Docking component, electrolyte injection device, formation device and battery production apparatus

Abstract

Provided in the present application are a docking component, an electrolyte injection device, a formation device and a battery production apparatus. The docking component is used for electrolyte injection or formation for a battery cell. An elastic valve is provided in an electrolyte injection hole of the battery cell, the elastic valve being configured to be capable of opening when being pressed. The docking component comprises a base body and a switch member, a fluid channel arranged in a first direction being provided inside the base body, a first end face of the base body in the first direction being provided with a first port, and the fluid channel being communicated with the first port. At least part of the switch member is provided in the fluid channel, and at least part of the switch member is configured to be capable of reciprocating in the first direction, so as to pass through the first port and press the elastic valve.

Description

docking components, liquid injection devices, formation devices, and battery production equipment

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202422538908.X, filed on October 21, 2024, entitled “Docking Components, Liquid Injection Device, Formation Device and Battery Production Equipment”, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This application relates to the field of battery technology, and in particular to a docking component, a liquid injection device, a formation device, and battery production equipment. Background Technology

[0004] With the development of new energy technologies, batteries are being used more and more widely, for example in mobile phones, laptops, electric vehicles, electric cars, electric airplanes, electric ships, electric toy cars, electric toy ships, electric toy airplanes, and power tools.

[0005] In battery manufacturing, docking components are typically used to connect with the electrolyte filling ports of individual battery cells for electrolyte filling or formation processes. The usability of these docking components directly impacts the production efficiency and quality of the battery cells. Therefore, effectively improving the usability of docking components is a pressing issue in battery technology. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In view of the above problems, this application provides a docking component, a liquid injection device, a formation device, and battery production equipment, which can effectively improve the applicability of the docking component.

[0007] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a docking component for injecting or forming a battery cell. The battery cell has an injection hole with a resilient valve configured to open upon compression. The docking component includes a base and a switching member. The base has a fluid channel disposed along a first direction, and a first end face of the base along the first direction has a first port, through which the fluid channel communicates. At least a portion of the switching member is disposed within the fluid channel and configured to reciprocate along the first direction to compress the resilient valve through the first port.

[0008] The docking component provided by the above technical solution can be applied not only to the liquid injection or formation process of battery cells with conventional liquid injection ports, but also to the liquid injection or formation process of battery cells with elastic valves at the liquid injection ports, effectively improving the applicability of the docking component. Furthermore, the docking component provided by the above technical solution has a simple structure, low cost, and is easy to operate. In addition, the stroke of the switching component is highly controllable relative to the entire docking component, thereby improving the control accuracy of the valve opening operation.

[0009] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the switching member includes a fixed member and a movable member. The fixed member is fixed to the base and disposed in the fluid channel. The fixed member has a cavity disposed along a first direction inside. The fixed member has a first opening on one end face near the first port, and the first opening communicates with the cavity. At least a portion of the movable member is disposed in the cavity. The movable member is configured to reciprocate along the first direction to squeeze the resilient valve through the first opening and the first port.

[0010] The fixing component of the above technical solution can play a certain protective and guiding role for the moving component. It can not only reduce the risk of corrosion of the moving component by electrolyte or gas in the fluid channel and improve the service life of the switching component, but also improve the stability of the moving component's reciprocating motion along the first direction.

[0011] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the movable member includes a piston portion and a pressure-applying portion. The piston portion is disposed within a cavity and configured to reciprocate within the cavity along a first direction. The piston portion divides the cavity along the first direction into a first chamber and a second chamber. The second chamber is located near a first port relative to the first chamber. The first chamber is used to connect a fluid drive line, and a first opening communicates with the second chamber. The pressure-applying portion is connected to the side of the piston portion facing the first opening, and the projection of the pressure-applying portion in the first direction lies within the projection of the piston portion in the first direction.

[0012] The aforementioned technical solution, on the one hand, enables the movement of the moving parts to be driven by fluid, significantly reducing the overall structural complexity of the docking components and helping to reduce costs. On the other hand, it can also reduce the contact area between the moving parts and the inner wall of the cavity, thereby reducing the frictional resistance of the moving parts during reciprocating movement along the first direction, thus effectively improving the smoothness of the movement of the moving parts and reducing the difficulty of driving them.

[0013] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the pressure application part includes a rod and a pressure head, the rod being connected between the pressure head and the piston part, the rod passing through the second cavity, the pressure head being located outside the cavity, and the projection of the rod in the first direction being located within the projection of the pressure head in the first direction.

[0014] The above technical solution can increase the contact area between the pressure application part and the elastic valve, thereby improving the reliability of the pressure application part squeezing the elastic valve.

[0015] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the pressure head is inserted into the first port, and the pressure head has a first through hole that connects the fluid channel and the external environment.

[0016] The docking component of the above technical solution interacts with the inside of the battery cell through the first through hole, and the first through hole is set on the pressure head, making it easier to align the first through hole with the elastic valve, thereby reducing the risk of electrolyte or gas generated during formation leaking into the external environment.

[0017] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the first through hole extends along a first direction.

[0018] This not only helps to reduce the flow path of fluid within the first through hole and improve the production efficiency of battery cells, but also reduces the amount of residual fluid or impurities within the first through hole, thereby reducing the risk of environmental pollution.

[0019] In some embodiments of the first aspect, there are multiple first through holes, which are spaced apart. This is beneficial for improving the uniformity of fluid input or output, such as electrolyte or gas.

[0020] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the mating component further includes a seal that protrudes from the first end face and surrounds the first port.

[0021] The above technical solution improves the sealing performance of the mating components by incorporating a sealing element, thereby reducing the risk of electrolyte or gas leakage during battery cell injection or formation. Additionally, the addition of a switching component allows for easy compression of the elastic valve.

[0022] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the seal has a recess that is recessed relative to the outer wall surface of the seal.

[0023] The above-mentioned technical solution allows for a more efficient formation of a sealing structure between the seal and the wall, thereby improving the reliability of the seal.

[0024] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the area of ​​the cross section of the seal perpendicular to the first direction gradually decreases in the first direction and in the direction away from the first end face.

[0025] The seals of the above-mentioned technical solutions are more prone to deformation or deformation, which makes it easier to form a sealing structure between the seals and the wall, thereby improving the reliability of the seals.

[0026] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the seal is an elastomer.

[0027] Seals made of elastomers can deform rapidly and adapt to the shape of the battery cell wall to improve the tightness of the fit between the seal and the battery cell wall, thereby further improving the sealing performance of the mating components.

[0028] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the second end face of the substrate in the first direction is provided with a second port, the first end face and the second end face are arranged opposite to each other in the first direction, and the fluid channel is connected to the first port and the second port.

[0029] The above technical solution simplifies the setup of the fluid channel by arranging the second port and the second port opposite each other along the first direction, which helps to reduce the manufacturing cost of the docking components.

[0030] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the docking component further includes a connector connected to the second end face and covering the second port, the connector having a second through hole communicating with a fluid channel, and a switch component connected to the connector.

[0031] The above technical solution, by setting up connecting parts, not only facilitates the connection and setting of switch components, but also increases the contact area between the docking parts and the external liquid supply mechanism and the external negative pressure mechanism, thereby improving the stability of the docking parts.

[0032] Secondly, this application provides a liquid injection device, which includes a liquid supply mechanism and a docking component provided in any embodiment of the first aspect. The liquid supply mechanism is used to provide electrolyte, and the fluid channel is connected to the liquid supply mechanism.

[0033] Thirdly, this application provides a formation apparatus, which includes a negative pressure mechanism and a docking component provided in any embodiment of the first aspect. The negative pressure mechanism is used to provide negative pressure, and the fluid channel is connected to the liquid supply mechanism.

[0034] Fourthly, this application provides a battery production apparatus, which includes the liquid injection device provided in any embodiment of the second aspect, and / or the formation device provided in any embodiment of the third aspect.

[0035] The above description is only an overview of the technical solution of this application. In order to better understand the technical means of this application and to implement it in accordance with the contents of the specification, and to make the above and other objects, features and advantages of this application more obvious and understandable, the following are specific embodiments of this application. Attached Figure Description

[0036] Various other advantages and benefits will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the following detailed description of preferred embodiments. The accompanying drawings are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this application. Furthermore, the same reference numerals denote the same parts throughout the drawings. In the drawings:

[0037] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a docking component and a battery cell in a separated state according to some embodiments of this application;

[0038] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure of the example shown in Figure 1;

[0039] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of a docking component and a battery cell in a mating state according to some embodiments of this application;

[0040] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure of the example shown in Figure 3.

[0041] The reference numerals in the detailed embodiments are as follows: 100, docking component; 200, injection hole; 300, elastic valve; 10, base; 11, fluid channel; 12, first end face; 13, second end face; 20, switching component; 21, fixing component; 211, cavity; 2111, first cavity; 2112, second cavity; 22, moving component; 221, piston part; 222, pressure part; 2221, rod body; 2222, pressure head; 2223, first through hole; 30, sealing component; 31, recess; 40, connecting component; 41, second through hole; X, first direction. Detailed Implementation

[0042] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0043] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used in this application have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application pertains; the terminology used in the specification of this application is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the application; the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, in the specification, claims, and foregoing drawings of this application are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. The terms "first," "second," etc., in the specification, claims, or foregoing drawings of this application are used to distinguish different objects, rather than to describe a specific order or hierarchy.

[0044] In this application, the reference to "embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment of this application. The appearance of this phrase in various places in the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it a separate or alternative embodiment that is mutually exclusive with other embodiments.

[0045] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "attachment" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal communication between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0046] In this application, the term "and / or" is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, or B existing alone. Additionally, in this application, the character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.

[0047] In the embodiments of this application, the same reference numerals denote the same components, and for the sake of brevity, detailed descriptions of the same components are omitted in different embodiments. It should be understood that the thickness, length, width, and other dimensions of various components in the embodiments of this application shown in the accompanying drawings, as well as the overall thickness, length, width, and other dimensions of the integrated device, are merely illustrative and should not constitute any limitation on this application.

[0048] In this application, "multiple" means two or more (including two).

[0049] In this application, the term "parallel" includes not only the case of absolute parallelism, but also the case of approximate parallelism as commonly understood in engineering; similarly, "perpendicular" includes not only the case of absolute perpendicularity, but also the case of approximate perpendicularity as commonly understood in engineering.

[0050] In this application, the battery cell may include a lithium-ion secondary battery cell, a lithium-ion primary battery cell, a lithium-sulfur battery cell, a sodium-lithium-ion battery cell, a sodium-ion battery cell, or a magnesium-ion battery cell, etc., and the embodiments of this application are not limited thereto. The battery cell may be cylindrical, flat, cuboid, or other shapes, etc., and the embodiments of this application are not limited thereto.

[0051] With the development of new energy technologies, batteries are being used more and more widely, for example in mobile phones, laptops, electric vehicles, electric cars, electric airplanes, electric ships, electric toy cars, electric toy ships, electric toy airplanes, and power tools.

[0052] In battery manufacturing, docking components are typically used to connect with the liquid injection port of the battery cell to perform liquid injection or formation processes. The suitability of the docking components directly affects the production efficiency and quality of the battery cell.

[0053] Based on the above considerations, this application designs a docking component for injecting or forming a battery cell. The battery cell has an injection hole with an elastic valve configured to open upon compression. The docking component includes a base and a switching member. The base has a fluid channel disposed along a first direction, and a first port is provided on a first end face along the first direction, with the fluid channel communicating with the first port. At least a portion of the switching member is disposed within the fluid channel, and at least a portion of the switching member is configured to reciprocate along the first direction to compress the elastic valve through the first port.

[0054] After the first port of the docking component aligns with the electrolyte injection port on the battery cell, at least a portion of the switching mechanism moves along a first direction and towards the electrolyte injection port, passing through the first port to compress the elastic valve, thereby opening the elastic valve and connecting the fluid channel with the interior of the battery cell. Then, during the electrolyte injection process of the battery cell, electrolyte can be injected into the battery cell through the fluid channel, or during the formation process of the battery cell, gas generated inside the battery cell can be discharged through the fluid channel. Finally, after the electrolyte injection or formation of the battery cell is completed, at least a portion of the switching mechanism moves along the first direction and away from the electrolyte injection port to close the elastic valve, thereby isolating the external environment from the interior of the battery cell. This reduces the risk of moisture entering the battery cell, thus reducing or eliminating the need for humidity control during battery cell manufacturing and lowering production costs.

[0055] Thus, the docking component provided by the above technical solution can be applied not only to the liquid injection or formation process of battery cells with conventional liquid injection ports, but also to the liquid injection or formation process of battery cells with elastic valves at the liquid injection ports, effectively improving the applicability of the docking component. Furthermore, the stroke of the switching component is highly controllable relative to the entire docking component, thereby improving the precision of valve opening operation.

[0056] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a docking component and a battery cell in a separated state according to some embodiments of this application. Figure 2 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the example shown in Figure 1. Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of a docking component and a battery cell in a mating state according to some embodiments of this application. Figure 4 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the example shown in Figure 3.

[0057] As shown in Figures 1 to 4, this application embodiment provides a docking component 100 for injecting or forming a battery cell. An elastic valve 300 is provided in the injection hole 200 of the battery cell, and the elastic valve 300 is configured to open when compressed. The docking component 100 includes a base 10 and a switching member 20. A fluid channel 11 is formed inside the base 10 along a first direction X. A first end face 12 of the base 10 in the first direction X has a first port, and the fluid channel 11 communicates with the first port. At least a portion of the switching member 20 is disposed in the fluid channel 11, and at least a portion of the switching member 20 is configured to reciprocate along the first direction X to compress the elastic valve 300 through the first port.

[0058] The first end face 12 of the substrate 10 can refer to either the input end or the output end of the docking component 100. The fluid channel 11 is used to transport electrolyte or gas.

[0059] For example, when the docking component 100 is used for the electrolyte injection process of the battery cell, the first end face 12 of the substrate 10 can be called the output end of the docking component 100, and the first port can be called the output port. The electrolyte provided by the external liquid supply mechanism is output to the battery cell through the fluid channel 11 and the first port.

[0060] When the docking component 100 is used in the formation process of the battery cell, the first end face 12 of the substrate 10 can be called the input end of the docking component 100, and the first port can be called the input port. The external negative pressure mechanism provides negative pressure to the fluid channel 11. The gas generated inside the battery cell during the formation process is input into the fluid channel 11 through the first port, and then further discharged to the outside.

[0061] Optionally, the substrate 10 may be, but is not limited to, made of metallic or non-metallic materials. For example, metallic materials may be copper, copper alloys, aluminum, aluminum alloys, nickel, nickel alloys, titanium, titanium alloys, or stainless steel, while non-metallic materials may be polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, or wood.

[0062] In some examples, the substrate 10 is a sleeve-shaped structure, and the first direction X is the axial direction of the sleeve-shaped structure.

[0063] At least a portion of the switching member 20 is disposed in the fluid channel 11. This can be understood as either a portion of the switching member 20 being disposed within the fluid channel 11, or the entire switching member 20 being disposed within the fluid channel 11.

[0064] At least a portion of the switching member 20 is configured to reciprocate along the first direction X. This can be understood as either a portion of the switching member 20 being configured to reciprocate along the first direction X, or the entire switching member 20 being configured to reciprocate along the first direction X.

[0065] For example, the switch component 20 may be configured to reciprocate along the first direction X via a telescopic rod structure, a slide rail slider structure, a lead screw structure, or an electric cylinder structure. The reciprocating motion of the switch component 20 along the first direction X may be driven by pneumatic or hydraulic pressure, or by a servo motor.

[0066] Optionally, the switch member 20 may be at least one of a columnar structure, a plate-like structure, and a block-like structure.

[0067] Optionally, the switch component 20 may be, but is not limited to, made of metallic or non-metallic materials. For example, metallic materials may be copper, copper alloys, aluminum, aluminum alloys, nickel, nickel alloys, titanium, titanium alloys, or stainless steel, while non-metallic materials may be polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, or wood.

[0068] As an example, the substrate 10 and the switch component 20 can be made of the same material, which can simplify the manufacturing process and reduce costs.

[0069] Optionally, the projection shape of the first port along the first direction X can be, but is not limited to, a circle, a rectangle, a triangle, or an ellipse.

[0070] After the first port of the docking component 100 docks with the liquid injection hole 200 on the battery cell, at least a portion of the switching mechanism moves along the first direction X and toward the liquid injection port, and passes through the first port to squeeze the elastic valve 300 to open the elastic valve 300, thereby making the fluid channel 11 communicate with the inside of the battery cell.

[0071] Then, during the electrolyte injection process of the battery cell, electrolyte can be injected into the battery cell through the fluid channel 11, or during the formation process of the battery cell, the gas generated inside the battery cell can be discharged through the fluid channel 11.

[0072] Finally, after the battery cell is injected with liquid or formed, at least a portion of the switching mechanism moves along the first direction X and away from the injection port to close the elastic valve 300, thereby isolating the external environment from the inside of the battery cell and reducing the risk of moisture entering the battery cell. Therefore, during the battery cell manufacturing process, the control of ambient humidity can be reduced or eliminated, thus reducing production costs.

[0073] Thus, the docking component 100 provided by the above technical solution can be applied not only to the liquid injection or formation process of battery cells with conventional liquid injection ports, but also to the liquid injection or formation process of battery cells with elastic valves 300 installed at the liquid injection ports, effectively improving the applicability of the docking component 100. Furthermore, the docking component 100 provided by the above technical solution has a simple structure, low cost, and is easy to operate. In addition, the stroke of the switching component 20 is highly controllable relative to the entire docking component 100, thereby improving the control accuracy of the valve opening operation.

[0074] In some embodiments, the switching member 20 includes a fixing member 21 and a movable member 22. The fixing member 21 is fixed to the base 10 and disposed in the fluid channel 11. The fixing member 21 has a cavity 211 disposed along a first direction X inside. The fixing member 21 has a first opening on one end face near the first port, and the first opening communicates with the cavity 211. At least a portion of the movable member 22 is disposed in the cavity 211. The movable member 22 is configured to reciprocate along the first direction X to squeeze the elastic valve 300 through the first opening and the first port.

[0075] Exemplarily, the cavity 211 of the fixing member 21 is used to accommodate the movable member 22 and to guide the movement of the movable member 22. At least a portion of the movable member 22 is disposed in the cavity 211; this can be understood as a part of the movable member 22 being disposed in the cavity 211, or the entire movable member 22 being disposed in the cavity 211. The reciprocating movement of the movable member 22 along the first direction X can be driven by pneumatic or hydraulic pressure, or by a servo motor.

[0076] Optionally, the movable component 22 can be at least one of a columnar structure, a plate-like structure, and a block-like structure.

[0077] The fastener 21 can be detachably connected to the base 10 or integrally mounted on the base 10. The fastener 21 can be directly connected to the base 10 or constrained to the base 10 by other components. As an example, the connection method between the fastener 21 and the base 10 can be, but is not limited to, bolt connection, welding, riveting, snap-fit ​​or bonding.

[0078] As an example, the fastener 21 and the base 10 are integrally molded. On the one hand, there is no need to connect the fastener 21 and the base 10 through additional connection processes, simplifying the manufacturing process. On the other hand, compared to connecting the fastener 21 and the base 10 through additional connection processes, the integral structure of the fastener 21 and the base 10 provides a higher degree of connection strength.

[0079] In some examples, the fastener 21 is made of a corrosion-resistant material, such as stainless steel, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene, or polytetrafluoroethylene, to improve the service life of the fastener 21.

[0080] The fixing component 21 of the above technical solution can play a certain protective and guiding role for the moving component 22. It can not only reduce the risk of corrosion of the moving component 22 by electrolyte or gas in the fluid channel 11 and improve the service life of the switching component 20, but also improve the stability of the moving component 22 reciprocating along the first direction X.

[0081] In some embodiments, the movable member 22 includes a piston portion 221 and a pressure-applying portion 222. The piston portion 221 is disposed within the cavity 211 and configured to reciprocate within the cavity 211 along a first direction X. The piston portion 221 divides the cavity 211 along the first direction X into a first cavity 2111 and a second cavity 2112. The second cavity 2112 is closer to a first port than the first cavity 2111. The first cavity 2111 is used to connect a fluid drive pipeline, and a first opening communicates with the second cavity 2112. The pressure-applying portion 222 is connected to the side of the piston portion 221 facing the first opening, and the projection of the pressure-applying portion 222 in the first direction X lies within the projection of the piston portion 221 in the first direction X.

[0082] For example, the fluid drive line is used to provide fluid for driving the piston 221 to reciprocate along the first direction X, wherein the fluid can be a liquid or a gas. As an example, when the fluid drive line inputs gas into the first chamber 2111, a positive pressure is formed in the first chamber 2111 to drive the piston 221 to move along the first direction X and toward the first port; when the fluid drive line extracts gas from the first chamber 2111, a negative pressure is formed in the first chamber 2111 to drive the piston 221 to move along the first direction X and away from the first port.

[0083] During the reciprocating motion of the piston 221 along the first direction X, it will drive the pressure application part 222 to move synchronously.

[0084] The pressure-applying part 222 can be detachably connected to the piston part 221, or it can be integrally provided on the piston part 221. The pressure-applying part 222 can be directly connected to the piston part 221, or it can be constrained to the piston part 221 by other components. As an example, the connection method between the pressure-applying part 222 and the piston part 221 can be, but is not limited to, bolt connection, welding, riveting, snap-fit, or bonding.

[0085] As an example, the piston portion 221 and the pressure-applying portion 222 are integrally molded structures. On the one hand, there is no need to connect the piston portion 221 and the pressure-applying portion 222 through an additional connecting process, simplifying the manufacturing process. At the same time, compared to connecting the piston portion 221 and the pressure-applying portion 222 through an additional connecting process, the integral structure of the piston portion 221 and the pressure-applying portion 222 has a higher connection strength.

[0086] Optionally, the piston portion 221 and the pressure-applying portion 222 can be at least one of a columnar structure, a plate-like structure, and a block-like structure.

[0087] In some examples, both the piston portion 221 and the pressure application portion 222 are cylindrical structures.

[0088] The projection of the pressure-applying part 222 in the first direction X is located within the projection of the piston part 221 in the first direction X. It can be understood that the pressure-applying part 222 is thinner than the piston part 221, and the pressure-applying part 222 will not rub against the inner wall of the fixed part during the reciprocating movement along the first direction X.

[0089] The above-mentioned technical solution, on the one hand, enables the moving part 22 to be driven by fluid, significantly reducing the overall structural complexity of the docking component 100 and helping to reduce costs. On the other hand, it can also reduce the contact area between the moving part 22 and the inner wall of the cavity 211, thereby reducing the frictional resistance of the moving part 22 during reciprocating movement along the first direction X, thus effectively improving the smoothness of movement of the moving part 22 and reducing the difficulty of driving the moving part 22.

[0090] In some embodiments, the pressure application part 222 includes a rod 2221 and a pressure head 2222. The rod 2221 is connected between the pressure head 2222 and the piston part 221. The rod 2221 passes through the second cavity 2112. The pressure head 2222 is located outside the cavity 211. The projection of the rod 2221 in the first direction X is located within the projection of the pressure head 2222 in the first direction X.

[0091] For example, the pressure head 2222 is used to compress the elastic valve 300. The pressure head 2222 can be detachably connected to the rod body 2221, or it can be integrally mounted on the rod body 2221. The pressure head 2222 can be directly connected to the rod body 2221, or it can be constrained to the rod body 2221 by other components. As an example, the connection method between the pressure head 2222 and the rod body 2221 can be, but is not limited to, bolting, welding, riveting, snap-fitting, or bonding.

[0092] As an example, the rod 2221 and the pressure head 2222 are integrally formed. On the one hand, there is no need to connect the rod 2221 and the pressure head 2222 through an additional connection process, simplifying the manufacturing process. On the other hand, compared with connecting the rod 2221 and the pressure head 2222 through an additional connection process, the integral structure of the rod 2221 and the pressure head 2222 has a higher connection strength.

[0093] In some examples, the pressure head 2222 is an elastomer, which can reduce the risk of the pressure head 2222 damaging the resilient valve 300. The elastomer can be, but is not limited to, materials such as rubber, silicone rubber, polyethylene, polyurethane, polyvinyl chloride, or rubber foam.

[0094] The projection of the rod 2221 in the first direction X is located within the projection of the pressure head 2222 in the first direction X. This can be understood as the pressure head 2222 being thicker than the rod 2221, thus resulting in a larger contact area between the pressure head 2222 and the elastic valve 300.

[0095] The above technical solution can increase the contact area between the pressure application part 222 and the elastic valve 300, thereby improving the reliability of the pressure application part 222 squeezing the elastic valve 300.

[0096] In some embodiments, the pressure head 2222 is inserted into the first port, and the pressure head 2222 has a first through hole 2223, which connects the fluid channel 11 and the external environment.

[0097] For example, the pressure head 2222 is inserted into the first port, that is, the pressure head 2222 can always maintain the insertion relationship with the first port during the reciprocating motion along the first direction X, making it difficult for fluid to pass between the pressure head 2222 and the first port.

[0098] The pressure head 2222 has a first through hole 2223, which connects to the fluid channel 11. During the electrolyte injection process of the battery cell, the electrolyte located in the fluid channel 11 flows into the battery cell through the first through hole 2223. During the formation process of the battery cell, the gas generated inside the battery cell enters the fluid channel 11 through the first through hole 2223.

[0099] The docking component 100 of the above technical solution interacts with the inside of the battery cell through the first through hole 2223, and the first through hole 2223 is set on the pressure head 2222, making it easier to align the first through hole 2223 with the elastic valve 300, thereby reducing the risk of electrolyte or gas generated during formation leaking into the external environment.

[0100] In some embodiments, the first through-hole 2223 extends along a first direction X. This not only helps to reduce the flow path of fluid within the first through-hole 2223 and improve the production efficiency of the battery cell, but also reduces the amount of fluid or impurities remaining within the first through-hole 2223, thereby reducing the risk of environmental pollution.

[0101] In some embodiments, the number of first through holes 2223 is multiple, and the multiple first through holes 2223 are arranged at intervals, which is beneficial to improve the uniformity of fluid input or output such as electrolyte or gas.

[0102] For example, the number of first through holes 2223 may be, but is not limited to, two, three, four or more.

[0103] In some embodiments, the docking component 100 further includes a seal 30, which protrudes from the first end face 12 and is disposed around the first port.

[0104] The seal 30 is used to seal the first port. Exemplarily, before the first port of the docking member 100 is docked with the liquid injection hole 200 on the battery cell, as the docking member 100 gradually approaches the liquid injection hole 200, the seal 30 first abuts against the wall around the liquid injection hole 200 of the battery cell to form a seal around the first port and the liquid injection hole 200, thereby completing the docking of the first port of the docking member 100 with the liquid injection hole 200 on the battery cell.

[0105] Subsequently, after the first port of the docking component 100 docks with the liquid injection hole 200 on the battery cell, at least a portion of the switching mechanism moves along the first direction X and toward the liquid injection port, and passes through the first port to squeeze the elastic valve 300 to open the elastic valve 300, thereby enabling the fluid channel 11 to communicate with the inside of the battery cell.

[0106] Then, during the electrolyte injection process of the battery cell, electrolyte can be injected into the battery cell through the fluid channel 11, or during the formation process of the battery cell, the gas generated inside the battery cell can be discharged through the fluid channel 11.

[0107] Finally, after the battery cell is filled or formed, at least a portion of the switching mechanism moves along the first direction X and away from the filling port to close the resilient valve 300. Subsequently, the docking member 100 gradually moves away from the filling hole 200 to release the seal 30 from the area around the first port and the filling hole 200.

[0108] The seal 30 can be detachably connected to the base 10 or integrally disposed on the base 10. The seal 30 can be directly connected to the base 10 or constrained to the base 10 by other components. As an example, the connection method between the seal 30 and the base 10 can be, but is not limited to, bolt connection, welding, riveting, snap-fit ​​or bonding.

[0109] As an example, the seal 30 and the base 10 are integrally molded. On the one hand, there is no need to connect the seal 30 and the base 10 through an additional connection process, simplifying the manufacturing process. On the other hand, compared to connecting the seal 30 and the base 10 through an additional connection process, the integral structure of the seal 30 and the base 10 provides a higher degree of connection strength.

[0110] Optionally, the seal 30 is made of a material with good chemical stability to reduce the risk of chemical reaction with the electrolyte that could affect the quality of the electrolyte.

[0111] Optionally, the projection shape of the seal 30 along the first direction X can be, but is not limited to, a circular ring, a square ring, a triangular ring, or an elliptical ring.

[0112] The above technical solution improves the sealing performance of the docking component 100 by setting the sealing element 30, thereby reducing the risk of electrolyte or gas leakage during the battery cell injection or formation process.

[0113] Furthermore, it is understood that the contact between the seal 30 and the wall surrounding the injection hole 200 of the battery cell will create resistance to the movement of the mating component 100 in the direction close to the injection hole 200, making it difficult for the base 10 to compress the elastic valve 300. Therefore, this embodiment of the application overcomes the aforementioned problem by providing the switch component 20, which allows for easy compression of the elastic valve 300.

[0114] In some embodiments, the seal 30 has a recess 31, which is recessed relative to the outer wall surface of the seal 30.

[0115] After the seal 30 comes into contact with the wall around the liquid injection hole 200 of the battery cell, as the mating part 100 gradually approaches the liquid injection hole 200, the seal 30 is more likely to deform or deform under the extrusion pressure from the wall due to the smaller support of the seal 30 at the recess 31. This makes it easier to form a sealing structure between the seal 30 and the wall, thereby improving the reliability of the seal 30.

[0116] In some examples, the recess 31 is provided to extend circumferentially along the seal 30.

[0117] In some examples, the recess 31 is provided around the seal 30 circumferentially.

[0118] In some examples, the recess 31 is positioned close to the substrate 10.

[0119] In some embodiments, in the direction X, which is away from the first end face 12, the area of ​​the cross section of the seal 30 perpendicular to the first direction X gradually decreases. That is, in the direction X, which is away from the first end face 12, the thickness of the seal 30 gradually decreases.

[0120] Thus, after the seal 30 comes into contact with the wall around the liquid injection hole 200 of the battery cell, as the mating part 100 gradually approaches the liquid injection hole 200, the seal 30 will be more likely to deform or tend to deform under the extrusion pressure from the wall, thereby making it easier to form a sealing structure between the seal 30 and the wall, so as to improve the reliability of the seal 30.

[0121] In some embodiments, the seal 30 is an elastomer.

[0122] For example, after the seal 30 abuts against the wall around the liquid injection hole 200 of the battery cell, as the mating part 100 gradually approaches the liquid injection hole 200, the seal 30 will be subjected to the compressive force from the wall. The seal 30, made of an elastomer, can deform quickly. At the same time, it can also undergo adaptive elastic deformation according to the shape of the wall of the battery cell to improve the tightness of the fit between the seal 30 and the wall of the battery cell, thereby further improving the sealing performance of the mating part 100.

[0123] Optionally, the seal 30 may be, but is not limited to, rubber, silicone rubber, polyethylene, polyurethane, polyvinyl chloride, or rubber foam.

[0124] In some embodiments, the second end face 13 of the substrate 10 in the first direction X is provided with a second port, the first end face 12 and the second end face 13 are arranged opposite to each other in the first direction X, and the fluid channel 11 is connected to the first port and the second port.

[0125] The second end face 13 of the substrate 10 can refer to either the input end of the docking component 100 or the output end of the docking component 100.

[0126] In some examples, when the docking component 100 is used in the electrolyte injection process of the battery cell, the first end face 12 of the substrate 10 can be referred to as the output end of the docking component 100, and the first port can be referred to as the output port. The second end face 13 of the substrate 10 can be referred to as the input end of the docking component 100, and the second port can be referred to as the input port. The second port is used to connect to an external electrolyte supply mechanism. The electrolyte provided by the external electrolyte supply mechanism enters the fluid channel 11 through the second port and is then output to the inside of the battery cell through the first port.

[0127] In some examples, when the docking component 100 is used in the formation process of a battery cell, the first end face 12 of the substrate 10 can be referred to as the input end of the docking component 100, and the first port can be referred to as the input port. The second end face 13 of the substrate 10 can be referred to as the output end of the docking component 100, and the second port can be referred to as the output port. The second port is used to connect to an external negative pressure mechanism. The external negative pressure mechanism provides negative pressure to the fluid channel 11 through the second port. The gas generated inside the battery cell during the formation process is input into the fluid channel 11 through the first port and then discharged through the second port.

[0128] Optionally, the projection shape of the second port along the first direction X can be, but is not limited to, a circle, a rectangle, a triangle, or an ellipse.

[0129] As an example, the projection shape of the first port along the first direction X and the projection shape of the second port along the first direction X are both circular.

[0130] The above technical solution simplifies the setup of the fluid channel 11 by setting the second port and the second port opposite each other along the first direction X, which helps to reduce the manufacturing cost of the docking component 100.

[0131] In some embodiments, the docking component 100 further includes a connector 40, which is connected to the second end face 13 and covers the second port. The connector 40 has a second through hole 41, which communicates with the fluid channel 11. The switch component 20 is connected to the connector 40.

[0132] The docking component 100 can be fixed to the external liquid supply mechanism and the external negative pressure mechanism via the connector 40. For example, when the docking component 100 is used in the liquid injection process of the battery cell, the docking component 100 can be fixed to the external liquid supply mechanism via the connector 40, and the second through hole 41 is used to connect to the external liquid supply mechanism. The electrolyte provided by the external liquid supply mechanism enters the fluid channel 11 through the second through hole 41, and then is output to the inside of the battery cell through the first port.

[0133] When the docking component 100 is used in the formation process of the battery cell, the docking component 100 can be fixed to the external negative pressure mechanism by the connector 40. The second through hole 41 is used to connect to the external negative pressure mechanism. The external negative pressure mechanism provides negative pressure to the fluid channel 11 through the second through hole 41. The gas generated inside the battery cell during the formation process is input into the fluid channel 11 through the first port and then discharged through the second through hole 41.

[0134] The connector 40 can be detachably connected to the base 10 or integrally disposed on the base 10. The connector 40 can be directly connected to the base 10 or constrained to the base 10 by other components. As an example, the connection method between the connector 40 and the base 10 can be, but is not limited to, bolt connection, welding, riveting, snap-fit ​​or bonding.

[0135] As an example, the connector 40 and the base 10 are integrally molded. On the one hand, there is no need to connect the connector 40 and the base 10 through additional connection processes, simplifying the manufacturing process. On the other hand, compared to connecting the connector 40 and the base 10 through additional connection processes, the integral structure of the connector 40 and the base 10 provides a higher degree of connection strength.

[0136] The switch component 20 can be detachably connected to the connector 40, or it can be integrally mounted on the connector 40. The switch component 20 can be directly connected to the connector 40, or it can be constrained to the connector 40 by other components. As an example, the connection method between the switch component 20 and the connector 40 can be, but is not limited to, bolting, welding, riveting, snap-fitting, or bonding.

[0137] Optionally, the connector 40 may be, but is not limited to, made of metallic or non-metallic materials. For example, metallic materials may be copper, copper alloy, aluminum, aluminum alloy, nickel, nickel alloy, titanium, titanium alloy, or stainless steel, while non-metallic materials may be polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, or wood.

[0138] As an example, the connector 40 and the base 10 can be made of the same material to simplify the manufacturing process and reduce costs.

[0139] The above technical solution, by setting the connector 40, not only facilitates the connection of the switch component 20, but also increases the contact area between the docking component 100 and the external liquid supply mechanism and the external negative pressure mechanism, thereby improving the stability of the docking component 100.

[0140] In some embodiments, the connector 40 is further provided with a clearance hole, through which at least a portion of the switching mechanism passes.

[0141] In some embodiments, the switch member 20 further includes a tube connected to the first cavity 2111, the tube passing through the clearance hole, and the tube being used to communicate with a fluid drive line.

[0142] According to some embodiments of this application, this application also provides a liquid injection device, which includes a liquid supply mechanism and a docking component 100 of any of the above schemes. The liquid supply mechanism is used to provide electrolyte, and the fluid channel 11 is connected to the liquid supply mechanism.

[0143] According to some embodiments of this application, this application also provides a formation apparatus, which includes a negative pressure mechanism and a docking component 100 of any of the above schemes. The negative pressure mechanism is used to provide negative pressure, and the fluid channel 11 is connected to the negative pressure mechanism.

[0144] According to some embodiments of this application, this application also provides a battery production apparatus, including a liquid injection device of any of the above schemes, and / or a formation device of any of the above schemes.

[0145] To better understand the docking component 100 provided in the embodiments of this application, based on the same inventive concept, embodiments of the docking component 100 in practical applications are described herein.

[0146] This application provides a docking component 100 for injecting or forming a battery cell. An elastic valve 300 is provided in the injection hole 200 of the battery cell, and the elastic valve 300 is configured to open when compressed. The docking component 100 includes a base 10, a switching member 20, and a sealing member 30. A fluid channel 11 is formed inside the base 10 along a first direction X. A first port is provided on a first end face 12 of the base 10 in the first direction X, and the fluid channel 11 communicates with the first port. The switching member 20 includes a fixing member 21 and a movable member 22. The fixing member 21 is fixed to the base 10 and disposed in the fluid channel 11. A cavity 211 along the first direction X is formed inside the fixing member 21. A first opening is provided on the end face of the fixing member 21 near the first port, and the first opening communicates with the cavity 211. At least a portion of the movable member 22 is disposed in the cavity 211. The movable member 22 is configured to reciprocate along the first direction X to compress the elastic valve 300 through the first opening and the first port. The seal 30 protrudes from the first end face 12 and surrounds the first port.

[0147] The docking component 100 provided by the above technical solution can be applied not only to the liquid injection or formation process of battery cells with conventional liquid injection ports, but also to the liquid injection or formation process of battery cells with elastic valves 300 installed at the liquid injection ports, effectively improving the applicability of the docking component 100. Furthermore, the docking component 100 provided by the above technical solution has a simple structure, low cost, and is easy to operate. In addition, the stroke of the switching component 20 is highly controllable relative to the entire docking component 100, thereby improving the control accuracy of the valve opening operation.

[0148] It is understandable that the contact between the seal 30 and the wall surrounding the injection hole 200 of the battery cell will create resistance to the movement of the mating component 100 in the direction close to the injection hole 200, making it difficult for the base 10 to compress the elastic valve 300. Therefore, this embodiment overcomes the aforementioned problem by providing the switch component 20, which allows for easy compression of the elastic valve 300.

[0149] It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features described in this application can be combined with each other.

[0150] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and not to limit them. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features therein. These modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, and they should all be covered within the scope of the claims and specification of this application. In particular, as long as there is no structural conflict, the various technical features mentioned in the embodiments can be combined in any way. This application is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, but includes all technical solutions falling within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A docking component for injecting or forming a battery cell, wherein a resilient valve is provided in the injection port of the battery cell, the resilient valve being configured to open upon compression, the docking component comprising: The substrate has a fluid channel arranged along a first direction inside, and the substrate has a first port on a first end face in the first direction, and the fluid channel is connected to the first port; A switching member, at least a portion of which is disposed in the fluid passage, the at least portion of which is configured to reciprocate along the first direction to squeeze the resilient valve through the first port.

2. The docking component according to claim 1, wherein, The switching component includes a fixed part and a movable part. The fixed part is fixed to the base and disposed in the fluid channel. The fixed part has a cavity disposed along the first direction inside. The fixed part has a first opening on the end face near the first port, and the first opening communicates with the cavity. At least a portion of the movable member is disposed in the cavity, and the movable member is configured to reciprocate along the first direction to compress the resilient valve through the first opening and the first port.

3. The docking component according to claim 2, wherein, The movable part includes a piston part and a pressure part. The piston part is disposed in the cavity and configured to reciprocate in the cavity along the first direction. The piston part divides the cavity into a first cavity and a second cavity along the first direction. The second cavity is close to the first port relative to the first cavity. The first cavity is used to connect to a fluid drive pipeline. The first opening communicates with the second cavity. The pressure-applying part is connected to the side of the piston part facing the first opening, and the projection of the pressure-applying part in the first direction is located within the projection of the piston part in the first direction.

4. The docking component according to claim 3, wherein, The pressure-applying part includes a rod and a pressure head. The rod is connected between the pressure head and the piston part. The rod passes through the second cavity. The pressure head is located outside the cavity. The projection of the rod in the first direction is located within the projection of the pressure head in the first direction.

5. The docking component according to claim 4, wherein, The pressure head is inserted into the first port, and the pressure head has a first through hole, which connects the fluid channel and the external environment.

6. The docking component according to claim 5, wherein, The first through hole extends along the first direction.

7. The docking component according to claim 5, wherein, The number of the first through holes is multiple, and the multiple first through holes are arranged at intervals.

8. The docking component according to any one of claims 1-7, wherein, The docking component also includes a seal that protrudes from the first end face and surrounds the first port.

9. The docking component according to claim 8, wherein, The seal has a recessed portion, which is recessed relative to the outer wall surface of the seal.

10. The docking component according to claim 8 or 9, wherein, In the first direction and away from the first end face, the area of ​​the cross section of the seal perpendicular to the first direction gradually decreases.

11. The docking component according to any one of claims 8-10, wherein, The seal is an elastomer.

12. The docking component according to any one of claims 1-11, wherein, The substrate has a second port on its second end face in the first direction. The first end face and the second end face are arranged opposite to each other along the first direction. The fluid channel is connected to the first port and the second port.

13. The docking component according to claim 12, wherein, The docking component further includes a connector, which is connected to the second end face and covers the second port. The connector has a second through hole that communicates with the fluid channel. The switching component is connected to the connector.

14. A liquid injection device, comprising: The electrolyte supply mechanism is used to supply electrolyte; The docking component as described in any one of claims 1-13, wherein the fluid channel is in communication with the liquid supply mechanism.

15. A formation apparatus, comprising: Negative pressure mechanism, used to provide negative pressure ； The docking component as described in any one of claims 1-13, wherein the fluid channel is in communication with the negative pressure mechanism.

16. A battery manufacturing apparatus, comprising the liquid injection device as described in claim 14, and / or the formation device as described in claim 15.

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