Secondary battery manufacturing system and secondary battery manufacturing method

The secondary battery manufacturing system with HMI video guidance addresses operator convenience and traceability issues, enhancing reliability and throughput by offering real-time troubleshooting support.

WO2026071537A1PCT designated stage Publication Date: 2026-04-02LG ENERGY SOLUTION LTD
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
WO · WO
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2025-09-03
Publication Date
2026-04-02

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing secondary battery manufacturing processes lack operator convenience and traceability, leading to inefficiencies and reliability issues.

Method used

A secondary battery manufacturing system with a Human-Machine Interface (HMI) that provides video guidance for troubleshooting and process adjustments, including 3D animations and captured videos, to assist operators in addressing facility breakdowns and process downtimes.

Benefits of technology

Enhances operator convenience and improves the reliability and throughput of secondary battery manufacturing by providing real-time video guidance for troubleshooting and process adjustments.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

Provided is a secondary battery manufacturing system comprising: secondary battery manufacturing equipment including a plurality of pieces of sub-equipment; and a human-machine interface (HMI) configured to pop up a window for playing an image in response to a problematic event, being a component replacement method for the plurality of pieces of sub-equipment or a component and mechanism adjusting method for the plurality of pieces of sub-equipment depending on a breakdown maintenance (BM) or a process down (PD) situation, wherein the plurality of pieces of sub-equipment include first to fifteenth sub-equipment. Accordingly, an operator may view the image and take necessary measures, and thus the reliability and throughput of secondary battery manufacturing may be improved.
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Description

Secondary battery manufacturing system and method for manufacturing a secondary battery

[0001] The present invention relates to a secondary battery manufacturing system and a method for manufacturing a secondary battery. The present application claims the benefit of Korean application No. 10-2024-0130790, filed on September 26, 2024, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0002] Unlike primary batteries, secondary batteries can be charged and discharged multiple times. Secondary batteries are widely used as energy sources for various wireless devices such as handsets, laptops, and cordless vacuum cleaners. Recently, as the manufacturing cost per unit capacity of secondary batteries has decreased dramatically due to improved energy density and economies of scale, and as the driving range of BEVs (battery electric vehicles) has increased to a level equivalent to that of fuel vehicles, the primary use of secondary batteries is shifting from mobile devices to mobility.

[0003] Secondary batteries are manufactured through electrode, assembly, and activation processes. To improve the yield and reliability of the secondary battery manufacturing process, ensuring process traceability is crucial. Accordingly, various studies are being conducted to ensure the traceability of the secondary battery manufacturing process.

[0004] The problem that the technical concept of the present invention aims to solve is to provide a secondary battery manufacturing system with enhanced operator convenience and a method for manufacturing a secondary battery.

[0005] According to exemplary embodiments of the present invention for solving the above-described problem, a secondary battery manufacturing system is provided. The system comprises: a secondary battery manufacturing facility including a plurality of sub-facilities; and a Human-Machine Interface (HMI) configured to pop up a window for video playback in response to a problematic event of the plurality of sub-facilities.

[0006] If the above problematic event is BM (Breakdown Maintenance), the above video shows a method for replacing parts of multiple sub-equipments.

[0007] When the above problematic event is a PD (Process Down), the above video shows a method for adjusting process parameters of multiple sub-facilities.

[0008] When the above problematic event is a PD (Process Down), the above video shows the method of adjusting the parts and mechanisms of multiple sub-facilities.

[0009] The above video is a recorded video.

[0010] The video above is a 3D animation.

[0011] The above HMI is configured to display an option window for selecting either a captured video or a 3D animation.

[0012] The above HMI is configured to send an API to the server for transmitting additional images based on the operator's manipulation.

[0013] The above-mentioned multiple sub-facilities are configured to perform the assembly process of battery cells.

[0014] The above plurality of sub-equipments include a first sub-equipment configured to feed a jelly roll into the secondary battery manufacturing equipment.

[0015] The above plurality of sub-equipments include a second sub-equipment configured to weld an anode collector plate and a cathode collector plate to a jelly roll.

[0016] The above plurality of sub-equipments include a third sub-equipment configured to attach insulating tape to a jelly roll.

[0017] The above plurality of sub-equipments include a fourth sub-equipment configured to insert an insulator into a can.

[0018] The above plurality of sub-equipments include a fifth sub-equipment configured to insert a jelly roll into a can.

[0019] The above plurality of sub-equipments include a sixth sub-equipment configured to weld the rivets of the can and the anode current collector plate.

[0020] The above plurality of sub-equipments include a seventh sub-equipment configured to form a beading portion around the opening of the can.

[0021] The above plurality of sub-equipments include an eighth sub-equipment configured to weld the cathode collector plate and the beading portion.

[0022] The above plurality of sub-equipments include a ninth sub-equipment configured to perform X-RAY inspection.

[0023] The above plurality of sub-equipments include a 10th sub-equipment configured to inject electrolyte into a can.

[0024] The above plurality of sub-equipments include a 11th sub-equipment configured to perform a first crimping process and a second crimping process.

[0025] The plurality of sub-equipments includes a 12th sub-equipment configured to perform a third crimping process following the first crimping process and the second crimping process.

[0026] The above plurality of sub-equipments include a 13th sub-equipment configured to regulate the total height of the battery cells.

[0027] The above plurality of sub-equipments include a 14th sub-equipment configured to clean the battery cell.

[0028] The above plurality of sub-equipments include a 15th sub-equipment configured to inspect the appearance of the battery cell.

[0029] The above plurality of sub-equipments include a 15th sub-equipment configured to test the electrical characteristics of the battery cell.

[0030] According to exemplary embodiments of the present invention, an operator can view an image and perform necessary actions based on the image, thereby improving the reliability and throughput of secondary battery manufacturing.

[0031] The effects obtainable from the exemplary embodiments of the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned effects can be clearly derived and understood by those skilled in the art to which the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure belong from the following description. That is, unintended effects resulting from the implementation of the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure can also be derived by those skilled in the art from the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0032] FIG. 1 is a drawing showing a secondary battery manufacturing system according to exemplary embodiments.

[0033] FIG. 2 shows a secondary battery manufacturing facility according to exemplary embodiments.

[0034] FIG. 3 is a perspective view including a cross-section of a battery cell assembled by a secondary battery manufacturing facility according to exemplary embodiments.

[0035] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view including a cross-section of a battery cell assembled by a secondary battery manufacturing facility according to exemplary embodiments.

[0036] FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a method for manufacturing a secondary battery according to exemplary embodiments.

[0037] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Prior to this, terms and words used in this specification and claims should not be interpreted as being limited to their ordinary or dictionary meanings. Instead, based on the principle that the inventor can appropriately define the concepts of terms to best describe his invention, they should be interpreted in a meaning and concept consistent with the technical spirit of the present invention.

[0038] Therefore, the embodiments described in this specification and the configurations illustrated in the drawings are merely the most preferred embodiments of the present invention and do not represent all of the technical ideas of the present invention; thus, it should be understood that various equivalents and modifications that can replace them may exist at the time of filing this application.

[0039] In addition, in describing the present invention, if it is determined that a detailed description of related known components or functions may obscure the essence of the invention, such detailed description is omitted.

[0040] Since embodiments of the present invention are provided to more fully explain the invention to those skilled in the art, the shapes and sizes of the components in the drawings may be exaggerated, omitted, or schematically depicted for clearer explanation. Accordingly, the size or proportion of each component does not entirely reflect the actual size or proportion.

[0041]

[0042] (1st embodiment)

[0043] FIG. 1 is a drawing showing a secondary battery manufacturing system (10000) according to exemplary embodiments.

[0044] FIG. 2 shows a secondary battery manufacturing facility (1000) according to exemplary embodiments.

[0045] FIG. 3 is a perspective view including a cross-section of a battery cell (BC) assembled by a secondary battery manufacturing facility (1000) according to exemplary embodiments.

[0046] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view including a cross-section of a battery cell (BC) assembled by a secondary battery manufacturing facility (1000) according to exemplary embodiments.

[0047]

[0048] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 4, a secondary battery manufacturing system (10000) may be configured to perform a secondary battery manufacturing process. The secondary battery manufacturing system (10000) may include a secondary battery manufacturing facility (1000), a server (2000), and a Human-Machine Interface (HMI) (3000).

[0049] The secondary battery manufacturing facility (1000) may be configured to perform, for example, an assembly process. More specifically, the secondary battery manufacturing system (1000) may be configured to perform, for example, an assembly process of a can-type battery cell (BC).

[0050] The secondary battery manufacturing facility (1000) may include a plurality of sub-facilities (110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, 170, 180, 190, 200, 210, 220, 230, 240, 250, 260, hereinafter, 110 to 260). The plurality of sub-facilities (110 to 260) may be configured to perform sub-processes of the assembly process. The sub-processes by the plurality of sub-facilities (110 to 260) may be performed sequentially. That is, the subsequent of the plurality of sub-facilities (110 to 260) may be configured to process a workpiece processed by the preceding of the plurality of sub-facilities (110 to 260). More specifically, the workpiece processed by the sub-equipment (110) can then be processed by the sub-equipment (120), and the workpiece processed by the sub-equipment (120) can then be processed by the sub-equipment (130).

[0051]

[0052] The sub-equipment (110) may be configured to feed a jelly roll (JR) into a secondary battery manufacturing facility (1000). The jelly roll (JR) may include a winding structure of a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator.

[0053] The positive electrode may include a positive current collector and a positive active material, and the negative electrode may include a negative current collector and a negative active material.

[0054] The thickness of the positive current collector may be in the range of about 3 μm to about 500 μm. The positive current collector may not cause chemical changes in the secondary battery finally manufactured and may have high conductivity. The positive current collector may include, for example, stainless steel, nickel, titanium, calcined carbon, and aluminum. The positive current collector may also include stainless steel surface-treated with carbon, nickel, titanium, silver, etc. The surface of the positive current collector may include a micro-roughness structure to increase the adhesion of the active material. The positive current collector may have the shape of a film, sheet, foil, net, porous material, foam, nonwoven fabric, etc.

[0055] The cathode active material is a material capable of causing an electrochemical reaction. The cathode active material may be a lithium transition metal oxide. The cathode active material may be, for example, a layered compound such as lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2) and lithium nickel oxide (LiNiO2) substituted with one or more transition metals, lithium manganese oxide substituted with one or more transition metals, or a material with the chemical formula LiNi 1-y M y A lithium nickel-based oxide represented by O2 (where M is any one of Co, Mn, Al, Cu, Fe, Mg, B, Cr, Zn, and Ga, and 0.01≤y≤0.7), Li 1+z Ni 1 / 3 Co 1 / 3 Mn 1 / 3 O2, Li 1+zN i 0.4 Mn 0.4 Co 0.2 Li like O2 1+z Ni b Mn c Co 1-(b+c+d) M d O(2-e) A e A lithium nickel cobalt manganese composite oxide represented by the formula Li, where -0.5≤z≤0.5, 0.1≤b≤0.8, 0.1≤c≤0.8, 0≤d≤0.2, 0≤e≤0.2, b+c+d<1, M is any one of Al, Mg, Cr, Ti, Si, and Y, and A is any one of F, P, and Cl. 1+x M 1-y M' y PO 4-z X z It may include an olivine-based lithium metal phosphate represented as (wherein M is a transition metal, more specifically one of Fe, Mn, Co and Ni, M' is one of Al, Mg and Ti, X is one of F, S and N, -0.5≤x≤+0.5, 0≤y≤0.5, and 0≤z≤0.1).

[0056] The thickness of the negative current collector may be in the range of about 3 μm to about 500 μm. The negative current collector may not cause chemical changes in the secondary battery finally manufactured and may have high conductivity. The negative current collector may include copper, stainless steel, aluminum, nickel, titanium, calcined carbon, and aluminum-cadmium alloy. The negative current collector may also include stainless steel surface-treated with carbon, nickel, titanium, silver, etc. The surface of the negative current collector may include a micro-roughness structure to increase the adhesion of the active material. The negative current collector may have the shape of a film, sheet, foil, net, porous material, foam, nonwoven fabric, etc.

[0057] The negative electrode active material may include carbon, for example, non-graphitizable carbon, graphite-based carbon, etc. The negative electrode active material is, for example, Li x Fe2O3(0≤x≤1), LixWO2(0≤x≤1), Sn x Me 1-x Me y O z(Here, Me is any one of Mn, Fe, Pb, and Ge, and Me' is any one of Al, B, P, Si, Group 1, Group 2, and Group 3 elements of the periodic table and halogens, and 0 <x≤1 이고, 1≤y≤3 이며, 1≤z≤8) 등의 금속 복합 산화물을 포함할 수 있다. 음극 활물질은, 예컨대, 리튬 금속, 리튬 합금, 규소계 합금, 주석계 합금을 포함할 수 있다. 음극 활물질은, 예컨대, SnO, SnO2, PbO, PbO2, Pb2O3, Pb3O4, Sb2O3, Sb2O4, Sb2O5, GeO, GeO2, Bi2O3, Bi2O4, Bi2O5등의 금속 산화물을 포함할 수 있다. 음극 활물질은, 예컨대, 폴리아세틸렌 등의 도전성 고분자, Li-Co-Ni 계 재료 등을 포함할 수 있다.

[0058] The automated logistics system may be configured to deliver a jelly roll tray loaded with jelly rolls (JR) to a sub-facility (110). The jelly roll tray may be delivered from a jelly roll warehouse. After the jelly roll tray is loaded into the sub-facility (110), the jelly rolls (JR) may be loaded into a mover of a secondary battery manufacturing facility (1000) by a pick-and-place machine. The sub-facility (110) may include an inspector configured to read a data matrix of the trays indicating the tray ID.

[0059] Jelly rolls (JR) can be loaded in a matrix form onto a jelly roll tray. A pick-and-place machine can be configured to load jelly rolls (JR) onto a mover in the loading order on the jelly roll tray. A sub-equipment (110) may include a loading inspector configured to inspect the loading quality of the jelly rolls (JR), such as the position alignment of the jelly rolls (JR). The sub-equipment (110) may load defective jelly rolls (JR) onto a separate tray to discharge the defective jelly rolls (JR).

[0060]

[0061] The sub-equipment (120) may be configured to combine a positive current collector plate (PC) and a negative current collector plate (NC) to a jelly roll (JR). The positive current collector plate (PC) and the negative current collector plate (NC) may be combined to the jelly roll (JR) by laser welding. The negative current collector plate (NC) may be combined to the jelly roll (JR) after the positive current collector plate (PC) is combined to the jelly roll (JR), but is not limited thereto. The positive current collector plate (PC) may also be combined to the jelly roll (JR) after the negative current collector plate (NC) is combined to the jelly roll (JR).

[0062] The positive electrode collector plate (PC) and the negative electrode collector plate (NC) can be joined to the jelly roll while the jelly roll (JR) is moved by a mover. Joining the positive electrode collector plate (PC) to the jelly roll (JR) may include inspecting the position of the jelly roll (JR) (e.g., the position of the core of the jelly roll (JR)), inspecting the positive electrode collector plate (PC), loading the positive electrode collector plate (PC) to the welding position, welding the positive electrode collector plate (PC) to the jelly roll (JR), and inspecting the welding status of the positive electrode collector plate (PC) and the jelly roll (JR).

[0063] Attaching the negative electrode collector plate (PC) to the jelly roll (JR) may include inspecting the position of the jelly roll (JR) (e.g., the position of the core of the jelly roll (JR)), inspecting the negative electrode collector plate (NC), loading the negative electrode collector plate (NC) to the welding position, welding the negative electrode collector plate (NC) to the jelly roll (JR), and inspecting the welding condition of the negative electrode collector plate (NC) and the jelly roll (JR).

[0064] In the sub-facility (120), the combined structure of the jelly roll (JR), positive collector plate (PC), and negative collector plate on the mover can be moved to a carrier. Accordingly, in a subsequent process, the assembly of the jelly roll (JR), positive collector plate (PC), and negative collector plate (NC) can be processed while loaded on the carrier.

[0065]

[0066] The sub-equipment (130) may be configured to attach an insulating tape (TF) to the positive electrode of a jelly roll (JR). The insulating tape (TF) may be attached to the side of the jelly roll (JR) and to the outer edge of the positive electrode collector plate (PC). Attaching the insulating tape (TF) may include loading the insulating tape (TF), feeding and cutting the insulating tape (TF), adsorbing and supplying the insulating tape (TF), inserting a carrier and reading the carrier ID, raising the carrier, attaching the insulating tape (TF) to the jelly roll, forming the insulating tape (TF), inspecting the appearance of the insulating tape (TF) and the jelly roll (JR), discharging a jelly roll (JR) in which one or more of the appearances of the insulating tape (TF) and the jelly roll (JR) are defective, lowering the carrier, and performing insulation and short circuit inspections on the jelly roll (JR).

[0067]

[0068] The sub-equipment (140) may be configured to insert an insulator (INS) into a can (CC). The can (CC) may have a cylindrical shape, but is not limited thereto. The can (CC) may also have a prismatic shape.

[0069] The sub-equipment (140) may include a pick-and-place machine configured to supply cans (CC) supplied while loaded in a can tray to the sub-equipment (140). Before inserting an insulator (INS) into the can, foreign matter and alignment status on the insulator (INS) may be inspected, and defective insulators (INS) may be discharged.

[0070] When a can (CC) is first introduced into the secondary battery manufacturing facility (1000) from the sub-facility (140), additional processing and inspection may be performed on the can (CC). For example, in the sub-facility (140), the total height of the can (CC) may be inspected. For example, in the sub-facility (140), the rivets (RV) of the can (CC) may be cleaned by a laser. For example, in the sub-facility (140), foreign matter on the can (CC) may be removed by a blower and suction. Defective cans (CC) may be discharged.

[0071] After the insulator (INS) is inserted into the can (CC), the insertability of the insulator (INS) can be inspected. In the insertability inspection, whether the insulator (INS) is inserted inside the can (CC) and the alignment of the can (CC) and the insulator (INS) can be inspected. After the insertability inspection, the flatness of the rivet (RV) can be inspected. The flatness of the rivet (RV) can be inspected through the opening (CCO) of the can (CC). Cans (CC) and insulators (INS) with poor insertion can be discharged, and cans (CC) and insulators (INS) that are good cans can be transferred to a sub-facility (150) for a subsequent process.

[0072]

[0073] The sub-equipment (150) may be configured to insert a jelly roll (JR) into a can (CC). The jelly roll (JR) may be inserted into the can (CC) such that the positive current collector plate (PC) attached to the jelly roll (JR) faces the rivet (RV) of the can (CC). Before the jelly roll (JR) is inserted into the can (CC), a data matrix indicating the carrier ID of the carrier transporting the jelly roll (JR) may be read. To prevent the insertion of foreign matter, the jelly roll (JR) may be inserted into the can (CC) in an upward moving manner. The jelly roll (JR) may include two steps. In the first step, the negative foil surface of the jelly roll (JR) and the opening (CCO) of the can (CC) may be aligned at the same level. In the second step, the positive foil surface may be fully inserted to the bottom surface of the can (CC). After the jelly roll (JR) is inserted into the can (CC), the presence or absence of deformation in the core shape of the jelly roll (JR) can be inspected. Defective jelly rolls (JR) and cans (CC) can be discharged, and good jelly rolls (JR) and cans (CC) can be transferred to a sub-equipment (160) for a subsequent process.

[0074]

[0075] The sub-equipment (160) may be configured to join the anode collector plate (PC) and the rivet (RV) of the can (CC). Before performing ultrasonic welding, a data matrix representing the can ID of the can (CC) may be read out, and a reform process may be performed. The reform process may include blowing hot air into the core of the jelly roll (JR). After the reform process, the shape of the core of the jelly roll (JR) may be inspected. Defective jelly rolls (JR) and cans (CC) may be discharged, and the anode collector plate (PC) of a good jelly roll (JR) and the rivet (RV) of the can (CC) may be welded. The anode collector plate (PC) and the rivet (RV) may be welded by ultrasound. After welding, foreign matter may be removed by suction, and then the can (CC) and jelly roll (JR) may be inspected by a vision machine. Defective jelly rolls (JR) and cans (CC) can be discharged, and good jelly rolls (JR) and cans (CC) can be transferred to a sub-facility (170) for a subsequent process.

[0076]

[0077] The sub-equipment (170) may be configured to form a can (CC). A beading portion (CCB) may be formed on a portion of the can (CC) adjacent to the opening (CCO) by the sub-equipment (170). The beading portion (CCB) is a recessed structure along the outer diameter of the can (CC). Before the can (CC) is formed, a data matrix of the can (CC) may be read out. The beading unit for forming the can (CC) may be a servo type. After the can (CC) is formed, the shape of the beading portion (CCB) may be inspected by a vision machine. Defective jelly rolls (JR) and cans (CC) may be discharged, and good jelly rolls (JR) and cans (CC) may be transferred to the sub-equipment (180) for a subsequent process.

[0078]

[0079] The sub-equipment (180) may be configured to fix the cathode collector plate (NC) and the beading portion (CCB) of the can (CC). The cathode collector plate (NC) may be welded to the beading portion (CCB) of the can (CC), for example, by a laser beam. Before the cathode collector plate (NC) and the can (CC) are welded, the data matrix of the can (CC) may be read out. Before the cathode collector plate (NC) and the can (CC) are welded, the flatness of the beading portion (CCB) of the can (CC) may be inspected. After the cathode collector plate (NC) and the can (CC) are welded, the dimensions and quality of the weld bead may be inspected. Here, the bead is a line or protrusion formed as the can (CC) is melted and then cooled again by laser welding. After the cathode collector plate (NC) and the can (CC) are welded, the damage to the beading portion (CCB) may be inspected. After the negative electrode collector plate (NC) and the can (CC) are welded, insulation and short circuit inspections can be performed. Defective jelly rolls (JR) and cans (CC) can be discharged, and good jelly rolls (JR) and cans (CC) can be transferred to a sub-facility (190) for a subsequent process.

[0080]

[0081] The sub-equipment (190) may be configured to perform X-RAY inspection. The X-RAY inspection may be a non-destructive inspection. The X-RAY inspection may be a full inspection. In the X-RAY inspection, the condition of the can (CC) and the jelly roll (JR) after insertion of the jelly roll (JR) may be checked. Defective jelly rolls (JR) and cans (CC) may be discharged, and good jelly rolls (JR) and cans (CC) may be transferred to the sub-equipment (200) for a subsequent process.

[0082]

[0083] The sub-equipment (200) may be configured to inject electrolyte into a can (CC). Before injecting electrolyte into the can (CC), a data matrix of the can (CC) may be read out. Before injecting electrolyte into the can (CC), the weight of the previous workpiece, including the can (CC) and the jelly roll (JR), may be measured. Subsequently, the can (CC) may be loaded onto an injection pallet, and the injection pallet may be introduced into an injection chamber. The injection chamber may be a vacuum chamber. After injecting electrolyte, the can (CC) may be stored on the pallet for a predetermined time for impregnation. Subsequently, the weight of the previous workpiece, including the injection-post-can (CC) and the jelly roll (JR), which has been unloaded from the injection pallet, may be measured. Subsequently, a vision inspection may be performed to inspect the degree of impregnation of the electrolyte and the core condition of the jelly roll (JR). Defective jelly rolls (JR) and cans (CC) can be discharged, and good jelly rolls (JR) and cans (CC) can be transferred to a sub-facility (200) for a subsequent process.

[0084]

[0085] The sub-equipment (210) may be configured to perform a crimping process on the can (CC). Before performing the crimping process on the can (CC), the data matrix of the can (CC) may be read out. Before performing the crimping process, a gasket (GSK) and a venting device (VNT) may be attached to the can (CC). Accordingly, a battery cell (BC) may be provided.

[0086] The sub-equipment (210) may be configured to perform a first crimping process and a second crimping process. The crimping process may be performed by either a rolling press or a punch press. After the first crimping process, the dimensions and appearance of the can (CC) may be inspected, respectively. Additionally, after the second crimping process, the dimensions and appearance of the can (CC) may be inspected, respectively. Defective battery cells (BC) may be discharged, and good battery cells (BC) may be transferred to the sub-equipment (220) for a subsequent process.

[0087]

[0088] The sub-equipment (220) may be configured to perform a third crimping process following the first crimping process and the second crimping process. Before performing the crimping process on the can (CC), the data matrix of the can (CC) may be read out. After the third crimping process, the dimensions and appearance of the can (CC) may be inspected, respectively. After the third crimping process, the appearance of the beading portion (CCB) of the can (CC) may be inspected, respectively. Defective battery cells (BC) may be discharged, and good battery cells (BC) may be transferred to the sub-equipment (230) for a subsequent process.

[0089]

[0090] The sub-equipment (230) may be configured to adjust the total height of the can (CC). Before adjusting the total height of the can (CC), the data matrix of the can (CC) may be read out. The total height of the can (CC) may be adjusted by applying external pressure to the can (CC) using a punch press or the like. Subsequently, the outer diameter of the can (CC) may be measured, and a 3D inspection may be performed on the can (CC). Defective battery cells (BC) may be discharged, and good battery cells (BC) may be transferred to the sub-equipment (240) for a subsequent process.

[0091]

[0092] The sub-equipment (240) may be configured to clean the battery cell (BC). The cleaning of the battery cell (BC) may include brush cleaning, application of anti-rust liquid, first cleaning, second cleaning, application of anti-rust liquid, first drying, second drying, and third drying. By cleaning the battery cell (BC), foreign matter outside the battery cell (BC) and residual electrolyte generated during the electrolyte injection process may be removed.

[0093]

[0094] The sub-equipment (250) may be configured to inspect the appearance of the battery cell (BC). Before inspecting the appearance of the battery cell (BC), the data matrix of the can (CC) may be read out. The appearance inspection of the battery cell (BC) may include three-dimensional x-ray inspection and inspection by a vision machine. The appearance inspection of the battery cell (BC) may include side appearance inspection, top appearance inspection, and bottom appearance inspection. Defective battery cells (BC) may be discharged, and good battery cells (BC) may be transferred to the sub-equipment (260) for a subsequent process.

[0095]

[0096] The sub-equipment (260) may be configured to inspect the electrical characteristics of the battery cell (BC). To inspect the electrical characteristics of the battery cell (BC), the battery cell (BC) may be loaded onto an activation tray. Before loading the battery cell (BC) onto the activation tray, a data matrix indicating the tray ID of the activation tray may be read out. The inspection of the electrical characteristics of the battery cell (BC) may include measuring the internal resistance of the battery cell (BC) and measuring the open circuit voltage of the battery cell (BC). Defective battery cells (BC) may be discharged, and good battery cells (BC) may be transferred to an automated logistics system while still loaded on the activation tray.

[0097]

[0098] Each of the sub-equipments (110 to 260) may include a controller. The controller of each of the sub-equipments (110 to 260) may be, for example, a PLC (Programmable Logic Controller). The controller of each of the sub-equipments (110 to 260) may be configured to transmit a signal to the server (2000) and the HMI to generate an alarm when a problematic event occurs in each of the sub-equipments (110 to 260).

[0099] Here, problematic events may include Breakdown Maintenance (BM) and Process Down (PD). BM refers to the work of repairing machinery or equipment when it breaks down. In BM, repairs and maintenance are carried out only after a machine or system has failed, without any preventive measures. PD is a situation where the production process is halted. Factors contributing to PD primarily include machine breakdowns, material shortages, labor issues, or power and environmental factors.

[0100] The HMI (3000) can provide interaction between multiple sub-facilities (110 to 260) and an operator (OP). The HMI (3000) can be configured to display data, generate control signals for controlling multiple sub-facilities (110 to 260), generate alarms and warnings, and perform data recording and data recording analysis. The HMI (3000) can be connected to the controller of each of the multiple sub-facilities (110 to 260) via wired and / or wireless connections. The HMI (3000) may also be installed within the multiple sub-facilities (110 to 260). In this case, a separate HMI (3000) may be provided for each of the multiple sub-facilities (110 to 260).

[0101] The HMI (3000) may include one of a dedicated HMI panel, an industrial PC, a tablet PC and mobile device, a touchscreen monitor, smart glasses and wearable device, a remote desktop and a cloud-based HMI.

[0102] The HMI (3000) may be configured to play a video containing a guide for resolving a problematic event when a problematic event occurs in multiple sub-equipments (110 to 260). If the problematic event is a BM, the video may show a method for replacing parts of multiple sub-equipments (110 to 260) according to the cause when equipment failure occurs.

[0103] If the problematic event is a PD, the image may show a method for adjusting process parameters of multiple sub-equipments (110 to 260) according to the cause when a defect occurs in dimensional inspection and other inspection items. If the problematic event is a PD, the image may show a method for adjusting parts and mechanisms of multiple sub-equipments (110 to 260) according to the cause when a defect occurs in dimensional inspection and other inspection items.

[0104] The video may include a captured video and a 3D animation. The HMI (3000) is configured to store and play each of the captured video and the 3D animation, and the HMI (3000) may be configured to display an option window for selecting one of the captured video and the 3D animation.

[0105] In addition to generating an alarm in response to a problematic event, the HMI (3000) may be configured to display a window for video playback. If it is difficult to resolve the problematic event through measures taken with the automatically popped-up video, the HMI (3000) may be configured to send an API call to the server (2000) for additional video transmission.

[0106] According to exemplary embodiments, an operator (OP) can view a video and perform necessary actions based on the video, thereby improving the reliability and throughput of secondary battery manufacturing.

[0107]

[0108] (2nd Example)

[0109] FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a method for manufacturing a secondary battery according to exemplary embodiments.

[0110] Referring to FIGS. 1, FIGS. 2 and FIGS. 5, an alarm can be generated in P110. The alarm can be generated by the HMI (3000).

[0111] Next, a window for video playback can be popped up in P120. By operating the HMI (3000) by the operator (OP), a video for taking action on a problematic event can be played.

[0112] Subsequently, additional video may be provided at P130. Additional video may be provided when an API call is sent from the HMI (3000) to the server (2000). Additional video may be sent from the server (2000) to the HMI (3000).

[0113]

[0114] The present invention has been described in more detail above through drawings and embodiments. However, the configurations described in the drawings or embodiments described in this specification are merely one embodiment of the present invention and do not represent all technical concepts of the present invention; therefore, it should be understood that various equivalents and modifications that can replace them may exist at the time of filing this application.

Claims

1. A secondary battery manufacturing facility comprising a plurality of sub-facilities; and A secondary battery manufacturing system comprising a Human-Machine Interface (HMI) configured to pop up a window for video playback in response to problematic events of the aforementioned multiple sub-facilities.

2. In Paragraph 1, A secondary battery manufacturing system characterized in that, when the above problematic event is BM (Breakdown Maintenance), the above image shows a method for replacing parts of multiple sub-facilities.

3. In Paragraph 1, A secondary battery manufacturing system characterized in that, when the above problematic event is PD (Process Down), the above image shows a method for adjusting process parameters of multiple sub-facilities.

4. In Paragraph 1, A secondary battery manufacturing system characterized in that, when the above problematic event is a PD (Process Down), the above image shows a method of adjusting the parts and mechanisms of multiple sub-facilities.

5. In Paragraph 1, A secondary battery manufacturing system characterized in that the above-mentioned image is a captured image.

6. In Paragraph 1, A secondary battery manufacturing system characterized by the above video being a 3D animation.

7. In Paragraph 1, A secondary battery manufacturing system characterized by the above HMI being configured to display an option window for selecting one of a captured image and a 3D animation.

8. In Paragraph 1, A secondary battery manufacturing system characterized by the above HMI being configured to transmit an API for transmitting additional images to a server based on the operator's operation.

9. In Paragraph 1, A secondary battery manufacturing system characterized in that the above plurality of sub-facilities are configured to perform an assembly process of battery cells.

10. In Paragraph 1, A secondary battery manufacturing system characterized in that the plurality of sub-equipments above include a first sub-equipment configured to feed a jelly roll into the secondary battery manufacturing equipment.

11. In Paragraph 1, A secondary battery manufacturing system characterized in that the above plurality of sub-equipments include a second sub-equipment configured to weld a positive electrode current collector plate and a negative electrode current collector plate to a jelly roll.

12. In Paragraph 1, A secondary battery manufacturing system characterized in that the above plurality of sub-equipments include a third sub-equipment configured to attach insulating tape to a jelly roll.

13. In Paragraph 1, A secondary battery manufacturing system characterized in that the above plurality of sub-equipments include a fourth sub-equipment configured to insert an insulator into a can.

14. In Paragraph 1, A secondary battery manufacturing system characterized in that the above plurality of sub-equipments include a fifth sub-equipment configured to insert a jelly roll into a can.

15. In Paragraph 1, A secondary battery manufacturing system characterized in that the above plurality of sub-equipments include a sixth sub-equipment configured to weld the rivets of the can and the positive current collector plate.

16. In Paragraph 1, A secondary battery manufacturing system characterized in that the above plurality of sub-equipments include a seventh sub-equipment configured to form a beading portion around the opening of a can.

17. In Paragraph 16, A secondary battery manufacturing system characterized in that the plurality of sub-equipments above include an 8th sub-equipment configured to weld a negative electrode current collector plate and the beading portion.

18. In Paragraph 1, A secondary battery manufacturing system characterized in that the above plurality of sub-facilities include a ninth sub-facility configured to perform X-RAY inspection.

19. In Paragraph 1, A secondary battery manufacturing system characterized in that the above plurality of sub-equipments include a 10th sub-equipment configured to inject an electrolyte into a can.

20. In Paragraph 1, A secondary battery manufacturing system characterized in that the plurality of sub-facilities above include an eleventh sub-facility configured to perform a first crimping process and a second crimping process.

21. In Paragraph 20, A secondary battery manufacturing system characterized in that the plurality of sub-facilities above include a 12th sub-facility configured to perform a 3rd crimping process following the 1st crimping process and the 2nd crimping process.

22. In Paragraph 1, A secondary battery manufacturing system characterized in that the above plurality of sub-equipments include a 13th sub-equipment configured to control the total height of the battery cell.

23. In Paragraph 1, A secondary battery manufacturing system characterized in that the above plurality of sub-facilities include a 14th sub-facility configured to clean a battery cell.

24. In Paragraph 1, A secondary battery manufacturing system characterized in that the above plurality of sub-facilities include a 15th sub-facility configured to inspect the appearance of a battery cell.

25. In Paragraph 1, A secondary battery manufacturing system characterized in that the above plurality of sub-facilities include a 15th sub-facility configured to inspect the electrical characteristics of a battery cell.

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