portions include the axial first and second ends of the battery cell, A battery cell inspection device, wherein the above-mentioned gripping part grips the axial first end of the battery cell.

10. A battery cell inspection device according to claim 8, wherein the handler has a plurality of rotating parts that each rotate a plurality of gripping parts.

11. A battery cell inspection device according to claim 10, wherein each of the gripping portions has at least one pressure portion that is installed to be radially movable with respect to the rotation center of each of the rotating portions.

12. A battery cell inspection device according to claim 11, wherein at least a portion of the pressurized portion that comes into contact with the battery cell includes a material that is transparent to the X-rays.

13. A battery cell inspection device according to claim 10, wherein the handler comprises a lifting unit that lifts a plurality of rotating units.

14. A battery cell inspection device according to claim 13, wherein the lifting unit lifts and lowers the plurality of rotating units as a whole.

15. A battery cell inspection device according to claim 13, wherein the direction in which the lifting unit lifts the battery cell is parallel to the axial direction of the battery cell.

16. A battery cell inspection device according to claim 1, further comprising a carrier in which the battery cell is transported by the transport line in a mounted state.

17. A battery cell inspection device according to claim 1, further comprising an alignment member for aligning the position of the battery cell that has reached the inspection waiting area.

18. A battery cell inspection device according to claim 17, wherein the alignment member includes an alignment portion that aligns the position of the battery cell with respect to the conveying direction and width direction of the conveying line.

19. A battery cell inspection device according to claim 17, wherein the alignment member aligns a carrier transported by the transport line while the battery cell is placed thereon, thereby aligning the position of the battery cell.

20. A battery cell inspection device according to claim 19, wherein the alignment member includes a stopper portion that supports the carrier in a direction opposite to the direction in which the handler picks up the battery cell.

21. In claim 1, the transfer line: Main line with the above inspection waiting area and screening waiting area; A defective discharge line branching off from the main line in the above sorting waiting area; Including a return line connecting the above defective discharge line and the main line; The above-mentioned return line is a battery cell inspection device that extends from the re-inspection return area adjacent to the defective discharge line to the merging waiting area provided upstream from the inspection waiting area of ​​the main line.

22. A battery cell inspection device according to claim 21, wherein, in the re-inspection return area, a battery cell whose defect determination based on the provided computed tomography image has been overturned by a worker is transferred from the defective discharge line to the return line.

23. In claim 1, the processing unit constructs primary data based on the shape data, Secondary data is constructed by layering the inspection area, A battery cell inspection device that upscales the above secondary data using artificial intelligence.

24. In claim 23, matching data is constructed for a plurality of battery cells by matching a high-resolution image captured while rotating the same battery cell at a first speed with a low-resolution image captured while rotating at a second speed that is faster than the first speed. The above artificial intelligence learns matching data for multiple battery cells, The above handler is a battery cell inspection device that rotates the battery cell at a second speed.

25. In claim 23, the processing unit, Extract points to determine whether the inspection item is defective or not from the upscaled image using artificial intelligence, Based on the above extracted points, it is determined whether or not it is defective according to the judgment criteria. A battery cell inspection device that determines the transport path of battery cells waiting in the sorting waiting area of ​​the above-mentioned transport line depending on whether they are defective.

26. In claim 25, point data is constructed by extracting accurate points from upscaled images for multiple battery cells, The above artificial intelligence is a battery cell inspection device that learns point data for multiple battery cells.

Images