Waste battery drying apparatus and waste battery drying method

Abstract

A waste battery drying apparatus according to an embodiment comprises: a case provided with an accommodation space for accommodating a waste battery; and an input device for introducing a gas containing an inert gas to the accommodation space. The input device includes: a supply pipe, at least a portion of which is provided in the accommodation space; and an arm extending from the supply pipe in a radial direction of the supply pipe, and provided with a nozzle for discharging, to the accommodation space, the gas supplied from the supply pipe.

Description

Waste battery drying device and waste battery drying method

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a waste battery drying device having an improved structure and a waste battery drying method using the same.

[0002] With the recent explosive increase in demand for electric vehicles (EVs), interest in recycling methods for spent EV batteries has also surged. EV batteries contain large quantities of valuable metals such as nickel, cobalt, manganese, and lithium, making their recycling value very high. While these metals are essential for the battery manufacturing process, their production can have harmful environmental impacts. In particular, environmental issues such as greenhouse gas emissions and ecosystem destruction arising from mining operations are serious. Therefore, the development of spent battery recycling technologies is essential for sustainable future development.

[0003] Generally, a crushing process of waste batteries is performed before recycling them. At this stage, electrolytes composed of organic compounds may remain within the crushed waste batteries.

[0004] The organic compounds in the electrolyte are dimethyl carbonate (C3H6O3), ethyl methyl carbonate (C4H8O3), and diethyl carbonate (C5H 10 It may contain organic carbonate compounds such as O3. Since such organic carbonate compounds have low flash points and high volatility, they can easily ignite at high temperatures. Therefore, if the electrolyte is not completely removed from crushed waste batteries, there is a risk of fire and explosion during the waste battery disposal process.

[0005] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a waste battery drying apparatus for removing electrolyte remaining in a crushed waste battery and a waste battery drying method using the same.

[0006] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a waste battery drying device capable of preventing fire and explosion that may occur due to electrolyte during the processing of crushed waste batteries, and a waste battery drying method using the same.

[0007] The technical problems to be solved in this document are not limited to those mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which this invention belongs from the description below.

[0008] A waste battery drying device according to one embodiment includes a case having a receiving space for receiving waste batteries, and an input device for introducing a gas containing an inert gas into the receiving space. The input device includes a supply pipe, at least a portion of which is provided in the receiving space, and an arm extending radially from the supply pipe, wherein the arm is provided with a nozzle for discharging the gas supplied from the supply pipe into the receiving space.

[0009] The supply pipe may extend from outside the case into the receiving space.

[0010] The above arms may be provided in multiple numbers. The above-described input device may further include an arm unit having an arm connection portion that connects each of the plurality of arms and the plurality of arms to the supply pipe.

[0011] The above-mentioned arm units may be provided in multiple numbers. The multiple arm units may be arranged spaced apart from each other along the extension direction of the supply pipe.

[0012] The number of the above multiple arm units may not be limited and may be arranged spaced apart from each other by equal intervals along the extension direction of the supply pipe.

[0013] The above nozzles may be provided in multiple numbers. The supply pipe may extend in the vertical direction. The number of nozzles formed in the lower arm unit among the plurality of arm units may be equal to or greater than the number of nozzles formed in the upper arm unit among the plurality of arm units.

[0014] The above nozzles may be provided in multiple numbers. The multiple nozzles may be arranged spaced apart from each other along the extension direction of the arm.

[0015] The above nozzle can be opened toward the lower side of the arm.

[0016] The nozzle may be opened toward the upper side of the arm and may be configured to spray gas at high pressure to prevent foreign substances from being introduced into the interior of the arm through the nozzle.

[0017] It may further include a heater provided to heat the above-mentioned receiving space.

[0018] The heater may be provided to surround the outer wall of the case.

[0019] The above case may include an inlet provided at the top of the case for introducing the waste battery into the receiving space, and an outlet provided at the bottom of the case for discharging the waste battery from the receiving space to the outside of the case.

[0020] It may further include a blade rotatably coupled to the supply pipe at the bottom of the receiving space to guide the waste battery received in the receiving space to the discharge port.

[0021] The blade may include a connecting pipe extending radially from the supply pipe, and a wing portion extending from the outer wall of the connecting pipe in a direction intersecting the direction in which the connecting pipe extends.

[0022] Gas supplied from the supply pipe may be provided inside the above connecting pipe.

[0023] A waste battery drying method according to one embodiment can dry the waste battery through a waste battery drying device having a case for receiving the waste battery. The waste battery drying method introduces a gas containing an inert gas into a receiving space inside the case, heats the receiving space above a predetermined reference temperature through the gas introduced into the receiving space and a heater, maintains the temperature of the receiving space above the reference temperature, and discharges the waste battery from the receiving space to the outside of the case based on the elapsed time of a predetermined reference period.

[0024] The above waste battery drying device may include a supply pipe, at least a portion of which is provided in the receiving space, and an arm extending radially from the supply pipe, the arm having a nozzle for discharging gas supplied from the supply pipe into the receiving space.

[0025] The above waste battery drying device may further include a blade rotatably coupled to the supply pipe at the bottom of the receiving space. Discharging the waste battery from the receiving space to the outside of the case may include rotating the blade to guide the waste battery through the blade to a discharge port provided at the bottom of the case.

[0026] The heater may be provided to surround the outer wall of the case.

[0027] A waste battery drying method according to one embodiment can dry the waste battery through a waste battery drying device having a case for receiving the waste battery. The waste battery drying method introduces a gas containing an inert gas into a receiving space inside the case, heats the receiving space above a predetermined reference temperature through the gas introduced into the receiving space and a heater, maintains the temperature of the receiving space above the reference temperature, and discharges the waste battery from the receiving space to the outside of the case based on the weight of the waste battery received in the receiving space decreasing by a predetermined reference ratio.

[0028] According to the concept of the present disclosure, a waste battery drying device can dry a waste battery contained inside a case through a high-temperature inert gas introduced into the case and a heater coupled to the outer wall of the case.

[0029] According to the concept of the present disclosure, a waste battery drying device can remove the electrolyte remaining in the waste battery by drying the waste battery contained inside a case, and thereby prevent fire and explosion caused by the electrolyte.

[0030] The effects obtainable from the present disclosure are not limited to those mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned above will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure belongs from the description below.

[0031] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating a waste battery drying device according to one embodiment.

[0032] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a waste battery drying device according to one embodiment.

[0033] FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of the arm and nozzle of an input device according to one embodiment.

[0034] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of a waste battery drying device along the line A-A' shown in Figure 2.

[0035] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of a waste battery drying device along the line B-B' shown in Figure 2.

[0036] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a waste battery drying device according to one embodiment.

[0037] FIG. 7 is an enlarged view of the arm and nozzle of an input device according to one embodiment.

[0038] FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a method for drying waste batteries according to one embodiment.

[0039] FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a method for drying waste batteries according to one embodiment.

[0040] The various embodiments of this document and the terms used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, and should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutions of said embodiments.

[0041] In relation to the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0042] The singular form of the noun corresponding to the item may include one or multiple items, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0043] In this document, each of the phrases such as "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B or C", "at least one of A, B and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" may include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase, or all possible combinations thereof.

[0044] The term “and / or” includes a combination of multiple related described components or any of the multiple related described components.

[0045] Terms such as “include” or “have” are intended to specify the existence of the features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in this document, and do not preclude the existence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0046] When it is said that one component is “connected,” “combined,” “supported,” or “in contact” with another component, this includes not only cases where the components are directly connected, combined, supported, or in contact, but also cases where they are indirectly connected, combined, supported, or in contact through a third component.

[0047] When it is said that a component is located “on” another component, this includes not only cases where one component is in contact with the other, but also cases where another component exists between the two components.

[0048] The symbols attached to each step are used to identify each step and do not indicate the order of the steps among themselves; the steps may be performed differently from the specified order unless a specific order is clearly indicated in the context.

[0049] Terms such as “front,” “rear,” “left,” “right,” “top,” and “bottom” used in the following description are defined based on the drawings; however, the shape and position of each component are not limited by these terms.

[0050] Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0051] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating a waste battery drying device according to one embodiment. FIG. 2 is a drawing illustrating a cross-section of a waste battery drying device according to one embodiment. FIG. 3 is an enlarged drawing illustrating the arm and nozzle of a feeding device according to one embodiment. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a waste battery drying device along the line A-A' indicated in FIG. 2. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a waste battery drying device along the line B-B' indicated in FIG. 2.

[0052] The waste battery drying device (1) may be a device for drying crushed waste batteries (W) through a separate process. That is, when crushed waste batteries (W) are fed into the waste battery drying device (1), the waste battery drying device (1) can dry the crushed waste batteries (W).

[0053] An electrolyte composed of organic compounds may remain in the crushed waste battery (W). For example, the organic compounds in the electrolyte include dimethyl carbonate (C3H6O3), ethyl methyl carbonate (C4H8O3), and diethyl carbonate (C5H 10 It may contain organic carbonate compounds such as O3). Since such organic carbonate compounds have a low flash point and high volatility, they can easily ignite at high temperatures. Therefore, if the electrolyte is not completely removed from the crushed waste battery, there is a risk of fire and explosion during the waste battery (W) disposal process.

[0054] The waste battery drying device (1) can dry the waste battery (W) to remove the electrolyte remaining in the crushed waste battery (W). For example, the waste battery drying device (1) can remove the dimethyl carbonate (C3H6O3), ethyl methyl carbonate (C4H8O3), and diethyl carbonate (C5H) remaining in the crushed waste battery (W). 10 Organic carbonate compounds such as O3 can be removed by evaporation. Through this, the waste battery drying device (1) can prevent fire and explosion that may occur due to the electrolyte during the processing of the crushed waste battery (W).

[0055] In the following, a waste battery drying device (1) will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 5. Also, in the following, “waste battery” may mean “crushed waste battery”.

[0056] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 5, the waste battery drying device (1) may include a case (100). The case (100) may form the overall exterior of the waste battery drying device (1). For example, the case (100) may be provided in a roughly cylindrical shape. However, there are no special restrictions on the shape of the case (100).

[0057] The case (100) can accommodate a waste battery (W). The case (100) can form a receiving space (100a) for accommodating the waste battery (W).

[0058] The case (100) may include an input port (110). The input port (110) may be provided to insert waste batteries (W) into a receiving space (100a).

[0059] The inlet (110) may be formed by opening in one side wall of the case (100). Specifically, the inlet (110) may be provided at the top of the case (100).

[0060] The case (100) may include an outlet (120). The outlet (120) may be provided to discharge waste battery (W) from the receiving space (100a) to the outside of the case (100).

[0061] The discharge port (120) may be formed by opening in one side wall of the case (100). Specifically, the discharge port (120) may be provided at the bottom of the case (100).

[0062] The waste battery drying device (1) may include a waste battery collection unit (200). The waste battery collection unit (200) may be provided to collect waste batteries (W) discharged from a receiving space (100a).

[0063] A waste battery collection unit (200) may be provided below the discharge port (120). The waste battery collection unit (200) may be connected to the receiving space (100a) through the discharge port (120).

[0064] The waste battery collection unit (200) may be provided as a separate configuration distinct from the waste battery drying device (1). That is, the waste battery collection unit (200) may be provided as a component of the waste battery drying device (1), or as a separate configuration distinct from the waste battery drying device (1).

[0065] The waste battery collection unit (200) may include a damper (210). The damper (210) may be provided to open and close the discharge port (120). Specifically, while the waste battery drying device (1) performs a process of drying the waste battery (W), the damper (210) may close the discharge port (120), and when the waste battery drying device (1) finishes the process of drying the waste battery (W) and discharges the waste battery (W) from the receiving space (100a), the damper (210) may open the discharge port (120).

[0066] The damper (210) may be provided as a component of the case (100). That is, the damper (210) may be provided as a component of the waste battery collection unit (200) or as a component of the case (100).

[0067] The waste battery drying device (1) may include an input device (300). The input device (300) may be provided to inject gas into the case (100). That is, the input device (300) may be provided to inject gas into the receiving space (100a).

[0068] The gas introduced into the receiving space (100a) through the input device (300) can be provided at a relatively high temperature. Specifically, the gas introduced into the receiving space (100a) through the input device (300) can be provided at a temperature corresponding to the boiling point of the organic carbonate compounds in the electrolyte. For example, the boiling point of dimethyl carbonate can be provided at approximately 90°C, the boiling point of ethyl methyl carbonate at approximately 107°C to 110°C, and the boiling point of diethyl carbonate at approximately 126.8°C, and the temperature of the gas introduced into the receiving space (100a) through the input device (300) can be provided at approximately 150°C or lower. However, the temperature of the gas introduced into the receiving space (100a) is not limited thereto.

[0069] Since the temperature of the gas introduced into the receiving space (100a) through the introduction device (300) is set to a high temperature, the high-temperature gas can react with organic carbonate compounds, and there is a possibility of a fire or explosion occurring as a result.

[0070] According to the concept of the present disclosure, the gas introduced into the receiving space (100a) through the introduction device (300) may include an inert gas. Since inert gases are gases with very low chemical reactivity, even if high-temperature gas is introduced into the receiving space (100a) through the introduction device (300), it is possible to prevent fire or explosion that may occur as the gas reacts with organic carbonate compounds.

[0071] For example, the gas may contain nitrogen molecules (N2). However, the types of inert gases are not limited to this.

[0072] The input device (300) may include a supply pipe (310). The supply pipe (310) may be provided to supply gas received from outside the case (100) into the inside of the case (100). That is, the supply pipe (310) may be provided to supply gas received from outside the case (100) to the receiving space (100a).

[0073] At least one part of the supply pipe (310) may be provided in the receiving space (100a). That is, one part of the supply pipe (310) may be provided in the receiving space (100a), and another part of the supply pipe (310) may be provided outside the case (100). For example, at least one part of the supply pipe (310) may be provided in the center of the receiving space (100a).

[0074] The supply pipe (310) may extend from outside the case (100) into the receiving space (100a). For example, the supply pipe (310) may extend in an upward and downward direction.

[0075] The input device (300) may include an arm (321). The arm (321) may receive gas supplied from the supply pipe (310). The arm (321) may be configured to discharge gas into the receiving space (100a) through a nozzle (321a) to be described later.

[0076] The arm (321) may extend from the supply pipe (310). Specifically, the arm (321) may extend from a part of the supply pipe (310) provided in the receiving space (100a). The arm (321) may extend from the supply pipe (310) in the radial direction of the supply pipe (310).

[0077] The arms (321) may be provided in multiple numbers. Some of the multiple arms (321) may be spaced apart from each other along the circumferential direction of the supply pipe (310). Additionally, some of the multiple arms (321) may be spaced apart from each other along the extension direction of the supply pipe (310).

[0078] The input device (300) may include an arm unit (320). The arm unit (320) may include a plurality of arms (321) and an arm connection part (322) that connects each of the plurality of arms (321) to a supply pipe (310). However, the arms (321) provided in the arm unit (320) do not necessarily have to be provided in multiple numbers. For example, the arm unit (320) may include only one arm (321).

[0079] A plurality of arms (321) provided in the arm unit (320) may be arranged spaced apart from each other along the circumferential direction of the supply pipe (310). For example, the arm unit (320) may include four arms (321) arranged spaced apart by 90 degrees along the circumferential direction of the supply pipe (310). However, the number of arms (321) provided in the arm unit (320) and the angle at which the arms (321) are spaced apart from each other are not limited thereto.

[0080] The arm units (320) may be provided in multiple numbers. Multiple arm units (320) may be arranged spaced apart from each other along the extension direction of the supply pipe (310). For example, multiple arm units (320) may be arranged spaced apart from each other by equal intervals along the extension direction of the supply pipe (310). However, there is no special limitation on the number of arm units (320).

[0081] Among the plurality of arm units (320), two arm units (320) that are arranged adjacent to each other may be arranged staggered. Specifically, the direction in which each of the plurality of arms (321) provided in each of the two arm units (320) that are arranged adjacent to each other extends from the supply pipe (310) may be different from each other. For example, the direction in which each of the plurality of first arms provided in the first arm unit among the plurality of arm units (320) extends from the supply pipe (310) may be different from the direction in which each of the plurality of second arms provided in the second arm unit arranged adjacent to the first arm unit extends from the supply pipe (310).

[0082] In the drawing, the number of arms (321) provided in each of the multiple arm units (320) is all the same, and the angle at which the multiple arms (321) are spaced apart from each other along the circumferential direction of the supply pipe (310) is shown as being the same for all of the multiple arm units (320), but this is not limited thereto. For example, each of the multiple arm units (320) may include a different number of arms (321), and the angle at which the multiple arms (321) are spaced apart from each other along the circumferential direction of the supply pipe (310) may also vary depending on the multiple arm units (320).

[0083] According to the concept of the present disclosure, a plurality of arm units (320) may be arranged spaced apart from each other along the extension direction of the supply pipe (310), and a plurality of arms (321) provided in each of the plurality of arm units (320) may be arranged spaced apart from each other along the circumferential direction of the supply pipe (310). In addition, two arm units (320) that are arranged adjacent to each other among the plurality of arm units (320) may be arranged staggeredly. Through this configuration, the injection device (300) can uniformly inject gas into the entire area of ​​the receiving space (100a).

[0084] The arm (321) may include a nozzle (321a). The nozzle (321a) may be provided to discharge gas supplied from the supply pipe (310) to the arm (321) into the receiving space (100a).

[0085] The nozzle (321a) can be opened toward the lower side of the arm (321). Thus, the nozzle (321a) can discharge gas toward the lower side of the arm (321). Due to this configuration, foreign matter can be prevented from being introduced into the arm (321) through the nozzle (321a).

[0086] However, the opening direction of the nozzle (321a) is not limited to this. Further details regarding this will be described later.

[0087] The nozzle (321a) may have a predetermined size and a cross-sectional area smaller than that size to intensively spray gas in one direction. For example, if the shape of the nozzle (321a) is circular, the diameter of the nozzle (321a) may be 20 mm or less, and if the shape of the nozzle (321a) is not circular, the open area of ​​the nozzle (321a) may be 400 mm 2 It may be less than or equal to.

[0088] The nozzles (321a) may be provided in multiple numbers. The multiple nozzles (321a) may be arranged spaced apart from each other along the extension direction of the arm (321). There is no particular limitation on the number of nozzles (321a).

[0089] Each of the multiple nozzles (321a) may discharge gas at different pressures in different directions. Through this configuration, the drying efficiency of the waste battery (W) can be maximized.

[0090] In the drawing, the number of nozzles (321a) provided on each of the multiple arms (321) is shown as being the same, but this is not limited thereto. For example, the number of nozzles (321a) provided on each of the multiple arms (321) may differ from one another. Further details regarding this will be described later.

[0091] The waste battery drying device (1) may include a heater (400). The heater (400) may be provided to heat the inside of the case (100). That is, the heater (400) may be provided to heat the receiving space (100a).

[0092] The heater (400) can be attached to the outer wall of the case (100). The heater (400) can be arranged to wrap around the outer wall of the case (100). For example, the heater (400) may be a band heater, which is a type of electric heater arranged in a band shape. Through this configuration, the heater (400) can uniformly heat the interior of the receiving space (100a).

[0093] According to the concept of the present disclosure, gas introduced into the receiving space (100a) through the input device (300) and the receiving space (100a) can be heated through the heater (400). While the waste battery drying device (1) performs the process of drying the waste battery (W), the temperature of the receiving space (100a) can be maintained at a temperature higher than the boiling point of the organic carbonate compounds in the electrolyte. Through such a configuration, all organic carbonate compounds remaining in the waste battery (W) can be evaporated and removed.

[0094] Specifically, the electrolyte of the waste battery (W) may contain organic carbonate compounds such as dimethyl carbonate, ethyl methyl carbonate, and diethyl carbonate. As described above, the boiling point of dimethyl carbonate may be approximately 90°C, the boiling point of ethyl methyl carbonate may be approximately 107°C to 110°C, and the boiling point of diethyl carbonate may be approximately 126.8°C. At this time, the temperature of the receiving space (100a) may be maintained at a temperature higher than the boiling point of the organic carbonate compounds in the electrolyte. For example, the temperature of the receiving space (100a) may be maintained at a maximum of 150°C. In this way, by maintaining the temperature of the receiving space (100a) at a temperature higher than the boiling point of the organic carbonate compounds in the electrolyte, the TOC (Total Organic Carbon) concentration in the receiving space (100a) can be set to be close to 0.

[0095] The waste battery drying device (1) may include a blade (500). The blade (500) may be provided to guide the waste battery (W) provided inside the case (100) to the discharge port (120). That is, the blade (500) may be provided to guide the waste battery (W) provided in the receiving space (100a) to the discharge port (120). Specifically, when the waste battery drying device (1) finishes the process of drying the waste battery (W) and discharges the waste battery (W) from the receiving space (100a), the blade (500) may guide the waste battery (W) to move to the discharge port (120).

[0096] The blade (500) can be rotatably coupled to the supply pipe (310). Specifically, the blade (500) can be rotatably coupled to the supply pipe (310) at the bottom of the receiving space (100a).

[0097] As the blade (500) rotates, the blade (500) can guide the waste battery (W) provided at the bottom of the receiving space (100a) to the discharge port (120). Additionally, when the waste battery (W) provided at the bottom of the receiving space (100a) moves to the waste battery collection unit (200) through the discharge port (120), the waste battery (W) provided at the top of the receiving space (100a) moves to the bottom of the receiving space (100a) due to its own weight, so the blade (500) can continuously guide the waste battery (W) to the discharge port (120).

[0098] A plurality of blades (500) may be provided. A plurality of blades (500) may be arranged spaced apart from each other along the circumferential direction of the supply pipe (310). For example, a plurality of blades (500) may be arranged spaced apart by 90 degrees along the circumferential direction of the supply pipe (310). However, the number of blades (500) and the angle at which the blades (500) are spaced apart from each other are not limited thereto.

[0099] The blade (500) may include a connecting pipe (510). The connecting pipe (510) may be connected to a supply pipe (310). The connecting pipe (510) may receive gas supplied from the supply pipe (310). That is, gas supplied from the supply pipe (310) may be provided inside the connecting pipe (510).

[0100] Unlike the gas delivered to the arm (321), the gas delivered to the connecting pipe (510) may not be discharged into the receiving space (100a). However, the gas delivered to the connecting pipe (510) can heat the wing portion (520) described later, and the waste battery (W) provided at the bottom of the receiving space (100a) can be heated by the connecting pipe (510) and the wing portion (520) heated by the gas. Accordingly, the drying efficiency of the waste battery (W) can be increased.

[0101] The connecting pipe (510) may extend from the supply pipe (310). Specifically, the connecting pipe (510) may extend from a part of the supply pipe (310) provided in the receiving space (100a). The connecting pipe (510) may extend from the supply pipe (310) in the radial direction of the supply pipe (310).

[0102] The blade (500) may include a wing portion (520). The wing portion (520) may extend from the outer wall of the connecting pipe (510). Specifically, the wing portion (520) may extend from the outer wall of the connecting pipe (510) in a direction that intersects with the direction in which the connecting pipe (510) extends.

[0103] Additionally, the wing portion (520) may be extended in the direction in which the connecting pipe (510) is extended. That is, the wing portion (520) may be extended in a direction intersecting the direction in which the connecting pipe (510) is extended and in the direction in which the connecting pipe (510) is extended, thereby having a certain level of cross-sectional area. Due to this configuration, when the blade (500) rotates, the contact area between the waste battery (W) and the wing portion (520) can be increased, and the discharge efficiency of the waste battery (W) can be increased.

[0104] The wing portion (520) may be spaced apart from the bottom of the case (100) by a predetermined distance. Through this configuration, friction between the wing portion (520) and the bottom of the case (100) can be minimized. However, in order to ensure that the waste battery (W) is smoothly discharged by the blade (500), the distance between the wing portion (520) and the bottom of the case (100) may be maintained at a level below a certain level.

[0105] The wing portion (520) may be made of a heat-resistant material. For example, the wing portion (520) may be made of a heat-resistant rubber material.

[0106] The waste battery drying device (1) may include a discharge pipe (600). The discharge pipe (600) may be provided to discharge gas within the case (100). That is, the discharge pipe (600) may be provided to discharge gas within the receiving space (100a).

[0107] According to the concept of the present disclosure, gas introduced through an input device (300) and organic carbonate compounds evaporated from a waste battery (W) may be provided inside the receiving space (100a). The waste battery drying device (1) can regulate the pressure inside the receiving space (100a) and completely remove organic carbonate compounds from the waste battery (W) by discharging the gas and compounds through the discharge pipe (600).

[0108] The discharge pipe (600) may be connected to the case (100). However, it is not limited thereto, and the discharge pipe (600) may be provided as a component of the case (100).

[0109] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a waste battery drying device according to one embodiment.

[0110] Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 6, a waste battery drying device (1') according to one embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. In describing the waste battery drying device (1'), the same reference numerals are assigned to components substantially identical to those shown in FIG. 1 to 5, and detailed descriptions may be omitted.

[0111] The waste battery drying device (1') may include an input device (300'). The input device (300') may include a supply pipe (310) and an arm unit (320'). The arm unit (320') may include a plurality of arms (321') and an arm connection part (322) that connects each of the plurality of arms (321') to the supply pipe (310).

[0112] The arm units (320') may be provided in multiple numbers. The multiple arm units (320') may be arranged spaced apart from each other along the extension direction of the supply pipe (310).

[0113] Each of the plurality of arms (321') may include a nozzle (321a'). The nozzle (321a') may be provided to discharge gas supplied from the supply pipe (310) to each of the plurality of arms (321') into the receiving space (100a). The nozzle (321a') may be provided in multiple numbers.

[0114] The temperature of the gas delivered to the supply pipe (310) can be set to a high temperature. Since high-temperature gas has a relatively low density, it may have a strong tendency to move upward. Therefore, the gas delivered to the supply pipe (310) may not move to the lower arm unit (320') among the plurality of arm units (320'), but may have a strong tendency to move to the upper arm unit (320'). This can cause the amount of gas discharged from the upper and lower parts of the receiving space (100a) to be uneven.

[0115] According to the concept of the present disclosure, the number of nozzles (321a') formed in the lower arm unit (320') among the plurality of arm units (320') may be equal to or greater than the number of nozzles (321a') formed in the upper arm unit (320') among the plurality of arm units (320'). Through this configuration, the amount of gas discharged from the upper and lower parts of the receiving space (100a) can be made more uniform, and the temperature inside the receiving space (100a) can be made more uniform.

[0116] However, the number or position of the nozzles (321a, 321a') according to the present disclosure is not limited to a specific embodiment. That is, there are no special restrictions on the number or position of the nozzles (321a, 321a'). Accordingly, the number and position of the nozzles (321a, 321a') provided on the arm units (320, 320') of different heights may be the same or different.

[0117] FIG. 7 is an enlarged view of the arm and nozzle of an input device according to one embodiment.

[0118] Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 7, a waste battery drying device (1'') according to one embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. In describing the waste battery drying device (1''), the same reference numerals are assigned to components substantially identical to those shown in FIG. 1 to FIG. 5, and detailed descriptions may be omitted.

[0119] The waste battery drying device (1'') may include an input device (300''). The input device (300'') may include a supply pipe (310) and an arm (321''). The arm (321'') may receive gas supplied from the supply pipe (310).

[0120] The arm (321'') may include a nozzle (321a''). The nozzle (321a'') may be provided to discharge gas supplied from the supply pipe (310) to the arm (321'') into the receiving space (100a).

[0121] The nozzle (321a'') can be opened toward the upper side of the arm (321''). Thus, the nozzle (321a'') can discharge gas toward the upper side of the arm (321'').

[0122] The nozzle (321a'') can spray gas at high pressure toward the upper side of the arm (321''). Due to this configuration, foreign substances such as fine particles generated from the waste battery (W) can be introduced into the interior of the arm (321'') through the nozzle (321a''), or the nozzle (321a'') can be prevented from becoming clogged by foreign substances.

[0123] However, the opening direction of the nozzle (321a'') is not limited to this. For example, the nozzle (321a'') may be opened in a direction that is approximately inclined with respect to the ground. If the nozzle (321a'') is opened approximately downward, foreign matter may be prevented from being introduced into the arm (321'') due to the opening position of the nozzle (321a''). If the nozzle (321a'') is opened approximately upward, foreign matter may be prevented from being introduced into the arm (321'') by injecting gas at high pressure through the nozzle (321a''). Specifically, the pressure of the gas injected through the nozzle (321a'') that is opened approximately upward may be higher than the pressure of the nozzle (321a'') that is opened approximately downward.

[0124] The nozzles (321a'') may be provided in multiple numbers. The multiple nozzles (321a'') may be arranged spaced apart from each other along the extension direction of the arm (321''). There is no particular limitation on the number of nozzles (321a'').

[0125] FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a method for drying waste batteries according to one embodiment.

[0126] Hereinafter, a waste battery drying method (1000) for drying a waste battery (W) through a waste battery drying device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 5 and FIG. 8.

[0127] First, gas can be introduced (1100) into the receiving space (100a) inside the case (100). The gas can be introduced through an introduction device (300). The gas can be prepared at a temperature corresponding to the boiling point of the organic carbonate compounds in the electrolyte. The gas may include an inert gas. For example, the gas may include nitrogen molecules at 120°C. However, the temperature and type of the inert gas are not limited thereto.

[0128] Afterward, the receiving space (100a) can be heated above a predetermined reference temperature (1200) through the gas introduced into the receiving space (100a) and the heater (400). The reference temperature may be a temperature higher than the boiling point of the organic carbonate compounds in the electrolyte. For example, the reference temperature may be approximately 150°C. However, the reference temperature is not limited to this.

[0129] Afterward, waste batteries (W) can be introduced into the receiving space (100a) through the inlet (110) (1300). However, the order of introduction of waste batteries (W) is not limited to this. For example, waste batteries (W) may be introduced into the receiving space (100a) before gas is introduced into the receiving space (100a). Below, the description continues by assuming an embodiment in which waste batteries (W) are introduced into the receiving space (100a) after the receiving space (100a) has been heated above a reference temperature.

[0130] Afterward, the temperature of the receiving space (100a) can be maintained above the reference temperature (1400). At this time, the damper (210) can close the discharge port (120). Through this configuration, waste battery (W) can be prevented from being discharged outside the case (100) through the discharge port (120).

[0131] Finally, based on the elapsed time of a predetermined standard time (1500), the waste battery (W) can be discharged from the receiving space (100a) to the outside of the case (100) (1600). At this time, the damper (210) can open the discharge port (120). The waste battery (W) discharged to the outside of the case (100) through the discharge port (120) can be moved to the waste battery collection unit (200).

[0132] That is, when the standard time has elapsed (1500), the discharge port (120) can be opened through the damper (210) to discharge the waste battery (W) from the receiving space (100a) to the outside of the case (100) (1600), and when the standard time has not elapsed (1500), the discharge port (120) can be kept closed through the damper (210) to continue receiving the waste battery (W) in the receiving space (100a).

[0133] The reference time can be determined based on the time required for all organic carbonate compounds to evaporate from the waste battery (W). For example, the reference time may be 3 hours. However, the reference time is not limited to this.

[0134] Discharging the waste battery (W) from the receiving space (100a) to the outside of the case (100) (1600) may include rotating the blade (500) to guide the waste battery (W) to the discharge port (120) through the blade (500). As the blade (500) rotates, the blade (500) can continuously guide the waste battery (W) to the discharge port (120).

[0135] FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a method for drying waste batteries according to one embodiment.

[0136] Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 1 to 5 and FIG. 9, another waste battery drying method (2000) for drying a waste battery (W) through a waste battery drying device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. In describing the other waste battery drying method (2000), the same reference numerals are assigned to configurations or operations that are substantially identical to the configuration or operation shown in FIG. 8, and detailed descriptions may be omitted.

[0137] First, gas can be introduced into the receiving space (100a) inside the case (100) (1100). Then, the receiving space (100a) can be heated above a predetermined reference temperature through the gas introduced into the receiving space (100a) and the heater (400) (1200). Then, waste batteries (W) can be introduced into the receiving space (100a) through the inlet (110) (1300). Then, the temperature of the receiving space (100a) can be maintained above the reference temperature (1400).

[0138] Finally, based on the weight of the waste battery (W) contained in the receiving space (100a) being reduced by a predetermined standard ratio (2500), the waste battery (W) can be discharged from the receiving space (100a) to the outside of the case (100) (1600). That is, when the weight of the waste battery (W) contained in the receiving space (100a) decreases by a predetermined standard ratio (2500), the discharge port (120) can be opened through the damper (210) to discharge the waste battery (W) from the receiving space (100a) to the outside of the case (100) (1600), and when the weight of the waste battery (W) contained in the receiving space (100a) does not decrease by a predetermined standard ratio (2500), the discharge port (120) can be kept closed through the damper (210) to continue containing the waste battery (W) in the receiving space (100a). The weight of the waste battery (W) contained in the receiving space (100a) can be measured by a separate weight sensing sensor.

[0139] The initial weight of the waste battery (W) may be the weight at the time the waste battery (W) is placed into the receiving space (100a). As the receiving space (100a) is heated, organic carbonate compounds in the electrolyte within the waste battery (W) may evaporate, and accordingly, the weight of the waste battery (W) may decrease. At this time, the reference ratio may be determined based on the ratio of organic carbonate compounds within the waste battery (W).

[0140] For example, the standard ratio can be 10%. However, the standard ratio is not limited to this.

[0141] Discharging the waste battery (W) from the receiving space (100a) to the outside of the case (100) (1600) may include rotating the blade (500) to guide the waste battery (W) to the discharge port (120) through the blade (500). As the blade (500) rotates, the blade (500) can continuously guide the waste battery (W) to the discharge port (120).

[0142] Specific embodiments have been illustrated and described above. However, the invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and those skilled in the art may make various modifications without departing from the essence of the technical concept of the invention as described in the following claims.

Claims

1. A case provided with a receiving space for receiving waste batteries; and It includes an injection device for introducing a gas containing an inert gas into the above-mentioned receiving space, and The above-mentioned input device is, A supply pipe, at least a portion of which is provided in the above-mentioned receiving space; and A waste battery drying device comprising an arm extending radially from the supply pipe, the arm having a nozzle for discharging gas supplied from the supply pipe into the receiving space.

2. In Paragraph 1, The above supply pipe is a waste battery drying device extending from the outside of the case into the receiving space.

3. In Paragraph 1, The above arms are provided in multiple numbers, and The above-mentioned input device is, A waste battery drying device further comprising a plurality of arms and an arm unit having an arm connection portion that connects each of the plurality of arms to the supply pipe.

4. In Paragraph 3, The above arm unit is provided in multiple numbers, and A waste battery drying device in which the plurality of arm units are spaced apart from each other along the extension direction of the supply pipe.

5. In Paragraph 4, A waste battery drying device in which the number of the plurality of arm units is not limited and are arranged spaced apart from each other by equal intervals along the extension direction of the supply pipe.

6. In Paragraph 4, The above nozzle is provided in multiple numbers, and The above supply pipe extends in the vertical direction, and A waste battery drying device in which the number of nozzles formed in the lower arm unit among the plurality of arm units is equal to or greater than the number of nozzles formed in the upper arm unit among the plurality of arm units.

7. In Paragraph 1, The above nozzle is provided in multiple numbers, and A waste battery drying device in which the plurality of nozzles are spaced apart from each other along the extension direction of the arm.

8. In Paragraph 1, The above nozzle is a waste battery drying device that opens toward the lower side of the arm.

9. In Paragraph 1, The above nozzle is, A waste battery drying device that is open toward the upper side of the above arm and is configured to spray gas at high pressure to prevent foreign substances from being introduced into the interior of the above arm through the nozzle.

10. In Paragraph 1, A waste battery drying device further comprising a heater provided to heat the above-mentioned receiving space.

11. In Paragraph 10, The above heater is a waste battery drying device arranged to surround the outer wall of the above case.

12. In Paragraph 1, The above case is, An input port provided at the top of the case for introducing the waste battery into the receiving space; and A waste battery drying device comprising a discharge port provided at the bottom of the case, which is provided to discharge the waste battery from the receiving space to the outside of the case.

13. In Paragraph 12, A waste battery drying device further comprising a blade rotatably coupled to the supply pipe at the bottom of the receiving space to guide the waste battery received in the receiving space to the discharge port.

14. In Paragraph 13, The above blade is, A connecting pipe extending radially from the supply pipe; and A waste battery drying device comprising a wing portion extending from the outer wall of the above-mentioned connecting pipe in a direction intersecting the direction in which the connecting pipe extends.

15. In Paragraph 14, A waste battery drying device in which gas supplied from the supply pipe is provided inside the above connecting pipe.

16. A method for drying a waste battery through a waste battery drying device having a case for receiving the waste battery, wherein A gas containing an inert gas is introduced into the receiving space inside the above case, and The above-mentioned receiving space is heated above a predetermined standard temperature through gas introduced into the receiving space and a heater, and Maintain the temperature of the above-mentioned receiving space above the above-mentioned reference temperature, and A waste battery drying method for discharging the waste battery from the receiving space to the outside of the case based on the elapsement of a predetermined standard time.

17. In Paragraph 16, The above waste battery drying device is, A supply pipe, at least a portion of which is provided in the above-mentioned receiving space; and A method for drying waste batteries, comprising an arm extending radially from the supply pipe, wherein the arm is provided with a nozzle for discharging gas supplied from the supply pipe into the receiving space.

18. In Paragraph 17, The above waste battery drying device is, It further includes a blade rotatably coupled to the supply pipe at the lower part of the receiving space, A method for drying waste batteries, comprising discharging the waste battery from the receiving space to the outside of the case by rotating the blade to guide the waste battery through the blade to a discharge port provided at the bottom of the case.

19. In Paragraph 16, A waste battery drying method in which the heater is provided to surround the outer wall of the case.

20. A method for drying a waste battery through a waste battery drying device having a case for receiving the waste battery, wherein A gas containing an inert gas is introduced into the receiving space inside the above case, and The above-mentioned receiving space is heated above a predetermined standard temperature through gas introduced into the receiving space and a heater, and Maintain the temperature of the above-mentioned receiving space above the above-mentioned reference temperature, and A method for drying waste batteries, wherein the waste battery is discharged from the receiving space to the outside of the case based on the weight of the waste battery contained in the receiving space being reduced by a predetermined standard ratio.

Images