Valve opening device, baking apparatus and production line

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to the technical field of batteries, and provides a valve opening device, a baking apparatus and a production line. The valve opening device is applied to a baking apparatus. The valve opening device comprises a mounting member, a valve opening tool and a driving mechanism. The valve opening tool is arranged on a first side of the mounting member in a first direction. The valve opening tool comprises at least two pressing heads, and each pressing head is used for opening an opening / closing valve of at least one battery cell. The driving mechanism drives the mounting member to drive the valve opening tool to perform a linear reciprocating motion in the first direction.

Description

A valve opening device, baking equipment and production line

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This disclosure is based on and claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202411983308.2, filed on December 30, 2024, entitled "A Valve Opening Device, Baking Equipment and Production Line", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure relates to the field of battery technology, and in particular to a valve opening device, baking equipment, and production line. Background Technology

[0004] New energy batteries are being used more and more widely in daily life and industry. For example, new energy vehicles equipped with batteries are already widely used. In addition, batteries are being used more and more in the field of energy storage.

[0005] Battery cells can be used to store or provide electrical energy. Battery cells can be used in electrical devices, such as vehicles or energy storage devices.

[0006] During the production of battery cells, the battery cells need to be placed in a baking chamber for baking to reduce the water content of the battery cells. In related technologies, it is difficult to open the switch valve of the battery cell inside the baking chamber. Summary of the Invention

[0007] In view of this, embodiments of the present disclosure aim to provide a valve opening device, baking equipment, and production line capable of opening the switching valve of a battery cell.

[0008] To achieve the above objectives, the technical solution of this disclosure embodiment is implemented as follows:

[0009] A first aspect of this disclosure provides a valve opening device for use in a baking apparatus, the valve opening device comprising:

[0010] Installation components;

[0011] A valve opening fixture is disposed on the first side of the mounting component along a first direction. The valve opening fixture includes at least two pressure heads, each pressure head being used to open the switching valve of at least one battery cell.

[0012] The drive mechanism drives the mounting components to move the valve opening fixture in a linear reciprocating motion along the first direction.

[0013] The valve opening device provided in this embodiment has a drive mechanism that drives the mounting component to move the valve opening fixture in a linear reciprocating motion along a first direction. When it is necessary to open the switch valve, the drive mechanism drives the mounting component to move the valve opening fixture towards the first side to the location of the switch valve, where the pressure head contacts and presses against the switch valve to open it, completing the valve opening action. When it is necessary to close the switch valve, the drive mechanism drives the mounting component to move the valve opening fixture towards the second side away from the switch valve, the pressure head releases its force on the switch valve, and the switch valve can return to the closed state, completing the valve closing action. The valve opening fixture has at least two pressure heads, each corresponding to at least one switch valve. The valve opening device can drive multiple pressure heads to move synchronously through the mounting component, realizing batch valve opening of multiple battery cells, reducing the number of drive mechanisms used, and simplifying the control process.

[0014] In some embodiments, the valve opening tooling includes a deformable body capable of elastic deformation, the deformable body being disposed on a first side of the mounting member along a first direction, and the pressure head being disposed on a side of the deformable body away from the mounting member.

[0015] In this embodiment, when there is a height difference between multiple battery cells in the first direction, the deformation type can undergo elastic deformation. The deformation size of the deformation type is used to compensate for the height difference. In other words, the height difference is compensated by the adaptive deformation of the deformation type, thereby increasing the probability of fully opening the valve.

[0016] In some embodiments, the deformable body extends along a second direction, and at least two pressure heads are spaced apart on the same deformable body along the second direction, with the first and second directions intersecting.

[0017] In this embodiment, at least two pressure heads are spaced apart on the same deformation type, simplifying the structure and reducing manufacturing and assembly difficulties. The pressure heads on the same deformation type are spaced apart from each other, allowing each pressure head to move independently under the elastic deformation of the deformation type, avoiding mutual interference between the pressure heads.

[0018] In some embodiments, the hardness of the indenter is greater than the hardness of the deformed part.

[0019] In this embodiment, the hardness of the pressure head is relatively large compared to the deformation form. Under the same force, the deformation form can undergo elastic deformation, while the pressure head maintains its shape. In this way, the pressure head can effectively press against the switch valve to open the valve, and the deformation form undergoes elastic deformation to meet the height difference requirement.

[0020] In some embodiments, the hardness of the deformed material is between 60A and 90A; and / or,

[0021] The hardness of the indenter is between HR80 and HR120.

[0022] In this embodiment, the hardness of the deformable part is between 60A and 90A. This moderate hardness allows it to undergo elastic deformation under the action of the pressure head and the switching valve, and quickly return to its basic shape when the force from the pressure head and the switching valve is removed. The hardness of the pressure head is between HR80 and HR120. This moderate hardness balances production cost requirements with the ability to withstand the force applied by the switching valve without deformation.

[0023] In some embodiments, the pressure head includes an opening valve face facing the first side, a portion of which is recessed to form an exhaust groove.

[0024] In this embodiment, the exhaust groove is open to the first side. During the valve opening process, the exhaust groove will not be closed by the surface of the outer shell facing the second side. The exhaust groove can connect the baking chamber and the valve core's air passage, so that the gas in the internal chamber of the battery cell can be discharged into the baking chamber, thereby realizing the exhaust and vacuuming of the battery cell.

[0025] In some embodiments, the valve opening device includes an adjusting member and a locking member. The adjusting member is connected to the valve opening fixture and is movably disposed on the mounting member to drive the valve opening fixture to move. The locking member is used to selectively unlock or lock the adjusting member.

[0026] In this embodiment, the adjusting member can drive the valve opening fixture to move. The position of the valve opening fixture can be changed by changing the position of the adjusting member. When the valve opening fixture moves to the target position, the locking member can lock the adjusting member. When it is necessary to adjust the valve opening fixture, the locking member can be unlocked and the adjusting member can be moved. In this way, the valve opening position can be changed by changing the position of the adjusting member, thereby adapting to different types of battery cells and improving the versatility of the valve opening device.

[0027] In some embodiments, at least two pressure heads are arranged along a second direction, and the adjusting member is capable of reciprocating along a third direction, wherein the first direction, the second direction, and the third direction intersect.

[0028] In this embodiment, at least two pressure heads are arranged along the second direction to adapt to multiple battery cells arranged along the second direction; the adjusting member can drive the valve opening fixture to slide back and forth along the third direction to change the position of the valve opening fixture in the third direction. When the valve opening fixture slides to the target position, the locking member can lock the adjusting member. The adjusting member slides relative to the mounting member and can also infinitely adjust the position of the valve opening fixture to realize the continuous change of the position of the valve opening fixture in the third direction.

[0029] In some embodiments, the mounting element forms a groove, and the adjusting element is slidably inserted into the groove.

[0030] In this embodiment, the adjusting member passes through the slide groove and can slide along the slide groove. The slide groove can limit the sliding trajectory of the adjusting member, so that the adjusting member can slide along the preset trajectory.

[0031] In some embodiments, at least two slides are arranged at intervals along a second direction to form a sliding group, each sliding group corresponds to a valve opening tool, and each slide is provided with an adjusting member.

[0032] In this embodiment, a valve opening fixture can be provided with multiple adjusting components, and the multiple adjusting components of a valve opening fixture can be arranged at intervals along the second direction. This can improve the assembly stability of the valve opening fixture and reduce the risk of the valve opening fixture shifting in the second direction.

[0033] In some embodiments, the drive mechanism includes a variable volume structure connected to the mounting member, the volume of which changes to drive the mounting member to move along a first direction.

[0034] In this embodiment, the driving force is provided by the volume change of the variable volume structure, which enables the mounting component to move along the first direction. The structure is simple and easy to implement.

[0035] In some embodiments, the variable volume structure includes a capsule for storing fluid, the volume of the fluid in the capsule being changed to change the volume of the capsule.

[0036] In this embodiment, the bladder has a simple structure, is easy to manufacture, and is inexpensive. By changing the volume of the fluid, the volume of the bladder is altered, thereby driving the mounting component to move along the first direction. When the bladder drives the mounting component to press the pressure head against the switching valve, the bladder can provide a buffering function, reducing the impact force between the pressure head and the switching valve, allowing the pressure head to push the valve core of the switching valve more smoothly.

[0037] In some embodiments, the drive mechanism includes an elastic element, and the mounting member has an open valve position and an initial position in a first direction. When the mounting member is in the open valve position, the pressure head is used to open the switching valve, and when the mounting member is in the initial position, the pressure head avoids the switching valve. The variable volume structure and the elastic element work together to allow the mounting member to switch between the open valve position and the initial position.

[0038] In this embodiment, when the mounting component is in the open position, the pressure head can press against the switching valve to open it; when the mounting component is in the initial position, the pressure head avoids the switching valve, meaning the pressure head separates from the switching valve and will not open it. The combined action of the variable volume structure and the elastic element drives the mounting component to move to either the open or initial position, improving operational reliability.

[0039] In some embodiments, the elastic force of the elastic element keeps the mounting member in its initial position, and the volume change of the variable volume structure moves the mounting member from its initial position to the valve-open position.

[0040] In this embodiment, the environment inside the baking cavity has a smaller impact on the elastic element compared to the electronic control device. The elastic force of the elastic element is used to keep the mounting part in its initial position, thereby improving the reliability of the mounting part.

[0041] In some embodiments, the variable volume structure is disposed on the second side of the mounting member along the first direction.

[0042] In this embodiment, the variable volume structure is located on the side of the mounting component away from the battery cell, which can prevent the variable volume structure from contacting the battery cell and reduce the difficulty of assembly and operation.

[0043] In some embodiments, the elastic element is disposed on a second side of the mounting member along the first direction.

[0044] In this embodiment, the elastic element is located on the side of the mounting component away from the battery cell, which can prevent the elastic element from contacting the battery cell and reduce the difficulty of assembly and operation.

[0045] In some embodiments, the valve opening device includes a fixed frame and a guide member, the guide member being connected to the mounting member, and the fixed frame being slidably engaged with the guide member.

[0046] In this embodiment, the guide can drive the mounting component to slide relative to the fixed frame. The fixed frame and the guide can slide together, so that the guide can slide along a set trajectory, reducing the risk of the mounting component deviating during the sliding process.

[0047] In some embodiments, the valve opening device includes a heating box having a heating chamber for placing individual battery cells.

[0048] In this embodiment, the heating chamber can provide heat to bake the battery cells inside the heating cavity.

[0049] In some embodiments, the number of valve opening fixtures is at least two, and the at least two valve opening fixtures are spaced apart.

[0050] In this embodiment, at least two valve opening fixtures can increase the number of pressure heads and can also be applied to battery cells of different types and / or different arrangements.

[0051] A second aspect of this disclosure provides a baking apparatus, comprising:

[0052] The valve opening device of any of the above;

[0053] A baking container, including a baking cavity, for accommodating individual battery cells.

[0054] A third aspect of this disclosure provides a production line for producing battery cells, including the baking equipment described above. Attached Figure Description

[0055] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the vehicle structure in some embodiments of this disclosure;

[0056] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a single battery cell in some embodiments of this disclosure;

[0057] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the switching valve in Figure 2;

[0058] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the valve opening device in some embodiments of this disclosure, wherein the mounting component is in the initial position;

[0059] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of the structure shown in Figure 4 from another perspective;

[0060] Figure 6 is an enlarged view of point A in Figure 5;

[0061] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of the structure shown in Figure 4 from another perspective;

[0062] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of the structure shown in Figure 4 from another perspective;

[0063] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram of the valve opening fixture provided in some embodiments of this disclosure;

[0064] Figure 10 is an enlarged view of point B in Figure 9.

[0065] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached drawings: 1000, vehicle; 100, battery device; 200, controller; 300, motor; 10, battery cell; 101, switching valve; 1011, valve core; 1012, valve body; 102, outer casing; 1, valve opening device; 11, mounting component; 11a, slide groove; 11ab, sliding assembly; 11b, weight reduction hole; 12, valve opening fixture; 121, pressure head; 121a, valve opening surface; 121ab, exhaust groove; 122, deformation shape; 123, base; 124, stop component; 13, drive mechanism; 131, variable volume structure; 1311, bladder; 1312, disc; 132, elastic element; 14, fixing frame; 14a, guide hole; 141, support plate; 142, support column; 15, guide component; 16, heating box. Detailed Implementation

[0066] The embodiments of the technical solutions disclosed herein will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. These embodiments are merely illustrative of the technical solutions disclosed herein and are therefore intended to limit the scope of protection of this disclosure.

[0067] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs; the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit this disclosure.

[0068] In the description of the embodiments disclosed herein, the technical terms “first,” “second,” and “third,” etc., are used only to distinguish different objects and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly indicating the number, specific order, or primary or secondary relationship of the indicated technical features.

[0069] In this document, the term "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 disclosure. The appearance of this phrase in various places throughout the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it a separate or alternative embodiment mutually exclusive with other embodiments. It will be explicitly and implicitly understood by those skilled in the art that the embodiments described herein can be combined with other embodiments.

[0070] It should be noted that in this disclosure, "at least two" includes two or more. "Multiple" includes two or more. "Above" refers to the direction towards the sky, and "below" is the opposite of "above," referring to the direction towards the ground. The first direction is denoted as X, where the first side of the first direction is denoted as X1, the second side of the first direction is denoted as X2, the second direction is denoted as Y, and the third direction is denoted as Z.

[0071] Please refer to Figures 1 to 4. The valve opening device 1, baking equipment, and production line provided in this embodiment are all used for the production of the battery cell 10 of this disclosure. First, the battery cell 10 and battery device 100 provided in this embodiment will be introduced.

[0072] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the battery cell 10 can be a secondary battery, which refers to a battery cell that can be used again after being discharged by recharging to activate the active materials.

[0073] The battery cell 10 can be a lithium-ion battery cell, sodium-ion battery cell, sodium-lithium-ion battery cell, lithium metal battery cell, sodium metal battery cell, lithium-sulfur battery cell, magnesium-ion battery cell, nickel-metal hydride battery cell, nickel-cadmium battery cell, or lead-acid battery cell, etc., and this embodiment does not limit it.

[0074] Multiple battery cells 10 can be connected in series, parallel, or in a mixed configuration via a busbar. The busbar is used to achieve electrical connection between at least two battery cells 10.

[0075] For example, "hybrid connection" refers to at least two battery cells 10 that are connected in both series and parallel. At least two battery cells 10 can be directly connected in series, parallel, or hybrid connections; of course, at least two battery cells 10 can first be connected in series, parallel, or hybrid connections to form a module, and then the module can be connected in series, parallel, or hybrid connections to form a whole.

[0076] The battery cell 10 includes an electrode assembly, which includes a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator, with the separator disposed between the negative and positive electrodes. During the charging and discharging process of the battery cell 10, active ions (such as lithium ions) repeatedly insert and extract between the positive and negative electrodes. The separator, disposed between the positive and negative electrodes, serves to prevent short circuits between the positive and negative electrodes while allowing active ions to pass through.

[0077] The electrode assembly can be a wound structure, a stacked structure, or a hybrid structure of wound and stacked.

[0078] In some implementations, the electrode assembly can be cylindrical, flat, or polygonal, etc.

[0079] In some implementations, the electrode assembly has tabs that allow current to be drawn from the electrode assembly. The tabs include a positive tab and a negative tab.

[0080] In some embodiments, the battery cell 10 may include a housing 102. The housing 102 may be a steel housing, an aluminum housing, a plastic housing (such as a polypropylene housing), or a composite metal housing (such as a copper-aluminum composite housing), etc.

[0081] In some embodiments, the housing 102 may be a sealed structure. The housing 102 is used to encapsulate components such as electrode assemblies and electrolytes.

[0082] As an example, the battery cell 10 can be a cylindrical battery cell, a prismatic battery cell, a pouch battery cell, or a battery cell of other shapes. Prismatic battery cells include prismatic battery cells, blade-shaped battery cells, and multi-prismatic battery cells, such as hexagonal prismatic battery cells. There are no particular limitations in this disclosure.

[0083] In some embodiments, the housing 102 includes an end cap and a housing, the housing having an opening, and the end cap covering the opening. The housing may have one or more openings. The end cap may also be provided one or more.

[0084] In some embodiments, at least one electrode terminal is provided on the housing 102, and the electrode terminal is electrically connected to the tab. The electrode terminal can be directly connected to the tab, or it can be indirectly connected to the tab through a current collector. The electrode terminal can be provided on the end cap or on the housing.

[0085] In some embodiments, the battery cell assembly is typically formed by arranging multiple battery cells 10.

[0086] The battery device 100 mentioned in the embodiments of this disclosure may include one or more battery cell assemblies for providing voltage and capacity.

[0087] As an example, a battery cell assembly can be a battery module, which is formed by arranging and fixing multiple battery cells 10 together to form an independent module. As an example, a battery module can be formed by bundling multiple battery cells 10 together with cable ties.

[0088] The battery cell 10 and battery device 100 provided in this embodiment can be used in electrical equipment and energy storage devices.

[0089] Electrical equipment includes, but is not limited to, mobile phones, tablets, laptops, electric toys, power tools, vehicles 1000, ships, or spacecraft. Among them, vehicles 1000 can include electric vehicles and electric cars, electric toys can include electric vehicles and electric cars, etc., stationary or mobile electric toys, such as game consoles, electric car toys, electric ship toys, and electric airplane toys, etc., and spacecraft can include airplanes, rockets, space shuttles, and spacecraft, etc.

[0090] Energy storage equipment includes, but is not limited to, energy storage containers or energy storage cabinets.

[0091] In the following embodiments, for ease of explanation, a vehicle 1000 is used as an example of an electrical device according to an embodiment of this disclosure. The description is as follows, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0092] Figure 1 is a structural schematic diagram of a vehicle 1000 provided in some embodiments of this disclosure. The vehicle 1000 can be a gasoline-powered vehicle, a natural gas-powered vehicle, or a new energy vehicle. New energy vehicles can be pure electric vehicles, hybrid electric vehicles, or range-extended electric vehicles, etc. As shown in Figure 1, a battery device 100 is disposed inside the vehicle 1000. The battery device 100 can be located at the bottom, front, or rear of the vehicle 1000. The battery device 100 can be used to power the vehicle 1000; for example, the battery device 100 can serve as the operating power source for the vehicle 1000. The vehicle 1000 may also include a controller 200 and a motor 300. The controller 200 is used to control the battery device 100 to supply power to the motor 300, for example, to meet the power requirements of the vehicle 1000 during starting, navigation, and driving.

[0093] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the battery device 100 can not only serve as the operating power source for the vehicle 1000, but also as the driving power source for the vehicle 1000, replacing or partially replacing fuel or natural gas to provide driving power for the vehicle 1000.

[0094] Referring to Figure 2, the battery cell 10 provided in this embodiment includes a switching valve 101, which is disposed on the housing 102. For example, the switching valve 101 can be disposed on an end cap or a housing. The switching valve 101 is used to open and close the internal cavity of the battery cell 10. The internal cavity of the battery cell 10, i.e., the internal cavity of the housing 102, is used to accommodate electrode components and electrolyte.

[0095] For example, the switching valve 101 can be a normally closed switching valve. A normally closed switching valve means that the switching valve remains closed when no external force is applied. In the battery production process, after the battery cell 10 undergoes a baking process, it undergoes a liquid injection process. During the baking process, the switching valve 101 can be opened by the valve opening device 1 of the baking equipment. After the vacuuming process is completed, the switching valve 101 can be closed before the vacuum is broken. In this way, the internal cavity of the battery cell 10 is kept in a vacuum state before entering the liquid injection process.

[0096] As an example, referring to Figures 2 and 3, the switching valve 101 may include a valve core 1011 and a valve body 1012. The valve body 1012 is sealingly connected to the housing 102, and the valve core 1011 has an air passage. When the switching valve 101 is in the closed state, the valve body 1012 seals and closes the air passage. When the switching valve 101 is in the open state, the air passage communicates with the internal cavity of the housing 102. The valve core 1011 moves relative to the valve body 1012 along a first direction X to switch between the closed and open states.

[0097] In this embodiment, the valve core 1011 is in a closed state under normal inactivity, and the valve body 1012 seals the air passage, preventing the internal cavity of the outer shell 102 from communicating with the outside through the air passage. When it is necessary to open the switch valve 101, the pressure head 121 presses against the valve core 1011 on the first side X1 to push the valve core 1011 to move towards the first side X1, causing the valve core 1011 to switch to the open state. The air passage avoids the valve body 1012, and the valve body 1012 no longer seals the air passage, thus realizing the valve opening.

[0098] Please refer to Figures 2 and 4. The baking equipment provided in this embodiment includes the valve opening device 1 and the baking container as described in any embodiment of this disclosure. The baking container includes a baking cavity for accommodating the battery cell 10.

[0099] During the battery production process, before the electrolyte is injected into the internal cavity of the casing 102, the battery cell 10 needs to be placed in the baking cavity of the baking container for baking to ensure that the internal cavity is dry. In order to reduce the amount of air entering the internal cavity of the battery cell 10, the baking process needs to be carried out in a vacuum environment, and the inside of the baking container is in a vacuum state.

[0100] In this embodiment, the battery cell 10 is placed in the baking chamber, and the switch valve 101 is opened by the valve opening device 1, so that the battery cell 10 is baked in the baking chamber, thereby reducing the water content of the battery cell 10.

[0101] The production line provided in this disclosure is used to produce battery cells 10, and the production line includes the baking equipment provided in any embodiment of this disclosure.

[0102] In related technologies, multiple battery cells are placed inside the baking cavity. During the baking process, the baking cavity is usually in a high-temperature vacuum environment, making it difficult to open the switching valve. If each battery cell's switching valve corresponds to an independently controllable valve opening mechanism, the valve opening mechanism can be independently controlled, meaning that the valve opening mechanism has a power source to realize the valve opening action. Multiple valve opening mechanisms can open multiple battery cells. However, if the number of valve opening mechanisms is too large, too many power sources such as motors are required, making the operation complex and costly.

[0103] In view of this, the present disclosure provides a valve opening device for use in a baking equipment. The valve opening device includes a mounting component, a valve opening fixture, and a drive mechanism. The valve opening fixture is disposed on a first side of the mounting component along a first direction, and includes at least two pressure heads, each pressure head being used to open the switching valve of at least one battery cell. The drive mechanism drives the mounting component to move the valve opening fixture in a linear reciprocating motion along the first direction.

[0104] The valve opening device provided in this embodiment has a drive mechanism that drives the mounting component to move the valve opening fixture in a linear reciprocating motion along a first direction. When it is necessary to open the switch valve, the drive mechanism drives the mounting component to move the valve opening fixture towards the first side to the location of the switch valve, where the pressure head contacts and presses against the switch valve to open it, completing the valve opening action. When it is necessary to close the switch valve, the drive mechanism drives the mounting component to move the valve opening fixture towards the second side away from the switch valve, the pressure head releases its force on the switch valve, and the switch valve can return to the closed state, completing the valve closing action. The valve opening fixture has at least two pressure heads, each corresponding to at least one switch valve. The valve opening device can drive multiple pressure heads to move synchronously through the mounting component, realizing batch valve opening of multiple battery cells, reducing the number of drive mechanisms used, and simplifying the control process.

[0105] The valve opening device 1 provided in the present disclosure is further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Referring to Figures 2 to 10, the valve opening device 1 includes a mounting component 11, a valve opening fixture 12, and a drive mechanism 13. The valve opening fixture 12 is disposed on the first side X1 of the mounting component 11 along the first direction X. The valve opening fixture 12 includes at least two pressure heads 121, each pressure head 121 being used to open the switch valve 101 of at least one battery cell 10. The drive mechanism 13 drives the mounting component 11 to drive the valve opening fixture 12 to perform linear reciprocating motion along the first direction X.

[0106] The drive mechanism 13 is a mechanism that can provide power and drive the movement of structural components.

[0107] The pressure head 121 is used to contact and open the switch valve 101.

[0108] For example, when it is necessary to open the switch valve 101, the drive mechanism 13 drives the mounting part 11 to move the valve opening tool 12 to the first side X1 in the first direction X to the location of the switch valve 101. The pressure head 121 contacts and presses against the switch valve 101 to open the switch valve 101, completing the valve opening action. The internal cavity of the battery cell 10 can be connected to the baking chamber, which can heat the battery cell 10 to evaporate the water vapor in the internal cavity of the battery cell 10, thereby reducing the water content of the battery cell 10. After baking, the drive mechanism 13 can drive the mounting part 11 to move the valve opening device 1 to the second side X2 in the first direction X. The pressure head 121 can be separated from the switch valve 101. The pressure head 121 removes the force on the switch valve 101, and the switch valve 101 can return to the closed state, completing the valve closing action. The internal cavity of the battery cell 10 returns to the sealed state.

[0109] It is understandable that the first side X1 and the second side X2 are two sides opposite to the first direction X. Taking the first side X1 as the lower side as an example, the second side X2 is the upper side, and the first direction X is the vertical direction. That is to say, when the first direction X is the vertical direction, the valve opening fixture 12 can be set on the lower side of the mounting part 11, and the battery cell 10 can be located below the pressure head 121.

[0110] Each pressure head 121 is used to open the switching valve 101 of at least one battery cell 10, that is, each pressure head 121 is used to open the switching valve 101 of one battery cell 10, or each pressure head 121 is used to open the switching valves 101 of multiple battery cells 10. This disclosure is illustrated by way of example, where each pressure head 121 opens the switching valve 101 of one battery cell 10.

[0111] The valve opening device 1 provided in this embodiment has a driving mechanism 13 driving the mounting component 11 to drive the valve opening fixture 12 to reciprocate linearly along the first direction X. When it is necessary to open the switch valve 101, the driving mechanism 13 drives the mounting component 11 to move the valve opening fixture 12 towards the first side X1 to the location of the switch valve 101, and the pressure head 121 contacts and presses against the switch valve 101 to open the switch valve 101, thus completing the valve opening action. When it is necessary to close the switch valve 101, the driving mechanism 13 drives the mounting component 11 to move the valve opening fixture 12 towards the second side X2 to move away from the switch valve 101, and the pressure head 121 removes the force on the switch valve 101, allowing the switch valve 101 to return to the closed state, thus completing the valve closing action. The valve opening fixture 12 has at least two pressure heads 121, each pressure head 121 corresponding to at least one switch valve 101. The valve opening device 1 can drive multiple pressure heads 121 to move synchronously through the mounting part 11, so as to realize the batch opening of multiple battery cells 10, reduce the number of drive mechanisms 13 used, and simplify the control process.

[0112] In related technologies, multiple battery cells may have a height difference in the first direction. That is, at least two switching valves may not be in the same plane. For example, multiple battery cells may be placed on a support surface. If the support surface is not flat enough, it will cause a height difference between the battery cells. For example, there may be a height difference of ±2mm. The distance between the switching valve and the valve opening structure is different, which may cause some switching valves to not open fully.

[0113] In some embodiments, please refer to Figures 5, 6, 9 and 10, the valve opening fixture 12 includes a deformable body 122 capable of elastic deformation, the deformable body 122 being disposed on a first side X1 of the mounting member 11 along a first direction X, and the pressure head 121 being disposed on the side of the deformable body 122 away from the mounting member 11.

[0114] The ability of the deformable body 122 to undergo elastic deformation means that the deformable body 122 can undergo reversible deformation under the action of both the pressure head 121 and the switching valve 101. Specifically, when the pressure head 121 applies force against the switching valve 101, the deformable body 122 undergoes elastic deformation; when the pressure head 121 separates from the switching valve 101, i.e., when the force is removed, the deformable body 122 returns to its elastic deformation.

[0115] When there is a height difference among multiple battery cells 10 in the first direction X, the valve opening fixture 12 moves towards the switching valve 101 along the first direction X. Some pressure heads 121 first press against the switching valve 101 at a relatively smaller distance, and the deformation parts 122 can undergo elastic deformation. The valve opening fixture 12 can then move further towards the switching valve 101. In this way, the deformation parts 122 corresponding to the pressure heads 121 at a relatively smaller distance deform more, while the deformation parts 122 corresponding to the pressure heads 121 at a relatively larger distance deform less. The deformation of the deformation parts 122 is used to compensate for the height difference until all pressure heads 121 press against all switching valves 101 and the valves are fully opened. In other words, the height difference is compensated by the adaptive deformation of the deformation parts 122, thereby increasing the probability of fully opening the valves.

[0116] In this embodiment, when there is a height difference among multiple battery cells 10 in the first direction X, the deformation type 122 can undergo elastic deformation. The deformation of the deformation type 122 is used to compensate for the height difference. In other words, the deformation type 122 is used to compensate for the height difference by having adaptive deformation, thereby increasing the probability of fully opening the valve.

[0117] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 5, 6, 9, and 10, the deformable part 122 employs a flexible structure. Specifically, the surface of the deformable part 122 facing the first side X1 undergoes elastic deformation, indenting and recovering from the indentation, under the pressure force of the pressure head 121 and the switching valve 101. That is, the deformable part 122 is a non-spring structure. Exemplarily, the deformable part 122 may be block-shaped or strip-shaped.

[0118] Flexible structures refer to structures made of flexible materials.

[0119] Flexible materials refer to materials that can undergo elastic deformation under the force of the pressure head 121 and the switching valve 101. Flexible structures can undergo reversible deformation under the force of the pressure head 121 and the switching valve 101.

[0120] In this embodiment, the deformable part 122 utilizes a flexible material to undergo reversible shape changes to meet deformation requirements. The deformable part 122 has a simple structure and is easy to manufacture. When producing battery cells 10 of different sizes, it is not necessary to adjust the position of the deformable part 122. It can be compatible with battery cells 10 of different sizes, improve versatility, and reduce the need for changing valve opening tooling 12.

[0121] In some embodiments, the pressure head 121 may have a rigid structure.

[0122] Rigid structures refer to structures made of rigid materials.

[0123] Hard materials refer to materials that cannot undergo elastic deformation under the force of the pressure head 121 and the switching valve 101.

[0124] In this embodiment, the pressure head 121 will not deform when it applies force to the switch valve 101, which to a certain extent avoids the problem of insufficient valve opening caused by poor contact between the pressure head 121 and the switch valve 101 due to deformation of the pressure head 121.

[0125] In some embodiments, please refer to Figures 5, 6, 9 and 10, the deformable part 122 extends along the second direction Y, and at least two pressure heads 121 are spaced apart along the second direction Y on the same deformable part 122, and the first direction X and the second direction Y intersect.

[0126] For example, the first direction X can be the up-down direction, the second direction Y can be perpendicular to the first direction X, and the second direction Y can be a direction parallel to the horizontal plane.

[0127] In this embodiment, at least two pressure heads 121 are spaced apart on the same deformable body 122, simplifying the structure and reducing manufacturing and assembly difficulties. The pressure heads 121 on the same deformable body 122 are spaced apart from each other, so that each pressure head 121 can move independently under the elastic deformation of the deformable body 122, avoiding mutual interference between the pressure heads 121.

[0128] In some embodiments, the hardness of the indenter 121 is greater than the hardness of the deformed part 122.

[0129] In this embodiment, the hardness of the pressure head 121 is relatively greater than that of the deformation shape 122. Under the same force, the deformation shape 122 can undergo elastic deformation, while the pressure head 121 maintains its shape. In this way, the pressure head 121 can effectively press against the switch valve 101 to open the valve, and the deformation shape 122 undergoes elastic deformation to meet the height difference requirement.

[0130] In some embodiments, the hardness of the deformable part 122 is between 60A and 90A. Preferably, the hardness of the deformable part 122 is between 65A and 75A. Exemplarily, the hardness of the deformable part 122 can be 60A, 63A, 65A, 70A, 72A, 75A, 80A, 85A, or 90A, etc.

[0131] In this embodiment, the hardness of the deformable body 122 is moderate, which allows it to undergo elastic deformation under the action of the pressure head 121 and the switching valve 101, and to quickly return to its basic shape when the force of the pressure head 121 and the switching valve 101 is removed.

[0132] It should be noted that the hardness of the deformation variant 122 is between 60A and 90A, using Shore A hardness, which can be measured using a ball hardness tester.

[0133] In some embodiments, the deformable form 122 may be at least one of TPU (Thermoplastic Urethane), TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer), EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer), and silicone rubber.

[0134] In some embodiments, the hardness of the indenter 121 is between HR80 and HR120. Preferably, the hardness of the indenter 121 is between HR90 and HR110. Exemplarily, the hardness of the indenter 121 can be HR80, HR85, HR90, HR93, HR92, HR100, HR105, HR110, HR115, or HR120, etc.

[0135] The hardness of the indenter 121 is between HR80 and HR120, and it uses Rockwell hardness.

[0136] In this embodiment, the pressure head 121 has moderate hardness, which can take into account both production cost requirements and prevent deformation when the pressure switch valve 101 is subjected to force.

[0137] It should be noted that the hardness of indenter 121 can be measured using Rockwell hardness testing, which can be done with a Rockwell hardness tester. It is also understandable that the hardness of indenter 121 can be measured using Shore hardness testing, which can be done with a ball hardness tester.

[0138] In some embodiments, the pressure head 121 may be made of rigid engineering plastics, such as at least one of fiberglass board, PEEK (polyetheretherketone), PA (polyamide), PI (polyimide), PAI (polyamide-imide), and PU (polyurethane). These materials possess good high-temperature resistance and wear resistance, enabling them to withstand the high-temperature environment within the baking cavity.

[0139] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 5, 6, 9 and 10, the pressure head 121 includes an opening valve surface 121a facing the first side X1, a portion of which is recessed to form an exhaust groove 121ab.

[0140] For example, the valve opening surface 121a can abut against the valve core 1011 of the switching valve 101 and push the valve core 1011 to move towards the inside of the battery cell 10, so that the air passage of the valve core 1011 is connected to the internal cavity of the housing 102, until the valve opening surface 121a abuts against the surface of the housing 102, so that the pressure head 121 stops moving. Part of the valve opening surface 121a is recessed to form an exhaust groove 121ab. The exhaust groove 121ab is not closed by the surface of the housing 102. The gas in the internal cavity of the housing 102 is discharged to the baking cavity through the air passage and the exhaust groove 121ab, thereby realizing the exhaust and vacuuming of the battery cell 10.

[0141] In this embodiment, the exhaust groove 121ab is open to the first side X1. During the valve opening process, the exhaust groove 121ab will not be closed by the surface of the outer shell 102 facing the second side X2. The exhaust groove 121ab can connect the baking chamber and the air passage of the valve core 1011, so that the gas in the internal chamber of the battery cell 10 is discharged into the baking chamber, thereby realizing the exhaust and vacuuming of the battery cell 10.

[0142] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 5, 6, 9, and 10, the venting groove 121ab may penetrate the circumferential surface of the pressure head 121. The circumferential surface of the pressure head 121 refers to the surface of the pressure head 121 surrounding the first direction X. Taking the pressure head 121 as generally hexahedral as an example, the venting groove 121ab may penetrate at least one side of the pressure head 121 along the second direction Y, and / or, the venting groove 121ab may penetrate at least one side of the pressure head 121 along the third direction Z.

[0143] In this embodiment, the exhaust groove 121ab penetrates the circumferential surface of the pressure head 121, and the gas discharged from the air passage of the switching valve 101 can enter the baking chamber from the circumference of the pressure head 121 along the exhaust groove 121ab.

[0144] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 5, 6, 9, and 10, the pressure head 121 can be generally plate-shaped. The pressure head 121 has a simple structure and is easy to manufacture.

[0145] The connection method between the pressure head 121 and the deformable part 122 is not limited. For example, the pressure head 121 can be detachably connected to the deformable part 122 or non-detachably connected. For example, the pressure head 121 and the deformable part 122 can be glued, snapped together, or connected by fasteners, etc.

[0146] In some embodiments, the pressure head 121 forms a mounting groove, and the end face of the pressure head 121 facing the second side X2 forms a first opening communicating with the mounting groove. The deformable form 122 includes a mounting portion and a neck connected to the mounting portion. The mounting portion is embedded in the mounting groove, and the neck extends out of the first opening. Taking a plane perpendicular to the first direction X as the projection plane, the projection of the neck is within the projection range of the mounting portion, and the projection of the first opening is within the projection range of the mounting groove. Taking a plane perpendicular to the second direction Y as the cross-section, the cross-sectional shapes of both the mounting groove and the first opening are approximately inverted T-shaped. Thus, the mounting portion cannot be dislodged from the mounting groove through the first opening, thereby facilitating the fixation between the deformable form 122 and the pressure head 121.

[0147] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 5, 6, 9, and 10, the valve opening fixture 12 includes a base 123 connected to the mounting member 11. The base 123 has a fixing groove, and the deformable part 122 includes a fixing part embedded in the fixing groove. Thus, the deformable part 122 is assembled to the base 123.

[0148] In some embodiments, the end face of the base 123 facing the first side X1 forms a second opening communicating with the fixing groove. The deformable part 122 includes a main body connected to the fixing part, with a plane perpendicular to the first direction X as the projection plane. The projection of the main body is located within the projection range of the fixing part, and the projection of the second opening is located within the projection range of the fixing groove. The fixing part is accommodated in the fixing groove, and the main body extends out of the second opening. The main body can be connected to the neck, with a plane perpendicular to the second direction Y as the cross-section. The cross-sectional shapes of both the fixing groove and the second opening are approximately T-shaped, so that the fixing part cannot be dislodged from the fixing groove through the second opening, so that the deformable part 122 can be fixed to the base 123.

[0149] In some embodiments, the deformable part 122 can be a one-piece molded structure. In other embodiments, the deformable part 122 can be a structure in which the mounting part, neck, main body, and fixing part are manufactured separately and then assembled. The mounting part, neck, main body, and fixing part can be connected by means of adhesive or the like.

[0150] In some embodiments, the pressure head 121 can be a one-piece molded structure.

[0151] In some embodiments, the base 123 may be a one-piece molded structure.

[0152] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 5, 6, 9, and 10, the valve opening fixture 12 includes stop members 124 connected to the base 123. Two stop members 124 are respectively disposed at both ends of the deformable body 122 along the second direction Y. The connection between the stop members 124 and the deformable body 122 can reduce the risk of bending deformation of the deformable body 122 along the second direction Y.

[0153] In some embodiments, the valve opening device 1 includes an adjusting member and a locking member. The adjusting member is connected to the valve opening fixture 12 and is movably disposed on the mounting member 11 to drive the valve opening fixture 12 to move. The locking member is used to selectively unlock or lock the adjusting member.

[0154] Different types of battery cells 10 may have different sizes, and the switching valve 101 may have different positions on the housing 102. For example, changes in the size of the battery cell 10 may cause changes in the relative positions of the pressure head 121 and the switching valve 101, and changes in the position of the switching valve 101 on the housing 102 may also cause changes in the relative positions of the pressure head 121 and the switching valve 101. To facilitate the pressure head 121 to be compatible with more types of battery cells 10, the position of the adjusting member can be changed to change the position of the valve opening fixture 12. When the valve opening fixture 12 moves to the target position, the locking member can lock the adjusting member. When it is necessary to adjust the position of the valve opening fixture 12 on the mounting member 11, the adjusting member can be unlocked, the adjusting member can be moved to move the valve opening fixture 12 to the target position, and then the locking member can lock the adjusting member. In this way, the valve opening position can be changed by changing the position of the adjusting member, thereby adapting to different types of battery cells 10.

[0155] In this embodiment, the adjusting member can drive the valve opening fixture 12 to move. The position of the valve opening fixture 12 can be changed by changing the position of the adjusting member. When the valve opening fixture 12 moves to the target position, the locking member can lock the adjusting member. When it is necessary to adjust the valve opening fixture 12, the locking member can be unlocked and the adjusting member can be moved. In this way, the valve opening position can be changed by changing the position of the adjusting member, thereby adapting to different types of battery cells 10 and improving the versatility of the valve opening device 1.

[0156] For example, in some embodiments, the mounting member 11 may have multiple mounting holes, and the adjusting member can be inserted into any one of the mounting holes. Thus, the position of the adjusting member can be changed by connecting to different mounting holes.

[0157] In some embodiments, at least two pressure heads 121 are arranged along the second direction Y, and the adjusting member is capable of reciprocating along the third direction Z, where the first direction X, the second direction Y, and the third direction Z intersect.

[0158] In this embodiment, at least two pressure heads 121 are arranged along the second direction Y to adapt to multiple battery cells 10 arranged along the second direction Y; the adjusting member can drive the valve opening fixture 12 to slide back and forth along the third direction Z to change the position of the valve opening fixture 12 in the third direction Z. When the valve opening fixture 12 slides to the target position, the locking member can lock the adjusting member. The adjusting member slides relative to the mounting member 11 and can also infinitely adjust the position of the valve opening fixture 12 to realize the continuous change of the position of the valve opening fixture 12 in the third direction Z.

[0159] It should be noted that the first direction X can be the up and down direction, the second direction Y can be the length direction of the valve opening fixture 12, and the third direction Z can be the width direction of the valve opening fixture 12. The first direction X, the second direction Y, and the third direction Z can be perpendicular to each other.

[0160] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 4 to 8, the mounting member 11 forms a groove 11a, and the adjusting member is slidably inserted into the groove 11a.

[0161] In this embodiment, the adjusting member passes through the slide groove 11a and can slide along the slide groove 11a. The slide groove 11a can limit the sliding trajectory of the adjusting member, so that the adjusting member can slide along the preset trajectory.

[0162] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 4 to 8, the groove 11a may be a straight groove extending along the third direction Z. That is, the shape of the groove 11a is generally straight, and the extension direction of the groove 11a is along the third direction Z.

[0163] In some embodiments, please refer to Figures 4 to 8, at least two slides 11a are arranged at intervals along the second direction Y to form a sliding group 11ab, each sliding group 11ab corresponds to a valve opening fixture 12, and each slide 11a is fitted with an adjusting member.

[0164] When it is necessary to adjust the position of the valve opening fixture 12, at least one adjusting component on the valve opening fixture 12 can be unlocked, and the position of the valve opening fixture 12 can be changed by moving the adjusting component. After the adjustment is completed, all locking components of the valve opening fixture 12 can be locked.

[0165] In this embodiment, a valve opening fixture 12 can be provided with multiple adjusting components. The multiple adjusting components of a valve opening fixture 12 can be arranged at intervals along the second direction Y. This can improve the assembly stability of the valve opening fixture 12 and reduce the risk of the valve opening fixture 12 shifting in the second direction Y.

[0166] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 4 to 8, at least two valve opening fixtures 12 can be arranged at intervals along the third direction Z, and at least two sliding groups 11ab can be arranged at intervals along the third direction Z. In this way, multiple valve opening fixtures 12 can be provided on a single mounting member 11, and each valve opening fixture 12 can slide along the third direction Z.

[0167] In some embodiments, the adjusting member is a rod-shaped structure with external threads, and the locking member includes two locking nuts. The adjusting member passes through a groove 11a, and the two locking nuts are located on both sides of the mounting member along the first direction X, and are threadedly engaged with the adjusting member. The two locking nuts can be tightened to abut against the mounting member to lock the adjusting member. The two locking nuts can be loosened to separate from the mounting member to unlock the adjusting member.

[0168] In some embodiments, please refer to Figures 4 to 8, the drive mechanism 13 includes a variable volume structure 131, which is connected to the mounting member 11. The volume of the variable volume structure 131 changes to drive the mounting member 11 to move along a first direction X.

[0169] Variable volume structure 131 is a structure that can change its volume.

[0170] In this embodiment, the driving force is provided by the volume change of the variable volume structure 131, which enables the mounting part 11 to move along the first direction X. The structure is simple and easy to implement.

[0171] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 4 to 8, the variable volume structure 131 includes a bladder 1311 for storing fluid, the volume of the fluid in the bladder 1311 being changed to change the volume of the bladder 1311.

[0172] A fluid is a flowing medium, and the type of fluid is not limited. For example, fluids include, but are not limited to, liquids and gases. For instance, fluids can be air or liquid water, etc.

[0173] The capsule 1311 is a soft structure that can undergo elastic deformation. When the volume of fluid in the capsule 1311 decreases, the capsule 1311 contracts to reduce its volume. When the volume of fluid in the capsule 1311 increases, the capsule 1311 expands to increase its volume.

[0174] In this embodiment, the capsule 1311 has a simple structure, is easy to manufacture, and is inexpensive. By changing the volume of the fluid, the volume of the capsule 1311 is changed, thereby driving the mounting member 11 to move along the first direction X. When the capsule 1311 drives the mounting member 11 to push the pressure head 121 against the switching valve 101, the capsule 1311 can provide a buffering function, reducing the impact force between the pressure head 121 and the switching valve 101, and the pressure head 121 can push the valve core 1011 of the switching valve 101 more smoothly.

[0175] The material of the capsule 1311 is not limited. The capsule 1311 can be made of flexible material. For example, the capsule 1311 can be made of silicone, rubber or polyethylene, etc.

[0176] The shape of the capsule 1311 is not limited. For example, the capsule 1311 may be a generally hollow spherical structure or a corrugated tube structure with its axis extending along the first direction X, etc.

[0177] In some embodiments, the valve opening device 1 includes a pump body that can pump fluid into or aspirate fluid from the bladder 1311. The pump body provides power to drive fluid into or out of the bladder 1311, thus changing the volume of the bladder 1311.

[0178] In some embodiments, the pump body includes, but is not limited to, an air pump or a water pump, etc.

[0179] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 4 to 8, the drive mechanism 13 includes an elastic element 132, and the mounting member 11 has an open valve position and an initial position in the first direction X. When the mounting member 11 is in the open valve position, the pressure head 121 is used to open the switch valve 101. When the mounting member 11 is in the initial position, the pressure head 121 avoids the switch valve 101. The variable volume structure 131 and the elastic element 132 work together to switch the mounting member 11 between the open valve position and the initial position.

[0180] In this embodiment, when the mounting member 11 is in the open position, the pressure head 121 can press against the switch valve 101 to open it; when the mounting member 11 is in the initial position, the pressure head 121 avoids the switch valve 101, that is, the pressure head 121 separates from the switch valve 101 and does not open it. The combined action of the variable volume structure 131 and the elastic member 132 drives the mounting member 11 to move to either the open or initial position, improving operational reliability.

[0181] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 4 to 8, the elastic force of the elastic element 132 keeps the mounting member 11 in the initial position, and the volume change of the variable volume structure 131 moves the mounting member 11 from the initial position to the valve-opening position.

[0182] For example, when it is necessary to open the switch valve 101, the variable volume structure 131 can change its volume in the forward direction to apply a force to the mounting member 11, causing the elastic member 132 to undergo elastic deformation and causing the mounting member 11 to move from the initial position to the valve-open position; when it is not necessary to open the switch valve 101, for example, when baking is finished, the variable volume structure 131 can change its volume in the reverse direction to remove the force on the mounting member 11, and the elastic member 132 restores at least part of its elastic deformation, causing the mounting member 11 to return from the valve-open position to the initial position.

[0183] It is understandable that changing volume in the positive direction and changing volume in the negative direction are two opposite changes in volume. For example, if changing volume in the positive direction increases the volume, then changing volume in the negative direction decreases the volume; and if changing volume in the positive direction decreases the volume, then changing volume in the negative direction increases the volume.

[0184] In this embodiment, the influence of the environment inside the baking cavity on the elastic element 132 is relatively small compared to the electronic control device. The elastic force of the elastic element 132 is used to keep the mounting part 11 in the initial position, thereby improving the reliability of the mounting part 11.

[0185] The type of elastic element 132 is not limited. For example, the type of elastic element 132 includes, but is not limited to, a spring. Springs include, but are not limited to, tension springs or compression springs, etc.

[0186] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 4 to 8, the variable volume structure 131 is disposed on the second side X2 of the mounting member 11 along the first direction X.

[0187] When the variable volume structure 131 is provided on the second side X2 of the mounting member 11, the variable volume structure 131 can drive the mounting member 11 to move from the initial position to the valve opening position by increasing its volume.

[0188] In this embodiment, the variable volume structure 131 is located on the side of the mounting component 11 away from the battery cell 10, which can prevent the variable volume structure 131 from contacting the battery cell 10 and reduce the difficulty of assembly and operation.

[0189] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 4 to 8, the elastic element 132 is disposed on the second side X2 of the mounting member 11 along the first direction X.

[0190] When the elastic element 132 is provided on the second side X2 of the mounting member 11, the elastic element 132 can be a tension spring.

[0191] In this embodiment, the elastic element 132 is located on the side of the mounting member 11 away from the battery cell 10, which can prevent the elastic element 132 from contacting the battery cell 10 and reduce the difficulty of assembly and operation.

[0192] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 4 to 8, the variable volume structure 131 includes a bladder 1311, and the elastic element 132 can be a tension spring. The variable volume structure 131 is disposed on the second side X2 of the mounting member 11, and the elastic element 132 is disposed on the second side X2 of the mounting member 11. An increase in the volume of the bladder 1311 causes the spring to stretch and deform, moving the mounting member 11 from its initial position to the valve-opening position. A decrease in the volume of the bladder 1311 causes the spring to return to its stretching deformation, returning the mounting member 11 from the valve-opening position to its initial position.

[0193] The elastic element 132 is disposed on the second side X2 of the mounting member 11 along the first direction X. The elastic element 132 can also be used to bear the weight of the mounting member 11 and the valve opening tool 12, etc., so that the mounting member 11 can be kept in the initial position.

[0194] In this embodiment, the installation component 11 switches between the initial position and the valve-opening position through the combined effect of the change in the volume of the bladder 1311 and the elastic deformation of the elastic element 132.

[0195] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 4 to 8, there can be multiple elastic elements 132, which can be spaced apart. Multiple elastic elements 132 not only reduce the force on a single elastic element 132 and extend its service life, but also ensure that the mounting member 11 is subjected to balanced force, allowing each part of the mounting member 11 to rise and reset smoothly, avoiding localized misalignment caused by uneven force distribution.

[0196] In some embodiments, please refer to Figures 4 to 8. The valve opening device 1 includes a fixing frame 14 and a guide 15. The guide 15 is connected to the mounting member 11, and the fixing frame 14 and the guide 15 are slidably engaged.

[0197] In this embodiment, the guide 15 can drive the mounting part 11 to slide relative to the fixed frame 14. The fixed frame 14 and the guide 15 slide together, so that the guide 15 can slide along a set trajectory, reducing the risk of the mounting part 11 deviating during the sliding process.

[0198] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 4 to 8, the fixing frame 14 has a guide hole 14a, and the guide member 15 is slidably disposed within the guide hole 14a. That is, the guide member 15 is disposed within the guide hole 14a and can slide within the guide hole 14a.

[0199] The shape of the guide hole 14a is not limited. For example, the guide hole 14a may include, but is not limited to, a circle, an ellipse, or a polygon.

[0200] The shape of the guide member 15 can match the shape of the guide hole 14a. For example, if the guide hole 14a is circular, the guide member 15 can be a cylindrical rod-shaped structure. Or, for example, if the guide hole 14a is elliptical, the guide member 15 can be an elliptical rod-shaped structure.

[0201] There can be one or more guide members 15. Taking multiple guide members 15 as an example, the multiple guide members 15 can be distributed at intervals. In some embodiments, please refer to Figures 4 to 8, the multiple guide members 15 are distributed at intervals along the second direction Y. The number of guide holes 14a is the same as the number of guide members 15, and each guide member 15 corresponds to one guide hole 14a. In this way, the mounting member 11 can be evenly stressed, so that the mounting member 11 can move smoothly.

[0202] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 4 through 8, the variable volume structure 131 can connect the mounting bracket 14 and the mounting member 11. The mounting bracket 14 remains stationary, and the variable volume structure 131 changes its volume to drive the mounting member 11 to move relative to the mounting bracket 14 along a first direction X.

[0203] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 4 to 8, the elastic element 132 can connect the fixing frame 14 and the mounting member 11. The fixing frame 14 remains stationary, and the elastic element 132 can undergo elastic deformation under the action of the mounting member 11.

[0204] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 4 to 8, the fixing frame 14 includes a support plate 141 and two pillars 142, which are respectively located on both sides of the mounting member 11 along the second direction Y. The support plate 141 connects the two pillars 142. The variable volume structure 131 and the elastic member 132 can both be connected to the support plate 141. The support plate 141 forms a guide hole 14a, and the guide member 15 is slidably inserted into the guide hole 14a. The fixing frame 14 has a simple structure and is easy to manufacture.

[0205] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 4 to 8, there can be multiple variable volume structures 131, which are spaced apart. For example, the multiple variable volume structures 131 are spaced apart along the second direction Y and are all connected to the support plate 141. The multiple variable volume structures 131 not only reduce the driving force of a single variable volume structure 131 and improve its service life, but also ensure that the mounting member 11 is subjected to balanced forces, allowing all parts of the mounting member 11 to move smoothly.

[0206] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 4 to 8, the variable volume structure 131 includes two discs 1312, which are respectively connected to the fixing frame 14 and the mounting member 11, with the capsule 1311 disposed between the two discs 1312. Exemplarily, one disc 1312 is connected to the support plate 141, and the other disc 1312 is connected to the surface of the mounting member 11 facing the second side X2. The discs 1312 can more effectively clamp the capsule 1311, allowing the capsule 1311 to deform more smoothly.

[0207] The disk body 1312 and the mounting bracket 14 can be detachably or non-detachably connected. For example, the disk body 1312 and the mounting bracket 14 are connected by screws or bolts.

[0208] The disk body 1312 and the mounting component 11 can be detachably or non-detachably connected. For example, the disk body 1312 and the mounting component 11 are connected by screws or bolts.

[0209] The disc body 1312 and the bladder body 1311 can be detachably connected or non-detachably connected. For example, the disc body 1312 and the bladder body 1311 can be glued or welded, etc.

[0210] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 4 and 8, the mounting member 11 has a weight-reducing hole 11b. The weight-reducing hole 11b is used to reduce the weight of the mounting member 11 and reduce the load borne by the elastic member 132.

[0211] The number of weight-reducing holes 11b is not limited; for example, there may be one or more weight-reducing holes 11b. Multiple weight-reducing holes 11b may be distributed at intervals.

[0212] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 4 to 8, the mounting member 11 is generally flat and can be perpendicular to the first direction X. That is, the thickness direction of the mounting member 11 is consistent with the first direction X. The structure of the mounting member 11 is simple, easy to manufacture, and also facilitates the placement of the valve opening tooling 12 on the mounting member 11.

[0213] In some embodiments, please refer to Figures 4 to 8, the valve opening device 1 includes a heating box 16, which has a heating chamber for placing the battery cell 10.

[0214] For example, the battery cell 10 can be placed on the lower surface of the heating chamber.

[0215] In this embodiment, the heating chamber 16 can provide heat to bake the battery cells 10 inside the heating chamber.

[0216] In some embodiments, the lower sidewall of the heating chamber 16 can release heat energy to bake the battery cells 10. The lower sidewall of the heating chamber 16 can convert electrical energy or other energy sources into heat energy. For example, the lower sidewall of the heating chamber 16 can be a resistance heating element and / or a PTC heating element. A PTC (Positive Temperature Coefficient) heating element refers to a heating element with a positive temperature coefficient.

[0217] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 4 to 8, the number of valve opening fixtures 12 is at least two, and the at least two valve opening fixtures 12 are spaced apart.

[0218] For example, see Figures 4 to 8, where at least two valve opening fixtures 12 are distributed at Z-intervals along the third direction.

[0219] In this embodiment, at least two valve opening fixtures 12 can increase the number of pressure heads 121 and can also be applied to battery cells 10 of different types and / or different arrangements.

[0220] The following describes the valve opening device 1 provided in this disclosure further with a specific embodiment. Referring to Figures 2 to 10, the valve opening device 1 includes a mounting member 11, a valve opening fixture 12, a drive mechanism 13, an adjusting member, and a locking member. The valve opening fixture 12 includes a deformable part 122, a base 123, and at least two pressure heads 121. The base 123 is connected to the mounting member 11 and has a fixing groove. The deformable part 122 includes a fixing portion embedded in the fixing groove. Each pressure head 121 is used to open the switch valve 101 of a battery cell 10. The deformable part 122 is disposed on a first side X1 of the mounting member 11 along a first direction X, and the pressure head 121 is disposed on the side of the deformable part 122 away from the mounting member 11. The deformable part 122 extends along a second direction Y, and at least two pressure heads 121 are spaced apart along the second direction Y on the same deformable part 122. The hardness of the pressure head 121 is greater than the hardness of the deformable part 122, and the deformable part 122 adopts a flexible structure. The pressure head 121 includes a valve opening surface 121a facing the first side X1, a portion of which is recessed to form an exhaust groove 121ab.

[0221] The adjusting member is connected to the valve opening fixture 12. The adjusting member is movably disposed on the mounting member 11 to drive the valve opening fixture 12 to move. The locking member is used to selectively unlock or lock the adjusting member. The mounting member 11 forms a slide groove 11a. The adjusting member is slidably disposed in the slide groove 11a. At least two slide grooves 11a are arranged at intervals along the second direction Y to form a sliding group 11ab. Each sliding group 11ab corresponds to one valve opening fixture 12. Each slide groove 11a is disposed of one adjusting member.

[0222] The drive mechanism 13 includes a variable volume structure 131 and an elastic element 132. The variable volume structure 131 includes a bladder 1311 for storing fluid. The volume of the fluid in the bladder 1311 changes to change the volume of the bladder 1311. The elastic force of the elastic element 132 keeps the mounting member 11 in its initial position, and the volume change of the variable volume structure 131 moves the mounting member 11 from the initial position to the valve-open position.

[0223] In this embodiment, when there is a height difference among multiple battery cells 10 in the first direction X, the deformation modulator 122 can undergo elastic deformation. The deformation magnitude of the deformation modulator 122 compensates for the height difference, that is, the height difference is compensated by the adaptive deformation of the deformation modulator 122, thereby increasing the probability of fully opening the valve. At least two pressure heads 121 are spaced apart on the same deformation modulator 122, simplifying the structure and reducing manufacturing and assembly difficulties. The pressure heads 121 on the same deformation modulator 122 are spaced apart from each other, so that each pressure head 121 can move independently under the elastic deformation of the deformation modulator 122, avoiding mutual interference between the pressure heads 121. The exhaust groove 121ab is open towards the first side X1. During the valve opening process, the exhaust groove 121ab will not be closed by the surface of the outer shell 102 facing the second side X2. The exhaust groove 121ab can connect the baking chamber and the air passage of the valve core 1011, so that the gas in the internal chamber of the battery cell 10 is discharged into the baking chamber, realizing the exhaust and vacuuming of the battery cell 10. The adjusting member passes through the slide groove 11a and can slide along the slide groove 11a. The slide groove 11a can limit the sliding trajectory of the adjusting member, so that the adjusting member can slide along a preset trajectory. The position of the valve opening operation can be changed by changing the position of the adjusting member, thereby adapting to different types of battery cells 10 and improving the versatility of the valve opening device 1. The volume of the bladder 1311 is changed by the volume change of the fluid, thereby driving the mounting member 11 to move along the first direction X. When the bladder 1311 drives the mounting member 11 to push the pressure head 121 against the switching valve 101, the bladder 1311 can provide a buffer function to reduce the impact force between the pressure head 121 and the switching valve 101, and the pressure head 121 can push the valve core 1011 of the switching valve 101 more smoothly.

[0224] The above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this disclosure, and are not intended to limit it. Although this disclosure 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. Such 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 disclosure. In particular, as long as there is no structural conflict, the various technical features mentioned in each embodiment can be combined in any way.

Claims

1. A valve opening device for use in a baking apparatus, the valve opening device comprising: Installation components; A valve opening fixture is disposed on a first side of the mounting component along a first direction. The valve opening fixture includes at least two pressure heads, each of which is used to open the switching valve of at least one battery cell. The driving mechanism drives the mounting component to move the valve opening fixture in a linear reciprocating motion along a first direction.

2. The valve opening device according to claim 1, wherein, The valve opening fixture includes a deformable body capable of elastic deformation, the deformable body being disposed on a first side of the mounting member along a first direction, and the pressure head being disposed on the side of the deformable body away from the mounting member.

3. The valve opening device according to claim 2, wherein, The deformable body extends along a second direction, and at least two pressure heads are spaced apart along the second direction on the same deformable body, with the first and second directions intersecting.

4. The valve opening device according to claim 2, wherein, The hardness of the indenter is greater than the hardness of the deformed shape.

5. The valve opening device according to claim 2, wherein, The hardness of the deformed material is between 60A and 90A; and / or, The hardness of the indenter is between HR80 and HR120.

6. The valve opening device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The pressure head includes an opening valve surface facing the first side, a portion of which is recessed to form an exhaust groove.

7. The valve opening device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, The valve opening device includes an adjusting component and a locking component. The adjusting component is connected to the valve opening fixture and is movably disposed on the mounting component to drive the valve opening fixture to move. The locking component is used to selectively unlock or lock the adjusting component.

8. The valve opening device according to claim 7, wherein, At least two of the pressure heads are arranged along a second direction, and the adjusting member is capable of reciprocating along a third direction, wherein the first direction, the second direction, and the third direction intersect.

9. The valve opening device according to claim 7, wherein, The mounting component forms a groove, and the adjusting component is slidably inserted into the groove.

10. The valve opening device according to claim 9, wherein, At least two of the slides are arranged at intervals along the second direction to form a sliding group, each sliding group corresponds to one of the valve opening fixtures, and each slide is provided with an adjusting member.

11. The valve opening device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein, The driving mechanism includes a variable volume structure connected to the mounting component, the volume of which changes to drive the mounting component to move along a first direction.

12. The valve opening device according to claim 11, wherein, The variable volume structure includes a capsule for storing fluid, the volume of which is changed to alter the volume of the capsule.

13. The valve opening device according to claim 11, wherein, The drive mechanism includes an elastic element, and the mounting member has an open valve position and an initial position in a first direction. When the mounting member is in the open valve position, the pressure head is used to open the switch valve. When the mounting member is in the initial position, the pressure head avoids the switch valve. The variable volume structure and the elastic element work together to allow the mounting component to switch between the valve-opening position and the initial position.

14. The valve opening device according to claim 13, wherein, The elastic force of the elastic element keeps the mounting member in the initial position, and the volume change of the variable volume structure moves the mounting member from the initial position to the valve opening position.

15. The valve opening device according to claim 13, wherein, The variable volume structure is disposed on the second side of the mounting component along the first direction.

16. The valve opening device according to claim 13, wherein, The elastic element is disposed on the second side of the mounting member along the first direction.

17. The valve opening device according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein, The valve opening device includes a fixed frame and a guide member. The guide member is connected to the mounting member, and the fixed frame is slidably engaged with the guide member.

18. The valve opening device according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein, The valve opening device includes a heating box, which forms a heating chamber for placing individual battery cells.

19. The valve opening device according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein, The number of valve opening fixtures is at least two, and the at least two valve opening fixtures are spaced apart.

20. A baking apparatus, comprising: The valve opening device according to any one of claims 1 to 19; A baking container, including a baking cavity for accommodating individual battery cells.

21. A production line for producing battery cells, comprising the baking equipment of claim 20.

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