O-ring for electrolyte injection
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2026-01-07
- Publication Date
- 2026-08-13
Smart Images
Figure KR2026000358_13082026_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
Electrolyte injection O-ring
[0001] The present invention relates to an electrolyte injection O-ring, and more specifically, to an electrolyte injection O-ring capable of preventing electrolyte residue at the injection port of a battery cell and / or the surface of the O-ring.
[0002] This application is a priority claim application for Korean Patent Application No. 10-2025-0016763 filed on February 10, 2025, and all contents disclosed in the specification and drawings of said application are incorporated into this application by reference.
[0003] Secondary batteries, which possess electrical characteristics such as high energy density and high applicability across product groups, are widely applied not only to portable devices but also to electric vehicles (EVs) or hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) powered by electric sources. These secondary batteries are attracting attention as a new energy source for enhancing eco-friendliness and energy efficiency, not only for the primary advantage of drastically reducing the use of fossil fuels but also because they generate no by-products from energy use.
[0004] Currently, widely used types of rechargeable batteries include lithium-ion batteries, lithium-polymer batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-hydrogen batteries, and nickel-zinc batteries. Lithium-ion batteries primarily utilize lithium-based oxides and carbon materials as the positive and negative active materials, respectively. A lithium-ion battery comprises an electrode assembly in which a positive plate and a negative plate, coated with these positive and negative active materials respectively, are arranged with a separator in between, and an outer casing, or battery case, that seals and encloses the electrode assembly along with the electrolyte. Furthermore, depending on the shape of the outer casing, lithium-ion batteries can be classified into can-type batteries, in which the electrode assembly is housed in a metal can, and pouch-type batteries, in which the electrode assembly is housed in a pouch made of aluminum laminate sheets.
[0005] Meanwhile, in the manufacturing process of cylindrical secondary batteries, after inserting the electrode assembly into the battery can, an electrolyte injection process is performed to inject the electrolyte for activation. During this process, an O-ring can be used to maintain a sealed state in order to inject the electrolyte into the battery can through the injection port.
[0006] Figure 1 is a drawing to explain the appearance of residual electrolyte remaining on the surface of an O-ring after an electrolyte injection process using a conventional O-ring, and Figure 2 is a drawing to explain the appearance of residual electrolyte remaining in the injection port of a battery cell after an electrolyte injection process using a conventional O-ring.
[0007] However, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the conventional O-ring (0) had a problem in that the electrolyte (E') remained on the injection port (40) or the surface of the O-ring (0) even after the injection process. This residual electrolyte (E') is a major cause of increased defect rates during the welding process to seal the injection port (40) later on, and the chemical residue of the electrolyte (E') causes the O-ring (0) to deteriorate, resulting in a reduced lifespan. This problem acts as a factor that lowers the efficiency of the secondary battery manufacturing process and product reliability.
[0008] Therefore, a new design for an electrolyte injection O-ring with an improved structure is required to prevent electrolyte from remaining on the injection port or O-ring surface after the electrolyte injection process.
[0009] Therefore, the technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide an electrolyte injection O-ring capable of reducing the electrolyte remaining on the O-ring surface after the electrolyte injection process is completed.
[0010] Alternatively, in one aspect, an electrolyte injection O-ring is provided that can reduce the electrolyte remaining in the injection port of a battery cell after the electrolyte injection process is completed.
[0011] Alternatively, in one aspect, it is to provide an electrolyte injection O-ring that can improve its own lifespan.
[0012] Alternatively, in one aspect, the invention provides an electrolyte injection O-ring that prevents electrolyte leakage to the outside of the battery can during the electrolyte injection process and can reduce the defect rate of the welding process.
[0013] Alternatively, in one aspect, it is to provide an electrolyte injection O-ring having anti-fouling, anti-fouling, or release properties.
[0014] Alternatively, in one aspect, the battery cell manufacturing process can be simplified and costs can be reduced by omitting the electrolyte cleaning process, thereby providing an electrolyte injection O-ring.
[0015] However, the technical problems that the present invention aims to solve are not limited to those described above, and other unmentioned problems will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the invention below.
[0016] To solve the above objective, the present invention provides an electrolyte injection O-ring characterized by comprising: a main body portion having one end in the direction of the central axis open and an internal space for receiving an electrolyte through the open end; an injection portion protruding along the direction of the central axis from the other end in the direction of the central axis of the main body portion; and a surface-treated processing layer on at least a portion of the surface of at least one of the main body portion and the injection portion to prevent the retention of the electrolyte.
[0017] For example, the main body may be moved along the central axis direction toward the injection port of the battery cell into which the electrolyte is injected.
[0018] For example, the main body may include a pressure surface provided at the other end in the direction of the central axis of the main body, having elasticity in at least a part; and an outer surface that surrounds the circumference of the central axis.
[0019] For example, the above-mentioned pressure surface may extend from the outer surface toward the central axis so as to be perpendicular to the central axis.
[0020] For example, the injection part is provided with an injection hole penetrating along the central axis, and the injection hole and the internal space of the main body part may be connected.
[0021] For example, the injection part may have elasticity in at least a part and may be inserted into the injection port of a battery cell into which the electrolyte is injected.
[0022] For example, the injection part includes an outer surface that surrounds the circumference of the central axis, and
[0023] The outer surface of the main body may have a longer radial length than the outer surface of the injection part.
[0024] For example, the outer surface of the injection part may have a radial length that decreases as it extends outward in the direction of the central axis.
[0025] For example, the injection part may include an inclined surface that extends obliquely along the radial direction and the central axis direction from the other end of the central axis direction of the main body part.
[0026] For example, the above-mentioned pressure surface may be seated and contacted toward one end of the winding axis direction of the battery cell into which the electrolyte is injected, and may be elastically deformed so as to be in close contact with one another upon contact.
[0027] For example, the above electrolyte may be spaced apart from one end of the winding axis direction of the battery cell into which it is injected by a predetermined distance.
[0028] For example, the above-mentioned pressure surface may be elastically deformed so as to be in close contact with at least a portion of the end of the winding axis direction of the battery cell when pressure is applied toward the end of the winding axis direction of the battery cell into which the electrolyte is injected.
[0029] For example, the above-mentioned pressure surface has a radial length shorter than one end in the winding axis direction of the battery cell into which the electrolyte is injected, and can be in close contact with at least a portion of the one end in the winding axis direction of the battery cell.
[0030] For example, the processing layer may be provided at least on the pressure surface.
[0031] For example, the above-mentioned processing layer may be provided on at least a portion of the surface of the injection hole. The above-mentioned processing layer may be provided on at least the outer surface of the injection part.
[0032] For example, the above-mentioned processing layer may be a coating layer having at least one of hydrophobicity, water repellency, chemical resistance, stain resistance, mold release, and antifouling properties.
[0033] For example, the coating layer may be composed of a polymer material including at least one of fluoropolymer, silicone, and epoxy.
[0034] For example, the above-mentioned processing layer may be a surface modified layer formed by surface modification to have at least one physical property among hydrophobicity, water repellency, chemical resistance, stain resistance, mold release, and antifouling properties.
[0035] For example, the surface modification layer can be formed by blasting, anodizing, etching, or plasma treatment.
[0036] The electrolyte injection O-ring according to various embodiments of the present invention has the effect of reducing the electrolyte remaining on the O-ring surface after the electrolyte injection process is completed.
[0037] Alternatively, in one aspect, the electrolyte injection O-ring according to various embodiments has the effect of reducing the electrolyte remaining in the injection port of the battery cell after the electrolyte injection process is completed.
[0038] Alternatively, in one aspect, the electrolyte injection O-ring according to various embodiments has the effect of improving its own lifespan.
[0039] Alternatively, in one aspect, the electrolyte injection O-ring according to various embodiments has the effect of preventing electrolyte leakage to the outside of the battery can during the electrolyte injection process and reducing the defect rate of the welding process.
[0040] Alternatively, in one aspect, it is to provide an electrolyte injection O-ring having anti-fouling, anti-fouling, or release properties.
[0041] Alternatively, in one aspect, the electrolyte injection O-ring according to various embodiments can simplify the battery cell manufacturing process by omitting the electrolyte cleaning process and has the effect of reducing costs.
[0042] However, the effects obtainable through the present invention are not limited to those described above, and other unmentioned technical effects will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the invention below.
[0043] The following drawings attached to this specification serve to further enhance understanding of the technical concept of the invention in conjunction with the detailed description of the invention set forth below; therefore, the invention should not be interpreted as being limited only to the matters described in such drawings.
[0044] Figure 1 is a diagram illustrating the appearance of residual electrolyte remaining on the surface of an O-ring after an electrolyte injection process using a conventional O-ring.
[0045] Figure 2 is a diagram illustrating the appearance of residual electrolyte remaining in the injection port of a battery cell after an electrolyte injection process using a conventional O-ring.
[0046] FIG. 3 is a drawing illustrating how an electrolyte injection O-ring according to one embodiment of the present invention is coupled to the injection port of a battery cell.
[0047] Figure 4 is a diagram illustrating the electrolyte injection O-ring of Figure 3 being coupled to the injection port of a battery cell to inject the electrolyte.
[0048] Figure 5 is a partial enlarged view of the electrolyte injection O-ring of Figure 3.
[0049] Figure 6 is a diagram illustrating the appearance of the pressure surface of the electrolyte injection O-ring of Figure 3 being in close contact with the lead of the battery cell.
[0050] FIGS. 6 and 7 are drawings illustrating how the pressurized surface of the electrolyte injection O-ring of FIG. 3 comes into close contact with the lead of various embodiments of the battery cell.
[0051] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating the appearance of an electrolyte injection O-ring according to another embodiment of the present invention being coupled to the injection port of a battery cell to inject the electrolyte.
[0052] Figure 9 is a partial enlarged view of the electrolyte injection O-ring of Figure 8.
[0053] FIG. 10 is a drawing illustrating the appearance of a plug welded to the injection port of a battery cell in which the electrolyte injection process using the electrolyte injection O-ring of the present invention is completed.
[0054] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Prior to this, terms and words used in this specification and claims should not be interpreted as being limited to their ordinary or dictionary meanings, but should be interpreted in a meaning and concept consistent with the technical spirit of the present invention, based on the principle that the inventor can appropriately define the concept of the terms to best describe his invention.
[0055] Therefore, the embodiments described in this specification and the configurations illustrated in the drawings are merely the most preferred embodiments of the present invention and do not represent all of the technical ideas of the present invention; thus, it should be understood that various equivalents and modifications that can replace them may exist at the time of filing this application.
[0056] In addition, the present invention includes various embodiments. For each embodiment, redundant descriptions of substantially identical or similar configurations are omitted, and the focus is on the differences.
[0057] Additionally, to aid in understanding the invention, the attached drawings are not drawn to actual scale, and the dimensions of some components may be exaggerated. Furthermore, the same reference numerals may be assigned to identical components in different embodiments.
[0058] Although terms such as "first," "second," etc., are used to describe various components, it goes without saying that these components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used merely to distinguish one component from another, and unless specifically stated otherwise, the first component may also be the second component.
[0059] Throughout the specification, unless specifically stated otherwise, each component may be singular or plural.
[0060] In the following, the statement that any configuration is placed on the "upper (or lower)" of a component or on the "upper (or lower)" of a component may mean not only that any configuration is placed in contact with the upper (or lower) surface of said component, but also that another configuration may be interposed between said component and any configuration placed on (or below) said component.
[0061] In addition, where it is stated that one component is "connected," "combined," or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that while the components may be directly connected or connected to each other, another component may be "interposed" between each component, or each component may be "connected," "combined," or "connected" through another component.
[0062] Singular expressions used in this specification include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this application, terms such as "composed of" or "comprising" should not be interpreted as necessarily including all of the various components or steps described in the specification, and should be interpreted as meaning that some of the components or steps may be omitted or additional components or steps may be included.
[0063] Meanwhile, although terms indicating directions such as up, down, left, right, front, and back may be used in this specification, these terms are used merely for convenience of explanation and may vary depending on the position or arrangement, rotation, or position of the observer, as is obvious to those skilled in the art of this invention.
[0064] The present invention may be implemented in the following embodiments, each independently. Furthermore, the present invention may be implemented in combination of two or more of the following embodiments. Each of the following embodiments may not only be implemented independently but may also be freely combined with one another.
[0065]
[0066] Before describing the electrolyte injection O-ring (100) of the present invention, let us first look at the electrolyte (E) injection process according to the conventional O-ring (0) by referring again to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2.
[0067] FIG. 1 is a drawing to explain the appearance of residual electrolyte (E') remaining on the surface of the O-ring (0) after the electrolyte (E) injection process using the conventional O-ring (0), and FIG. 2 is a drawing to explain the appearance of residual electrolyte (E') remaining in the injection port (40) of the battery cell (1) after the electrolyte (E) injection process using the conventional O-ring (0).
[0068] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, in the electrolyte (E) injection process in which an electrolyte (E) is injected from an electrolyte injector (not shown) into a battery cell (1), an O-ring (0) may be used to prevent the electrolyte (E) from leaking out of the battery cell (1).
[0069] Here, the battery cell (1) into which the electrolyte (E) is injected may be a cylindrical battery cell of various types. However, the shape of the battery cell (1) into which the electrolyte (E) is injected is not limited by the above and can be applied to batteries of other shapes.
[0070] A battery cell (1) into which an electrolyte (E) is injected may include a battery can (10), an electrode assembly (20), and a lid (30).
[0071] The battery can (10) may be a cylindrical structure for a cylindrical battery cell. A side wall member may form the side of the cylinder of the battery can (10), and a bottom member may be connected to the side wall member to form one end of the cylinder. That is, the bottom member becomes the closed part of the battery can (10), and the other end of the battery can (10) facing the bottom member may be open to become an opening. Such a battery can (10) may contain an electrolyte (E).
[0072] The electrode assembly (20) can be accommodated inside the battery can (10) through the opening of the battery can (10). The electrode assembly (20) may have a structure in which a positive plate, a negative plate, and a separator interposed between them are wound in one direction. After the winding is completed, the electrode assembly (20) may be in the form of a jelly-roll with a center hole (H1) along the winding axis.
[0073] The lid (30) can be configured to cover the opening of the battery can (10). That is, the lid (30) can be configured as a cover structure that effectively seals the opening of the battery can (10).
[0074] These leads (30) may be provided with an injection port (40) formed along the winding axis direction of the battery cell (1). The injection port (40) serves as a passage for injecting an electrolyte (E) into the battery cell (1), and the O-ring (0) is closely coupled to the injection port (40) so that the electrolyte (E) can be stably injected into the battery cell (1).
[0075] However, even after the electrolyte (E) injection process is completed, there is a possibility that residual electrolyte (E') may remain on the surface of the O-ring (0). This residual electrolyte (E') has characteristics that make it difficult to completely remove even if the cleaning process is performed repeatedly, and it may accumulate as contaminants on the surface of the O-ring (0) over time. Furthermore, this contaminant can easily be transferred to other battery cells (1) undergoing the electrolyte (E) injection process, which can become a defect factor in the sealing process where the plug (50) is welded to the injection port (40). This has an adverse effect on the overall reliability and performance of the battery cell (1) and is a factor that reduces the efficiency of the manufacturing process.
[0076] In order to eliminate defect factors in the electrolyte (E) injection process according to such conventional O-rings (0), the electrolyte injection O-ring of the present invention is designed to effectively remove residual electrolyte so that it does not remain on the surface of the electrolyte injection O-ring, or to prevent the persistence of residual electrolyte.
[0077]
[0078] Hereinafter, the electrolyte injection O-ring of the present invention will be described in detail.
[0079] FIG. 3 is a drawing for explaining how an electrolyte injection O-ring (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention is coupled to the injection port (40) of a battery cell (1), FIG. 4 is a drawing for explaining how an electrolyte (E) is injected by coupling the electrolyte injection O-ring (100) of FIG. 3 to the injection port of a battery cell (1), and FIG. 5 is a partial enlarged view of the electrolyte injection O-ring (100) of FIG. 3.
[0080] Referring to FIGS. 3 to 5, the electrolyte injection O-ring (100) of the present embodiment includes a main body part (110), an injection part (120), and a processing layer (130).
[0081] The main body (110) has a structure in which one end (110a) in the direction of the central axis (C) is open, and an internal space (S) for receiving an electrolyte (E) is formed. The electrolyte (E) can flow into the internal space (S) through the one end (110a) that is open in this way, and the internal space (S) can be configured to stably maintain the flow of the electrolyte (E).
[0082] The injection part (120) can be formed in a shape that protrudes a predetermined length along the central axis (C) from the end (110b) opposite to the end (110a) in the direction of the central axis (C) of the main body part (110).
[0083] The injection part (120) forms a path for injecting the electrolyte (E) into the battery cell (1) through the injection port (40) and performs the function of preventing leakage of the electrolyte (E) by maintaining a seal with the injection port (40).
[0084] Additionally, the injection part (120) may be formed integrally with the main body part (110) to effectively induce the flow of the electrolyte (E), or may be combined separately with the main body part (110) depending on the design.
[0085] The processing layer (130) may be provided as a surface-treated layer to prevent the residue of the electrolyte (E). As a result, the electrolyte (E) can be easily detached without adhering to the processing layer (130), and the electrolyte (E) can be effectively removed from the processing layer (130) as soon as the electrolyte (E) injection process is completed.
[0086] Here, surface treatment generally refers to various techniques and processes performed to improve or change surface characteristics.
[0087] The surface treatment of the processing layer (130) in this embodiment may be processed to have at least one of the following properties: hydrophobicity, water repellency, chemical resistance, resistance to contamination, release property, and anti-fouling or dirt resistance. For example, the anti-fouling surface treatment can prevent the electrolyte (E) and other contaminants from adhering to the processing layer (130), and the anti-fouling surface treatment can facilitate the removal of contaminants or residues formed on the processing layer (130). Additionally, the release surface treatment can cause substances adhering to the processing layer (130) to easily fall off or separate. By preventing the electrolyte (E) from remaining on at least a portion of the surface of the electrolyte injection O-ring (100), or the accumulation or attachment of contaminants, the battery cell (1) can be effectively prevented from being contaminated.
[0088] As an example, surface treatment in the processing layer (130) can be achieved by forming a coating layer composed of a polymer material including at least one of fluoropolymer, silicone, and epoxy. However, this example is not limited to this, and any polymer material having the property of inducing the detachment of the electrolyte (E) is sufficient. Such a coating layer can prevent chemical reactions with the electrolyte (E) and minimize the attachment or retention of the electrolyte (E) on the processing layer (130).
[0089] For example, fluoropolymer provides excellent hydrophobicity and water repellency, allowing the electrolyte (E) to flow down easily without spreading on the surface, and silicone can enhance the durability of the coating layer through flexibility and heat resistance. For example, before including the hydrophobic coating layer, the contact angle between the main body (110) and the electrolyte may be about 59 degrees, but when the processing layer (130) is prepared by forming the hydrophobic coating layer, the contact angle between the processing layer (130) and the electrolyte may be about 77 degrees. As the contact angle increases, electrolyte droplets bounce off the surface of the processing layer (130) more easily, resulting in a surface with high water repellency. Even if the electrolyte gets on the surface of the processing layer (130), the electrolyte droplets with a high contact angle do not stay on the surface of the processing layer (130) for a long time and bounce off immediately, thus improving the anti-fouling performance of the electrolyte injection O-ring (100) including the processing layer (130). In addition, the epoxy can increase the surface's anti-fouling and anti-contamination properties, so that even if the electrolyte (E) or other contaminants adhere to the surface, they can be easily removed or not accumulated.
[0090] In addition, as another example, surface treatment in the processing layer (130) can be implemented by forming a surface modification layer by blasting, anodizing, etching, or plasma treatment. However, it is not limited to these examples, and any type of surface modification that processes to have properties that induce the detachment of the electrolyte (E) is sufficient. Such a surface modification layer can be treated to change the physical and chemical properties of the processing layer (130) to prevent the attachment or retention of the electrolyte (E).
[0091] For example, blasting can form fine irregularities on the surface to prevent the electrolyte (E) from adhering and to allow it to flow down, and anodizing can enhance corrosion resistance and wear resistance to improve the durability of the surface. Additionally, etching can form fine patterns on the surface to suppress the retention of the electrolyte (E), and plasma treatment can enhance the hydrophobicity and water repellency of the surface or control surface energy to minimize interaction with the electrolyte (E).
[0092] In this way, by applying a surface treatment to the processing layer (130), the electrolyte (E) can be easily induced to detach from the surface of the electrolyte injection O-ring (100).
[0093] Accordingly, the electrolyte injection O-ring (100) of the present embodiment is provided with a surface-treated processing layer (130), thereby improving the side effects caused by residual electrolyte (E') that occurred in conventional O-rings (0), and increasing the efficiency of the electrolyte (E) injection process. In addition, by improving the durability of the electrolyte injection O-ring (100), the lifespan can be increased even with repeated use. Thus, the reliability and economic efficiency of the electrolyte (E) injection process can be secured simultaneously.
[0094] This processing layer (130) may be provided in at least a portion of the surface of the main body (110) and / or injection part (120) that forms a receiving and movement path for the electrolyte (E). This allows the electrolyte (E) to move smoothly or easily detach without adhering to the processing layer (130). Additionally, it prevents the electrolyte (E) from remaining during the repeated injection process, thereby eliminating the need for a separate cleaning process, which simplifies the process and reduces associated costs.
[0095] Accordingly, the electrolyte injection O-ring (100) of the present embodiment can contribute to improving the quality and reliability of the battery cell (1) manufacturing process by minimizing the negative effects caused by the electrolyte (E) remaining in the electrolyte (E) injection process and the subsequent sealing process.
[0096]
[0097] Below, each component of the electrolyte injection O-ring (100) of the present embodiment will be examined in detail.
[0098] The main body (110) may be designed to be movable along the central axis (C) direction toward the injection port (40) of the battery cell (1) into which the electrolyte (E) is injected. The main body (110) may be composed of a material having at least a portion of elasticity to form an injection path for the electrolyte (E) and to provide a certain sealing effect during injection.
[0099] As an example, the main body (110) may include a pressure surface (111) and an outer surface (112).
[0100] The pressure surface (111) may be located at the other end (110b) in the direction of the central axis (C), and the outer surface (112) may be provided with a predetermined length along the direction of the central axis (C) while surrounding the central axis (C).
[0101] The pressure surface (111) has a structure that extends vertically from the outer surface (112) toward the central axis (C) and can be configured to increase the adhesion force when in contact with the injection port (40) of the battery cell (1) to prevent leakage of the electrolyte (E).
[0102] The elasticity of such a pressure surface (111) can absorb physical pressure or external shock generated when combined with the injection port (40) of the battery cell (1), thereby allowing the electrolyte injection O-ring (100) to be stably combined with the injection port (40).
[0103] As an example, a processing layer (130a) can be provided on the pressure surface (111).
[0104] The processing layer (130a) may be composed of a surface treatment that imparts hydrophobic, release, or anti-contamination properties, for example, to prevent the electrolyte (E) from remaining on the pressurized surface (111). Through this, after the electrolyte (E) injection process is completed, the residue of the electrolyte (E) on the contact surface between the pressurized surface (111) and the injection port (40) can be minimized, and the accumulation of contaminants that may occur during the process can be effectively blocked.
[0105] Accordingly, the electrolyte injection O-ring (100) of the present embodiment can contribute to increasing the reliability of the electrolyte (E) injection process and improving the lifespan and performance of the electrolyte injection O-ring (100) by having a processing layer (130a) provided on the pressurized surface (111).
[0106] The injection part (120) may include an injection hole (H2) formed along the central axis (C).
[0107] The injection hole (H2) is connected to the internal space (S) of the main body (110) and can provide a path through which the electrolyte (E) can move through the main body (110) to the injection part (120) and be injected into the battery cell (1). As a result, the electrolyte (E) can be naturally injected into the center hole (H1) of the battery cell (1) by gravity.
[0108] The outer surface of the injection hole (H2) may be composed of the inner surface (122) of the injection part (120), thereby stably maintaining the flow of the electrolyte (E). For example, the inner surface (122) of the injection part (120) may be processed smoothly to minimize the flow resistance of the electrolyte (E) and allow the electrolyte (E) to flow smoothly.
[0109] As an example, the processing layer (130b) may be provided on at least a portion of the surface of such injection hole (H2), that is, on the inner surface (122) of the injection part (120).
[0110] The processing layer (130b) is formed on the surface of the injection hole (H2) through which the electrolyte (E) flows along the inner circumferential surface (122) of the injection part (120), thereby preventing the adhesion or residue of the electrolyte (E). This improves the efficiency of the electrolyte (E) injection process and reduces the problem of contamination caused by residue after the process.
[0111] Accordingly, the electrolyte injection O-ring (100) of the present embodiment can contribute to increasing the reliability of the electrolyte (E) injection process and improving the lifespan and performance of the electrolyte injection O-ring (100) by having a processing layer (130b) provided on at least a part of the surface of the injection hole (H2).
[0112] The injection part (120) may be configured such that at least a portion thereof has elasticity and is inserted into the injection port (40) of the battery cell (1) into which the electrolyte (E) is injected. By doing so, the injection part (120) can be in close contact with the injection port (40) to prevent leakage of the electrolyte (E) and, at the same time, ensure stability during the injection process.
[0113] The injection part (120) may include an outer surface (121) that surrounds the circumference of the central axis (C) and is provided with a predetermined length along the central axis (C). The outer surface (112) of the main body part (110) may be designed to have a longer radial length than the outer surface (121) of the injection part (120). Thus, the main body part (110) is configured to receive and stably move the electrolyte (E), and the injection part (120) is configured to perform accurate injection of the electrolyte (E).
[0114] The outer surface (121) of the injection part (120) can be designed so that its length in the radial direction gradually decreases as it extends outward in the direction of the central axis (C). This allows for the simultaneous provision of the fluidity and adhesion required when the injection part (120) is inserted into the injection port (40). This tapered shape design reduces frictional resistance when the injection part (120) is inserted into the injection port (40) and allows the injection part (120) to be stably positioned in the injection port (40).
[0115] As an example, a processing layer (130c) may be provided on the outer surface (121) of the injection part (120).
[0116] The processing layer (130c) is provided on the outer surface (121) of the injection part (120) inserted into the injection port (40) of the battery cell (1) to prevent the attachment or residue of the electrolyte (E). This improves the efficiency of the electrolyte (E) injection process and reduces the problem of contamination caused by residue after the process.
[0117] Accordingly, the electrolyte injection O-ring (100) of the present embodiment can contribute to increasing the reliability of the electrolyte (E) injection process and improving the lifespan and performance of the electrolyte injection O-ring (100) by having a processing layer (130c) provided on the outer surface (121) of the injection part (120).
[0118] Additionally, as an example, the injection part (120) may include an inclined surface (123) that extends obliquely along the radial and central axis directions from the other end (110b) in the central axis (C) direction of the main body part (110). For example, the inclined surface (123) may extend from the pressurized surface (111) and be connected to the outer surface (121) of the injection part (120), or be integrally formed as part of the outer surface (121).
[0119] The inclined surface (123) can act as a structural element that reduces frictional resistance and enables smooth insertion when the injection part (120) is inserted into the injection port (40) of the battery cell (1). Additionally, the oblique extension of the inclined surface (123) can further strengthen the sealing force by enhancing the adhesion with the injection port (40).
[0120] FIGS. 6 and FIGS. 7 are drawings for explaining how the pressure surface (111) of the electrolyte injection O-ring (100) of FIG. 3 comes into close contact with the lead (30) of various embodiments of the battery cell (1).
[0121] The main body (110) of the electrolyte injection O-ring (100) of the present embodiment may have elasticity, and the pressure surface (111) may be seated and contacted toward one end of the winding axis direction of the battery cell (1) into which the electrolyte is injected.
[0122] As an example, referring to FIG. 6, the pressurized surface (111) is pressed toward the lead (30) of the battery cell (1), and can secure sealing during the electrolyte (E) injection process through contact with the lead (30). In this process, the pressurized surface (111) can be elastically deformed downward in accordance with the shape of the lead (30), thereby increasing the contact area and strengthening the adhesion, which can improve the sealing during the electrolyte injection process.
[0123] As an example, referring to FIG. 7, the pressure surface (111) can be placed on the lead (31) of a battery cell (1) in which the edge region is formed in a U-shape. At this time, the pressure surface (111) can be positioned at a predetermined distance (d1) from one end of the winding axis direction of the battery cell (1). However, as the pressure surface (111) elastically deforms downward due to a constant pressure, it can be deformed around the region of the pressure surface (111) near the injection part (120) to form a structure that is more closely attached to the lead (31). By doing so, the sealing force during the electrolyte injection process can be improved, and it can contribute to increasing the reliability of the electrolyte injection process.
[0124] Accordingly, the electrolyte injection O-ring (100) of the present embodiment has elastic deformation characteristics of the pressure surface (111), thereby providing structural flexibility compatible with various types of leads (30, 31) to be coupled, and can maximize sealing and stability in the electrolyte injection process.
[0125]
[0126] FIG. 8 is a drawing illustrating the appearance of an electrolyte injection O-ring (200) according to another embodiment of the present invention being coupled to the injection port (40) of a battery cell (1) and an electrolyte (E) being injected, and FIG. 9 is a partial enlarged view of the electrolyte injection O-ring (200) of FIG. 8.
[0127] Here, the description of the electrolyte injection O-ring (100) of the above-described embodiment with reference to FIGS. 3 to 7 can be similarly applied to the electrolyte injection O-ring (200) of the present embodiment, and redundant descriptions below are omitted.
[0128] Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, the electrolyte injection O-ring (200) of the present embodiment includes a main body part (210), an injection part (220), and a processing layer (230).
[0129] The main body (210) has a structure in which one end (210a) in the direction of the central axis (C) is open, and an internal space (S) for accommodating the electrolyte (E) is formed.
[0130] The injection part (220) can be formed in a shape that protrudes a predetermined length along the central axis (C) from the end (210b) opposite to the end (210a) in the direction of the central axis (C) of the main body part (210).
[0131] The injection part (220) forms a path for injecting the electrolyte (E) into the battery cell (1) through the injection port (40) and performs the function of preventing leakage of the electrolyte (E) by maintaining a seal with the injection port (40).
[0132] The processing layer (230) may be a surface-treated layer to prevent the residue of the electrolyte (E). As a result, the electrolyte (E) can be easily detached without adhering to the processing layer (230), and the electrolyte (E) can be effectively removed from the processing layer (230) as soon as the electrolyte (E) injection process is completed.
[0133] The surface treatment in the processing layer (230) of the present embodiment can be implemented in a manner having anti-contamination, anti-release, and / or anti-fouling properties.
[0134] As an example, the processing layer (230) may be provided in at least a portion of the surface of the main body (110) and / or injection part (120) that forms a receiving and moving path for the electrolyte (E).
[0135] Accordingly, the electrolyte injection O-ring (200) of the present embodiment can contribute to improving the quality and reliability of the battery cell (1) manufacturing process by minimizing the negative effects caused by the electrolyte (E) remaining in the electrolyte (E) injection process and the subsequent sealing process.
[0136] Below, each component of the electrolyte injection O-ring (200) of the present embodiment will be examined in detail.
[0137] As an example, the main body (210) may include a pressure surface (211) and an outer surface (212).
[0138] The pressure surface (211) may be located at the other end (210b) in the direction of the central axis (C), and the outer surface (212) may be provided with a predetermined length along the direction of the central axis (C) while surrounding the central axis (C).
[0139] The pressure surface (211) has a structure that extends vertically from the outer surface (212) toward the central axis (C), and is composed of a material having at least a portion of elasticity to provide a certain sealing effect, so as to increase the sealing force when in contact with the injection port (40) of the battery cell (1) to prevent leakage of the electrolyte (E).
[0140] At this time, the main body portion (210) according to the present embodiment, in particular, the pressure surface (211), may be formed to have a length (d3) that is smaller than the length (d2) of the inner circumference of the component of the battery cell (1), for example, the lid (31), in the radial direction. Through this design, the main body portion (210) can naturally adhere to the lid (31) of the battery cell (1) when in contact with the injection port (40) of the battery cell (1) without applying a separate pressure.
[0141] This structure minimizes the gap between the main body (210) and the lead (31), thereby preventing leakage during the electrolyte (E) injection process and enabling stable connection with the injection port (40). In addition, since it does not require an additional pressurizing device or assembly process, it can contribute to simplifying the manufacturing process and improving efficiency.
[0142] Accordingly, the electrolyte injection O-ring (200) of the present embodiment is designed such that the radial length (d3) of the main body (210) is smaller than the inner circumferential length (d2) of the lead (31), thereby effectively securing contact and adhesion with the battery cell (1) with only a simple process, and increasing the reliability of the electrolyte (E) injection process.
[0143] As an example, a processing layer (230a) can be provided on the pressure surface (211).
[0144] The processing layer (230a) may be composed of a surface treatment that imparts hydrophobic, release, or anti-contamination properties, for example, to prevent the residue of electrolyte (E) on the pressurized surface (211).
[0145] The injection part (220) may include an injection hole (H2) formed along the central axis (C).
[0146] The injection hole (H2) is connected to the internal space (S) of the main body (210) and can provide a path through which the electrolyte (E) can move through the main body (210) to the injection part (220) and be injected into the battery cell (1). As a result, the electrolyte (E) can be naturally injected into the center hole (H1) of the battery cell (1) by gravity.
[0147] The outer surface of the injection hole (H2) can be formed from the inner surface (222) of the injection part (220), thereby stably maintaining the flow of the electrolyte (E).
[0148] As an example, the processing layer (230b) may be provided on at least a portion of the surface of the injection hole (H2), that is, on the inner surface (222) of the injection part (220).
[0149] The processing layer (230b) is formed on the surface of the injection hole (H2) through which the electrolyte (E) flows along the inner circumference (222) of the injection part (220), thereby preventing the adhesion or residue of the electrolyte (E).
[0150] The injection part (120) may include an outer surface (221) that surrounds the circumference of the central axis (C) and is provided with a predetermined length along the central axis (C). The outer surface (212) of the main body part (210) may be designed to have a longer radial length than the outer surface (221) of the injection part (220).
[0151] The outer surface (221) of the injection part (220) can be designed so that its radial length gradually decreases as it moves outward toward the central axis (C).
[0152] As an example, a processing layer (230c) may be provided on the outer surface (221) of the injection part (220).
[0153] The processing layer (230c) is provided on the outer surface (221) of the injection part (220) inserted into the injection port (40) of the battery cell (1), so as to prevent the attachment or residue of the electrolyte (E).
[0154] Additionally, the injection portion (220) may include an inclined surface (223) that extends obliquely along the radial and central axis directions from the other end (210b) in the central axis (C) direction of the main body portion (210). For example, the inclined surface (223) may extend from the pressurized surface (211) and be connected to the outer surface (221) of the injection portion (220), or be integrally formed as part of the outer surface (221).
[0155] Accordingly, the electrolyte injection O-ring (200) of the present embodiment can reduce the problem of contamination caused by residue after the electrolyte (E) injection process, increase the reliability of the electrolyte (E) injection process, and contribute to improving the lifespan and performance of the electrolyte injection O-ring (100).
[0156]
[0157] FIG. 10 is a drawing for explaining the appearance of a plug (50) welded (W) to the injection port (40) of a battery cell (1) in which the electrolyte injection process using the electrolyte injection O-ring of the present invention is completed.
[0158] Referring to FIG. 10, the battery cell (1) can perform an electrolyte injection process using the electrolyte injection O-ring (100, 200) of the present invention described with reference to FIG. 3 to 9. After the electrolyte injection process is completed, a sealing member such as a plug (50) or a ball can be attached and welded (W) to the injection port (40) to seal it.
[0159] At this time, in the case of the electrolyte injection O-ring (100, 200) of the present invention, since the surface is treated on at least a part of the surface, the electrolyte is removed from the surface of the electrolyte injection O-ring (100, 200) at the same time as the electrolyte injection process is completed, so residual electrolyte or contaminants may not be delivered to the battery cell (1).
[0160] That is, unlike conventional technology, residual electrolyte or contaminants resulting therefrom do not remain in the injection port (40) or the leads (30, 31) near the injection port (40) of the battery cell (1), thereby reducing defect factors during laser welding and maximizing the finishing processability of the injection port (40). If electrolyte remains around the injection port (40), there are problems such as the weld bead being incompletely formed, pores occurring, cracks occurring after welding, or excessive spatter occurring when the plug (50) is inserted into the injection port (40) and the welding (W) is finished. According to the present invention, such welding defects can be reduced by reducing the residual electrolyte.
[0161] In addition, a separate cleaning process for removing contaminants from the injection port (40) is not required, so the cleaning process of the battery cell (1) can be improved, and as a result, costs can be reduced due to the simplification of the process.
[0162]
[0163] Although the present invention has been described above with reference to limited embodiments and drawings, the present invention is not limited thereto, and it is obvious that various modifications and variations are possible within the scope of the technical spirit of the present invention and the equivalent scope of the claims described below by those skilled in the art to which the present invention belongs.
[0164] Furthermore, since the present invention described above allows for various substitutions, modifications, and changes within the scope of the technical concept of the present invention to those skilled in the art without departing from the technical spirit of the present invention, it is not limited by the aforementioned embodiments and attached drawings, but rather all or part of each embodiment may be selectively combined to allow for various modifications.
[0165] [Explanation of the symbol]
[0166] 1: Battery cell
[0167] 10: Battery can
[0168] 20: Electrode assembly
[0169] 30, 31: Lead
[0170] 40: Injection point
[0171] 50: Plug
[0172] 100, 200: Electrolyte injection O-ring
[0173] 110, 210: Main body
[0174] 110a, 210a: Center axis direction first
[0175] 110b, 210b: Other end in the direction of the central axis
[0176] 111, 211: Pressurized surface
[0177] 112, 212: Outsourced
[0178] 120, 220: Injection part
[0179] 121, 221: Outsourced
[0180] 122, 222: If you give it to me
[0181] 123, 223: Inclined surface
[0182] 130, 230: Processed layer
[0183] 130a, 230a: Pressure surface processed layer
[0184] 130b, 230b: Injection hole processing layer
[0185] 130c, 230c: Machined layer on the outer surface of the injection part
[0186] C: Central axis
[0187] E: Electrolyte
[0188] E': Residual electrolyte
[0189] S: Interior space
[0190] H1: Center hole
[0191] H2: Injection hole
[0192] 0: Conventional O-ring
Claims
1. A main body portion having one end in the direction of the central axis open, and an internal space for accommodating an electrolyte through the open end; An injection part protruding along the central axis direction from the other end of the main body part in the central axis direction; and Electrolyte injection O-ring characterized by including a surface-treated processing layer on at least a portion of the surface of at least one of the main body and the injection part to prevent the electrolyte from remaining.
2. In Paragraph 1, The above main body part is, Electrolyte injection O-ring characterized by moving along the central axis direction toward the injection port of the battery cell into which the electrolyte is injected.
3. In Paragraph 1, The above main body part is, A pressure surface having elasticity in at least a portion and provided at the other end in the direction of the central axis of the main body; and Electrolyte injection O-ring characterized by including an outer surface that surrounds the central axis.
4. In Paragraph 3, The above-mentioned pressure surface is, Electrolyte injection O-ring characterized by extending from the outer surface toward the central axis so as to be perpendicular to the central axis.
5. In Paragraph 1, The above injection part is, Electrolyte injection O-ring characterized by having an injection hole penetrating along the central axis, wherein the injection hole and the internal space of the main body are connected.
6. In Paragraph 1, The above injection part is, Electrolyte injection O-ring characterized by having elasticity in at least a part and being inserted into the injection port of a battery cell into which the electrolyte is injected.
7. In Paragraph 3, The above injection part is, It includes an outer surface that encircles the circumference of the central axis, and Electrolyte injection O-ring characterized in that the outer surface of the main body part is longer in the radial direction than the outer surface of the injection part.
8. In Paragraph 7, The outer surface of the injection part above is, Electrolyte injection O-ring characterized by the radial length decreasing as it extends outward from the central axis direction.
9. In Paragraph 1, The above injection part is, Electrolyte injection O-ring characterized by including an inclined surface that extends obliquely along the radial direction and the central axis direction from the other end of the main body portion in the central axis direction.
10. In Paragraph 3, The above-mentioned pressure surface is, An electrolyte injection O-ring characterized by being seated and contacting one end of the winding axis direction of the battery cell into which the electrolyte is injected, and elastically deforming to ensure close contact upon contact.
11. In Paragraph 3, The above-mentioned pressure surface is, An electrolyte injection O-ring characterized by being spaced apart at a predetermined distance from one end of the winding axis direction of the battery cell into which the electrolyte is injected.
12. In Paragraph 11, The above-mentioned pressure surface is, An electrolyte injection O-ring characterized by being elastically deformed to be in close contact with at least a portion of the end of the winding axis direction of the battery cell into which the electrolyte is injected when pressurized toward the end of the winding axis direction of the battery cell.
13. In Paragraph 3, The above-mentioned pressure surface is, An electrolyte injection O-ring characterized by having a radial length smaller than one end in the winding axis direction of the battery cell into which the electrolyte is injected, and being in close contact with at least a portion of the one end in the winding axis direction of the battery cell.
14. In Paragraph 3, The above processing layer is, Electrolyte injection O-ring characterized by being provided on at least the above-mentioned pressure surface.
15. In Paragraph 5, The above processing layer is, Electrolyte injection O-ring characterized by being provided on at least a portion of the surface of the injection hole.
16. In Paragraph 7, The above processing layer is, Electrolyte injection O-ring characterized by being provided on the outer surface of at least the injection portion.
17. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 16, The above processing layer is, Electrolyte injection O-ring characterized by having a coating layer having at least one of hydrophobicity, water repellency, chemical resistance, resistance to contamination, release property, and anti-fouling or dirt resistance.
18. In Paragraph 17, The above coating layer is, Electrolyte injection O-ring characterized by being composed of a polymer material including at least one of fluoropolymer, silicone, and epoxy.
19. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 16, The above processing layer is, Electrolyte injection O-ring characterized by a surface modified layer formed by surface modification, which is processed to have at least one of hydrophobicity, water repellency, chemical resistance, stain resistance, mold release, and antifouling properties.
20. In Paragraph 19, The above surface modification layer is, Electrolyte injection O-ring characterized by being formed by blast, anodizing, etching, or plasma treatment.