Beading apparatus

Abstract

A beading apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention may comprise: a forming part including a beading knife for pressing a cell case during rotation of the cell case in order to form a beading groove in the circumferential direction of the cell case at a predetermined position in the longitudinal direction of the cell case; and a backup part including a backup roller, which is disposed apart from the forming part in the circumferential direction of the cell case, is provided to be position-adjustable in the longitudinal direction of the cell case, and can rotate upon contact with the cell case.

Description

beading device

[0001] The present invention relates to a beading device, and more specifically, to a beading device for forming a beading groove on the outer surface of a cell case of a cylindrical battery cell.

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority based on Korean Patent Application No. 10-2025-0021219 dated February 19, 2025, and all contents disclosed in the document of said Korean patent application are incorporated herein as part of this specification.

[0003] Figure 1 schematically illustrates a perspective view of a cylindrical battery cell.

[0004] As shown in FIG. 1, the cylindrical battery cell (10) includes a cell case (11), an electrode assembly (13), and a cap assembly (15).

[0005] The electrode assembly (13) is wound in a roll shape with the cathode, separator, anode, and separator stacked in sequence. The electrode assembly (13) can be inserted into the internal space of the cell case (11).

[0006] The cell case (11) above may be provided in a cylindrical shape with an open top.

[0007] The cell case (11) is provided with a beading groove (12) on its outer surface to secure the electrode assembly (13) to the internal space of the cell case (11).

[0008] The cap assembly (15) is provided to seal the upper part of the cell case (11). The cap assembly (15) may include a positive terminal (16). The cap assembly (15) may be assembled to the cell case (11) after the beading groove (12) is formed on the outer surface of the cell case (11).

[0009] The above beading groove (12) can be formed on the upper part of the cell case (11) after the electrode assembly (13) is inserted into the internal space of the cell case (11).

[0010] FIG. 2 is a drawing for explaining the process of forming the beading groove (12) on the outer surface of the cell case (11) using a conventional beading device.

[0011] Referring to FIG. 2, a conventional beading device (20) can rotate the cell case (11) and press a beading knife (51) against the outer surface of the cell case (11) to form a beading groove (12) on the outer surface of the cell case (11).

[0012] When forming the above beading groove (12), the cell case (11) is rotated by the cell rotation part (30). The holder part (40) is inserted into the open upper part of the cell case (11) to press the electrode assembly (13) and support the rotation of the cell case (11).

[0013] As the cell case (11) is pushed out in the pressure direction (F1) of the molding part (50), the outer diameter of the upper region of the cell case (11) where the beading groove (12) is formed can be increased.

[0014] A conventional beading device (20) can support the cell case (11) laterally through a backup roller (60) on the opposite side of the beading knife (51).

[0015] The backup roller (60) can laterally support the outer surface of the cell case (11) in a direction opposite to the pressing direction (F1) of the beading knife (51) at the lower part of the molding position (L1) where the beading groove (12) is formed.

[0016] A conventional backup roller (60) is fixed at a specific position and rotates freely along the outer surface of the cell case (11) to support the cell case (11) from the side.

[0017] When forming the beading groove (12), the backup roller (60) can prevent the cell case (11) from being pushed out in the pressure direction (F1) of the beading knife (51). Accordingly, the backup roller (60) can prevent the outer diameter of the surrounding area of ​​the beading groove (12) from increasing when forming the beading groove (12) on the cell case (11).

[0018] As the conventional backup roller (60) supports the cell case (11) rotating while fixed at a specific position, if the force applied by the beading knife (51) becomes greater than the force supporting the cell case (11), scratches may occur on the cell case (11) at the part where the backup roller (60) contacts.

[0019] In addition, the conventional beading device (20) is configured such that the backup roller (60) is fixed at a specific position and the position of the molding part (50) equipped with the cell rotation part (30), the holder part (40), and the beading knife (51) is adjusted.

[0020] Therefore, when the backup roller (60) deviates from the correct position, which is the lower part of the molding position (L1), due to reasons such as a change in the dimensions of the beading groove (12) of the cylindrical battery cell (10), it was necessary to readjust the positions of the cell rotation part (30), the holder part (40), and the molding part (50), and it took a long time to readjust the positions of the cell rotation part (30), the holder part (40), and the molding part (50).

[0021] The present invention aims to provide a beading device in which a backup roller is positionally adjustable to support the rotation of a cell case during the molding of a beading groove of a cylindrical battery cell.

[0022] In addition, the present invention aims to provide a beading device in which the backup roller is positionably adjustable in a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction of the cell case.

[0023] In addition, the present invention aims to provide a beading device in which the backup roller is positionably adjustable in a direction perpendicular to the outer surface of the cell case.

[0024] To solve the above-mentioned problem, a beading device according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a forming part comprising a beading knife provided to press the cell case when the cell case is rotated in order to form a beading groove along the circumferential direction of the cell case at a predetermined position along the longitudinal direction of the cell case, and a backup part comprising a backup roller disposed apart from the forming part along the circumferential direction of the cell case, positionally adjustable along the longitudinal direction of the cell case, and rotatably provided when in contact with the cell case.

[0025] The backup member may include a first shaft on which the backup roller is rotatably mounted, a moving block mounted on the first shaft to move together with the backup roller, a fixed block mounted on the first shaft to be spaced apart from the backup roller, and at least one adjusting member provided to adjust the distance between the fixed block and the moving block.

[0026] Additionally, the adjustment member may include a body, a knob rotatably mounted on the body, and an adjustment shaft connected to the knob and mounted on the body such that its shaft length is adjusted according to the direction of rotation of the knob.

[0027] In addition, the above adjustment member can connect the movable block and the fixed block by having the body mounted on the movable block and the adjustment shaft mounted on the fixed block.

[0028] In addition, the movable block is provided with a body fixing part protruding from the side, and the body can be fixed to the body fixing part in a direction parallel to the first shaft and connected to the movable block.

[0029] Additionally, the adjustment shaft has a scale marked on its surface, and the shaft length may be the length between the end of the adjustment shaft and the first end of the body.

[0030] Additionally, the body has a scale marked on the first end, and the scale on the first end may be a decimal unit of the scale unit of the adjustment axis.

[0031] In addition, the above adjustment member may include a micrometer.

[0032] In addition, the backup unit may include an elastic member that elastically connects the movable block and the fixed block.

[0033] Additionally, through holes are provided in the moving block and the fixed block, and the elastic member can be mounted in the moving block and the fixed block so as to surround the first shaft within the through holes.

[0034] Additionally, the backup unit may include a bearing member that rotatably connects the backup roller to the first shaft.

[0035] In addition, the backup unit may include a mounting unit provided on the first shaft and configured to mount the movable block.

[0036] In addition, the backup unit may include a fastening member mounted on the fixed block and the first shaft.

[0037] Additionally, the moving block has a through hole through which the first shaft passes, and the backup part may include a bearing member mounted in the through hole of the moving block.

[0038] The fixed block has a through hole through which the first shaft passes, and the backup member may include a bearing member mounted in the through hole of the fixed block.

[0039] The above at least one adjustment member may be arranged symmetrically with respect to the first shaft.

[0040] The above backup unit is mounted on the main body on which the molding unit is mounted, and during the molding operation of the molding unit, the backup roller rotates freely along the outer surface of the cell case, and the position of the backup roller can be adjusted in a direction closer to or further away from the rotational center axis of the cell case.

[0041] The backup unit may include a first adjustment unit configured to adjust the position of the backup roller in a direction parallel to the rotational center axis of the cell case, and a second adjustment unit connected to the first adjustment unit and configured to adjust the position of the backup roller in a direction perpendicular to the rotational center axis of the cell case. The second adjustment unit may be mounted on a main body on which the molding unit is mounted. Additionally, the second adjustment unit may be configured to adjust the position of the backup roller in a direction closer to or further away from the rotational center axis of the cell case during the molding operation of the molding unit.

[0042] The second adjustment unit may include a movable body mounted on the first adjustment unit, a guide rail mounted on the main body to guide the movement of the movable body in a direction perpendicular to the rotational center axis of the cell case, and an elastic connecting unit elastically connecting the end of the guide rail and the movable body.

[0043] The first adjustment unit may include a fixed block mounted on the movable body, a first shaft connected to the fixed block parallel to the rotational center axis of the cell case and having a backup roller mounted rotatably at its end, a movable block disposed between the fixed block and the backup roller and movably mounted on the first shaft, a mounting part provided on the first shaft and provided for mounting the movable block, and at least one adjustment member disposed parallel to the first shaft and provided for adjusting the gap between the fixed block and the movable block.

[0044] The first adjustment unit may include an elastic member that is arranged to surround the first shaft and connects the moving block and the fixed block.

[0045] The above at least one adjusting member may be provided to adjust the position of the backup roller relative to the fixed block in a direction parallel to the rotation axis of the cell case by moving the moving block in a direction closer to or further away from the fixed block.

[0046] The above adjustment member includes a body, a knob rotatably mounted on the body, and an adjustment shaft mounted on the body connected to the knob and having its shaft length adjusted according to the direction of rotation of the knob, and the body is mounted on a movable block and the adjustment shaft is mounted on a fixed block so as to connect the movable block and the fixed block.

[0047] A beading device according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a cell rotation part provided to rotate the cell case, and a holder part disposed facing the cell rotation part between the molding part and the backup part, inserted into the opening of the cell case to press an electrode assembly accommodated inside the cell case, and provided to support the rotation of the cell case.

[0048] The holder portion may include a holder cover provided to cover an opening of the cell case such that an area to be formed of the beading groove is exposed to the outside, and a holder pusher mounted on the holder cover and inserted into the opening of the cell case to press the electrode assembly.

[0049] A beading device having the configuration and structure as described above can have the following effects.

[0050] A beading device related to one embodiment of the present invention can prevent the outer diameter of the opening of the cell case from increasing when forming the beading groove.

[0051] In addition, when forming a beading groove on the outer surface of a rotating cell case, a backup roller can support the rotation of the cell case by rotating freely along the outer surface (side) of the cell case on the opposite side of the forming section.

[0052] In addition, the backup roller is provided to be position-adjustable in a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction of the cell case. Accordingly, when position adjustment of the cell case is required due to reasons such as a change in the dimensions of the beading groove of the cylindrical battery cell, the position of the backup roller can be adjusted so that the backup roller is positioned below the molding position according to the change in the dimensions of the beading groove, without the need to readjust the positions of the molding part, the holder part, and the molding part.

[0053] In addition, by shortening the setting time of the beading device, the production time of cylindrical battery cells can be increased, and as a result, the production volume of cylindrical battery cells can be increased.

[0054] In addition, the backup roller is provided to be positionable in a direction perpendicular to the outer surface (side) of the cell case (e.g., X-axis direction). Accordingly, while in contact with the outer surface of the cell case, the backup roller is positioned in a direction perpendicular to the outer surface of the cell case (e.g., X-axis direction) by the force with which the molding part presses the cell case, thereby cushioning the force with which the molding part presses the cell case, and as a result, scratches on the outer surface of the cell case can be prevented.

[0055] In addition, the beading device can prevent scratches on the outer surface of the cell case during the molding of the beading groove, thereby improving the quality of the cylindrical battery cell and reducing the defect rate.

[0056] Figure 1 schematically illustrates a perspective view of a cylindrical battery cell.

[0057] Figure 2 is a drawing illustrating the process of forming a beading groove on the outer surface of a cell case using a conventional beading device.

[0058] FIG. 3 schematically illustrates the installation state of a beading device prior to a molding operation for forming a beading groove in a cell case in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0059] FIG. 4 is a drawing illustrating the arrangement of the beading knife of the molding part and the backup roller of the backup part for the cell case in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] FIG. 5 schematically illustrates a perspective view of a backup unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0061] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 5, schematically illustrating a combined cross-sectional view of a backup roller, a first shaft, a pair of blocks, and an adjusting member.

[0062] Figure 7 is an enlarged view of part A of Figure 6.

[0063] FIG. 8 is an operating state diagram of the first adjustment unit when the knob is operated in a counterclockwise direction in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0064] FIG. 9 is an operating state diagram of the first adjustment unit when the knob is operated clockwise in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0065] FIG. 10 schematically illustrates the operating state of the beading device during the molding operation of the molding part in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0066] Hereinafter, a beading device related to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the attached drawings.

[0067] Additionally, identical or corresponding components are assigned the same or similar reference numbers regardless of drawing symbols, and redundant descriptions thereof are omitted; furthermore, for the convenience of explanation, the size and shape of each illustrated component may be exaggerated or reduced.

[0068] FIG. 3 schematically illustrates the installation state of a beading device prior to a molding operation for forming a beading groove in a cell case in one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining the arrangement state of a beading knife of a molding part and a backup roller of a backup part for a cell case in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0069] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, a beading device (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a forming part (140) comprising a beading knife (141) provided to press the cell case (11) when the cell case (11) is rotated in order to form a beading groove (12) along the circumferential direction of the cell case (11) at a predetermined position (L1) along the longitudinal direction (e.g., Z-axis direction) of the cell case (11).

[0070] Additionally, the beading device (100) may include a backup part (150) that is positioned apart from the molding part (140) along the circumferential direction of the cell case (11), is positionally adjustable along the longitudinal direction (e.g., Z-axis direction) of the cell case (11), and is rotatably provided when in contact with the cell case (11).

[0071] Additionally, the beading device (100) may include a cell rotation part (110) and the holder part (130). The cell rotation part (110), the holder part (130), and the molding part (140) will be described later.

[0072] Below, the configuration, structure, and operation method of the above backup unit (150) will be described.

[0073] FIG. 5 is a schematic perspective view of a backup unit according to one embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the combination of a backup roller, a first shaft, a pair of blocks, and an adjustment member as XX cross-section of FIG. 5, and FIG. 7 is an enlarged view of part A of FIG. 6.

[0074] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, the backup unit (150) may include a backup roller (160), a first adjustment unit (170), and a second adjustment unit (180).

[0075] The backup roller (160) is provided to support the cell case (11) from the side while rotating along the rotating cell case (11) when in contact with the cell case (11), and the backup roller (160) can prevent the cell case (11) from moving in the direction of pressure of the molding part (140) during the molding operation of the molding part (140).

[0076] The outer surface of the backup roller (160) may be made of a material that does not damage the outer surface of the cell case (11) upon contact. The backup roller (160) may be mounted on the first adjustment unit (170).

[0077] The first adjustment unit (170) may be configured to adjust the position of the backup roller (160) in a direction parallel to the rotational center axis (C1) of the cell case (11) (e.g., Z-axis direction). To implement this, the first adjustment unit (170) may have the following configuration and structure.

[0078] The first adjustment part (170) may include a first shaft (171), a moving block (172), a fixed block (173), a fastening member (174), a plurality of adjustment members (175, 176), an elastic member (177), and a mounting part (178).

[0079] The backup roller (160) may be rotatably mounted on the first shaft (171). For example, the backup roller (160) may be mounted at the end of the first shaft (171). The backup roller (160) may be rotatably mounted on the first shaft (171) by providing a bearing member (162) on the inner surface facing the first shaft (171). For example, the backup roller (160) may be rotatably fitted to the first shaft (171) via the bearing member (162).

[0080] The moving block (172) may be mounted on the first shaft (171) to move together with the backup roller (160). For example, the moving block (172) and the backup roller (160) may be connected via the first shaft (171) so that when the moving block (172) moves, the moving block (172) and the backup roller (160) move together. The moving block (172) may be positioned between the backup roller (160) and the fixed block (173).

[0081] The above-mentioned moving block (172) is provided with a through hole (172a, also referred to as the 'first through hole'). The through hole (172a) may have an inner diameter larger than the outer diameter of the first shaft (171). A bearing (172c) may be provided in the through hole (172a) of the moving block (172).

[0082] The above-mentioned moving block (172) can be mounted to a mounting portion (178) by penetrating the first shaft (171). The mounting portion (178) is provided on the first shaft (171). The mounting portion (178) can be provided to protrude along the radial direction of the backup roller (160) from the first shaft (171). The mounting portion (178) is positioned spaced apart from the end of the first shaft (171). The moving block (172) can be placed on the upper part of the mounting portion (178). And, the backup roller (160) can be placed on the lower part of the mounting portion (178). Additionally, the backup roller (160) can be mounted to the end of the first shaft (171).

[0083] A plurality of body fixing parts (172b) may be provided on the side of the above-mentioned moving block (172). The body fixing parts (172b) may be provided to mount the body (175a) of an adjustment member (e.g., 175) to be described later.

[0084] The fixed block (173) may be mounted on the first shaft (171) so as to be spaced apart from the backup roller (160). The fixed block (173) is provided so that its position does not change even when the backup roller (160) and the moving block (172) move, and the fixed block (173) may be maintained in a separated state from the backup roller (160).

[0085] A through hole (173a, also referred to as a 'second through hole') is provided in the fixed block (173). The through hole (173a) may have an inner diameter larger than the outer diameter of the first shaft (171). A bearing (173c) may be provided in the through hole (173a) of the fixed block (173).

[0086] The fixed block (173) may be positioned above the movable block (172) by penetrating the first shaft (171). The fixed block (173) may be mounted on the first shaft (171) so as to be detachable from and in contact with the movable block (172) when the movable block (172) moves.

[0087] A fastening member (174) may be mounted on the upper surface of the fixed block (173). The fastening member (174) may be provided so that the first shaft (171) can pass through it. The first shaft (171) may be mounted on the fixed block (173) so as to protrude above the fastening member (174).

[0088] The above-mentioned moving block (172) and the above-mentioned fixed block (173) may be connected by the above-mentioned elastic member (177). The above-mentioned elastic member (177) may elastically connect the above-mentioned moving block (172) and the above-mentioned fixed block (173). The above-mentioned elastic member (177) may be compressed in a direction parallel to the above-mentioned first shaft (171) (e.g., in the Z-axis direction). The above-mentioned elastic member (177) may be an elastic spring.

[0089] The elastic member (177) may be arranged to surround the first shaft (171). A portion of the elastic member (177) may be placed within the through hole (172a) of the movable block (172) and the through hole (173a) of the fixed block (173), respectively.

[0090] The plurality of adjustment members (175, 176) may be mounted on the fixed block (173) and the movable block (172). For example, a pair of adjustment members (e.g., 175, 176) may be arranged symmetrically with respect to the first shaft (171).

[0091] The above multiple adjustment members (175, 176) may have the same structure and operating method. In order to avoid repetition of the explanation, the structure and operating method of one of the adjustment members (e.g., 175) will be described in detail below.

[0092] The above adjustment member (e.g., 175) may be provided to adjust the distance (D) between the fixed block (173) and the moving block (172). The above adjustment member (e.g., 175) may adjust the position of the backup roller (160) relative to the fixed block (173) in a direction parallel to the rotational center axis (C1) of the cell case (11) (e.g., Z-axis direction) by moving the moving block (172) in a direction closer to or further away from the fixed block (173).

[0093] The above adjustment member (e.g., 175) can adjust the position of the backup roller (160) relative to the fixed block (173) in a direction parallel to the length direction of the cell case (11) (e.g., Z-axis direction) by adjusting the gap between the moving block (172) and the fixed block (173).

[0094] The above adjustment member (e.g., 175) can precisely adjust the position of the backup roller (160) relative to the fixed block (173) in millimeters (mm). For example, the above adjustment member (e.g., 175) may include a micrometer.

[0095] Referring to FIG. 7, the adjustment member (e.g., 175) may include a body (175a), an adjustment shaft (175b), and a knob (175c).

[0096] The above adjustment member (e.g., 175) can be connected to the movable block (172) and the fixed block (173) by mounting the body (175a) on the movable block (172) and mounting the adjustment shaft (175b) on the fixed block (173).

[0097] A knob (175c) is mounted on the end of the body (175a). The knob (175c) can be mounted to the body (175a) so as to be rotatable in place. The knob (175c) is an operating member for adjusting the axis length (d) of the adjustment shaft (175b).

[0098] The body (175a) can be fixed to the body fixing part (172b) in a direction parallel to the first shaft (171) and connected to the movable block (172). The body (175a) can be mounted to the body fixing part (172b) of the movable block (172) such that the first end (175d) is exposed to the upper part of the body fixing part (172b) of the movable block (172) and the knob (175c) is spaced apart to the lower part of the body fixing part (172b) of the movable block (172).

[0099] The adjustment shaft (175b) may be connected to the knob (175c) and mounted on the body (175a) such that the shaft length (d) is adjusted according to the rotational direction of the knob (175c). The shaft length (d) may be the length between the end of the adjustment shaft (175b) and the first end (175d) of the body (175a).

[0100] The adjustment axis (175b) may have a scale marked on its surface. For example, the scale on the adjustment axis (175b) may be marked in millimeters (mm).

[0101] A scale may be marked on the first end (175d) of the body (175a). The scale on the first end (175d) may be in the decimal unit of the scale unit of the adjustment axis (175b). For example, the scale on the first end (175d) may be marked in micrometer (μm) units.

[0102] The above adjustment member (e.g., 175) can adjust the position of the movable block (172) relative to the fixed block (173) through the adjustment shaft (175b) while the end of the adjustment shaft (175b) is fixed to the fixed block (173).

[0103] When the above adjustment member (e.g., 175) is operated, the backup roller (160) can be moved together with the moving block (172). The backup roller (160) is coupled to the end of the first shaft (171) and can be moved together with the first shaft (171) in the direction of movement of the moving block (172).

[0104] The user can adjust the position of the backup roller (160) relative to the fixed block (173) by adjusting the axis length (d) of the adjustment axis (175b) through the knob (175c) of the adjustment member (e.g., 175).

[0105] FIG. 8 is an operating state diagram of the first adjustment unit when the knob is operated in a counterclockwise direction in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0106] Referring to 8, when the knob (175c) is rotated counterclockwise, the axis length (d) of the adjustment shaft (175b) shortens, and the body (175a) moves in a direction closer to the fixed block (173). The gap (D) between the moving block (172) and the fixed block (173) narrows.

[0107] When the moving block (172) moves in a direction closer to the fixed block (173) together with the body (175a), the backup roller (160) and the first shaft (171) also move in a direction closer to the fixed block (173) together with the moving block (172).

[0108] In this process, the first shaft (171) may be positioned to protrude above the fixed block (173). And, the elastic member (177) may support the movable block (172) and the fixed block (173) while being compressed.

[0109] FIG. 9 is an operating state diagram of the first adjustment unit when the knob is operated clockwise in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0110] Referring to FIG. 9, when the knob (175c) is rotated clockwise, the axis length (d) of the adjustment shaft (175b) increases, and the body (175a) moves away from the fixed block (173). The gap (D) between the moving block (172) and the fixed block (173) widens.

[0111] When the moving block (172) moves in a direction away from the fixed block (173) together with the body (175a), the backup roller (160) and the first shaft (171) also move in a direction away from the fixed block (173) together with the moving block (172).

[0112] In this process, the elastic member (177) can support the movable block (172) and the fixed block (173) while being stretched by the restoring force.

[0113] The first adjustment unit (170) can precisely adjust the position of the backup roller (160) in a direction parallel to the length direction of the cell case (11) (e.g., Z-axis direction). The first adjustment unit (170) can precisely adjust the position of the backup roller (160) within a range of several millimeters (mm) to several centimeters (cm) through the adjustment member (e.g., 175).

[0114] Accordingly, when the position of the cell case (11) needs to be adjusted due to reasons such as a change in the dimensions of the beading groove (12) of the cylindrical battery cell (10), the beading device (100) can adjust the position of the backup roller (160) through the first adjustment part (170) without the need to readjust the positions of the molding part (140), the holder part (130), and the molding part (140).

[0115] The above-mentioned beading device (100) can increase the production volume of cylindrical battery cells (10) by shortening the setting time and increasing the production time of cylindrical battery cells (10).

[0116] Below, we will explain the second adjustment unit (180).

[0117] FIG. 10 schematically illustrates the operating state of the beading device during the molding operation of the molding part in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0118] Referring to FIG. 10, the second adjustment unit (180) may be connected to the first adjustment unit (170) and configured to adjust the position of the backup roller (160) in a direction perpendicular to the rotational center axis (C1) of the cell case (11) (e.g., X-axis direction).

[0119] The second adjustment unit (180) can adjust the position of the backup roller (160) so that it moves closer to or further away from the rotational center axis (C1) of the cell case (11) as the backup roller (160) rotates freely along the outer surface of the cell case (11) during the molding operation of the molding unit (140).

[0120] The second adjustment unit (180) is mounted on the main body (120) on which the molding unit (140) is mounted. The second adjustment unit (180) may include a guide rail (182), a movable body (183), and an elastic connecting unit (185).

[0121] The guide rail (182) may be positioned in a direction perpendicular to the rotational center axis (C1) of the cell case (11) (e.g., X-axis direction). The end (181) of the guide rail (182) may be mounted on one side (121) of the main body (120).

[0122] The above-mentioned movable body (183) is movably mounted on the guide rail (182). The above-mentioned movable body (183) may be mounted on the above-mentioned fixed block (173). The above-mentioned movable body (183) may move the above-mentioned fixed block (173) in a direction perpendicular to the rotational center axis (C1) of the cell case (11) (e.g., X-axis direction).

[0123] The above-mentioned moving body (183) can be connected to the end (181) of the guide rail (182) by an elastic connecting part (185).

[0124] The elastic connecting part (185) can elastically connect the end (181) of the guide rail (182) and the movable body (183) in a direction perpendicular to the rotational center axis (C1) of the cell case (11) (e.g., X-axis direction). The elastic connecting part (185) may be an elastic spring.

[0125] The above-mentioned moving body (183) can compress the elastic connecting part (185) as it moves away from the rotational center axis (C1) of the cell case by the force of the cell case (11) pushing the backup roller (160) during the molding operation of the molding part (140) (when the cell case is pressed).

[0126] The elastic connecting part (185) can elastically support the moving body (183) in a direction perpendicular to the rotational center axis (C1) of the cell case (e.g., X-axis direction) as it is compressed or restored (released), and can cushion the force that the molding part (140) applies to the cell case (11).

[0127] The above-mentioned moving body (183) can be moved away from the rotational center axis (C1) of the cell case if the force pushing the fixed block (173) through the backup roller (160) during the molding operation of the molding part (140) is greater than the restoring force of the elastic connecting part (185).

[0128] If the force pushing the fixed block (173) through the backup roller (160) during the molding operation of the molding part (140) is less than the restoring force of the elastic connecting part (185), the above-mentioned moving body (183) can be moved in a direction closer to the rotational center axis (C1) of the cell case by the elastic force of the elastic connecting part (185).

[0129] The backup roller (160) can be precisely positioned in a direction perpendicular to the rotational center axis (C1) of the cell case (e.g., X-axis direction) according to the force with which the beading knife (141) of the molding part (140) presses the cell case (11) during the molding operation of the molding part (140).

[0130] When the beading device (100) forms the beading groove (12) of the cell case (11), the backup roller (160) is in contact with the outer surface of the cell case (11), and the forming part (140) is positioned in a direction perpendicular to the outer surface of the cell case (11) by the force of the forming part (140) pressing the cell case (11), thereby cushioning the force of the forming part (140) and preventing the outer surface of the cell case (11) from being scratched.

[0131] The above beading device (100) can prevent scratches on the outer surface of the cell case (11) that may occur during the molding of the beading groove (12), thereby improving the quality of the cylindrical battery cell (10) and reducing the defect rate.

[0132] Below, the configuration of the cell rotation part (110) will be described.

[0133] Referring to FIG. 3, the cell rotation part (110) may include a seating part (111), a rotation part (112), a driving part (113), a position adjustment part (114), and a guide part (115).

[0134] The above-mentioned rotating platform (112) is rotatably mounted on the above-mentioned mounting platform (111). The above-mentioned rotating platform (112) is connected to the above-mentioned driving unit (113). The above-mentioned driving unit (113) is provided to rotate the above-mentioned rotating platform (112). The above-mentioned rotating platform (112) may be provided to allow the bottom portion (11b) of the above-mentioned cell case (11) to be mounted thereon. The bottom portion (11b) of the above-mentioned cell case (11) is on the opposite side of the opening portion (11a) of the above-mentioned cell case (11).

[0135] The above drive unit (113) may be installed on the mounting base (111) such that a rotation axis (113a) connected to the rotating base (112) is positioned in a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction of the cell case (11) (e.g., Z-axis direction). The above drive unit (113) may include a motor. When the above drive unit (113) is operated, the rotating base (112) may rotate the cell case (11).

[0136] The position adjustment unit (114) may be mounted on the mounting base (111). The position adjustment unit (114) may be configured to move the mounting base (111) in a direction parallel to the length direction of the cell case (11) (e.g., Z-axis direction). The position adjustment unit (114) may be configured to move the mounting base (111) in a direction perpendicular to the outer surface of the cell case (11) (e.g., X-axis direction).

[0137] The guide portion (115) may be mounted on the mounting base (111) spaced apart from the rotating base (112). The guide portion (115) may be mounted on the mounting base (111) in a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction of the cell case (11) (e.g., Z-axis direction).

[0138] The guide portion (115) may be located on the opposite side of the backup portion (150), that is, at the bottom of the molding portion (140).

[0139] The guide section (115) may include a plurality of guide rolls (116). The plurality of guide rolls (116) may be spaced apart in a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction of the cell case (11) (e.g., Z-axis direction). The plurality of guide rolls (116) may rotate freely along the outer surface of the cell case (11) when the cell case (11) rotates.

[0140] Below, the configuration of the holder part (130) will be described.

[0141] The holder part (130) may include a holder cover (131), a pusher (132), and a holder moving part (133).

[0142] The holder cover (131) may be provided to cover the opening (11a) of the cell case (11) so that the area where the beading groove (12) is to be formed is exposed to the outside. The holder cover (131) may be provided in the form of a lid to cover the periphery of the opening (11a) of the cell case (11), which is the upper part of the forming position (L1).

[0143] The above pusher (132) is mounted on the holder cover (131). The pusher (132) has an outer diameter smaller than the inner diameter of the cell case (11) and is configured to be insertable into the opening (11a) of the cell case (11).

[0144] The above pusher (132) may be inserted into the opening (11a) of the cell case (11) to press the electrode assembly (13) inside the cell case (11).

[0145] The holder moving part (133) may be mounted on the holder cover (131) and configured to move the holder cover (131) in a direction perpendicular to the outer surface of the cell case (11) (e.g., in the X-axis direction). The holder moving part (133) may be mounted on the main body part (120).

[0146] Below, the configuration of the molding part (140) will be described.

[0147] The above-mentioned forming part (140) may include a beading knife (141), a knife driving part (144), and a knife moving part (145).

[0148] The beading knife (141) is intended to form the beading groove (12) on the outer surface of the cell case (11). The beading knife (141) has a circular cross-section and may have a projection (142) curved with a predetermined curvature along the circumference. The projection (142) may be provided along the circumference of the beading knife (141).

[0149] The knife drive unit (144) is mounted on the beading knife (141) and is configured to rotate the beading knife (141).

[0150] The knife drive unit (144) may be mounted on the main body (120) such that the rotation axis (143) is positioned in a direction parallel to the length direction of the cell case (11) (e.g., Z-axis direction). The knife drive unit (144) may be a motor.

[0151] The knife moving part (145) may be mounted on the knife driving part (144). The knife moving part (145) may include a linear motor or a reciprocating cylinder.

[0152] The knife moving part (145) may be provided to adjust the position of the beading knife (141) in a direction perpendicular to the outer surface of the cell case (11) (e.g., X-axis direction).

[0153] The knife moving part (145) can move the beading knife (141) in a direction closer to or further away from the cell case (11).

[0154] The above beading device (100) can adjust the positions of the cell rotation part (110) and the holder part (130) as follows before the molding operation of forming the beading groove (12) on the outer surface of the cell case (11).

[0155] Before the molding operation of the above-mentioned beading device (100), the position adjustment part (114) of the cell rotation part (110) can move up and down in a direction so that the seating plate (111) is closer to the holder part (130).

[0156] The cell case (11) mounted on the rotating platform (112) can be mounted on the holder cover (131) of the holder part (130) while moving up and down together with the mounting platform (111). The holder cover (131) can be mounted on the cell case (11) to cover the opening (11a) of the cell case (11).

[0157] The position adjustment unit (114) can move the mounting base (111) in a direction closer to the backup unit (150). The position adjustment unit (114) can move the mounting base (111) to a position where the outer surface of the cell case (11) contacts the backup roller (160).

[0158] The holder moving part (133) can move the holder cover (131) in a direction closer to the backup part (150) while the holder cover (131) is inserted into the opening (11a) of the cell case (11). The cell case (11) can be moved by the holder moving part (133) to a position where it comes into contact with the backup roller (160).

[0159] And, the molding part (140) can adjust the position of the beading knife (141) so that the beading knife (141) contacts the outer surface of the cell case (11) at the molding position (L1).

[0160] When the setting operation for forming the beading groove (12) in the cell case (11) is completed, the cell rotation unit (110) can be operated to rotate the cell case (11). And, the forming unit (140) can be operated to rotate the beading knife (141).

[0161] The above beading device (100) can operate the cell rotation part (110) and the holder part (130) as follows after the completion of the molding operation, when the molding part (140) is separated from the cell case (11).

[0162] The cell rotation part (110) and the holder part (130) can move in a direction perpendicular to the outer surface of the cell case (11) (e.g., X-axis direction) away from the backup roller (160). Accordingly, the cell case (11) can be released from contact with the backup roller (160).

[0163] Next, the cell rotation part (110) moves the mounting base (111) downward in a direction parallel to the length direction of the cell case (11) (e.g., Z-axis direction) so that it can be separated from the holder part (130).

[0164] The preferred embodiments of the present invention described above are disclosed for illustrative purposes only, and those skilled in the art with ordinary knowledge of the present invention will be able to make various modifications, changes, and additions within the spirit and scope of the present invention, and such modifications, changes, and additions should be considered to fall within the scope of the following claims.

[0165] According to a beading device related to one embodiment of the present invention, when a beading groove is formed on the outer surface of a cell case of a cylindrical battery cell, damage to the cell case can be prevented.

Claims

1. A forming part comprising a beading knife provided to press the cell case when the cell case is rotated in order to form a beading groove along the circumferential direction of the cell case at a predetermined position according to the longitudinal direction of the cell case; and A beading device comprising a backup section including a backup roller that is positioned apart from the molding section along the circumferential direction of the cell case, positionally adjustable along the longitudinal direction of the cell case, and rotatably arranged when in contact with the cell case.

2. In claim 1, the backup unit A first shaft on which the above backup roller is mounted to be rotatably mounted; A moving block mounted on the first shaft to move together with the backup roller; A fixed block mounted on the first shaft so as to be spaced apart from the backup roller; and A beading device comprising at least one adjusting member provided to adjust the gap between the fixed block and the movable block.

3. In Paragraph 2, The above adjustment member comprises a body, a knob rotatably mounted on the body, and an adjustment shaft connected to the knob and mounted on the body such that its shaft length is adjusted according to the direction of rotation of the knob. The above adjustment member is a beading device in which the body is mounted on a movable block and the adjustment shaft is mounted on a fixed block to connect the movable block and the fixed block.

4. In Paragraph 3, The above-mentioned movable block is provided with a body fixing part protruding from the side, and The above body is a beading device that is fixed to the body fixing part in a direction parallel to the first shaft and connected to the movable block.

5. In Paragraph 2, The above backup unit is a beading device further comprising an elastic member that elastically connects the movable block and the fixed block.

6. In Paragraph 5, Through holes are provided in the above-mentioned movable block and the above-mentioned fixed block, and The above elastic member is a beading device mounted on the movable block and the fixed block, surrounding the first shaft within the through hole.

7. In Paragraph 2, The above backup part is provided on the first shaft and additionally includes a mounting part provided to mount the movable block.

8. In Paragraph 2, The above backup unit is a beading device further comprising a fastening member mounted on the above fixed block and the first shaft.

9. In Paragraph 2, The above-mentioned moving block has a through hole through which the first shaft passes, and The above fixed block has a through hole through which the first shaft passes, and The above backup part is a beading device further comprising a bearing member mounted in the through hole of the moving block and a bearing member mounted in the through hole of the fixed block.

10. In claim 1, the backup unit A first adjustment unit provided to adjust the position of the backup roller in a direction parallel to the rotational center axis of the cell case; and A beading device comprising a second adjustment unit connected to the first adjustment unit and configured to adjust the position of the backup roller in a direction perpendicular to the rotational center axis of the cell case.

11. In claim 10, the second adjustment unit is, A movable body mounted on the first adjustment unit above; A guide rail mounted on the main body to guide the movement of the movable body in a direction perpendicular to the rotational center axis of the cell case, and a movable body mounted thereon; and A beading device comprising an elastic connecting portion that elastically connects the end of the guide rail and the movable body.

12. In Paragraph 11, the first adjustment unit A fixed block mounted on the above-mentioned movable body; A backup roller is mounted at the end so as to be rotatably, and a first shaft is connected to the fixed block parallel to the rotational center axis of the cell case; A movable block disposed between the fixed block and the backup roller and movably mounted on the first shaft; A mounting portion provided on the first shaft and configured to mount the movable block; and A beading device comprising at least one adjusting member arranged parallel to the first shaft and configured to adjust the gap between the fixed block and the movable block.

13. In Paragraph 12, The above-mentioned first adjustment unit is a beading device further comprising an elastic member that is arranged to surround the first shaft and connects the moving block and the fixed block.

14. In Paragraph 12, The above adjustment member comprises a body, a knob rotatably mounted on the body, and an adjustment shaft connected to the knob and mounted on the body such that its shaft length is adjusted according to the direction of rotation of the knob. A beading device in which the above-mentioned body is mounted on a movable block and the above-mentioned adjustment shaft is mounted on a fixed block to connect the movable block and the fixed block.

15. In Paragraph 1, A cell rotation part provided to rotate the cell case above; and A beading device further comprising a holder portion arranged to face the cell rotation portion between the molding portion and the backup portion, inserted into the opening of the cell case to press an electrode assembly accommodated inside the cell case, and provided to support the rotation of the cell case.

Images