Welding device and welding method for cylindrical battery

Abstract

A welding device and a welding method for a cylindrical battery. The welding device comprises a negative electrode welding apparatus, a turnover apparatus and a positive electrode welding apparatus; the negative electrode welding apparatus comprises a negative electrode welding tool and a negative electrode welding mechanism; the turnover apparatus comprises a turnover tower and a turnover fixture assembly; the turnover fixture assembly comprises a turnover clamping member for clamping a cylindrical battery; and the positive electrode welding apparatus comprises a positive electrode welding tool and a positive electrode welding mechanism. The cylindrical battery is welded by the negative electrode welding apparatus, the cylindrical battery welded by the negative electrode welding apparatus is turned over by the turnover apparatus, and then the cylindrical battery is further welded by the positive electrode welding apparatus, so that the number of times the cylindrical battery is turned over can be reduced, thereby improving the production efficiency of the cylindrical battery, and the number of turnover apparatuses can also be reduced, thereby reducing the number of parts of the welding device, reducing the space occupied by the welding device, and reducing the production cost.

Description

Welding equipment and welding methods for cylindrical batteries

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application is based on and claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202510361464.3, filed on March 25, 2025, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This application relates to the field of battery manufacturing, specifically to a welding device and a welding method for cylindrical batteries. Background Technology

[0004] Energy conservation and emission reduction are key to the sustainable development of the automotive industry, and electric vehicles, due to their energy-saving and environmentally friendly advantages, have become an important component of this sustainable development. For electric vehicles, battery technology is a crucial factor in their development.

[0005] In related technologies, the welding equipment for cylindrical batteries has a large number of structures, occupies a lot of space, and has complex welding steps, resulting in low production efficiency. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In view of the above problems, this application provides a welding device and a welding method for cylindrical batteries, which can reduce the number of components and space occupied by the welding device and improve the production efficiency of cylindrical batteries.

[0007] In a first aspect, this application provides a welding device, including: a negative electrode welding apparatus, comprising a negative electrode welding fixture and a negative electrode welding mechanism, wherein the negative electrode welding fixture is used to hold a cylindrical battery in a position with the positive electrode post facing down and the end cap facing up, and the negative electrode welding mechanism is disposed on one side of the welding fixture for welding the end cap and the negative electrode current collector.

[0008] A flipping device is located on one side of the negative electrode welding device and includes a flipping tower and a flipping clamp assembly. The flipping clamp assembly is located on the flipping tower and includes a flipping clamping member for holding the cylindrical battery. Under the action of the flipping tower, the flipping clamping member flips the cylindrical battery so that the positive electrode post faces upward and the end cap faces downward. The positive electrode welding device includes a positive electrode welding fixture and a positive electrode welding mechanism. The positive electrode welding fixture is used to hold the cylindrical battery in a position where the positive electrode post faces upward and the end cap faces downward. The positive electrode welding mechanism is located on one side of the positive electrode welding fixture and is used to weld the positive electrode current collector of the cylindrical battery to the positive electrode post.

[0009] In the technical solution of this application embodiment, by setting a negative electrode welding device, a flipping device, and a positive electrode welding device, the cylindrical battery can be welded using the negative electrode welding device, and the cylindrical battery after being welded by the negative electrode welding device can be flipped using the flipping device. Then, the cylindrical battery can be further welded using the positive electrode welding device. On the one hand, the number of flipping times of the cylindrical battery can be reduced, which is conducive to improving the production efficiency of the cylindrical battery. On the other hand, the number of flipping devices can be reduced, which is conducive to reducing the number of components of the welding equipment, reducing the space occupied by the welding equipment, and reducing production costs.

[0010] In some embodiments, the wall of the cylindrical battery casing opposite the end cap is a mounting wall. The positive electrode post is disposed on the mounting wall, the positive current collector is located between the electrode assembly of the cylindrical battery and the mounting wall, and the negative current collector is located between the electrode assembly and the end cap. The negative electrode welding device includes a negative electrode welding head, which is used to abut against the end cap. The positive electrode welding device includes a positive electrode welding head, which is used to abut against the positive electrode post. During the welding process, the positive and negative electrode welding heads can apply pressure to the areas to be welded, ensuring a tight fit between the welded parts. They can also fix the position of the welded parts, conduct heat, and reduce problems such as incomplete welds and missed welds, thereby improving the welding quality.

[0011] In some embodiments, each of the negative electrode welding fixture and the positive electrode welding fixture includes: a welding tower, comprising a welding rotating component and a welding cam assembly, wherein the welding rotating component rotates about a central axis extending in the vertical direction, and the welding cam assembly and the welding rotating component are coaxially arranged; and a plurality of welding clamp assemblies, circumferentially disposed on the welding rotating component and rotating synchronously with the welding rotating component, each welding clamp assembly being used to mount the cylindrical battery; wherein, the welding clamp assembly slides circumferentially along the welding cam assembly under the drive of the welding rotating component, and at least a portion of the structure of the welding clamp assembly moves vertically relative to the welding rotating component under the action of the welding cam assembly. In the above technical solution, by configuring the welding tower to include a welding rotating component and a welding cam assembly, the welding rotating component and the welding cam assembly work together on the welding clamp assembly, allowing the welding clamp assembly to rotate about a central axis extending in the vertical direction, and during the rotation, it can move vertically in a specific area on the welding tower, allowing the cylindrical battery to undergo specific processing operations at a specific workstation, thereby enabling the transfer and processing of the cylindrical battery to be carried out synchronously.

[0012] In some embodiments, the welding fixture assembly includes: a welding fixture body for mounting the cylindrical battery; a welding pressure plate fixed to the welding fixture body; and a welding pusher movably disposed in the welding fixture body in a vertical direction and located below the welding pressure plate. The welding pusher slides with the welding cam assembly and moves upward relative to the welding fixture body under the action of the welding cam assembly to push the cylindrical battery against the welding pressure plate. In the above technical solution, by configuring the welding fixture assembly to include a welding pressure plate and a welding pusher, the welding pusher can push the cylindrical battery to a position abutting against the welding pressure plate under the action of the welding cam assembly, thereby facilitating subsequent welding operations.

[0013] In some embodiments, the welding fixture assembly further includes: a first cup positioning member, fixed to the welding fixture body and located between the welding pressure plate and the welding pusher, for positioning the cup supporting the cylindrical battery; the welding pusher moves upward relative to the welding fixture body under the action of the welding cam assembly to push the cylindrical battery away from the cup and stop against the welding pressure plate. The first cup positioning member can, on the one hand, position the cup of the cylindrical battery, thereby providing a stable mounting position for the cylindrical battery; on the other hand, it can protect the cylindrical battery, reducing damage from collisions, scratches, etc., by external objects, while improving maintenance efficiency and reducing maintenance costs.

[0014] In some embodiments, the first cup positioning component is at least partially a magnetic attraction mechanism, and the cup is a magnetically attractive structure. The first cup positioning component positions the cup using magnetic attraction. The magnetic attraction of the first cup positioning component to fix the cup simplifies the assembly and disassembly process. Simply bring the cup containing the cylindrical battery close to the first cup positioning component, and it will automatically be attracted into place by magnetic force. The installation process is simple and quick. When disassembly is needed, it can be easily pulled out by overcoming the magnetic force, effectively improving assembly and disassembly efficiency. Furthermore, the magnetic attraction of the first cup positioning component to fix the cup improves the installation reliability and stability of the cup, and allows for fine-tuning of the cup's position. This further enhances the installation reliability and stability of the cylindrical battery within the cup, thereby improving the welding quality of the cylindrical battery.

[0015] In some embodiments, the welding pusher is equipped with a pressure detection element for detecting the pressure exerted by the welding pusher on the cylindrical battery. The pressure detection element can detect the pressure exerted by the welding pusher on the cylindrical battery in real time, allowing the cylindrical battery to move upward to the welding station for convenient subsequent welding operations.

[0016] In some embodiments, the welding plate has a clearance hole and a gas passage. The clearance hole is disposed opposite to the area to be welded of the cylindrical battery, and the outlet of the gas passage faces downward and surrounds the area to be welded, for guiding protective gas to the area to be welded. In the above technical solution, by providing a clearance hole and a gas passage on the welding plate, and using the gas passage to guide protective gas to the clearance hole and the area to be welded, on the one hand, the protective gas can isolate the area to be welded of the cylindrical battery from the air, reducing metal oxidation during welding and improving welding quality; on the other hand, the protective gas can improve the conductivity and thermal stability of the arc, making the arc more stable, and can also reduce spatter during welding, further improving welding quality.

[0017] In some embodiments, the welding plate further defines an air inlet channel, which is connected to the inlet of the air passage; wherein the air passage is an annular channel, and the air inlet channel is tangent to the annular channel. In the above technical solution, by tangentially aligning the air inlet channel with the annular channel, the protective gas, when flowing from the air inlet channel to the air passage, can flow along the tangential direction of the annular channel. Utilizing the inertia and centrifugal force of the protective gas flow, the protective gas can be distributed more evenly and stably in a cyclone pattern within the annular channel, which is beneficial for forming a more stable and uniform protective gas flow field throughout the entire annular channel. Furthermore, the protective gas will not experience abrupt changes in direction or impacts at the connection between the air inlet channel and the air passage, thereby effectively reducing turbulence and eddy current generation, which helps to reduce the resistance to the protective gas flow and improve the efficiency of protective gas delivery.

[0018] In some embodiments, the number of air intake channels is multiple, and the multiple air intake channels are arranged circumferentially in the annular channel and are centrally symmetrical about the center of the annular channel. In the above technical solution, by setting multiple air intake channels and distributing them centrally symmetrically about the center of the annular channel, on the one hand, the protective gas can enter the annular channel more evenly, so that the protective gas can quickly and evenly cover the area to be welded of the cylindrical battery, which is beneficial to improving the welding quality. On the other hand, the airflow entering the annular channel from multiple air intake channels can form a symmetrical and stable flow field, reducing airflow turbulence and eddy current generation, further improving the welding quality, and also reducing the limitation on welding speed, thereby improving welding efficiency.

[0019] In some embodiments, the venting channel gradually extends from top to bottom towards the clearance hole, and the flow area of ​​the venting channel gradually decreases from top to bottom. This configuration increases the flow velocity of the protective gas, allowing it to quickly flow to the area to be soldered in the cylindrical battery, effectively isolating the air from the area to be soldered. Furthermore, it allows for the formation of a more stable protective gas layer above the area to be soldered in the cylindrical battery, thus better isolating the air from the area to be soldered.

[0020] In some embodiments, the welding plate of the positive electrode welding device is provided with a sealing element, the sealing element including a sealing needle, which at least partially extends into the clearance hole to seal the electrolyte injection hole on the cylindrical battery. In the above technical solution, using a sealing element to seal the electrolyte injection hole on the cylindrical battery can reduce the amount of metal debris and dust entering the cylindrical battery through the electrolyte injection hole during the welding process, thereby reducing problems such as internal short circuits and self-discharge in the cylindrical battery.

[0021] In some embodiments, the welding equipment further includes a quick-change assembly for sealing components, located on one side of the positive electrode welding device, for replacing the sealing components. In the above technical solution, by providing a quick-change assembly for sealing components on one side of the positive electrode welding device, it is convenient to replace the sealing components on the welding pressure plate, reducing the occurrence of incomplete welds during the welding process and improving the welding quality between the positive electrode post and the positive electrode current collector.

[0022] In some embodiments, the quick-change plugging component assembly includes: a mounting base; a buffer for storing multiple plugging components; and a quick-change clamping component movably disposed on the mounting base for removing the plugging components from the welding pressure plate and installing the plugging components on the buffer onto the corresponding welding pressure plate. In the above technical solution, by configuring the quick-change plugging component assembly to include a buffer, a mounting base, and a quick-change clamping component, the plugging components on the welding pressure plate can be quickly replaced, which is beneficial for improving the working efficiency of the welding equipment and also improves the welding quality of the positive electrode post and the positive current collector.

[0023] In some embodiments, the welding fixture body is provided with a locking member, which is adapted to switch from a locked state to an unlocked state under the drive of the quick-change clamping member. In the locked state, the locking member locks the sealing member onto the welding pressure plate, and in the unlocked state, the sealing member is allowed to disengage from the welding pressure plate. In the above technical solution, by providing a locking member on the welding fixture body, the locking member can be used to lock and unlock the sealing member on the welding pressure plate, which can improve the installation reliability of the sealing member, facilitate the replacement of the sealing member, simplify operation, and improve the production efficiency of the welding equipment.

[0024] In some embodiments, the sealing member further includes a fixing part, and the sealing needle is disposed on the fixing part; the welding fixture body is provided with an mounting part and a pressing part, the pressing part is movably disposed on the mounting part and linked with the locking member, the pressing part is adapted to drive the locking member to switch from the locked state to the unlocked state under the action of the quick-change clamping member, so as to allow the quick-change clamping member to clamp the sealing member. In the above technical solution, by providing an mounting part and a pressing part on the welding fixture body and linking the pressing part with the locking member, the quick-change clamping member can unlock the sealing member by pressing the pressing part, and at the same time clamp the sealing member. That is, the unlocking action and clamping action of the sealing member can be integrated into one operation. On the one hand, it can reduce the time and steps required for separate clamping operations, shorten the operation time, and improve production efficiency. On the other hand, it can reduce the complexity and difficulty of operation, reduce the control difficulty of the system, and improve the reliability of welding equipment.

[0025] In some embodiments, the mounting base includes: a first guide rail extending along a first direction; a second guide rail disposed on the first guide rail and extending along a second direction, the second guide rail being movable along the first direction under the guidance of the first guide rail; a third guide rail disposed on the second guide rail and extending along a third direction, the third guide rail being movable along the second direction under the guidance of the second guide rail; and a quick-change clamping member disposed on the third guide rail and movable along the third direction under the guidance of the third guide rail. The first direction, the second direction, and the third direction are arranged perpendicularly to each other, and one of the three is a vertical direction. In the above technical solution, by configuring the mounting base to include a first guide rail, a second guide rail, and a third guide rail, the quick-change clamping member can be moved along the first direction, the second direction, and the third direction as needed to adjust the position of the quick-change clamping member relative to the buffer and the positive electrode welding device, thereby achieving rapid replacement of the sealing member.

[0026] In some embodiments, the flipping tower includes a flipping rotating component and a flipping cam. The flipping rotating component rotates about a central axis extending in the vertical direction, and the flipping cam is coaxially arranged with the flipping rotating component. A plurality of flipping clamp assemblies are circumferentially disposed on the flipping rotating component and rotate synchronously with it. Each flipping clamp assembly also includes a flipping clamp body. A flipping clamping member is rotatably disposed on the flipping clamp body. Under the drive of the flipping rotating component, the flipping clamp assembly slides circumferentially along the flipping cam. The flipping clamping member rotates relative to the flipping clamp body under the action of the flipping cam, thereby flipping the placement orientation of the cylindrical battery. In the above technical solution, by setting the flipping tower to include a flipping rotating component and a flipping cam, and setting the flipping clamp assembly to include a flipping clamp body and a flipping clamping member, the flipping rotating component and the flipping cam work together on the flipping clamping member to cause the flipping clamping member to rotate, thereby realizing the flipping of the cylindrical battery, facilitating subsequent welding, testing, and other operations.

[0027] In some embodiments, the flipping clamp assembly further includes a transmission mechanism disposed on the flipping clamp body, and the flipping clamping member is connected to the flipping cam via the transmission mechanism. The transmission mechanism includes a gear and a rack; the gear is connected to the flipping clamping member, the rack extends vertically and slides circumferentially along the flipping cam, the rack meshes with the gear, and the rack moves vertically relative to the flipping clamp body under the action of the flipping cam. The flipping clamping member rotates relative to the flipping clamp body under the drive of the gear. In the above technical solution, by configuring the transmission mechanism to include a gear and a rack, the circumferential sliding motion of the flipping clamp assembly along the flipping cam can be converted into the rotational motion of the flipping clamping member, allowing the flipping clamping member to rotate under the action of the flipping cam, thereby realizing the flipping of the cylindrical battery.

[0028] In some embodiments, the flipping tower further includes an opening / closing cam, which is coaxially arranged with the flipping rotating member. The flipping clamp assembly slides circumferentially along the opening / closing cam under the drive of the flipping rotating member, and the flipping clamping member switches between a closed state (clamping the cylindrical battery) and an open state (releasing the cylindrical battery) under the action of the opening / closing cam. In the above technical solution, by configuring the flipping tower to include an opening / closing cam and cooperating with the flipping clamping member, the flipping clamping member can switch between open and closed states according to actual working conditions to clamp or release the cylindrical battery, thereby facilitating the flipping or other operations on the cylindrical battery.

[0029] In some embodiments, the tilting tower further includes a lifting cam assembly, which is coaxially arranged with the tilting rotating member; at least a portion of the tilting clamp assembly moves vertically relative to the tilting rotating member under the action of the lifting cam assembly. In the above technical solution, by configuring the tilting tower to include a tilting rotating member and a lifting cam assembly, the tilting clamp assembly can rotate around a central axis extending vertically through the combined action of the tilting rotating member and the lifting cam assembly. Furthermore, during rotation, it can move vertically within a specific area on the tilting tower, allowing the cylindrical battery to undergo specific processing operations within that area. This enables the synchronous transfer and processing of the cylindrical battery.

[0030] In some embodiments, the flipping fixture assembly further includes: a first flipping pusher, movably disposed in the vertical direction on the flipping fixture body and located below the flipping clamping member; and a second flipping pusher, movably disposed in the vertical direction on the flipping fixture body and located above the flipping clamping member; wherein both the first and second flipping pushers are slidably engaged with the lifting cam assembly, the first flipping pusher moves upward relative to the flipping fixture body under the action of the lifting cam assembly, pushing the cylindrical battery to the position to be flipped, and the second flipping pusher moves downward relative to the flipping fixture body under the action of the lifting cam assembly, pushing the cylindrical battery to the initial position. In the above technical solution, by configuring the flipping fixture assembly to include a first flipping pusher and a second flipping pusher, the first and second flipping pushers can push the cylindrical battery to move in the vertical direction under the action of the lifting cam assembly, thereby facilitating subsequent flipping and other processing operations.

[0031] In some embodiments, the flipping clamp assembly further includes: a second cup positioning member, fixed to the flipping clamp body and located between the flipping clamping member and the first flipping pushing member, for positioning the cup carrying the cylindrical battery; the first flipping pushing member moves upward relative to the flipping clamp body under the action of the lifting cam assembly, pushing the cylindrical battery out of the cup; the second flipping pushing member moves downward relative to the flipping clamp body under the action of the lifting cam assembly, pushing the cylindrical battery into the cup. The second cup positioning member can, on the one hand, position the cup of the cylindrical battery, thereby providing a stable mounting position for the cylindrical battery; on the other hand, it can protect the cylindrical battery, reducing damage from collisions, scratches, etc., caused by external objects, while improving maintenance efficiency and reducing maintenance costs.

[0032] In some embodiments, the welding equipment further includes a first transfer member disposed between the negative electrode welding device and the flipping device to transfer the cylindrical battery welded on the negative electrode welding device to the flipping device. In the above technical solution, by providing a first transfer member between the negative electrode welding device and the flipping device, on the one hand, the first transfer member can transfer the cylindrical battery on the negative electrode welding device to the flipping device, thereby facilitating the subsequent flipping of the cylindrical battery's placement state using the flipping device; on the other hand, the first transfer member can play a buffering and coordinating role, matching the working rhythms of the negative electrode welding device and the flipping device, and improving the operational stability of the welding equipment.

[0033] In some embodiments, the first transfer member is provided with a first guide member for guiding the cylindrical battery from the negative electrode welding device to the flipping device. In the above technical solution, by providing a first guide member on the first transfer member, the cylindrical battery on the negative electrode welding device can be guided to the first transfer member, and then the cylindrical battery on the first transfer member can be transferred to the flipping device. This reduces the possibility of the cylindrical battery deviating or falling off, and improves the stability and reliability of the cylindrical battery transfer process.

[0034] In some embodiments, the welding equipment further includes a testing device for testing the cylindrical battery welded on the positive electrode welding device. In the above technical solution, the testing device can be used to test the welded cylindrical battery to evaluate its performance. Through testing, the cylindrical batteries can be screened, selecting those with better performance and reducing the use of substandard cylindrical batteries, thereby improving the reliability and stability of the entire battery device.

[0035] In some embodiments, the testing apparatus includes: a testing tower comprising a testing rotating component and a testing cam, the testing rotating component rotating about a central axis extending in the vertical direction, and the testing cam coaxially disposed with the testing rotating component; and a plurality of testing fixture assemblies circumferentially disposed on the testing rotating component and rotating synchronously with the testing rotating component, each of the testing fixture assemblies being used to mount the cylindrical battery and including a test piece for testing the internal resistance of the cylindrical battery; wherein, the testing fixture assembly slides circumferentially along the testing cam under the drive of the testing rotating component, and the test piece moves vertically relative to the testing rotating component under the action of the testing cam. In the above technical solution, by configuring the testing tower to include a testing rotating component and a testing cam, the testing fixture assembly can rotate about a central axis extending in the vertical direction through the combined action of the testing rotating component and the testing cam assembly, and during the rotation, the test piece can move vertically to the testing station to realize the testing operation, thereby enabling the transfer and testing of the cylindrical battery to be performed synchronously.

[0036] In some embodiments, the test fixture assembly includes: a test fixture body including a test clamping member for clamping the cylindrical battery; the test piece is movably disposed on the test fixture body in a vertical direction and located above the test clamping member; wherein the test piece includes a positive electrode probe and a negative electrode probe, the test piece slides with the test cam, and moves downward relative to the test fixture body under the action of the test cam; the positive electrode probe abuts against the positive terminal of the cylindrical battery, and the negative electrode probe abuts against the casing of the cylindrical battery, to test the internal resistance of the cylindrical battery. By setting the test piece to include a positive electrode probe and a negative electrode probe, the structure and performance of the cylindrical battery are not damaged during the test. Internal resistance testing can be performed simply by connecting the positive and negative electrode probes to the positive and negative terminals of the cylindrical battery, respectively. The operation is simple and quick, and has high measurement accuracy, capable of accurately measuring minute changes in the battery's internal resistance.

[0037] In some embodiments, the number of positive and negative probes is multiple, and the radius of the imaginary circle containing the multiple negative probes is larger than the radius of the imaginary circle containing the multiple positive probes. In the above technical solution, by setting multiple positive and negative probes, the stability and accuracy of the measurement results of the test specimen can be improved. Furthermore, if one positive or negative probe is damaged, the remaining positive or negative probes can still be used normally without affecting the test.

[0038] In some embodiments, the test piece further includes: a fixing base, on which the positive and negative probes are disposed; and a positioning sleeve, disposed on the fixing base, for positioning the cylindrical battery. By providing the fixing base, on the one hand, it provides a mounting carrier for the positive and negative probes, facilitating internal resistance testing of the cylindrical battery using the positive and negative probes; on the other hand, it provides a mounting carrier for the positioning sleeve, enabling the positioning of the cylindrical battery, improving the reliability and stability of the cylindrical battery's installation on the test fixture assembly, and also protecting the cylindrical battery from damage such as collisions and scratches from external objects. Simultaneously, it improves maintenance efficiency and reduces maintenance costs.

[0039] In some embodiments, the test fixture assembly further includes a third cup positioning component, fixed to the test fixture body and located below the test clamping component, for positioning the cup supporting the cylindrical battery. The third cup positioning component can, on the one hand, position the cup of the cylindrical battery, thereby providing a stable mounting position for the cylindrical battery; on the other hand, it can protect the cylindrical battery, reducing damage from impacts, scratches, and other external objects, while improving maintenance efficiency and reducing maintenance costs.

[0040] In some embodiments, the welding equipment further includes a second transfer member disposed between the positive electrode welding device and the testing device to transfer the cylindrical battery welded on the positive electrode welding device to the testing device. In the above technical solution, by providing a second transfer member between the positive electrode welding device and the testing device, on the one hand, the second transfer member can transfer the cylindrical battery from the positive electrode welding device to the testing device, thereby facilitating subsequent testing of the cylindrical battery using the testing device; on the other hand, the second transfer member can play a buffering and coordinating role, matching the working rhythms of the positive electrode welding device and the testing device, and improving the operational stability of the welding equipment.

[0041] In some embodiments, the second transfer member is provided with a second guide member for guiding the cylindrical battery from the positive electrode welding device to the testing device. In the above technical solution, by providing a second guide member on the second transfer member, the cylindrical battery on the positive electrode welding device can be guided to the second transfer member, and then the cylindrical battery on the second transfer member can be transferred to the testing device. This reduces the possibility of the cylindrical battery deviating or falling off, and improves the stability and reliability of the cylindrical battery transfer process.

[0042] In some embodiments, the welding equipment further includes: a first workbench, on which the negative electrode welding device and the flipping device are arranged side by side; and a second workbench, on which the positive electrode welding device and the testing device are arranged side by side. Arranging the negative electrode welding device and the flipping device on the first workbench allows for a more compact structure and improved space utilization. Furthermore, it links the workflows of the negative electrode welding device and the flipping device together, improving their collaborative efficiency, reducing work interruptions caused by dispersed device locations, and enhancing the continuity of welding equipment operation, thereby increasing the overall efficiency of the welding equipment. Similarly, arranging the positive electrode welding device and the testing device on the second workbench also allows for a more compact structure and improved space utilization. Additionally, it links the workflows of the positive electrode welding device and the testing device together, improving their collaborative efficiency, reducing work interruptions caused by dispersed device locations, and enhancing the continuity of welding equipment operation, thereby increasing the overall efficiency of the welding equipment.

[0043] In some embodiments, the welding equipment further includes a transfer mechanism disposed between the flipping device and the positive electrode welding device, for transferring the flipped cylindrical battery from the flipping device to the positive electrode welding device. In the above technical solution, by setting up the transfer mechanism, on the one hand, the transfer of cylindrical batteries can be realized, reducing manual labor intensity, improving production efficiency, and facilitating fully automated production of cylindrical batteries; on the other hand, since the operating speed and working rhythm of the flipping device and the positive electrode welding device may differ, the transfer mechanism can play a buffering and coordinating role, so that the operating speed and working rhythm of the flipping device and the positive electrode welding device can be matched, enabling the welding equipment to operate stably.

[0044] Secondly, this application provides a welding method for a cylindrical battery, comprising the following steps: providing a casing with an opening, an end cap, and an electrode assembly connected with a positive current collector and a negative current collector, wherein the positive current collector is connected to the positive electrode tab of the electrode assembly, and the negative current collector is connected to the negative electrode tab of the electrode assembly; welding the end cap and the negative current collector with the end cap facing upwards; flipping the casing to a position where the positive electrode post faces upwards and the end cap faces downwards; welding the positive current collector and the positive electrode post with the positive electrode post facing upwards to obtain a cylindrical battery.

[0045] In the technical solution of this application embodiment, the end cap and negative current collector are first welded with the end cap facing upwards. After flipping, the positive current collector and positive current collector are then welded with the positive terminal facing upwards. On the one hand, this can reduce the number of times the cylindrical battery is flipped, which is conducive to improving the production efficiency of the cylindrical battery. On the other hand, it can reduce the number of flipping devices, which is conducive to reducing the number of components of the welding equipment, reducing the space occupied by the welding equipment, and reducing production costs.

[0046] In some embodiments, before welding the end cap and the negative current collector along the end cap facing upward, the process includes: arranging the housing in a position where the opening faces downward and the positive electrode post faces upward; installing the electrode assembly into the housing; flipping the housing to a position where the opening faces upward and the positive electrode post faces downward; and sealing the opening along the end cap facing upward.

[0047] In some embodiments, sealing the opening with the end cap includes: welding the outer periphery of the end cap and the opening edge of the housing along the circumferential direction of the end cap. In the above technical solution, welding the outer periphery of the end cap and the opening edge of the housing along the circumferential direction of the end cap can reduce the problem of incomplete welding, allowing the end cap to seal the opening of the housing. This reduces electrolyte leakage from the joint between the end cap and the housing after electrolyte injection, preventing corrosion of equipment and the environment around the cylindrical battery and affecting its performance and lifespan. It also reduces the entry of external impurities into the housing, thus reducing the performance of the cylindrical battery.

[0048] In some embodiments, after welding the positive current collector and the positive terminal, the process includes testing the internal resistance of the cylindrical battery. In the above technical solution, by testing the internal resistance of the cylindrical battery, it is possible to determine whether the performance of the cylindrical battery meets design requirements and to promptly identify potential safety hazards, which is beneficial to improving the safety of using the cylindrical battery.

[0049] In some embodiments, after testing the internal resistance of the cylindrical battery, the method includes: detecting the seal of the cylindrical battery with the positive terminal facing upwards. This configuration can reduce electrolyte leakage from the seam between the end cap and the casing after filling, which could corrode equipment and the environment around the cylindrical battery, affecting its performance and lifespan. It can also reduce the entry of external impurities into the casing, thus reducing the performance of the cylindrical battery.

[0050] In some embodiments, detecting the seal of the cylindrical battery includes injecting a detection gas into the injection hole on the positive terminal. This allows for rapid location of leaks, facilitating timely repairs or the removal of substandard products, effectively reducing battery performance degradation or safety hazards caused by minute leaks.

[0051] The above description is only an overview of the technical solution of this application. In order to better understand the technical means of this application and to implement it in accordance with the contents of the specification, and to make the above and other objects, features and advantages of this application more obvious and understandable, specific embodiments of this application are given below. Attached Figure Description

[0052] Various other advantages and benefits will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the detailed description of the preferred embodiments below. The accompanying drawings are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this application. Furthermore, the same reference numerals denote the same parts throughout the drawings. In the drawings:

[0053] Figure 1 is a structural block diagram of a welding device according to some embodiments of this application;

[0054] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a cylindrical battery according to some embodiments of this application;

[0055] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the negative electrode welding device and the flipping device of the welding equipment of some embodiments of this application on the first workbench;

[0056] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the positive electrode welding device and testing device of the welding equipment of some embodiments of this application on the second workbench;

[0057] Figure 5 is a front view of the welding tower and welding fixture assembly of the negative electrode welding apparatus and the positive electrode welding apparatus according to some embodiments of this application;

[0058] Figure 6 is a perspective view of the welding tower and welding fixture assembly of the negative electrode welding apparatus and the positive electrode welding apparatus according to some embodiments of this application;

[0059] Figure 7 is an enlarged view of part A shown in Figure 6;

[0060] Figure 8 is an enlarged view of part B shown in Figure 6;

[0061] Figure 9 is a perspective view of the welding fixture assembly of the negative electrode welding apparatus and the positive electrode welding apparatus according to some embodiments of this application;

[0062] Figure 10 is a partial structural schematic diagram of the welding fixture assembly of a positive electrode welding device according to some embodiments of this application;

[0063] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram of the welding plate of the positive electrode welding device shown in Figure 10;

[0064] Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view of the structure along CC in Figure 11;

[0065] Figure 13 is an exploded view of the welded pressure plate shown in Figure 11;

[0066] Figure 14 is a front view of the quick-change plugging assembly shown in Figure 4;

[0067] Figure 15 is a top view of the quick-change plug assembly shown in Figure 14;

[0068] Figure 16 is a perspective view of the quick-change plugging assembly shown in Figure 14;

[0069] Figure 17 is an enlarged view of part D shown in Figure 16;

[0070] Figure 18 is a perspective view of the dust removal assembly shown in Figures 3 and 4;

[0071] Figure 19 is an enlarged view of E shown in Figure 18;

[0072] Figure 20 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the flipping device of the welding equipment according to some embodiments of this application;

[0073] Figure 21 is a front view of the flipping fixture assembly of the flipping device shown in Figure 20;

[0074] Figure 22 is an enlarged view of F shown in Figure 21;

[0075] Figure 23 is a perspective view of the flipping clamp assembly of the flipping device shown in Figure 20;

[0076] Figure 24 is a schematic diagram of the transmission mechanism and the second flipping pusher of the flipping clamp assembly shown in Figure 23;

[0077] Figure 25 is an enlarged view of G shown in Figure 20;

[0078] Figure 26 is an enlarged view of H shown in Figure 20;

[0079] Figure 27 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first flipping pusher of the flipping clamp assembly shown in Figure 23;

[0080] Figure 28 is a schematic diagram of the operation of the flipping device of the welding equipment according to some embodiments of this application;

[0081] Figure 29 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the testing device of the welding equipment according to some embodiments of this application;

[0082] Figure 30 is a front view of the testing apparatus of a welding device according to some embodiments of this application;

[0083] Figure 31 is a perspective view of the test fixture assembly shown in Figure 30;

[0084] Figure 32 is an enlarged view of J shown in Figure 31;

[0085] Figure 33 is a side view of the test fixture assembly shown in Figure 30;

[0086] Figure 34 is an enlarged view of K shown in Figure 33;

[0087] Figure 35 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the second transfer component shown in Figure 4;

[0088] Figure 36 is a control flowchart of a welding method for cylindrical batteries according to some embodiments of this application;

[0089] Figure 37 is a control flowchart of a welding method for cylindrical batteries according to some other embodiments of this application;

[0090] Figure 38 is a control flowchart of a welding method for a cylindrical battery according to some embodiments of this application.

[0091] The reference numerals in the accompanying drawings of the specific embodiments are as follows: Welding equipment 100, negative electrode welding device 11, negative electrode welding fixture 111, negative electrode welding mechanism 112, positive electrode welding device 12, positive electrode welding fixture 121, positive electrode welding mechanism 122, welding tower 13, welding rotating component 131, welding tower shaft 1311, welding turntable 1312, welding cam assembly 132, first welding cam 1321, first welding slide 13210, second welding cam 1322, second welding slide 13220. Welding fixture assembly 14, welding fixture body 141, locking component 1411, mounting part 1412, pressing part 1413, welding slide rail 1414, second welding follower wheel 1415, welding pressure plate 142, clearance hole 1421, air guide channel 1422, inlet 1423, outlet 1424, air intake channel 1425, base plate 1426, top plate 1427, through groove 1428, air intake connector 1429, welding pusher 143, pressure detection component 1431, first welding follower wheel 1432, first cup positioning component 144, welding clamping component 145, welding fixing frame 146. 15. Sealing component, 151. Sealing pin, 152. Fixing part, 16. Quick-change sealing component assembly, 161. Mounting base, 1611. First guide rail, 1612. Third guide rail, 1613. Buffer component, 162. Quick-change clamping component, 163. Dust removal assembly, 17. Mounting bracket, 171. Dust removal slide rail, 172. Dust collection hood, 173. Chip collection box, 174. Cleaning brush, 175. Drive motor, 176. Suction pipe, 177. First solder mark detection assembly, 181. Second solder mark detection assembly, 182. First solder mark cleaning assembly, 183. Second solder mark cleaning assembly, 184. First ejector assembly, 191. Second ejector assembly, 192. The components include: a tilting device 20, a tilting tower 21, a tilting rotating component 211, an opening / closing cam 212, an opening / closing slide 2121, a tilting cam 213, a tilting slide 2131, a lifting cam assembly 214, a first lifting cam 2141, a first lifting slide 21410, a second lifting cam 2142, a second lifting slide 21420, a tilting clamp assembly 22, a tilting clamp body 221, a tilting clamping component 222, a first tilting pusher 223, a second tilting pusher 224, a second cup positioning component 225, a transmission mechanism 226, a protective component 227, a tilting follower wheel 2281, an opening / closing follower wheel 2282, a first lifting follower wheel 2283, a second lifting follower wheel 2284, a tilting support frame 229, a first transfer component 30, and a first guide component 31. The test device 40 includes a test tower 41, a test rotating component 411, a test cam 412, a test slide 4121, a test fixture assembly 42, a test fixture body 420, a test fixing frame 421, a test clamping component 422, a test piece 423, a positive probe 4231, a negative probe 4232, a fixing base 4233, a positioning sleeve 4234, a third cup positioning component 424, a test follower wheel 425, a test support frame 426, and a second transfer component 50.Second guide 51, first worktable 61, second worktable 62, transmission mechanism 70, cup 80, cylindrical battery 90, housing 91, mounting wall 911, end cap 92, electrode assembly 93, positive electrode tab 931, negative electrode tab 933, negative electrode current collector 934, positive electrode post 94, liquid injection hole 941. Detailed Implementation

[0092] The embodiments of the technical solution of this application will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. These embodiments are only used to more clearly illustrate the technical solution of this application and are therefore merely examples, and should not be used to limit the scope of protection of this application.

[0093] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application pertains; the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the application; the terms “comprising” and “having”, and any variations thereof, in the specification, claims, and foregoing description of the drawings are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion.

[0094] In the description of the embodiments of this application, technical terms such as "first" and "second" are used only to distinguish different objects and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number, specific order, or primary and secondary relationship of the indicated technical features. In the description of the embodiments of this application, "multiple" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly defined.

[0095] In this document, the term "embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment of this application. The appearance of this phrase in various places throughout the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it a separate or alternative embodiment mutually exclusive with other embodiments. It will be explicitly and implicitly understood by those skilled in the art that the embodiments described herein can be combined with other embodiments.

[0096] In the description of the embodiments in this application, the term "and / or" is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, and B existing alone. Additionally, the character " / " in this document generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.

[0097] In the description of the embodiments of this application, the term "multiple" refers to two or more (including two), similarly, "multiple sets" refers to two or more (including two sets), and "multiple pieces" refers to two or more (including two pieces).

[0098] In the description of the embodiments of this application, the technical terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "clockwise," "counterclockwise," "axial," "radial," and "circumferential" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing the embodiments of this application and simplifying the description, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the embodiments of this application.

[0099] In the description of the embodiments of this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, technical terms such as "installation," "connection," "joining," and "fixing" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. For those skilled in the art, the specific meaning of the above terms in the embodiments of this application can be understood according to the specific circumstances.

[0100] Currently, judging from market trends, the application of power batteries is becoming increasingly widespread. Power batteries are not only used in energy storage systems such as hydropower, thermal power, wind power, and solar power plants, but also extensively used in electric vehicles such as electric bicycles, electric motorcycles, and electric cars, as well as in military equipment and aerospace. With the continuous expansion of power battery applications, market demand is also constantly increasing.

[0101] In the related technologies, cylindrical batteries require multiple flipping during the welding process, which is complex and results in low production efficiency. Furthermore, the welding equipment for cylindrical batteries has a large number of components, occupies a lot of space, and has high production costs.

[0102] Therefore, this application provides a welding device including a negative electrode welding device, a flipping device, and a positive electrode welding device. The negative electrode welding device can be used to weld the cylindrical battery first, and after the cylindrical battery is flipped in its placement state by the flipping device, the positive electrode welding device can be used to further weld the cylindrical battery. This can reduce the number of times the cylindrical battery is flipped, improve the production efficiency of the cylindrical battery, and also help to reduce the number of components of the welding device, reduce the space occupied by the welding device, and reduce the production cost.

[0103] Referring to Figures 1 and 2, Figure 1 is a structural block diagram of a welding device 100 according to some embodiments of this application; Figure 2 is a structural schematic diagram of a cylindrical battery 90 according to some embodiments of this application. The welding device 100 includes a negative electrode welding device 11, which can weld the end cap 92 and the negative electrode current collector 934 of the cylindrical battery 90 together.

[0104] Referring to Figure 3, which is a structural schematic diagram of the negative electrode welding device 11 and the flipping device 20 of the welding equipment 100 of some embodiments of this application on the first worktable 61. The negative electrode welding device 11 includes a negative electrode welding fixture 111 and a negative electrode welding mechanism 112. The negative electrode welding fixture 111 is used to hold the cylindrical battery 90 in a position where the positive electrode post 94 is facing down and the end cap 92 is facing up. The negative electrode welding mechanism 112 is disposed on one side of the welding fixture and is used to weld the end cap 92 and the negative electrode current collector 934. Since the negative electrode welding fixture 111 can hold the cylindrical battery 90 in a position where the positive electrode post 94 is facing down and the end cap 92 is facing up, the negative electrode welding mechanism 112 can weld the end cap 92 and the negative electrode current collector 934 in the orientation where the end cap 92 is facing up.

[0105] Please refer to Figures 1 and 2 again. The welding equipment 100 also includes a flipping device 20. The flipping device 20 is located on one side of the negative electrode welding device 11. The flipping device 20 can flip the cylindrical battery 90 to a position where the positive electrode post 94 faces upward and the end cap 92 faces downward.

[0106] Referring to Figure 3, the flipping device 20 includes a flipping tower 21 and a flipping clamp assembly 22. The flipping clamp assembly 22 is disposed on the flipping tower 21 and includes a flipping clamping member 222. The flipping clamping member 222 is used to clamp the cylindrical battery 90. Under the action of the flipping tower 21, the flipping clamping member 222 can flip the cylindrical battery 90 from a position where the end cap 92 faces upward and the positive terminal post 94 faces downward to a position where the positive terminal post 94 faces upward and the end cap 92 faces downward.

[0107] The flip-grip 222 can magnetically hold the cylindrical battery 90 in place, and the cylindrical battery 90 can detach from the flip-grip 222 under external force. Alternatively, the flip-grip 222 can be an openable flip-grip jaw. When the flip-grip jaw is open, the cylindrical battery 90 can detach from the flip-grip jaw; when the flip-grip jaw is closed, the flip-grip jaw can hold the cylindrical battery 90.

[0108] Please refer to Figures 1 and 2 again. The welding equipment 100 also includes a positive electrode welding device 12, which can weld the positive electrode current collector of the cylindrical battery 90 to the positive electrode post 94.

[0109] Referring to Figure 4, which is a schematic diagram of the positive electrode welding device 12 and testing device 40 of the welding equipment 100 of some embodiments of this application on the second workbench 62. The positive electrode welding device 12 includes a positive electrode welding fixture 121 and a positive electrode welding mechanism 122. The positive electrode welding fixture 121 is used to hold the cylindrical battery 90 in a position where the positive electrode post 94 faces upward and the end cap 92 faces downward. The positive electrode welding mechanism 122 is disposed on one side of the positive electrode welding fixture 121 and is used to weld the positive electrode current collector and the positive electrode post 94 of the cylindrical battery 90. Since the positive electrode welding fixture 121 can hold the cylindrical battery 90 in a position where the positive electrode post 94 faces upward and the end cap 92 faces downward, the positive electrode welding mechanism 122 can weld the positive electrode post 94 and the positive electrode current collector in the upward orientation of the positive electrode post 94.

[0110] Specifically, the cylindrical battery 90 can have a first placement state and a second placement state. In the first placement state, the positive electrode post 94 is arranged downward and the end cap 92 is arranged upward. In the second placement state, the positive electrode post 94 is arranged upward and the end cap 92 is arranged downward.

[0111] During the welding process of the cylindrical battery 90, the cylindrical battery 90 can first be held in a first placement state using the negative electrode welding fixture 111. This allows the negative electrode welding mechanism 112 to weld the end cap 92 and the negative electrode current collector 934 with the end cap 92 facing upwards. After the end cap 92 and the negative electrode current collector 934 are welded, the cylindrical battery 90 can be transferred from the negative electrode welding device 11 to the flipping device 20 in the first placement state. In the flipping device 20, the flipping clamp 222, under the action of the flipping tower 21, flips the cylindrical battery 90 from the first placement state to... In the second placement state, the cylindrical battery 90 is flipped from the placement state with the end cap 92 facing up and the positive electrode post 94 facing down to the placement state with the positive electrode post 94 facing up and the end cap 92 facing down. After the cylindrical battery 90 is flipped, it can be transferred from the flipping device 20 to the positive electrode welding device 12 in the second placement state. The positive electrode welding fixture 121 is used to hold the cylindrical battery 90 in the second placement state. In this way, the positive electrode welding mechanism 122 can weld the positive electrode post 94 and the positive electrode current collector along the positive electrode post 94 facing up, and finally obtain the cylindrical battery 90.

[0112] In other words, during the welding process of the cylindrical battery 90, from the welding of the end cap 92 and the negative current collector 934 to the welding of the positive terminal post 94 and the positive current collector, the cylindrical battery 90 only needs to be flipped once using the flipping device 20.

[0113] Therefore, in the technical solution of this application embodiment, by setting a negative electrode welding device 11, a flipping device 20, and a positive electrode welding device 12, the cylindrical battery 90 can be welded using the negative electrode welding device 11, and the cylindrical battery 90 after being welded by the negative electrode welding device 11 can be flipped using the flipping device 20. Then, the cylindrical battery 90 can be further welded using the positive electrode welding device 12. On the one hand, the number of flipping operations of the cylindrical battery 90 can be reduced, which is beneficial to improving the production efficiency of the cylindrical battery 90. On the other hand, the number of flipping devices 20 can be reduced, which is beneficial to reducing the number of components of the welding equipment 100, reducing the space occupied by the welding equipment 100, and reducing production costs.

[0114] Referring again to Figure 2, the cylindrical battery 90 includes a casing 91, an end cap 92, an electrode assembly 93, a positive current collector, a negative current collector 934, and a positive electrode post 94. One end of the casing 91 has an opening, and the end cap 92 is located at the opening. The wall opposite the end cap 92 is a mounting wall 911. The positive electrode post 94 is located on the mounting wall 911. The positive current collector is located between the electrode assembly 93 and the mounting wall 911 of the cylindrical battery 90. The positive current collector connects the positive electrode tab 931 of the electrode assembly 93 to the mounting wall 911 of the casing 91. The negative current collector 934 is located between the electrode assembly 93 and the end cap 92. The negative current collector 934 connects the negative electrode tab 933 of the electrode assembly 93 to the end cap 92.

[0115] The number of electrode components 93 can be one or more. Each electrode component 93 is formed by stacking or winding a positive electrode sheet, a negative electrode sheet, and a separator. The positive electrode sheet generally includes a positive current collector and a positive active material layer. The positive active material layer is directly or indirectly coated on the positive current collector. A positive current collector without a positive active material layer protrudes from the positive current collector with a coated positive active material layer. The positive current collector without a positive active material layer serves as a positive electrode tab. Multiple positive electrode tabs are stacked together to form a positive electrode tab 931. Similarly, the negative electrode sheet generally includes a negative current collector and a negative active material layer. The negative active material layer is directly or indirectly coated on the negative current collector. A negative current collector without a negative active material layer protrudes from the negative current collector with a coated negative active material layer. The negative current collector without a negative active material layer serves as a negative electrode tab. Multiple negative electrode tabs are stacked together to form a negative electrode tab 933.

[0116] The negative electrode welding device 11 includes a negative electrode welding head (not shown in the figure), which is used to stop the end cover 92. Specifically, during the welding process of the end cover 92 and the negative electrode current collector 934, the negative electrode welding device 112 stops the end cover 92. On the one hand, the negative electrode welding head can apply pressure to the end cover 92, so that the end cover 92 and the negative electrode current collector 934 fit tightly together, laying the foundation for the subsequent formation of a good weld and reducing the misalignment of the end cover 92 during the welding process. On the other hand, the negative electrode welding head can protect the welding area of ​​the end cover 92, reduce the interference of the external environment on the welding process, and help improve the welding quality of the end cover 92 and the negative electrode current collector 934.

[0117] The positive electrode welding device 12 includes a positive electrode welding head (not shown in the figure), which is used to stop the positive electrode post 94. Specifically, during the welding process of the positive electrode post 94 and the positive electrode current collector, the positive electrode welding head stops the positive electrode post 94. On the one hand, the positive electrode welding head can apply pressure to the positive electrode post 94, so that the positive electrode post 94 and the positive electrode current collector are tightly fitted, laying the foundation for the subsequent formation of a good weld and reducing the misalignment of the positive electrode post 94 during the welding process. On the other hand, the positive electrode welding head can protect the area to be welded of the positive electrode post 94, reduce the interference of the external environment on the welding process, and help improve the welding quality of the positive electrode post 94 and the positive electrode current collector.

[0118] Therefore, during the welding process, the positive electrode welding head and the negative electrode welding head can apply pressure to the area to be welded on the workpiece, so that the workpiece is tightly fitted. They can also fix the position of the workpiece, conduct heat, and reduce problems such as incomplete welding and missing welding, thereby improving the welding quality.

[0119] Please refer to Figures 5 and 6. Figure 5 is a front view of the welding tower 13 and welding fixture assembly 14 of the negative electrode welding apparatus 11 and the positive electrode welding apparatus 12 according to some embodiments of this application; Figure 6 is a perspective view of the welding tower 13 and welding fixture assembly 14 of the negative electrode welding apparatus 11 and the positive electrode welding apparatus 12 according to some embodiments of this application. Each of the negative electrode welding fixture 111 and the positive electrode welding fixture 121 includes a welding tower 13.

[0120] The welding tower 13 includes a welding rotating component 131 and a welding cam assembly 132. The welding rotating component 131 rotates about a central axis extending in the vertical direction, and the welding cam assembly 132 and the welding rotating component 131 are coaxially arranged. The welding cam assembly 132 can be fixed in place, i.e., it does not rotate. Alternatively, the welding cam assembly 132 can rotate, but it will have a certain speed difference with the welding rotating component 131, causing them to rotate asynchronously.

[0121] Each of the negative electrode welding fixture 111 and the positive electrode welding fixture 121 further includes a plurality of welding fixture assemblies 14, which are circumferentially disposed on the welding rotating member 131 and rotate synchronously with the welding rotating member 131. Each welding fixture assembly 14 is used to install the cylindrical battery 90.

[0122] Please refer to Figures 7 and 8. Figure 7 is an enlarged view of part A shown in Figure 6; Figure 8 is an enlarged view of part B shown in Figure 6. The welding fixture assembly 14 slides circumferentially along the welding cam assembly 132 under the drive of the welding rotating member 131, and at least a portion of the structure of the welding fixture assembly 14 moves vertically relative to the welding rotating member 131 under the action of the welding cam assembly 132.

[0123] In other words, multiple welding fixture assemblies 14 are arranged circumferentially along the welding rotating member 131, and at least a portion of the structure of each welding fixture assembly 14 is movable in the vertical direction relative to the welding rotating member 131.

[0124] When the welding rotating component 131 rotates, multiple welding fixture assemblies 14 can rotate synchronously with the welding rotating component 131. At the same time, since the welding fixture assembly 14 also cooperates with the welding cam assembly 132, and the welding rotating component 131 and the welding cam assembly 132 have a certain speed difference, the welding fixture assembly 14 can slide along the circumference of the welding cam assembly 132. Under the action of the welding cam assembly 132, at least part of the structure of the welding fixture assembly 14 can move in the up and down direction relative to the welding rotating component 131 in a specific area on the welding tower 13, thereby realizing the lifting and lowering of the cylindrical battery 90.

[0125] In the above technical solution, by setting the welding tower 13 to include a welding rotating component 131 and a welding cam assembly 132, the welding rotating component 131 and the welding cam assembly 132 work together on the welding fixture assembly 14, so that the welding fixture assembly 14 can rotate around a central axis extending in the vertical direction, and during the rotation, it can move in the vertical direction in a specific area on the welding tower 13, so that the cylindrical battery 90 can perform specific processing operations at a specific station, thereby enabling the transfer and processing of the cylindrical battery 90 to be carried out simultaneously.

[0126] Please refer to Figure 9, which is a perspective view of the welding fixture assembly 14 of the negative electrode welding device 11 and the positive electrode welding device 12 according to some embodiments of this application. The welding fixture assembly 14 includes a welding fixture body 141, which is used to mount the cylindrical battery 90.

[0127] For example, the welding fixture body 141 may include a welding fixture 146 and a welding clamp 145, which is mounted on the welding fixture 146 and is used to clamp the cylindrical battery 90 to mount the cylindrical battery 90 onto the welding fixture body 141.

[0128] The welding clamp 145 can magnetically hold the cylindrical battery 90 in place, and the cylindrical battery 90 can detach from the welding clamp 145 under external force. Alternatively, the welding clamp 145 can be an openable welding claw. When the welding claw is open, the cylindrical battery 90 can detach from the welding claw; when the welding claw is closed, the welding claw can hold the cylindrical battery 90.

[0129] Please refer again to Figures 6-9, and further to Figure 10. Figure 10 is a partial structural schematic diagram of the welding fixture assembly 14 of the positive electrode welding device 12 according to some embodiments of this application. The welding fixture assembly 14 also includes a welding pressure plate 142 and a welding pusher 143. The welding pressure plate 142 is fixed to the welding fixture body 141, and the welding pusher 143 is movably disposed on the welding fixture body 141 in the vertical direction, and the welding pusher 143 is located below the welding pressure plate 142.

[0130] For example, in an embodiment where the welding fixture body 141 includes a welding fixture 146 and a welding clamping member 145, both the welding pressure plate 142 and the welding pusher 143 are mounted on the welding fixture 146, and the welding pusher 143 is movable up and down relative to the welding fixture 146. The welding clamping member 145 is located between the welding pressure plate 142 and the welding pusher 143. When the cylindrical battery 90 is in the state of being installed in place on the welding fixture assembly 14, the cylindrical battery 90 is located between the welding pressure plate 142 and the welding pusher 143.

[0131] The welding pusher 143 is slidably engaged with the welding cam assembly 132, and the welding pusher 143 moves upward relative to the welding fixture body 141 under the action of the welding cam assembly 132, so as to push the cylindrical battery 90 to stop the welding pressure plate 142.

[0132] Specifically, when the welding rotating component 131 rotates, it drives the welding fixture assembly 14 and the cylindrical battery 90 on the welding fixture assembly 14 to rotate synchronously. At the same time, the welding fixture assembly 14 slides along the circumference of the welding cam assembly 132. Since the welding pusher 143 cooperates with the welding cam assembly 132, under the action of the welding cam assembly 132, the welding pusher 143 can move upward relative to the welding fixture body 141 in a specific area on the welding tower 13 to lift the cylindrical battery 90, so that the cylindrical battery 90 stops against the welding pressure plate 142, which facilitates the subsequent welding operation.

[0133] When the cylindrical battery 90 needs to be lowered (reset), under the action of the welding cam assembly 132, the welding fixture body 141 can move downward in a specific area on the welding tower 13 to achieve the lowering of the cylindrical battery 90. Under the action of the welding cam assembly 132, the welding pusher 143 can also move downward relative to the welding fixture body 141 in a specific area on the welding tower 13 to reset, facilitating the lifting operation of the next cylindrical battery 90. In the above technical solution, by setting the welding fixture assembly 14 to include a welding pressure plate 142 and a welding pusher 143, the welding pusher 143 can push the cylindrical battery 90 to the position abutting against the welding pressure plate 142 under the action of the welding cam assembly 132, thereby facilitating subsequent welding operations.

[0134] For example, the welding fixture body 141 includes a welding slide rail 1414 extending in the vertical direction. A welding pusher 143 cooperates with the welding slide rail 1414, and the welding pusher 143 can slide along the extension direction of the welding slide rail 1414 under the action of the welding cam assembly 132. By setting the welding slide rail 1414, the welding pusher 143 can be positioned and installed, and it can also serve as a guide, guiding the welding pusher 143 to move in the vertical direction to lift the cylindrical battery 90.

[0135] For example, the welding rotating component 131 may include a welding tower shaft 1311 and a welding turntable 1312. The central axis of the welding tower shaft 1311 extends in the vertical direction, and the welding turntable 1312 rotates around the central axis of the welding tower shaft 1311 under the drive of the welding tower shaft 1311. The welding fixture assembly 14 is mounted on the welding turntable 1312 to rotate synchronously with the welding turntable 1312.

[0136] The welding cam assembly 132 may include a first welding cam 1321, the central axis of which coincides with the central axis of the welding tower shaft 1311, so that the first welding cam 1321 and the welding turntable 1312 are coaxially arranged. The first welding cam 1321 has a first welding groove 13210 extending circumferentially thereon. The first welding groove 13210 is a closed annular groove, which can be designed to have a certain height difference in a specific area as needed.

[0137] The welding cam assembly 132 may further include a second welding cam 1322, which is located above the first welding cam 1321. The central axis of the second welding cam 1322 coincides with the central axis of the welding tower shaft 1311, so that the second welding cam 1322 and the welding turntable 1312 are coaxially arranged. The second welding cam 1322 has a second welding groove 13220 extending circumferentially therein. The second welding groove 13220 is a closed annular groove, which can be designed to have a certain height difference in a specific area as needed.

[0138] The welding fixture assembly 14 also includes a first welding follower wheel 1432 and a second welding follower wheel 1415. The first welding follower wheel 1432 is mounted on the welding pusher 143 and cooperates with the first welding slide 13210. The second welding follower wheel 1415 is mounted on the welding fixture body 141 (e.g., the upper end of the welding fixing frame 146) and cooperates with the second welding slide 13220.

[0139] When the welding rotating component 131 rotates, it drives the welding fixture assembly 14 and the cylindrical battery 90 on the welding fixture assembly 14 to rotate synchronously. The first welding follower wheel 1432 slides along the first welding slide groove 13210, and the second welding follower wheel 1415 slides along the second welding slide groove 13220. Since the first welding slide groove 13210 and the second welding slide groove 13220 have a certain height difference in a specific area, the welding pusher 143 can move in the vertical direction relative to the welding fixture body 141, and the overall structure of the welding fixture assembly 14 can move in the vertical direction, thereby realizing the lifting and lowering of the cylindrical battery 90.

[0140] For the negative electrode welding device 11, when the welding rotating part 131 of the negative electrode welding fixture 111 rotates, it can drive the welding fixture assembly 14 and the cylindrical battery 90 on the welding fixture assembly 14 to rotate synchronously. At the same time, the welding fixture assembly 14 slides circumferentially along the welding cam assembly 132 of the negative electrode welding fixture 111. Under the action of the first welding cam 1321, the welding pusher 143 can move upward relative to the welding fixture body 141 in a specific area on the welding tower 13 to lift the cylindrical battery 90 in the first placement state, so that the end cap 92 of the cylindrical battery 90 stops against the welding pressure plate 142, which facilitates the subsequent welding of the end cap 92 of the cylindrical battery 90 and the negative electrode current collector 934 along the upward posture of the end cap 92. After welding, under the action of the second welding cam 1322, the welding fixture body 141 can move downward in a specific area on the welding tower 13 to make the cylindrical battery 90 fall back to the initial position on the negative electrode welding fixture 111.

[0141] Regarding the positive electrode welding device 12, when the welding rotating component 131 of the positive electrode welding fixture 121 rotates, it can drive the welding fixture assembly 14 and the cylindrical battery 90 on the welding fixture assembly 14 to rotate synchronously. At the same time, the welding fixture assembly 14 slides circumferentially along the welding cam assembly 132 of the positive electrode welding fixture 121. Under the action of the first welding cam 1321, the welding pusher 143 can move upward relative to the welding fixture body 141 in a specific area on the welding tower 13 to lift the cylindrical battery 90 in the second placement state, so that the positive electrode post 94 of the cylindrical battery 90 stops against the welding pressure plate 142, which facilitates the subsequent welding of the positive electrode post 94 and the positive current collector of the cylindrical battery 90 along the upward posture of the positive electrode post 94. After welding, under the action of the second welding cam 1322, the welding fixture body 141 can move downward in a specific area on the welding tower 13 to make the cylindrical battery 90 fall back to the initial position on the positive electrode welding fixture 121.

[0142] Please refer to Figure 9 again. The welding fixture assembly 14 also includes a first cup positioning member 144. The first cup positioning member 144 is fixed to the welding fixture body 141. The first cup positioning member 144 is located between the welding pressure plate 142 and the welding pusher 143 and is used to position the cup 80 that carries the cylindrical battery 90.

[0143] The first cup positioning component 144 can, on the one hand, position the cup 80 of the cylindrical battery 90, so that the cup 80 can provide a stable installation position for the cylindrical battery 90. On the other hand, it can protect the cylindrical battery 90, reduce damage to the cylindrical battery 90 from collisions, scratches and other damage from external objects, and improve the efficiency of maintenance work and reduce maintenance costs.

[0144] In this configuration, under the action of the welding cam assembly 132, the welding pusher 143 moves upward relative to the welding fixture body 141 in a specific area on the welding tower 13, thereby pushing the cylindrical battery 90 away from the cup 80 and causing the cylindrical battery 90 to abut against the welding pressure plate 142. This arrangement allows the cylindrical battery 90 to detach from the cup 80 and move upward to the welding station, facilitating subsequent welding operations on the area to be welded of the cylindrical battery 90.

[0145] Of course, under the action of the welding cam assembly 132, the welding fixture body 141 can also move downward in a specific area on the welding tower 13 so that the cylindrical battery 90 falls back to the cup 80, so that after welding is completed, the cylindrical battery 90 can be transferred together with the cup 80.

[0146] In some embodiments, the first cup positioning member 144 is at least partially a magnetic attraction mechanism, and the cup 80 is a magnetically attractive structure. The first cup positioning member 144 positions the cup 80 by magnetic attraction. For example, the first cup positioning member 144 performs coarse positioning of the cup 80.

[0147] The first cup positioning component 144 uses a magnetic attraction method to fix the cup 80, which can simplify the installation and removal steps of the cup 80. Simply bring the cup 80 containing the cylindrical battery 90 close to the first cup positioning component 144, and the cup 80 will be automatically attracted into place by the magnetic attraction. The installation process is simple and quick. When it needs to be removed, it can be gently pulled out by overcoming the magnetic attraction, which can effectively improve the installation and removal efficiency.

[0148] In addition, the first cup positioning component 144 uses magnetic attraction to fix the cup 80, which can improve the installation reliability and stability of the cup 80, and can also make fine adjustments to the position of the cup 80, thereby improving the installation reliability and stability of the cylindrical battery 90 in the cup 80, and thus improving the welding quality of the cylindrical battery 90.

[0149] In some other embodiments, the first cup positioning member 144 is an openable cup holder 80 gripper. The cup holder 80 is fixed by the cup holder 80 gripper. When the cup holder 80 gripper is in the open state, the cup holder 80 can be detached from the cup holder 80 gripper. When the cup holder 80 gripper is in the closed state, the cup holder 80 gripper can hold the cup holder 80.

[0150] Please refer to Figure 9 again. The welding pusher 143 is equipped with a pressure detection element 1431, which is used to detect the pressure exerted by the welding pusher 143 on the cylindrical battery 90. The pressure detection element 1431 can detect the pressure exerted by the welding pusher 143 on the cylindrical battery 90 in real time, improve the welding pressing effect, and allow the cylindrical battery 90 to move upward to the welding station, facilitating subsequent welding operations.

[0151] Please refer to Figure 10 again, and further refer to Figures 11 and 12. Figure 11 is a structural schematic diagram of the welding plate 142 of the positive electrode welding device 12 shown in Figure 10; Figure 12 is a structural cross-sectional view along CC in Figure 11. The welding plate 142 has a clearance hole 1421, which is disposed opposite to the welding area of ​​the cylindrical battery 90.

[0152] Specifically, the clearance hole 1421 can be located directly above the area to be welded on the cylindrical battery 90. For the negative electrode welding device 11, the clearance hole 1421 on the welding plate 142 can be used to avoid the negative electrode welding head, allowing the negative electrode welding head to pass through the clearance hole 1421 and stop at the end cap 92, facilitating the negative electrode welding mechanism 112 to weld the end cap 92 and the negative electrode current collector 934. For the positive electrode welding device 12, the clearance hole 1421 on the welding plate 142 can be used to avoid the positive electrode welding head, allowing the positive electrode welding head to pass through the clearance hole 1421 and stop at the positive electrode post 94, facilitating the positive electrode welding mechanism 122 to weld the positive electrode post 94 and the positive electrode current collector.

[0153] Furthermore, since the weld formed after welding the positive electrode post 94 and the positive electrode current collector of the cylindrical battery 90 is closer to the center of the cylindrical battery 90, while the weld formed after welding the end cap 92 and the negative electrode current collector 934 of the cylindrical battery 90 is farther away from the center of the cylindrical battery 90, the size of the clearance hole 1421 on the welding plate 142 of the positive electrode welding device 12 will be smaller, while the size of the clearance hole 1421 on the welding plate 142 of the negative electrode welding device 11 will be larger.

[0154] Furthermore, the welding pressure plate 142 also has a gas guide channel 1422, the outlet 1424 of the gas guide channel 1422 faces downward, and the gas guide channel 1422 surrounds the area to be welded, for guiding the shielding gas to the area to be welded.

[0155] In the above technical solution, by setting a clearance hole 1421 and a gas guiding channel 1422 on the welding pressure plate 142, the protective gas is guided to the clearance hole 1421 and the area to be welded by the gas guiding channel 1422. On the one hand, the protective gas can isolate the area to be welded of the cylindrical battery 90 from the air, reduce the oxidation of the metal during the welding process, and help improve the welding quality. On the other hand, the protective gas can improve the conductivity and thermal stability of the arc, making the arc more stable, and can also reduce the spatter phenomenon during the welding process, further improving the welding quality.

[0156] Please refer to Figure 10 again, and further refer to Figure 13, which is an exploded view of the welding pressure plate 142 shown in Figure 11. The welding pressure plate 142 also defines an air intake passage 1425, and the air guide passage 1422 is connected to the inlet 1423 of the air intake passage 1425.

[0157] Among them, the air guide channel 1422 is a circular channel, and the air intake channel 1425 is tangent to the circular channel.

[0158] In the above technical solution, the air intake channel 1425 is tangentially arranged with the annular channel. When the protective gas flows from the air intake channel 1425 to the air guide channel 1422, it can flow along the tangential direction of the annular channel. Utilizing the inertia and centrifugal force of the protective gas flow, the protective gas can be distributed more evenly and stably in a cyclone pattern within the annular channel, which is beneficial for forming a more stable and uniform protective gas flow field throughout the entire annular channel. In addition, there will be no abrupt changes in direction or impacts of the protective gas at the connection between the air intake channel 1425 and the air guide channel 1422, thereby effectively reducing the generation of turbulence and eddies, which helps to reduce the resistance to the protective gas flow and improve the efficiency of protective gas delivery.

[0159] In some embodiments, there are multiple air intake channels 1425, which are arranged circumferentially in the annular channel and are centrally symmetrical about the center of the annular channel. The number of air intake channels 1425 can be two or more. In the above technical solution, by setting multiple air intake channels 1425 and distributing them centrally symmetrically about the center of the annular channel, on the one hand, the protective gas can enter the annular channel more evenly, allowing it to quickly and uniformly cover the welding area of ​​the cylindrical battery 90, thus improving welding quality. On the other hand, the airflow entering the annular channel from the multiple air intake channels 1425 can form a symmetrical and stable flow field, reducing airflow turbulence and eddy current generation, further improving welding quality, and also reducing limitations on welding speed, thereby improving welding efficiency.

[0160] For example, the welding plate 142 is provided with an air inlet connector 1429, which is connected to the air inlet channel 1425. The air inlet connector 1429 is used to connect to an air source, so that the air source can be diffused through the air inlet connector 1429, the air inlet channel 1425, and the air guide channel 1422 to the clearance hole 1421 and the welding area of ​​the cylindrical battery 90, thereby achieving isolation between the welding area and the air.

[0161] Please refer to Figure 12 again. The air guide channel 1422 gradually extends from top to bottom toward the direction of the clearance hole 1421, and the flow area of ​​the air guide channel 1422 gradually decreases from top to bottom.

[0162] This configuration increases the flow rate of the protective gas, allowing it to flow quickly to the area to be welded in the cylindrical battery 90, effectively isolating the air from the area. It also creates a more stable protective gas layer above the area to be welded in the cylindrical battery 90, further isolating the air from the area.

[0163] Please refer to Figures 12 and 13 again. The welding pressure plate 142 includes a bottom plate 1426 and a top plate 1427. The top plate 1427 is stacked on top of the bottom plate 1426. The top plate 1427 has a clearance hole 1421. The bottom plate 1426 has a through groove 1428. The through groove 1428 gradually expands from bottom to top. A part of the top plate 1427 extends into the through groove 1428 and defines a gas guide channel 1422 with the peripheral wall of the through groove 1428.

[0164] The base plate 1426 and the top plate 1427 are formed separately, but are mechanically connected together, for example, by fasteners. This design reduces the processing difficulty of the air guide channel 1422 and improves production efficiency.

[0165] In summary, the technical solution of this application integrates multiple functions on the negative electrode welding device 11, specifically: transferring the cylindrical battery 90, introducing cyclone protective gas into the welding area of ​​the cylindrical battery 90, fixing the cylindrical battery 90 using the welding clamp 145, and detecting the pressure (lifting force) of the welding pusher 143 against the cylindrical battery 90 using the pressure detection component 1431. The various functional modules work together to enable the cylindrical battery 90 to move to the welding station for welding operation during the transfer process on the welding tower 13 of the negative electrode welding fixture 111. Since the welding tower 13 of the negative electrode welding fixture 111 is equipped with multiple welding fixture assemblies 14, the negative electrode welding device 11 can transfer multiple cylindrical batteries 90 at the same time. When each cylindrical battery 90 is transferred to the welding station, the negative electrode welding mechanism 112 can weld the end cap 92 and the negative electrode current collector 934 of the corresponding cylindrical battery 90. Specifically, the end cap 92 and the negative electrode current collector 934 are penetrated and welded from the outside to achieve the effect of sequential parallel connection.

[0166] Similarly, the positive electrode welding device 12 integrates multiple functions, specifically: transferring cylindrical batteries 90, introducing cyclone protective gas into the welding area of ​​cylindrical batteries 90, fixing cylindrical batteries 90 using welding clamps 145, and detecting the pressure (lifting force) of welding pushers 143 against cylindrical batteries 90 using pressure detection devices 1431. These functional modules work together to allow the cylindrical batteries 90 to move to the welding station for welding during the transfer process on the welding tower 13 of the positive electrode welding fixture 121. Since the welding tower 13 of the positive electrode welding fixture 121 is equipped with multiple welding clamp assemblies 14, the positive electrode welding device 12 can transfer multiple cylindrical batteries 90 simultaneously. When each cylindrical battery 90 is transferred to the welding station, the positive electrode welding mechanism 122 can weld the corresponding positive electrode post 94 and positive electrode current collector of the cylindrical battery 90. Specifically, it performs penetration welding on the positive electrode post 94 and positive electrode current collector from the outside, achieving a sequential parallel connection effect.

[0167] Please refer again to Figures 10-12. The welding plate 142 of the positive electrode welding device 12 is provided with a sealing element 15. The sealing element 15 includes a sealing needle 151, which at least partially extends into the clearance hole 1421 to seal the electrolyte injection hole 941 on the cylindrical battery 90. The electrolyte injection hole 941 is located on the positive electrode post 94, through which electrolyte can be injected into the casing 91 of the cylindrical battery 90.

[0168] In the above technical solution, the use of sealing component 15 to seal the liquid injection hole 941 on the cylindrical battery 90 can reduce the amount of metal debris and dust entering the cylindrical battery 90 from the liquid injection hole 941 during the welding process, thereby reducing problems such as internal short circuits and self-discharge of the cylindrical battery 90.

[0169] Please refer to Figure 4 again. The welding equipment 100 also includes a quick-change plugging component assembly 16, which is located on one side of the positive electrode welding device 12. The quick-change plugging component assembly 16 is used to replace the plugging component 15.

[0170] During the welding process between the positive electrode post 94 and the positive current collector of the cylindrical battery 90, a large amount of welding slag adheres to the sealing component 15, causing light obstruction and easily leading to incomplete welds. Therefore, after a period of use, the sealing component 15 needs to be replaced based on the production quantity or other factors. For example, when the sealing component 15 is damaged or becomes dirty, the quick-change assembly 16 can remove the damaged or dirty sealing component 15 from the welding plate 142 and replace it with a new sealing component 15. Therefore, in the above technical solution, by providing the quick-change assembly 16 on one side of the positive electrode welding device 12, it is convenient to replace the sealing component 15 on the welding plate 142, reducing incomplete welds during the welding process and improving the welding quality between the positive electrode post 94 and the positive current collector.

[0171] When the sealing needle 151 is installed in the clearance hole 1421, the sealing needle 151 and the clearance hole 1421 are arranged concentrically, that is, the axis of the sealing needle 151 coincides with the central axis of the clearance hole 1421, which makes installation convenient and easy to implement.

[0172] Please refer to Figures 14 and 15. Figure 14 is a front view of the quick-change plugging component assembly 16 shown in Figure 4; Figure 15 is a top view of the quick-change plugging component assembly 16 shown in Figure 13. The quick-change plugging component assembly 16 includes a buffer 162 for storing multiple plugging components 15. The multiple plugging components 15 can be arranged in a row or in multiple rows and columns.

[0173] Please refer to Figures 16 and 17. Figure 16 is a perspective view of the quick-change assembly 16 for the plugging component shown in Figure 14; Figure 17 is an enlarged view of part D shown in Figure 16. The quick-change assembly 16 for the plugging component also includes a mounting base 161 and a quick-change clamping member 163. The quick-change clamping member 163 is movably disposed on the mounting base 161. The quick-change clamping member 163 is used to remove the plugging component 15 from the welding pressure plate 142 and install the plugging component 15 on the buffer member 162 onto the corresponding welding pressure plate 142.

[0174] For example, a positioning hole can be provided on the welding pressure plate 142, and a positioning post is provided on the mounting base 161. The positioning post is inserted and matched with the positioning hole, which can improve the installation reliability and stability of the sealing component 15 on the welding pressure plate 142.

[0175] The quick-change clamp 163 can be an openable quick-change jaw, which can switch between an open and closed state under the drive of a driving component (e.g., a cylinder). When it is necessary to replace the sealing component 15 on the welding pressure plate 142, the quick-change jaw moves above the welding pressure plate 142, so that the sealing component 15 is located in the quick-change jaw. Then, the driving component drives the quick-change jaw to switch from the open state to the closed state to clamp the sealing component 15 and place it in a set position (e.g., on the buffer component 162 or other supporting structure) for cleaning. Finally, the driving component drives the quick-change jaw to clamp the new sealing component 15 on the buffer component 162 and install the new sealing component 15 onto the corresponding welding pressure plate 142, thereby realizing the replacement of the sealing component 15. The replaced dirty or damaged sealing component 15 can be repaired or cleaned offline, and the positive electrode welding device 12 can immediately resume production.

[0176] Therefore, in the above technical solution, by setting the quick-change assembly 16 of the plugging component to include a buffer 162, a mounting base 161 and a quick-change clamping component 163, the plugging component 15 on the welding pressure plate 142 can be quickly replaced, which is beneficial to improving the working efficiency of the welding equipment 100 and can also improve the welding quality of the positive electrode post 94 and the positive electrode current collector.

[0177] Please refer to Figures 10, 16 and 17 again. The welding fixture body 141 is provided with a locking member 1411. The locking member 1411 is adapted to switch from a locked state to an unlocked state under the drive of the quick-change clamping member 163. In the locked state, the locking member 1411 can lock the sealing member 15 on the welding pressure plate 142. In the unlocked state, the sealing member 15 is allowed to disengage from the welding pressure plate 142.

[0178] For example, the locking member 1411 has a movable locking part (not shown in the figure), and the blocking member 15 has a locking groove (not shown in the figure). In the locked state, the locking part is inserted into the locking groove to fix the blocking member 15 to the welding pressure plate 142. In the unlocked state, the locking part disengages from the locking groove to achieve unlocking. Of course, the structure of the locking member 1411 is not limited to the above structure and can also be other structural forms.

[0179] In the above technical solution, by setting a locking element 1411 on the welding fixture body 141, the locking element 1411 can be used to lock and unlock the sealing element 15 on the welding pressure plate 142. This can improve the installation reliability of the sealing element 15, facilitate the replacement of the sealing element 15, simplify the operation, and help improve the production efficiency of the welding equipment 100.

[0180] Please refer to Figures 10, 16 and 17 again. The sealing member 15 also includes a fixing part 152, and the sealing needle 151 is disposed in the fixing part 152.

[0181] The welding fixture body 141 is provided with a mounting part 1412 and a pressing part 1413. The pressing part 1413 is movably provided on the mounting part 1412 and is linked with the locking member 1411. The pressing part 1413 is adapted to drive the locking member 1411 from the locked state to the unlocked state under the action of the quick-change clamping member 163, so as to allow the quick-change clamping member 163 to clamp the sealing member 15.

[0182] Specifically, the quick-change clamp 163 can be an openable quick-change jaw. When it is necessary to replace the sealing element 15 on the welding pressure plate 142, the quick-change jaw moves above the welding pressure plate 142, so that the fixing part 152 and the mounting part 1412 of the sealing element 15 are located inside the quick-change jaw. Then, the driving member drives the quick-change jaw to switch from the open state to the closed state. During this process, the quick-change jaw presses the pressing part 1413, so that the locking part 1411 switches from the locked state to the unlocked state to unlock the sealing element 15. In this way, the quick-change jaw can also pick up the sealing element 15. Then, the sealing element 15 is placed in a set position (such as the buffer 162 or other structures) for cleaning. Finally, the driving member drives the quick-change jaw to pick up the new sealing element 15 on the buffer 162 and install the new sealing element 15 on the welding pressure plate 142, thereby realizing the replacement of the sealing element 15.

[0183] In the above technical solution, by setting an mounting part 1412 and a pressing part 1413 on the welding fixture body 141, and linking the pressing part 1413 with the locking part 1411, the quick-change clamping part 163 can unlock the sealing part 15 by pressing the pressing part 1413, and at the same time clamp the sealing part 15. That is, the unlocking action and clamping action of the sealing part 15 can be integrated into one operation. On the one hand, it can reduce the time and steps required for separate clamping operations, shorten the operation time, and improve production efficiency. On the other hand, it reduces the complexity and difficulty of operation, reduces the control difficulty of the system, and helps to improve the reliability of the welding equipment 100.

[0184] In addition, the quick-change clamping component 163 can both unlock the locking component 1411 and clamp the sealing component 15, making it a multi-purpose component and reducing the number of parts and manufacturing costs of the welding equipment 100.

[0185] Please refer to Figure 16 again. The X direction is the first direction, the Y direction is the second direction, and the Z direction is the third direction. The first, second, and third directions are set perpendicular to each other, and one of them is the up or down direction.

[0186] Mounting base 161 includes a first guide rail 1611, a second guide rail 1612, and a third guide rail 1613. The first guide rail 1611 extends along a first direction, the second guide rail 1612 is disposed on the first guide rail 1611 and extends along a second direction, and the second guide rail 1612 moves along the first direction under the guidance of the first guide rail 1611, the third guide rail 1613 is disposed on the second guide rail 1612 and extends along a third direction, and the third guide rail 1613 moves along the second direction under the guidance of the second guide rail 1612, and a quick-change clamp 163 is disposed on the third guide rail 1613 and is movable along the third direction under the guidance of the third guide rail 1613.

[0187] In other words, the quick-change clamp 163 can move relative to the buffer 162 and the positive electrode welding device 12 along the first direction, the second direction and the third direction to adjust the position of the quick-change clamp 163 relative to the buffer 162 and the positive electrode welding device 12, so as to facilitate the quick-change clamp 163 to clamp the sealing member 15 on the buffer 162 and the positive electrode welding device 12.

[0188] Therefore, in the above technical solution, by setting the mounting base 161 to include a first guide rail 1611, a second guide rail 1612 and a third guide rail 1613, the quick clamp can be moved as needed along the first direction, the second direction and the third direction to adjust the position of the quick-change clamp 163 relative to the buffer 162 and the positive electrode welding device 12, so as to realize the quick replacement of the sealing component 15.

[0189] During the welding process of the cylindrical battery 90, welding slag and welding dust are inevitably generated and adhere to the welding pressure plate 142. If the welding pressure plate 142 is not cleaned in time, it will cause contamination of the welding area when welding the next workpiece, resulting in welding defects such as pinholes and bursts. Therefore, in some embodiments, as shown in Figures 3 and 4, the welding equipment 100 also includes a dust removal component 17. The dust removal component 17 is located on one side of the welding tower 13 and is used to remove dust from the welding pressure plate 142 of the welding fixture assembly 14. In the above technical solution, by setting the dust removal component 17 on one side of the welding tower 13, it can reduce the entry of dust and metal particles into the welding area, which is beneficial to improving the welding quality. On the other hand, it can reduce the damage of harmful substances to the welding pressure plate 142 and extend the service life of the welding pressure plate 142.

[0190] Referring to Figures 18 and 19, Figure 18 is a perspective view of the dust removal assembly 17 shown in Figures 3 and 4; Figure 19 is an enlarged view of E shown in Figure 18. The dust removal assembly 17 includes a mounting frame 171, a dust removal slide rail 172, and a dust removal body. The dust removal slide rail 172 is mounted on the mounting frame 171, and the dust removal body is movable along the dust removal slide rail 172 to adjust its position relative to the welding pressure plate 142. When dust removal is required on the welding pressure plate 142, the dust removal body moves along the dust removal slide rail 172 toward the welding pressure plate 142. After dust removal, the dust removal body moves along the dust removal slide rail 172 away from the welding pressure plate 142 to avoid it.

[0191] In some embodiments, the dust removal body includes a dust collection hood 173, a chip collection box 174, a cleaning brush 175, and a drive motor 176. The dust collection hood 173 is located above the chip collection box 174, and there is a space between them to accommodate the welding pressure plate 142. The cleaning brush 175 is located inside the dust collection hood 173. The drive motor 176 is connected to the cleaning brush 175 to drive the cleaning brush 175 to move within the dust collection hood 173. For example, the drive motor 176 can drive the cleaning brush 175 to rotate, or the drive motor 176 can drive the cleaning brush 175 to rotate and move in the vertical direction.

[0192] When dust removal is required on the welding pressure plate 142, the dust removal body moves along the dust removal slide rail 172 toward the direction close to the welding pressure plate 142, so that the welding pressure plate 142 is located between the dust collection hood 173 and the chip collection box 174. The drive motor 176 drives the cleaning brush 175 to clean the welding pressure plate 142. The dust collection hood 173 can absorb the welding slag, welding ash and other dirt swept off by the cleaning brush 175. Larger welding slag and welding ash can fall into the chip collection box 174.

[0193] Please refer to Figure 18 again. The dust removal assembly 17 also includes a suction pipe 177 and a suction component (not shown in the figure). The suction pipe 177 is connected to the dust collection hood 173. When the suction component is working, the air in the dust collection hood 173 and the air near the welding pressure plate 142 flow out along the suction pipe 177. During this process, the high-speed airflow can carry away the lighter welding slag and welding dust on the dust collection hood 173 and the welding pressure plate 142, while the larger welding slag and welding dust can be stored in the chip collection box 174. The dust removal process can be completed automatically under the control of the system without manual intervention.

[0194] In some embodiments, the negative electrode welding device 11 and the positive electrode welding device 12 can also integrate functions such as ranging and visual correction according to actual conditions. After the cylindrical battery 90 is transferred to the welding tower 13, the welding pressing, ranging, visual correction and welding actions are all matched with the welding cam assembly 132 and carried out in parallel. This can not only make the welding pressing height consistent, but also improve the efficiency of each action cycle.

[0195] To improve the consistency of weld penetration and width, the welding fixture assembly 14 needs to be of consistent height, such as the flatness of the welding pressure plate 142, the concentricity of the welding clamping member 145, and the concentricity of the first cup positioning member 144.

[0196] Please refer to Figure 20, which is a structural schematic diagram of the tilting device 20 of the welding equipment 100 according to some embodiments of this application. The tilting tower 21 includes a tilting rotating member 211 and a tilting cam 213. The tilting rotating member 211 rotates about a central axis extending in the vertical direction, and the tilting cam 213 is coaxially arranged with the tilting rotating member 211. Here, the tilting cam 213 can be fixed and not rotate. Of course, the tilting cam 213 can also rotate, but it has a certain speed difference with the tilting rotating member 211, so that the tilting cam 213 and the tilting rotating member 211 rotate asynchronously.

[0197] Multiple flipping clamp assemblies 22 are arranged circumferentially on the flipping rotating member 211 and rotate synchronously with the flipping rotating member 211. That is, multiple flipping clamp assemblies 22 are arranged circumferentially along the flipping rotating member 211.

[0198] Please refer to Figures 21 and 22 again. Figure 21 is a front view of the flipping clamp assembly 22 of the flipping device 20 shown in Figure 20; Figure 22 is an enlarged view of F shown in Figure 21. The flipping clamp assembly 22 also includes a flipping clamp body 221. The flipping clamping member 222 is rotatably disposed on the flipping clamp body 221. Under the drive of the flipping rotating member 211, the flipping clamp assembly 22 slides along the circumference of the flipping cam 213. Under the action of the flipping cam 213, the flipping clamping member 222 rotates relative to the flipping clamp body 221 to flip the placement direction of the cylindrical battery 90.

[0199] Specifically, the cylindrical battery 90 has a first placement state and a second placement state. In the first placement state, the positive electrode post 94 is arranged downward and the end cap 92 is arranged upward. In the second placement state, the positive electrode post 94 is arranged upward and the end cap 92 is arranged downward.

[0200] During the welding process of the cylindrical battery 90, the negative electrode welding device 11 first holds the cylindrical battery 90 in the first placement state, so that the negative electrode welding mechanism 112 can weld the end cover 92 and the negative electrode current collector 934 with the end cover 92 facing upward. After the welding is completed, the cylindrical battery 90 is transferred from the negative electrode welding device 11 to the flipping device 20 in the first placement state.

[0201] In the flipping device 20, when the flipping rotating member 211 rotates, it can drive the flipping clamp assembly 22 and the cylindrical battery 90 to rotate together around the central axis extending in the vertical direction. At the same time, the flipping clamp assembly 22 slides circumferentially along the flipping cam 213. Since the flipping clamping member 222 cooperates with the flipping cam 213, under the action of the flipping cam 213, the flipping clamping member 222 can rotate relative to the flipping clamp body 221 in a specific area on the flipping tower 21. The flipping clamping member 222 can drive the cylindrical battery 90 to rotate synchronously, so that the cylindrical battery 90 can rotate from the first placement state to the second placement state, so that the positive terminal post 94 of the cylindrical battery 90 faces upward and the end cap 92 faces downward, realizing the flipping of the cylindrical battery 90. The rotation axis of the flipping clamping member 222 can be perpendicular to the central axis of the flipping rotating member 211.

[0202] In the above technical solution, by setting the flipping tower 21 to include a flipping rotating component 211 and a flipping cam 213, and setting the flipping fixture assembly 22 to include a flipping fixture body 221 and a flipping clamping component 222, the flipping rotating component 211 and the flipping cam 213 work together to rotate the flipping clamping component 222, thereby realizing the flipping of the cylindrical battery 90, which facilitates subsequent welding, testing and other operations.

[0203] For example, the tilting rotating component 211 may include a tilting turret shaft and a tilting turntable. The central axis of the tilting turret shaft extends in the vertical direction, and the tilting turntable rotates around the central axis of the tilting turret shaft under its drive. The central axis of the tilting cam 213 coincides with the central axis of the tilting turret shaft, so that the tilting cam 213 and the tilting turntable are coaxially arranged. The tilting clamp assembly 22 is mounted on the tilting turntable to rotate synchronously with the tilting turntable.

[0204] The flipping cam 213 has a flipping groove 2131 extending along its circumference. The flipping groove 2131 is a closed annular groove, which can be designed to have a certain height difference in a specific area as needed.

[0205] The flipping clamp assembly 22 also includes a flipping follower wheel 2281, which is connected to the flipping clamping member 222 and cooperates with the flipping slide 2131. When the flipping rotating member 211 rotates, it drives the flipping clamp assembly 22 and the cylindrical battery 90 on the flipping clamp assembly 22 to rotate synchronously. The flipping follower wheel 2281 slides along the flipping slide 2131. Since the flipping slide 2131 has a certain height difference in a specific area, the flipping clamping member 222 can be rotated to drive the cylindrical battery 90 to rotate, thereby realizing the flipping of the cylindrical battery 90.

[0206] For example, the flip clamp body 221 is provided with a protective member 227, which surrounds the flip clamp 222. The protective member 227 can protect the cylindrical battery 90 on the flip clamp 222 and reduce the damage to the cylindrical battery 90 during transportation.

[0207] Referring to Figures 23 and 24, Figure 23 is a perspective view of the flipping clamp assembly 22 of the flipping device 20 shown in Figure 20; Figure 24 is a structural schematic diagram of the transmission mechanism 226 and the second flipping pusher 224 of the flipping clamp assembly 22 shown in Figure 23. The flipping clamp assembly 22 also includes a transmission mechanism 226, which is disposed on the flipping clamp body 221. The flipping clamping member 222 is connected to the flipping cam 213 through the transmission mechanism 226.

[0208] The transmission mechanism 226 includes a gear and a rack. The gear is connected to the flipping clamping member 222, and the rack extends in the vertical direction and slides circumferentially along the flipping cam 213. The rack meshes with the gear, and under the action of the flipping cam 213, the rack moves in the vertical direction relative to the flipping clamp body 221. The flipping clamping member 222 rotates relative to the flipping clamp body 221 under the drive of the gear.

[0209] Specifically, the rotating follower wheel 2281 can be connected to a rack, and the rotating clamping member 222 can be connected to a gear, so that the rotating follower wheel 2281 and the rotating clamping member 222 can be connected by a transmission through a gear and a rack.

[0210] In the flipping device 20, when the flipping rotating member 211 rotates, it can drive the flipping clamp assembly 22 and the cylindrical battery 90 to rotate together around the central axis extending in the vertical direction. At the same time, the flipping clamp assembly 22 slides along the circumference of the flipping cam 213. Specifically, the flipping follower wheel 2281 slides along the flipping groove 2131 on the flipping cam 213. Therefore, under the action of the flipping cam 213, the rack can move in the vertical direction in a specific area on the flipping tower 21, thereby driving the gear to rotate. In this way, the gear can drive the flipping clamp 222 to rotate relative to the flipping clamp body 221. Thus, the flipping clamp 222 drives the cylindrical battery 90 to rotate synchronously, so that the cylindrical battery 90 is flipped from the position where the end cap 92 is facing up and the positive terminal 94 is facing down to the position where the positive terminal 94 is facing up and the end cap 92 is facing down.

[0211] In the above technical solution, by setting the transmission mechanism 226 to include gears and racks, the circumferential sliding motion of the flipping clamp assembly 22 along the flipping cam 213 can be converted into the rotational motion of the flipping clamp 222, so that the flipping clamp 222 can rotate under the action of the flipping cam 213, thereby realizing the flipping of the cylindrical battery 90.

[0212] Referring again to Figures 21 and 22, the tilting tower 21 also includes an opening / closing cam 212, which is coaxially arranged with the tilting rotating component 211. The opening / closing cam 212 can be fixed in place, i.e., it does not rotate. Of course, the opening / closing cam 212 can also rotate, but it will have a certain speed difference with the tilting rotating component 211, causing them to rotate asynchronously.

[0213] The flipping clamp assembly 22 slides circumferentially along the opening and closing cam 212 under the drive of the flipping rotating member 211, and the flipping clamping member 222 switches between the closed state of clamping the cylindrical battery 90 and the open state of releasing the cylindrical battery 90 under the action of the opening and closing cam 212.

[0214] Specifically, in the flipping device 20, when the flipping rotating member 211 rotates, it can drive the flipping clamp assembly 22 and the cylindrical battery 90 to rotate together around the central axis extending in the vertical direction. At the same time, the flipping clamp assembly 22 slides along the circumference of the opening and closing cam 212. Since the flipping clamp 222 cooperates with the opening and closing cam 212, under the action of the opening and closing cam 212, the flipping clamp 222 can switch between a closed state and an open state in a specific area on the flipping tower 21. This allows the flipping clamp 222 to clamp the cylindrical battery 90 or release the cylindrical battery 90.

[0215] For example, during the rotation of the cylindrical battery 90 with the flipping clamp assembly 22, the flipping clamp 222 can be in a closed state to hold the cylindrical battery 90, making the cylindrical battery 90 more reliably mounted on the flipping clamp assembly 22. When the cylindrical battery 90 is transferred from the negative electrode welding device 11 (or the first transfer member 30 below) into the flipping device 20, or when the cylindrical battery 90 is transferred out of the flipping device 20, the flipping clamp 222 can be switched to an open state.

[0216] In the above technical solution, by configuring the flipping tower 21 to include an opening and closing cam 212, and by having the flipping clamp 222 cooperate with the opening and closing cam 212, the flipping clamp 222 can switch between open and closed states according to the actual working conditions to clamp or release the cylindrical battery 90, thereby facilitating the flipping or other operations on the cylindrical battery 90. Furthermore, configuring the flipping clamp 222 as an openable and closable structure can reduce scratches caused by sliding friction between the flipping clamp 222 and the surface of the cylindrical battery 90 during operation and flipping, which is beneficial to improving the quality of the cylindrical battery 90.

[0217] For example, the opening and closing cam 212 has an opening and closing groove 2121 extending circumferentially thereon. The opening and closing groove 2121 is a closed annular groove that can be configured to have a certain height difference in a specific area as needed.

[0218] The main body 221 of the flipping fixture is provided with a flipping support frame 229, which is linked with the flipping clamping member 222. The opening and closing follower wheel 2282 is set on the flipping support frame 229 and cooperates with the opening and closing slide groove 2121. When the flipping rotating member 211 rotates, it drives the flipping fixture assembly 22 and the cylindrical battery 90 on the flipping fixture assembly 22 to rotate synchronously. The opening and closing follower wheel 2282 slides along the opening and closing slide groove 2121. Since the opening and closing slide groove 2121 has a certain height difference in a specific area, the flipping support frame 229 can be moved in the vertical direction, thereby using the flipping support frame 229 to switch the opening and closing state of the flipping clamping member 222.

[0219] For example, the flip support has a retractable drive unit (not shown in the figure). When the drive unit extends, it can cooperate with the flip clamp 222 to switch the flip clamp 222 to one of an open state and a closed state. When the drive unit retracts, it can disengage from the flip clamp 222 to switch the flip clamp 222 to another of an open state and a closed state.

[0220] Please refer to Figure 20 again, and further refer to Figures 25 and 26. Figure 25 is an enlarged view of G shown in Figure 20; Figure 26 is an enlarged view of H shown in Figure 20. The tilting tower 21 also includes a lifting cam assembly 214, which is coaxially arranged with the tilting rotating component 211. Here, the lifting cam assembly 214 can be fixed and does not rotate. Of course, the lifting cam assembly 214 can also rotate, but it has a certain speed difference with the tilting rotating component 211, so that the lifting cam assembly 214 and the tilting rotating component 211 rotate asynchronously.

[0221] When the rotating component 211 rotates, the rotating clamp assembly 22 can rotate synchronously with the rotating component 211. At the same time, since the rotating clamp assembly 22 also cooperates with the lifting cam assembly 214, and the rotating component 211 and the lifting cam assembly 214 have a certain speed difference, the rotating clamp assembly 22 can slide along the circumference of the lifting cam assembly 214. Under the action of the lifting cam assembly 214, at least part of the structure of the rotating clamp assembly 22 can move in the vertical direction relative to the rotating component 211 in a specific area on the rotating tower 21, thereby lifting and lowering the cylindrical battery 90.

[0222] In the above technical solution, by setting the flipping tower 21 to include a flipping rotating component 211 and a lifting cam assembly 214, the flipping clamp assembly 22 can be rotated around a central axis extending in the vertical direction through the combined action of the flipping rotating component 211 and the lifting cam assembly 214. During the rotation, it can move in the vertical direction in a specific area on the flipping tower 21, so that the cylindrical battery 90 can perform specific processing operations in the specific area. Thus, the transfer and processing of the cylindrical battery 90 can be carried out simultaneously.

[0223] Please refer to Figure 23 again, and further refer to Figure 27. Figure 27 is a structural schematic diagram of the first flipping pusher 223 of the flipping clamp assembly 22 shown in Figure 23. The flipping clamp assembly 22 also includes the first flipping pusher 223, which is movably disposed on the flipping clamp body 221 in the vertical direction and located below the flipping clamping member 222.

[0224] Referring again to Figures 23 and 24, the flipping clamp assembly 22 further includes a second flipping pusher 224. The second flipping pusher 224 is movably disposed on the flipping clamp body 221 in the vertical direction and is located above the flipping clamping member 222. When the cylindrical battery 90 is installed in place on the flipping clamping member 222, the cylindrical battery 90 is located between the first flipping pusher 223 and the second flipping pusher 224.

[0225] The first flipping pusher 223 and the second flipping pusher 224 are both slidably engaged with the lifting cam assembly 214. Under the action of the lifting cam assembly 214, the first flipping pusher 223 can move upward relative to the flipping fixture body 221 to push the cylindrical battery 90 to the position to be flipped. Under the action of the lifting cam assembly 214, the second flipping pusher 224 can move downward relative to the flipping fixture body 221 to move the cylindrical battery 90 to the initial position.

[0226] Of course, under the action of the lifting cam assembly 214, the first flipping pusher 223 can also move downward relative to the flipping fixture body 221 in a specific area on the flipping tower 21 to reset, so as to facilitate the lifting operation of the next cylindrical battery 90.

[0227] Therefore, in the above technical solution, by setting the flipping fixture assembly 22 to include a first flipping pusher 223 and a second flipping pusher 224, the first flipping pusher 223 and the second flipping pusher 224 can push the cylindrical battery 90 to move in the up and down direction under the action of the lifting cam assembly 214, thereby facilitating subsequent flipping and other processing operations.

[0228] For example, the tilting rotating component 211 may include a tilting tower shaft and a tilting turntable. The central axis of the tilting tower shaft extends in the vertical direction, and the tilting turntable rotates around the central axis of the tilting tower shaft under its drive. The lifting cam assembly 214 may include a first lifting cam 2141 and a second lifting cam 2142. The second lifting cam 2142 is located above the first lifting cam 2141, and the central axes of both are coincident with the central axis of the tilting tower shaft, so that the first lifting cam 2141, the second lifting cam 2142, and the tilting turntable are coaxially arranged. The tilting clamp assembly 22 is mounted on the tilting turntable to rotate synchronously with the tilting turntable.

[0229] The first lifting cam 2141 has a first lifting groove 21410 extending circumferentially thereon, and the second lifting cam 2142 has a second lifting groove 21420 extending circumferentially thereon. Both the first lifting groove 21410 and the second lifting groove 21420 are closed annular grooves, which can be designed to have a certain height difference in a specific area as needed.

[0230] The flipping fixture assembly 22 also includes a first lifting follower wheel 2283 and a second lifting follower wheel 2284. The first lifting follower wheel 2283 is mounted on the first flipping pusher 223 and cooperates with the first lifting slide 21410. The second lifting follower wheel 2284 is mounted on the second flipping pusher 224 and cooperates with the second lifting slide 21420.

[0231] When the rotating component 211 rotates, it drives the rotating clamp assembly 22 and the cylindrical battery 90 on the rotating clamp assembly 22 to rotate synchronously. The first lifting follower wheel 2283 slides along the first lifting slide groove 21410, and the second lifting follower wheel 2284 slides along the second lifting slide groove 21420.

[0232] Since the first lifting chute 21410 has a certain height difference in a specific area, under the action of the first lifting cam 2141, the first flipping pusher 223 can move upward relative to the flipping fixture body 221 in a specific area on the flipping tower 21 to lift the cylindrical battery 90 and move the cylindrical battery 90 to the flipping position. It can also move downward relative to the flipping fixture in a specific area on the flipping tower 21 to reset the first flipping pusher 223, which facilitates the lifting operation of the next cylindrical battery 90.

[0233] Since the second lifting slide 21420 has a certain height difference in a specific area, under the action of the second lifting cam 2142, the second flipping pusher 224 can move downward relative to the flipping fixture body 221 in a specific area on the flipping tower 21 to push the cylindrical battery 90 back down, so that the cylindrical battery 90 moves to the initial position.

[0234] In some embodiments, the second lifting cam 2142 and the opening / closing cam 212 can be the same cam structure, that is, the second lifting groove 21420 and the opening / closing groove 2121 are provided on the same cam structure. This arrangement can reduce the number of components in the flipping device 20, reduce the production cost of the welding equipment 100, and also eliminate unnecessary installation steps.

[0235] In other embodiments, the flipping cam 213 and the second lifting cam 2142 can be nested together, for example, the flipping cam 213 is located inside the second lifting cam 2142. Correspondingly, the flipping follower wheel 2281 and the second lifting cam 2142 can be located on opposite sides of the flipping fixture body 221, and the second lifting follower wheel 2284 and the opening and closing follower wheel 2282 can be located on the same side of the flipping fixture body 221, which helps to improve space utilization and make the structure more compact.

[0236] Of course, the flipping cam 213 and the second lifting cam 2142 can also be configured as the same cam structure, and the opening and closing cam 212 and the second lifting cam 2142 can be nested together. Alternatively, the opening and closing cam 212 and the first lifting cam 2141 can be configured as the same cam structure, and the flipping cam 213 and the first lifting cam 2141 can be nested together; or, the flipping cam 213 and the first lifting cam 2141 can be configured as the same cam structure, and the opening and closing cam 212 and the first lifting cam 2141 can be nested together.

[0237] Please refer to Figures 21 and 23 again. The flipping clamp assembly 22 also includes a second cup positioning member 225. The second cup positioning member 225 is fixed to the flipping clamp body 221 and is located between the flipping clamp member 222 and the first flipping push member 223. It is used to position the cup 80 that carries the cylindrical battery 90.

[0238] The second cup positioning component 225 can, on the one hand, position the cup 80 of the cylindrical battery 90, so that the cup 80 can provide a stable installation position for the cylindrical battery 90. On the other hand, it can protect the cylindrical battery 90, reduce damage to the cylindrical battery 90 from collisions, scratches and other damage from external objects, and improve the efficiency of maintenance work and reduce maintenance costs.

[0239] Under the action of the lifting cam assembly 214, the first flipping pusher 223 can move upward relative to the flipping fixture body 221 in a specific area on the flipping tower 21 to push the cylindrical battery 90 away from the cup 80, so that the cylindrical battery 90 moves to the flipping position. This configuration allows the cylindrical battery 90 to be detached from the cup 80, facilitating subsequent individual flipping operations on the cylindrical battery 90.

[0240] Under the action of the lifting cam assembly 214, the second flipping pusher 224 can move downward relative to the flipping fixture body 221 in a specific area on the flipping tower 21 to push the cylindrical battery 90 into the cup 80, so that the cylindrical battery 90 moves to its initial position. This arrangement allows the cylindrical battery 90 to fall back into the cup 80, making it convenient to transfer the cylindrical battery 90 together with the cup 80 to the positive electrode welding device 12.

[0241] In some embodiments, the second cup positioning member 225 is at least partially a magnetic attraction mechanism, and the cup 80 is a magnetically attractive structure. The second cup positioning member 225 positions the cup 80 by magnetic attraction. For example, the second cup positioning member 225 performs coarse positioning of the cup 80.

[0242] The second cup positioning component 225 uses a magnetic attraction method to fix the cup 80, which can simplify the installation and removal steps of the cup 80. Simply bring the cup 80 containing the cylindrical battery 90 close to the second cup positioning component 225, and the cup 80 will be automatically attracted into place by the magnetic attraction. The installation process is simple and quick. When it is necessary to remove it, you only need to overcome the magnetic attraction and gently pull it out, which can effectively improve the installation and removal efficiency.

[0243] In addition, the second cup positioning component 225 uses magnetic attraction to fix the cup 80, which can improve the installation reliability and stability of the cup 80, and can also make fine adjustments to the position of the cup 80, thereby improving the installation reliability and stability of the cylindrical battery 90 in the cup 80, and thus improving the welding quality of the cylindrical battery 90.

[0244] In other embodiments, the second cup positioning member 225 is an openable cup holder 80 gripper. The cup holder 80 is fixed by the cup holder 80 gripper. When the cup holder 80 gripper is in the open state, the cup holder 80 can be detached from the cup holder 80 gripper. When the cup holder 80 gripper is in the closed state, the cup holder 80 gripper can hold the cup holder 80.

[0245] In summary, by employing the coordinated action of the flipping rotating component 211, the flipping cam 213, the opening and closing cam 212, and the lifting cam assembly 214, the flipping clamping component 222 can perform different actions in different areas as it rotates with the flipping rotating component 211. This precisely controls the movement trajectory of the flipping clamping component 222, allowing it to operate along a predetermined path. Specifically, when the flipping rotating component 211 rotates to a certain area, the flipping clamping component 222 can switch between open and closed states. For example, when the flipping rotating component 211 rotates to a certain area, the flipping clamping component 222 can rotate relative to the flipping fixture body 221 to change the placement state of the cylindrical battery 90. For example, when the flipping rotating component 211 rotates to a certain area, it can lift or lower the cylindrical battery 90.

[0246] Figure 28 is a schematic diagram of the operation of the flipping device 20 of the welding equipment 100 according to some embodiments of this application. The operation of the flipping device 20 will be described below with reference to Figures 20-27 and Figure 28.

[0247] When the flipping rotating component 211 rotates, it drives the flipping clamp assembly 22 and the cylindrical battery 90 on the flipping clamp assembly 22 to rotate synchronously. The first lifting follower wheel 2283 slides along the extension direction of the first lifting slide groove 21410 of the first lifting cam 2141, the second lifting follower wheel 2284 slides along the extension direction of the second lifting slide groove 21420 of the second lifting cam 2142, the opening and closing follower wheel 2282 slides along the extension direction of the opening and closing slide groove 2121 of the opening and closing cam 212, and the flipping follower wheel 2281 slides along the extension direction of the flipping slide groove 2131 of the flipping cam 213. The starting position of the rotation of the flipping rotating component 211 is set to 0°.

[0248] During the process of the flipping rotating member 211 rotating from the 0° position to the 6° position, under the action of the first lifting cam 2141, the first flipping push member 223 is in the initial position; under the action of the second lifting cam 2142, the second flipping push member 224 is in the initial position; under the action of the opening and closing cam 212, the flipping clamping member 222 remains in the open state, waiting to clamp the cylindrical battery 90; under the action of the flipping cam 213, the flipping clamping member 222 remains in the initial position, waiting to flip the cylindrical battery 90.

[0249] During the process of the flipping rotating member 211 rotating from the 6° position to the 10° position, the first flipping push member 223 moves upward under the action of the first lifting cam 2141; the second flipping push member 224 remains in the initial position under the action of the second lifting cam 2142; the flipping clamping member 222 remains in the open state under the action of the opening and closing cam 212, waiting to clamp the cylindrical battery 90; the flipping clamping member 222 remains in the initial position under the action of the flipping cam 213, waiting to flip the cylindrical battery 90.

[0250] During the process of the flipping rotating member 211 rotating from the 10° position to the 20° position, under the action of the first lifting cam 2141, the first flipping push member 223 continues to move upward; under the action of the second lifting cam 2142, the second flipping push member 224 descends to the pre-pressed position; under the action of the opening and closing cam 212, the flipping clamping member 222 remains in the open state, waiting to clamp the cylindrical battery 90; under the action of the flipping cam 213, the flipping clamping member 222 remains in the initial position, waiting to flip the cylindrical battery 90.

[0251] During the process of the flipping rotating member 211 rotating from the 20° position to the 32° position, under the action of the first lifting cam 2141, the first flipping push member 223 continues to move upward to lift the cylindrical battery 90 to the pre-pressed position; under the action of the second lifting cam 2142, the height of the second flipping push member 224 remains unchanged; under the action of the opening and closing cam 212, the flipping clamping member 222 remains in the open state, waiting to clamp the cylindrical battery 90; under the action of the flipping cam 213, the flipping clamping member 222 remains in the initial position, waiting to flip the cylindrical battery 90.

[0252] During the process of the flipping rotating member 211 rotating from the 32° position to the 36° position, under the action of the first lifting cam 2141, the height of the first flipping push member 223 remains unchanged, keeping the cylindrical battery 90 in the pre-pressed position; under the action of the second lifting cam 2142, the height of the second flipping push member 224 remains unchanged; under the action of the opening and closing cam 212, the flipping clamping member 222 remains in the open state, waiting to clamp the cylindrical battery 90; under the action of the flipping cam 213, the flipping clamping member 222 remains in the initial position, waiting to flip the cylindrical battery 90.

[0253] During the process of the flipping rotating member 211 rotating from the 36° position to the 76° position, under the action of the first lifting cam 2141, the first flipping push member 223 continues to move upward; under the action of the second lifting cam 2142, the second flipping push member 224 works in conjunction with the first flipping push member 223 to lift the cylindrical battery 90 to the flipping position; under the action of the opening and closing cam 212, the flipping clamping member 222 remains in the open state, waiting to clamp the cylindrical battery 90; under the action of the flipping cam 213, the flipping clamping member 222 remains in the initial position, waiting to flip the cylindrical battery 90.

[0254] During the process of the flipping rotating member 211 rotating from the 76° position to the 79° position, under the action of the first lifting cam 2141, the height of the first flipping push member 223 remains unchanged; under the action of the second lifting cam 2142, the height of the second flipping push member 224 remains unchanged, and the cylindrical battery 90 is held in the flipped position; under the action of the opening and closing cam 212, the flipping clamping member 222 remains in the open state, waiting to clamp the cylindrical battery 90; under the action of the flipping cam 213, the flipping clamping member 222 remains in the initial position, waiting to flip the cylindrical battery 90.

[0255] During the process of the flipping rotating member 211 rotating from the 79° position to the 88° position, under the action of the first lifting cam 2141, the height of the first flipping push member 223 remains unchanged; under the action of the second lifting cam 2142, the height of the second flipping push member 224 remains unchanged, and the cylindrical battery 90 is held in the flipped position; under the action of the opening and closing cam 212, the flipping clamping member 222 switches to the closed state to clamp the cylindrical battery 90; under the action of the flipping cam 213, the flipping clamping member 222 is held in the initial position, waiting for the cylindrical battery 90 to be flipped.

[0256] During the process of the flipping rotating member 211 rotating from the 88° position to the 90° position, under the action of the first lifting cam 2141, the height of the first flipping push member 223 remains unchanged, keeping the cylindrical battery 90 in the flipped position; under the action of the second lifting cam 2142, the second flipping push member 224 moves upward to avoid the cylindrical battery 90; under the action of the opening and closing cam 212, the flipping clamping member 222 remains in the closed state to clamp the cylindrical battery 90; under the action of the flipping cam 213, the flipping clamping member 222 remains in the initial position, waiting to flip the cylindrical battery 90.

[0257] During the process of the flipping rotating member 211 rotating from the 90° position to the 102° position, under the action of the first lifting cam 2141, the first flipping push member 223 moves downward to the avoidance position to avoid the cylindrical battery 90; under the action of the second lifting cam 2142, the second flipping push member 224 continues to move upward until the avoidance position to avoid the cylindrical battery 90; under the action of the opening and closing cam 212, the flipping clamping member 222 remains in the closed state to clamp the cylindrical battery 90; under the action of the flipping cam 213, the flipping clamping member 222 remains in the initial position, waiting to flip the cylindrical battery 90.

[0258] During the process of the flipping rotating member 211 rotating from the 102° position to the 137° position, the height of the first flipping push member 223 remains unchanged under the action of the first lifting cam 2141; the height of the second flipping push member 224 remains unchanged under the action of the second lifting cam 2142, and both remain in their respective avoidance positions, waiting for the cylindrical battery 90 to flip; under the action of the opening and closing cam 212, the flipping clamping member 222 remains in the closed state to clamp the cylindrical battery 90; under the action of the flipping cam 213, the flipping clamping member 222 rotates 180° relative to the flipping clamp body 221 to flip the cylindrical battery 90 from the first placement state to the second placement state.

[0259] During the process of the flipping rotating member 211 rotating from the 137° position to the 154° position, under the action of the first lifting cam 2141, the first flipping push member 223 moves upward to lift and pre-press the flipped cylindrical battery 90; under the action of the second lifting cam 2142, the second flipping push member 224 moves downward; under the action of the opening and closing cam 212, the flipping clamping member 222 remains in the closed state to clamp the cylindrical battery 90; under the action of the flipping cam 213, the flipping clamping member 222 keeps the cylindrical battery 90 in the second placement state.

[0260] During the rotation of the flipping rotating member 211 from the 154° position to the 157° position, under the action of the first lifting cam 2141, the first flipping push member 223 is held in the position of lifting the cylindrical battery 90; under the action of the second lifting cam 2142, the second flipping push member 224 continues to move downward to pre-press the flipped cylindrical battery 90; under the action of the opening and closing cam 212, the flipping clamping member 222 is held in the closed state to clamp the cylindrical battery 90; under the action of the flipping cam 213, the flipping clamping member 222 keeps the cylindrical battery 90 in the second placement state.

[0261] During the process of rotating the flipping member 211 from the 157° position to the 166° position, under the action of the first lifting cam 2141, the first flipping pusher 223 is held in the position of pressing against the cylindrical battery 90; under the action of the second lifting cam 2142, the second flipping pusher 224 is held in the position of pressing against the cylindrical battery 90; under the action of the opening and closing cam 212, the flipping clamp 222 switches to the open state to release the cylindrical battery 90; under the action of the flipping cam 213, the flipping clamp 222 keeps the cylindrical battery 90 in the second placement state.

[0262] During the process of the flipping rotating member 211 rotating from the 166° position to the 194° position, under the action of the first lifting cam 2141, the first flipping push member 223 moves downward; under the action of the second lifting cam 2142, the second flipping push member 224 moves downward. The two work together to place the cylindrical battery 90 into the cup 80; under the action of the opening and closing cam 212, the flipping clamping member 222 remains in the open state; under the action of the flipping cam 213, the flipping clamping member 222 keeps the cylindrical battery 90 in the second placement state.

[0263] During the process of the flipping rotating member 211 rotating from the 194° position to the 198° position, under the action of the first lifting cam 2141, the height of the first flipping push member 223 remains unchanged, and under the action of the second lifting cam 2142, the height of the second flipping push member 224 remains unchanged; under the action of the opening and closing cam 212, the flipping clamping member 222 remains in the open state; under the action of the flipping cam 213, the flipping clamping member 222 keeps the cylindrical battery 90 in the second placement state.

[0264] During the process of the flipping rotating member 211 rotating from the 198° position to the 211° position, under the action of the first lifting cam 2141, the first flipping push member 223 continues to move downward, and under the action of the second lifting cam 2142, the second flipping push member 224 moves upward to avoid the cylindrical battery 90; under the action of the opening and closing cam 212, the flipping clamping member 222 remains in the open state; under the action of the flipping cam 213, the flipping clamping member 222 keeps the cylindrical battery 90 in the second placement state.

[0265] During the process of rotating the flipping member 211 from the 211° position to the 215° position, under the action of the first lifting cam 2141, the height of the first flipping pusher 223 remains unchanged. Under the action of the second lifting cam 2142, the second flipping pusher 224 moves upward to avoid the cylindrical battery 90. Under the action of the opening and closing cam 212, the flipping clamp 222 remains in the open state. Under the action of the flipping cam 213, the flipping clamp 222 keeps the cylindrical battery 90 in the second placement state.

[0266] During the process of the flipping rotating member 211 rotating from the 215° position to the 240° position, under the action of the first lifting cam 2141, the first flipping push member 223 continues to move downward until the cylindrical battery 90 is placed in the cup 80; under the action of the second lifting cam 2142, the second flipping push member 224 continues to move upward; under the action of the opening and closing cam 212, the flipping clamping member 222 remains in the open state; under the action of the flipping cam 213, the flipping clamping member 222 keeps the cylindrical battery 90 in the second placement state.

[0267] During the process of the flipping rotating member 211 rotating from the 240° position to the 247° position, under the action of the first lifting cam 2141, the first flipping push member 223 continues to move downward until the first flipping push member 223 returns to the initial position; under the action of the second lifting cam 2142, the second flipping push member 224 continues to move upward; under the action of the opening and closing cam 212, the flipping clamping member 222 remains in the open state; under the action of the flipping cam 213, the flipping clamping member 222 keeps the cylindrical battery 90 in the second placement state.

[0268] During the process of the flipping rotating member 211 rotating from the 247° position to the 253° position, under the action of the first lifting cam 2141, the first flipping push member 223 is held to the initial position; under the action of the second lifting cam 2142, the second flipping push member 224 continues to move upward; under the action of the opening and closing cam 212, the flipping clamping member 222 is held in the open state; under the action of the flipping cam 213, the flipping clamping member 222 keeps the cylindrical battery 90 in the second placement state.

[0269] During the process of the flipping rotating member 211 rotating from the 253° position to the 288° position, under the action of the first lifting cam 2141, the first flipping push member 223 remains in the initial position; under the action of the second lifting cam 2142, the height of the second flipping push member 224 remains unchanged; under the action of the opening and closing cam 212, the flipping clamping member 222 remains in the open state; under the action of the flipping cam 213, the flipping clamping member 222 continues to rotate 180° relative to the flipping clamp body 221, so that the flipping clamping member 222 returns to the initial position, so as to facilitate the subsequent flipping of the next cylindrical battery 90.

[0270] During the process of the flipping rotating member 211 rotating from the 288° position to the 360° position, under the action of the first lifting cam 2141, the first flipping push member 223 is held to the initial position; under the action of the second lifting cam 2142, the second flipping push member 224 moves to the initial position; under the action of the opening and closing cam 212, the flipping clamping member 222 is held in the open state; under the action of the flipping cam 213, the flipping clamping member 222 is held in the initial position, waiting to flip the next cylindrical battery 90.

[0271] In the above technical solution, the flipping device 20 can transfer multiple cylindrical batteries 90 at the same time, and when each cylindrical battery 90 is transferred to the flipping position, the flipping clamp 222 can flip the placement state of the corresponding cylindrical battery 90 to achieve the effect of sequential parallel connection.

[0272] Please refer to Figure 3 again. The welding equipment 100 also includes a first transfer member 30. The first transfer member 30 is located between the negative electrode welding device 11 and the flipping device 20. The first transfer member 30 can transfer the cylindrical battery 90 welded on the negative electrode welding device 11 to the flipping device 20.

[0273] In the above technical solution, by setting a first transfer member 30 between the negative electrode welding device 11 and the flipping device 20, on the one hand, the cylindrical battery 90 on the negative electrode welding device 11 can be transferred to the flipping device 20 by the first transfer member 30, thereby facilitating the subsequent flipping of the cylindrical battery 90's placement state by the flipping device 20. On the other hand, the first transfer member 30 can play a buffering and coordinating role, so that the working rhythm between the negative electrode welding device 11 and the flipping device 20 can match each other, thereby improving the operational stability of the welding equipment 100.

[0274] In some embodiments, the first transfer member 30 is provided with a first guide member 31, which is used to guide the cylindrical battery 90 from the negative electrode welding device 11 to the flipping device 20.

[0275] The first guide member 31 may include at least two first guide bars, which are arc-shaped. One end of one of the first guide bars is connected to the first transfer member 30, and the other end extends to the welding fixture assembly 14 of the negative electrode welding device 11, thereby guiding the cylindrical battery 90 on the negative electrode welding device 11 to the first rotating member; one end of the other first guide bar is connected to the first transfer member 30, and the other end extends to the flipping device 20, thereby guiding the cylindrical battery 90 on the first transfer member 30 to the flipping device 20.

[0276] In the above technical solution, by setting a first guide 31 on the first transfer member 30, the cylindrical battery 90 on the negative electrode welding device 11 can be guided to the first transfer member 30, and then the cylindrical battery 90 on the first transfer member 30 can be transferred to the flipping device 20, reducing the phenomenon of the cylindrical battery 90 running off course or falling off, and improving the stability and reliability of the cylindrical battery 90 transfer process.

[0277] For example, the welding rotating part 131 of the negative electrode welding device 11 and the first transfer part 30 can be connected by a gear mechanism to share a power source, so that the welding and transfer of the cylindrical battery 90 can be synchronized.

[0278] Please refer to Figure 3 again. The welding equipment 100 also includes a first weld mark detection component 181. The first weld mark detection component 181 is located on one side of the first transfer member 30 and is used to detect the weld mark quality of the cylindrical battery 90 after welding by the negative electrode welding device 11, that is, to detect the weld mark quality formed by welding the end cap 92 of the cylindrical battery 90 to the negative electrode current collector 934.

[0279] The welding equipment 100 also includes a first weld mark cleaning component 183, which is located on one side of the first transfer member 30 and is used to clean the weld marks of the cylindrical battery 90 after welding by the negative electrode welding device 11, that is, to clean the weld marks formed by welding the end cap 92 of the cylindrical battery 90 to the negative electrode current collector 934.

[0280] For example, the first transfer member 30 can be a first transition turntable. The first transition turntable is located between the welding rotating member 131 and the flipping rotating member 211 of the negative electrode welding device 11. When the first transition turntable, the welding rotating member 131 and the flipping rotating member 211 of the negative electrode welding device 11 rotate together, the cylindrical battery 90 that has been welded on the negative electrode welding device 11 can be transferred to the first transition turntable under the guidance of a first guide member 31. After the cylindrical battery 90 on the first transition turntable is inspected by the first weld mark detection component 181 and cleaned by the first weld mark cleaning component 183, it can be transferred to the flipping device 20 under the guidance of another first guide member 31 for subsequent flipping operations.

[0281] For example, the welding equipment 100 also includes a first ejector assembly 191, which is located on one side of the flipping device 20. After being inspected by the first weld mark inspection assembly 181, cylindrical batteries 90 that do not meet the requirements can be rejected by the first ejector assembly 191, thereby improving the quality of the cylindrical batteries 90 produced.

[0282] Please refer to Figures 29 and 30. Figure 29 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the testing device 40 of the welding equipment 100 according to some embodiments of this application; Figure 30 is a front view of the testing device 40 of the welding equipment 100 according to some embodiments of this application. The welding equipment 100 also includes a testing device 40, which is used to test the cylindrical battery 90 welded on the positive electrode welding device 12.

[0283] In the above technical solution, the test device 40 can be used to test the welded cylindrical battery 90 to evaluate the performance of the cylindrical battery 90. Through testing, the cylindrical batteries 90 can be screened, and the cylindrical batteries 90 with better performance can be selected, reducing the use of cylindrical batteries 90 with poor performance, thereby improving the reliability and stability of the entire battery device.

[0284] Referring again to Figures 29 and 30, the testing device 40 includes a testing tower 41, which includes a testing rotating component 411 and a testing cam 412. The testing rotating component 411 rotates about a central axis extending in the vertical direction, and the testing cam 412 is coaxially arranged with the testing rotating component 411. Here, the testing cam 412 can be fixed, i.e., it does not rotate. Of course, the testing cam 412 can also rotate, but it will have a certain speed difference with the testing rotating component 411, so that the testing cam 412 and the testing rotating component 411 rotate asynchronously.

[0285] Referring to Figure 31, which is a structural schematic diagram of the test fixture assembly 42 shown in Figure 30, the test device 40 also includes multiple test fixture assemblies 42. The multiple test fixture assemblies 42 are circumferentially disposed on the test rotating member 411. The multiple test fixture assemblies 42 can rotate synchronously with the test rotating member 411. Each test fixture assembly 42 is used to mount a cylindrical battery 90.

[0286] The test fixture assembly 42 includes a test piece 423, which can be used to test the internal resistance of the cylindrical battery 90 after welding by the negative electrode welding device 11 and the positive electrode welding device 12. The test fixture assembly 42 slides circumferentially along the test cam 412 under the drive of the test rotating member 411, and the test piece 423 can move vertically relative to the test rotating member 411 under the action of the test cam 412.

[0287] In other words, multiple test fixture assemblies 42 are arranged circumferentially on the test rotating member 411, and the test pieces 423 of the multiple test fixture assemblies 42 are all movable in the vertical direction relative to the test rotating member 411, so as to move towards and away from the corresponding cylindrical battery 90.

[0288] When the test rotating component 411 rotates, multiple test fixture assemblies 42 can rotate synchronously with the test rotating component 411. At the same time, since the test fixture assembly 42 also cooperates with the test cam 412, and the test rotating component 411 and the test cam 412 have a certain speed difference, the test fixture assembly 42 can slide along the circumference of the test cam 412. Under the action of the test cam 412, the test piece 423 can move in the up and down direction relative to the test rotating component 411 in a specific area on the test tower 41, realizing the lifting and lowering of the test piece 423.

[0289] In the above technical solution, by setting the test tower 41 to include a test rotating component 411 and a test cam 412, the test fixture assembly 42 can rotate around the central axis extending in the vertical direction through the joint action of the test rotating component 411 and the test cam 412 assembly. During the rotation, the test piece 423 can move to the test station in the vertical direction to realize the test operation, thereby enabling the transfer and testing of the cylindrical battery 90 to be carried out simultaneously.

[0290] Please refer to Figure 31 again. The test fixture assembly 42 includes a test fixture body 420. The test fixture body 420 includes a test clamp 422, which is used to clamp the cylindrical battery 90 to mount the cylindrical battery 90 onto the test fixture body 420.

[0291] For example, the test fixture body 420 includes a test fixture 421 and a test clamp 422, which is mounted on the test fixture 421 and is used to clamp the cylindrical battery 90 to mount the cylindrical battery 90 on the test fixture body 420.

[0292] The test clamp 422 can magnetically hold the cylindrical battery 90 in place, and the cylindrical battery 90 can detach from the test clamp 422 under external force. Alternatively, the test clamp 422 can be an openable test gripper, which holds the cylindrical battery 90 in place. When the test gripper is open, the cylindrical battery 90 can detach from the test gripper; when the test gripper is closed, the test gripper can hold the cylindrical battery 90.

[0293] In the above technical solution, the test clamp 422 fixes the welded cylindrical battery 90, which facilitates subsequent testing of the welded cylindrical battery 90.

[0294] Please refer to Figure 31 again, and further to Figure 32, which is an enlarged view of J shown in Figure 31. The test piece 423 is movably disposed on the test fixture body 420 in the vertical direction, and the test piece 423 is located above the test clamp 422. That is, when the cylindrical battery 90 is installed in place on the test fixture assembly 42, the cylindrical battery 90 is located below the test piece 423.

[0295] The test piece 423 is slidably engaged with the test cam 412, and moves downward relative to the test fixture body 420 under the action of the test cam 412, so that the test piece 423 stops against the cylindrical battery 90.

[0296] Specifically, when the test rotating component 411 rotates, it drives the test fixture assembly 42 and the cylindrical battery 90 on the test fixture assembly 42 to rotate synchronously. Simultaneously, the test fixture assembly 42 slides circumferentially along the test cam 412. Since the test component 423 cooperates with the test cam 412, under the action of the test cam 412, the test component 423 can move downwards relative to the test fixture body 420 in a specific area on the test tower 41 to gradually approach the cylindrical battery 90 until it stops at the cylindrical battery 90, thus testing the cylindrical battery 90. When the test component 423 needs to be reset, under the action of the test cam 412, the test component 423 can move upwards relative to the test fixture body 420 in a specific area on the test tower 41 to gradually move away from the cylindrical battery 90 until it is reset.

[0297] For example, test piece 423 includes a positive probe 4231 and a negative probe 4232. When test piece 423 is in contact with cylindrical battery 90, positive probe 4231 is in contact with the positive terminal 94 of cylindrical battery 90, and negative probe 4232 is in contact with the casing 91 of cylindrical battery 90, in order to test the internal resistance of cylindrical battery 90.

[0298] In other words, by connecting the positive electrode probe 4231 to the positive electrode of the cylindrical battery 90 and the negative electrode probe 4232 to the negative electrode of the cylindrical battery 90, an AC signal can be applied to the cylindrical battery 90, the impedance of the cylindrical battery 90 to the AC signal can be measured, and the internal resistance of the cylindrical battery 90 can be determined by analyzing the impedance spectrum.

[0299] In the above technical solution, by setting the test piece 423 to include a positive electrode probe 4231 and a negative electrode probe 4232, the structure and performance of the cylindrical battery 90 will not be damaged during the test. The internal resistance test can be performed simply by connecting the positive electrode probe 4231 and the negative electrode probe 4232 to the positive and negative electrodes of the cylindrical battery 90, respectively. The operation is simple and quick, and has high measurement accuracy, which can accurately measure the minute changes in the battery's internal resistance.

[0300] For example, the test rotating component 411 may include a test tower shaft and a test turntable. The central axis of the test tower shaft extends in the vertical direction, and the test turntable rotates around the central axis of the test tower shaft under the drive of the test tower shaft. The central axis of the test cam 412 coincides with the central axis of the test tower shaft, so that the test cam 412 and the test turntable are coaxially arranged. The test fixture assembly 42 is mounted on the test turntable to rotate synchronously with the test turntable.

[0301] The test cam 412 has a test groove 4121 extending circumferentially thereon. The test groove 4121 is a closed annular groove and can be designed to have a certain height difference in a specific area as needed.

[0302] The test fixture assembly 42 also includes a test support frame 426 and a test follower wheel 425. The test support frame 426 is movably disposed on the test fixture body 420 in the vertical direction and is located above the test fixing frame 421. The test follower wheel 425 and the test piece 423 are both mounted on the test support frame 426, and the test follower wheel 425 cooperates with the test slide 4121.

[0303] When the test rotating component 411 rotates, it drives the test fixture assembly 42 and the cylindrical battery 90 on the test fixture assembly 42 to rotate synchronously. The test follower wheel 425 slides along the test slide 4121. Since the test slide 4121 has a certain height difference in a specific area, the test support frame 426 can move in the vertical direction. Thus, the test support frame 426 can drive the test piece 423 to move in the vertical direction relative to the test fixture body 420, so that the test piece 423 can test the cylindrical battery 90.

[0304] Please refer to Figure 32 again. There are multiple positive electrode probes 4231 and multiple negative electrode probes 4232. The radius of the imaginary circle containing the multiple negative electrode probes 4232 (denoted as the first imaginary circle) is greater than the radius of the imaginary circle containing the multiple positive electrode probes 4231 (denoted as the second imaginary circle).

[0305] Specifically, multiple negative electrode probes 4232 are all disposed on the first imaginary circle and are arranged at circumferential intervals on the first imaginary circle, and multiple positive electrode probes 4231 are all disposed on the second imaginary circle and are arranged at circumferential intervals on the second imaginary circle. The centers of the first and second imaginary circles are both located on the central axis of the positive electrode post 94 of the cylindrical battery 90.

[0306] In the above technical solution, by setting multiple positive probes 4231 and negative probes 4232, the stability and accuracy of the measurement results of the test piece 423 can be improved. Furthermore, if one positive probe 4231 or negative probe 4232 is damaged, the remaining positive probes 4231 or negative probes 4232 can still be used normally without affecting the test. In addition, arranging multiple negative probes 4232 and multiple positive probes 4231 on corresponding imaginary circles ensures that multiple negative probes 4232 contact the housing 91 at different positions, and multiple positive probes 4231 contact the positive electrode post 94 at different positions, reducing test errors caused by surface unevenness.

[0307] Please refer to Figure 33, which is a side view of the test fixture assembly 42 shown in Figure 30. The test piece 423 also includes a fixing base 4233, on which the positive probe 4231 and the negative probe 4232 are disposed. For example, in an embodiment where the test fixture assembly 42 includes a test support frame 426 and a test follower wheel 425, the fixing base 4233 may be connected to the test support frame 426.

[0308] Please refer to Figure 34, which is an enlarged view of K shown in Figure 33. The test piece 423 also includes a positioning sleeve 4234, which is disposed on the fixing base 4233 and is used to fit the cylindrical battery 90 to position the cylindrical battery 90.

[0309] Therefore, by setting the fixing base 4233, on the one hand, it can provide a mounting carrier for the positive electrode probe 4231 and the negative electrode probe 4232, so as to facilitate the internal resistance test of the cylindrical battery 90 using the positive electrode probe 4231 and the negative electrode probe 4232. On the other hand, it can provide a mounting carrier for the positioning sleeve 4234, so that the cylindrical battery 90 can be positioned using the positioning sleeve 4234, thereby improving the installation reliability and stability of the cylindrical battery 90 on the test fixture assembly 42. It can also protect the cylindrical battery 90, reducing damage to the cylindrical battery 90 from collisions, scratches and other damage from external objects. At the same time, it improves the efficiency of maintenance work and reduces maintenance costs.

[0310] Please refer to Figures 31 and 33 again. The test fixture assembly 42 also includes a third cup positioning member 424. The third cup positioning member 424 is fixed to the test fixture body 420 and is located below the test clamping member 422. It is used to position the cup 80 that carries the cylindrical battery 90.

[0311] The third cup positioning component 424 can, on the one hand, position the cup 80 of the cylindrical battery 90, so that the cup 80 can provide a stable installation position for the cylindrical battery 90. On the other hand, it can protect the cylindrical battery 90, reduce damage to the cylindrical battery 90 from collisions, scratches and other damage from external objects, and improve the efficiency of maintenance work and reduce maintenance costs.

[0312] In some embodiments, the third cup positioning member 424 is at least partially a magnetic attraction mechanism, and the cup 80 is a magnetically attractive structure. The third cup positioning member 424 positions the cup 80 by magnetic attraction. For example, the third cup positioning member 424 performs coarse positioning of the cup 80.

[0313] The third cup positioning component 424 uses a magnetic attraction method to fix the cup 80, which can simplify the installation and removal steps of the cup 80. Simply bring the cup 80 containing the cylindrical battery 90 close to the third cup positioning component 424, and the cup 80 will be automatically attracted into place by the magnetic attraction. The installation process is simple and quick. When it is necessary to remove it, you only need to overcome the magnetic attraction and gently pull it out, which can effectively improve the installation and removal efficiency.

[0314] In addition, the third cup positioning component 424 uses magnetic attraction to fix the cup 80, which can improve the installation reliability and stability of the cup 80, and can also make fine adjustments to the position of the cup 80, thereby improving the installation reliability and stability of the cylindrical battery 90 in the cup 80, and thus improving the welding quality of the cylindrical battery 90.

[0315] In other embodiments, the third cup positioning member 424 is an openable cup holder 80 clamp, which fixes the cup holder 80. When the cup holder 80 clamp is in the open state, the cup holder 80 can be detached from the cup holder 80 clamp, and when the cup holder 80 clamp is in the closed state, the cup holder 80 clamp can hold the cup holder 80.

[0316] During testing, the entire testing process needs to remain stable, with no poor contact between the test piece 423 and the test surface of the cylindrical battery 90. The test tower 41 is constantly rotating. To achieve the desired effect, it is necessary to overcome the vibration of the test tower 41 itself and the centrifugal force generated during the rotation process. Therefore, the positioning sleeve 4234 or the third cup positioning piece 424 is designed to conform to the shape of the cylindrical battery 90, so that the test piece 423 and the test surface of the cylindrical battery 90 have good contact, thereby making the test results of the test device 40 more accurate.

[0317] Please refer to Figure 4 again, and further refer to Figure 35, which is a structural schematic diagram of the second transfer member 50 shown in Figure 4. The welding equipment 100 also includes the second transfer member 50, which is disposed between the positive electrode welding device 12 and the testing device 40. The second transfer member can transfer the cylindrical battery 90 welded on the positive electrode welding device 12 to the testing device 40.

[0318] In the above technical solution, by setting a second transfer member 50 between the positive electrode welding device 12 and the testing device 40, on the one hand, the cylindrical battery 90 on the positive electrode welding device 12 can be transferred to the testing device 40 using the second transfer member 50, thereby facilitating the subsequent testing of the cylindrical battery 90 using the testing device 40. On the other hand, the second transfer member 50 can play a buffering and coordinating role, so that the working rhythm between the positive electrode welding device 12 and the testing device 40 can be matched with each other, thereby improving the operational stability of the welding equipment 100.

[0319] Please refer to Figure 35 again. The second transfer member 50 is provided with a second guide member 51, which is used to guide the cylindrical battery 90 from the positive electrode welding device 12 to the testing device 40.

[0320] The second guide member 51 may include at least two second guide bars, which are arc-shaped. One end of one of the second guide bars is connected to the second transfer member 50, and the other end extends to the welding fixture assembly 14 of the positive electrode welding device 12, thereby guiding the cylindrical battery 90 on the positive electrode welding device 12 to the second rotating member; one end of the other second guide bar is connected to the second transfer member 50, and the other end extends to the testing device 40, thereby guiding the cylindrical battery 90 on the second transfer member 50 to the testing device 40.

[0321] In the above technical solution, by setting a second guide 51 on the second transfer member 50, the cylindrical battery 90 on the positive electrode welding device 12 can be guided to the second transfer member 50, and then the cylindrical battery 90 on the second transfer member 50 can be transferred to the testing device 40, reducing the phenomenon of the cylindrical battery 90 running off course or falling off, and improving the stability and reliability of the cylindrical battery 90 transfer process.

[0322] For example, the welding rotating part 131 of the positive electrode welding device 12 and the second transfer part 50 can be connected by a gear mechanism to share a power source, so that the welding and transfer of the cylindrical battery 90 can be synchronized.

[0323] Please refer to Figure 4 again. The welding equipment 100 also includes a second weld mark detection component 182. The second weld mark detection component 182 is located on one side of the second transfer member 50 and is used to detect the weld mark quality of the cylindrical battery 90 after welding by the positive electrode welding device 12, that is, to detect the weld mark quality formed by welding the positive electrode post 94 of the cylindrical battery 90 to the positive electrode current collector.

[0324] The welding equipment 100 also includes a second weld mark cleaning component 184, which is located on one side of the second transfer member 50 and is used to clean the weld marks of the cylindrical battery 90 after welding by the positive electrode welding device 12, that is, to clean the weld marks formed by welding the positive electrode post 94 of the cylindrical battery 90 to the positive electrode current collector.

[0325] For example, the second transfer member 50 can be a second transition turntable, which is located between the welding rotating member 131 and the test rotating member 411 of the positive electrode welding device 12. When the second transition turntable, the welding rotating member 131 and the test rotating member 411 of the positive electrode welding device 12 rotate together, the cylindrical battery 90 that has been welded on the positive electrode welding device 12 can be transferred to the second transition turntable under the guidance of a second guide member 51. After the cylindrical battery 90 on the second transition turntable undergoes a series of operations such as welding mark detection by the second welding mark detection component 182 and welding mark cleaning by the second welding mark cleaning component 184, it can be transferred to the test device 40 under the guidance of another second guide member 51 for subsequent testing operations.

[0326] For example, the welding equipment 100 also includes a second ejector assembly 192, which is located on one side of the testing device 40. After being inspected by the second weld mark detection assembly 182 and tested by the testing device 40, cylindrical batteries 90 that do not meet the requirements can be rejected by the second ejector assembly 192, thereby improving the quality of the cylindrical batteries 90 produced.

[0327] After the negative electrode welding mechanism 112 has completed welding the end cap 92 and the negative electrode current collector 934, it can be rotated 180° by the flipping device 20 and then enter the positive electrode welding device 12. The positive electrode welding mechanism 122 is used to weld the positive electrode post 94 and the positive electrode current collector. After welding, the internal resistance of the cylindrical battery 90 is tested by the testing device 40. Defective products generated in the whole process can be intercepted at the feeding port and rejected by the second rejection component.

[0328] Referring again to Figure 3, the welding equipment 100 also includes a first worktable 61, on which the negative electrode welding device 11 and the flipping device 20 are arranged side by side. Arranging the negative electrode welding device 11 and the flipping device 20 on the first worktable 61 allows for a more compact structure and improved space utilization. Furthermore, it links the workflows of the negative electrode welding device 11 and the flipping device 20 together, improving their collaborative efficiency, reducing work interruptions caused by dispersed equipment locations, and enhancing the continuity of the welding equipment 100's operation, thereby increasing its overall efficiency.

[0329] Referring again to Figure 4, the welding equipment 100 also includes a second workbench 62, on which the positive electrode welding device 12 and the testing device 40 are arranged side by side. Arranging the positive electrode welding device 12 and the testing device 40 on the second workbench 62 allows for a more compact structure and improved space utilization. Furthermore, it links the workflows of the positive electrode welding device 12 and the testing device 40 together, improving their collaborative efficiency, reducing work interruptions caused by dispersed equipment locations, and enhancing the continuity of the welding equipment 100's operation, thereby increasing its overall efficiency.

[0330] In some embodiments, the welding equipment 100 further includes a transfer mechanism 70, which is disposed between the flipping device 20 and the positive electrode welding device 12. The transfer mechanism 70 is used to transfer the flipped cylindrical battery 90 on the flipping device 20 to the positive electrode welding device 12.

[0331] In the above technical solution, by setting up the transmission mechanism 70, on the one hand, the cylindrical battery 90 can be transferred, reducing the intensity of manual labor, improving production efficiency, and facilitating the fully automated production of the cylindrical battery 90. On the other hand, since the operating speed and working rhythm of the flipping device 20 and the positive electrode welding device 12 may be different, the transmission mechanism 70 can play a buffering and coordinating role, so that the operating speed and working rhythm of the flipping device 20 and the positive electrode welding device 12 can be matched with each other, so that the welding equipment 100 can operate stably.

[0332] This application provides a welding method for a cylindrical battery 90.

[0333] Referring to Figure 2, and further referring to Figure 36, Figure 36 is a control flowchart of a welding method for a cylindrical battery 90 according to some embodiments of this application. The welding method for the cylindrical battery includes the following steps:

[0334] Step S100: Provide a housing with an opening, an end cap, and an electrode assembly connected with a positive current collector and a negative current collector; wherein the positive current collector is connected to the positive electrode tab of the electrode assembly, and the negative current collector is connected to the negative electrode tab of the electrode assembly.

[0335] Specifically, the cylindrical battery 90 includes a casing 91, an end cap 92, a positive electrode post 94, an electrode assembly 93, a positive current collector and a negative current collector 934. One end of the casing 91 has an opening, and the wall of the casing 91 opposite to the opening is a mounting wall 911. The positive electrode post 94 is disposed on the mounting wall 911. The end cap 92 is used to close the opening of the casing 91. The two ends of the electrode assembly 93 in the height direction have a positive electrode tab 931 and a negative electrode tab 933, respectively. The electrode assembly 93 is installed inside the casing 91. The positive current collector is located between the mounting wall 911 of the casing 91 and the positive electrode tab 931 of the electrode assembly 93, and is connected to the positive electrode tab 931 of the electrode assembly 93. The negative current collector 934 is located at the end of the electrode assembly 93 away from the positive electrode post 94, and is connected to the negative electrode tab 933 of the electrode assembly 93.

[0336] Step S200: With the end cap facing upwards, weld the end cap and the negative current collector;

[0337] In other words, before welding the end cap 92 and the negative current collector 934, the housing 91 needs to be positioned with the end cap 92 facing upwards and the positive terminal 94 facing downwards. Because the end cap 92 is positioned upwards, the negative electrode welding mechanism 112 can weld the end cap 92 and the negative current collector 934 upwards. This increases the operating space of the negative electrode welding mechanism 112, facilitating precise positioning of the welding head. Furthermore, it allows operators to visually observe the welding process of the end cap 92 and the negative current collector 934, promptly identifying problems that arise during welding. It also helps reduce the adverse effects of heat generated during welding on the internal structure and materials of the housing 91.

[0338] Step S300: Flip the shell so that the positive electrode post is facing up and the end cap is facing down;

[0339] Specifically, the cylindrical battery 90 can be flipped using the flipping device 20. For example, the flipping device 20 includes a flipping tower 21 and a flipping clamp assembly 22. The flipping clamp assembly 22 is disposed on the flipping tower 21 and includes a flipping clamp 222 for clamping the cylindrical battery 90. Under the action of the flipping tower 21, the flipping clamp 222 can flip the cylindrical battery 90 from a position where the end cap 92 faces upward and the positive terminal 94 faces downward to a position where the positive terminal 94 faces upward and the end cap 92 faces downward.

[0340] Step S400: Weld the positive current collector and the positive terminal with the positive terminal facing upward to obtain a cylindrical battery.

[0341] Since the positive electrode post 94 is positioned upwards, the positive electrode welding mechanism 122 can weld the positive electrode post 94 and the positive electrode current collector upwards. This increases the operating space of the positive electrode welding mechanism 122, facilitating precise positioning of the welding head. It also allows operators to visually observe the welding process of the positive electrode post 94 and the positive electrode current collector, promptly identify problems during the welding process, and reduce the adverse effects of the heat generated during welding on the internal structure and materials of the housing 91.

[0342] Therefore, in the technical solution of this application embodiment, the end cap 92 and the negative electrode current collector 934 are first welded along the upward orientation of the end cap 92. After flipping, the positive electrode current collector and the positive electrode post 94 are then welded along the upward orientation of the positive electrode post 94. On the one hand, this can reduce the number of flips of the cylindrical battery 90, which is beneficial to improving the production efficiency of the cylindrical battery 90. On the other hand, it can reduce the number of flipping devices 20, which is beneficial to reduce the number of components of the welding equipment 100, reduce the space occupied by the welding equipment 100, and reduce production costs.

[0343] Referring to Figure 37, which is a control flowchart of a welding method for a cylindrical battery 90 according to other embodiments of this application, before welding the end cap and the negative current collector with the end cap facing upwards, the process includes:

[0344] Step S110: Arrange the casing with the opening facing down and the positive terminal facing up;

[0345] Step S120: Install the electrode assembly into the housing;

[0346] In other words, before installing the electrode assembly 93 into the housing 91, the housing 91 needs to be positioned with its opening facing downwards and the positive terminal 94 facing upwards. When installing the electrode assembly 93 into the housing 91, the electrode assembly 93 can be pushed into the housing 91 from bottom to top. This arrangement reduces the entry of dust, debris, and other impurities into the housing, which could cause short circuits inside the cylindrical battery 90. It also facilitates precise positioning and installation of the electrode assembly 93 and the housing 91, thereby improving assembly efficiency.

[0347] Step S130: Flip the shell so that the opening faces upward and the positive terminal is downward;

[0348] Step S140: Seal the opening with the end cap facing upwards.

[0349] Specifically, in the process of sealing the opening with the end cap 92, the end cap 92 can be accurately placed at the opening of the shell 91 so that the edge of the opening of the shell 91 is aligned with the end cap 92. Then, the end cap 92 can be pre-welded to the shell 91 to fix the position of the end cap 92 on the shell 91 and reduce the shaking of the end cap 92 during the subsequent welding process. Finally, a suitable welding process can be selected to weld the end cap 92 to the shell 91, so that the end cap 92 seals the opening of the shell 91.

[0350] In some embodiments, sealing the opening with the end cap 92 includes: welding the outer periphery of the end cap 92 and the opening edge of the housing 91 circumferentially along the end cap 92.

[0351] In the above technical solution, welding the outer periphery of the end cap 92 and the opening edge of the shell 91 along the circumference of the end cap 92 can reduce the problem of incomplete welding, so that the end cap 92 can seal the opening of the shell 91. On the one hand, it reduces the leakage of electrolyte from the joint between the end cap 92 and the shell 91 after liquid injection, which corrodes the equipment and environment around the cylindrical battery 90 and affects the performance and life of the cylindrical battery 90. On the other hand, it can reduce the entry of external impurities (such as moisture, dust and metal debris in the air) into the shell 91 and reduce the performance of the cylindrical battery 90.

[0352] Referring to Figure 38, which is a control flowchart of a welding method for a cylindrical battery 90 according to some embodiments of this application, after welding the positive current collector and the positive terminal, the method includes: testing the internal resistance of the cylindrical battery.

[0353] In the above technical solution, by testing the internal resistance of the cylindrical battery 90, it is possible to determine whether the performance of the cylindrical battery 90 meets the design requirements, and potential safety hazards can be detected in a timely manner, which is conducive to improving the safety of the cylindrical battery 90.

[0354] Please refer to Figure 38 again. After testing the internal resistance of the cylindrical battery, the following steps should be taken: check the sealing performance of the cylindrical battery with the positive terminal facing upwards. This setup can reduce electrolyte leakage from the joint between the end cap 92 and the casing 91 after filling, which could corrode the equipment and environment around the cylindrical battery 90, affecting its performance and lifespan. It can also reduce the entry of external impurities into the casing 91, thus reducing the performance of the cylindrical battery 90.

[0355] In some embodiments, detecting the sealing performance of the cylindrical battery 90 includes injecting a detection gas into the injection port on the positive terminal. For example, helium gas can be introduced into the injection port 941 on the positive terminal 94 for detection using a helium detection device.

[0356] This allows for quick location of leaks, facilitating timely repairs or the removal of substandard products, effectively reducing battery performance degradation or safety hazards caused by minute leaks.

[0357] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and not to limit them. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features therein. These modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, and they should all be covered within the scope of the claims and specification of this application. In particular, as long as there is no structural conflict, the various technical features mentioned in the embodiments can be combined in any way. This application is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, but includes all technical solutions falling within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A welding device, wherein, include: A negative electrode welding device includes a negative electrode welding fixture and a negative electrode welding mechanism. The negative electrode welding fixture is used to hold the cylindrical battery in a position where the positive electrode post faces down and the end cap faces up. The negative electrode welding mechanism is located on one side of the welding fixture and is used to weld the end cap to the negative electrode current collector. A flipping device is provided on one side of the negative electrode welding device and includes a flipping tower and a flipping clamp assembly. The flipping clamp assembly is provided on the flipping tower and includes a flipping clamping member for clamping the cylindrical battery. Under the action of the flipping tower, the flipping clamping member flips the cylindrical battery so that the positive electrode post faces upward and the end cap faces downward. A positive electrode welding device includes a positive electrode welding fixture and a positive electrode welding mechanism. The positive electrode welding fixture is used to hold the cylindrical battery in a position where the positive electrode post faces upward and the end cap faces downward. The positive electrode welding mechanism is located on one side of the positive electrode welding fixture and is used to weld the positive electrode current collector of the cylindrical battery to the positive electrode post.

2. The welding equipment according to claim 1, wherein, The wall of the cylindrical battery casing opposite to the end cap is a mounting wall. The positive electrode post is disposed on the mounting wall. The positive current collector is located between the electrode assembly of the cylindrical battery and the mounting wall. The negative current collector is located between the electrode assembly and the end cap. The negative electrode welding device includes a negative electrode welding head, which is used to abut against the end cap. The positive electrode welding device includes a positive electrode welding head, which is used to abut against the positive electrode post.

3. The welding equipment according to claim 1, wherein, Each of the negative electrode welding fixture and the positive electrode welding fixture includes: A welding tower includes a welding rotating component and a welding cam assembly. The welding rotating component rotates about a central axis extending in the vertical direction, and the welding cam assembly and the welding rotating component are coaxially arranged. Multiple welding fixture assemblies are arranged circumferentially on the welding rotating component and rotate synchronously with the welding rotating component. Each welding fixture assembly is used to install the cylindrical battery. The welding fixture assembly slides circumferentially along the welding cam assembly under the drive of the welding rotating component, and at least a portion of the structure of the welding fixture assembly moves vertically relative to the welding rotating component under the action of the welding cam assembly.

4. The welding equipment according to claim 3, wherein, The welding fixture assembly includes: The main body of the welding fixture is used to install the cylindrical battery; A welding pressure plate is fixed to the main body of the welding fixture; A welding pusher is movably disposed on the main body of the welding fixture in the vertical direction and located below the welding pressure plate; The welding pusher slides in conjunction with the welding cam assembly and moves upward relative to the welding fixture body under the action of the welding cam assembly to push the cylindrical battery against the welding pressure plate.

5. The welding equipment according to claim 4, wherein, The welding fixture assembly further includes: a first cup positioning component, fixed to the welding fixture body and located between the welding pressure plate and the welding pusher, for positioning the cup that supports the cylindrical battery; The welding pusher moves upward relative to the welding fixture body under the action of the welding cam assembly, so as to push the cylindrical battery away from the cup and stop against the welding pressure plate.

6. The welding equipment according to claim 5, wherein, The first cup positioning component is at least partially a magnetic attraction mechanism, and the cup is a magnetically attractive structure. The first cup positioning component positions the cup by magnetic attraction.

7. The welding equipment according to claim 4, wherein, The welding pusher is equipped with a pressure detection element for detecting the pressure exerted by the welding pusher on the cylindrical battery.

8. The welding equipment according to claim 4, wherein, The welding plate has a clearance hole and an air passage. The clearance hole is positioned opposite to the area to be welded of the cylindrical battery. The outlet of the air passage faces downward and surrounds the area to be welded, and is used to guide protective gas to the area to be welded.

9. The welding equipment according to claim 8, wherein, The welding plate further defines an air inlet channel, which is connected to the inlet of the air passage; wherein the air passage is an annular channel, and the air inlet channel is tangent to the annular channel.

10. The welding equipment according to claim 9, wherein, The number of air intake channels is multiple, and the multiple air intake channels are arranged circumferentially in the annular channel and are centrally symmetrical about the center of the annular channel.

11. The welding equipment according to claim 8, wherein, The air passage extends gradually from top to bottom toward the clearance hole, and the flow area of ​​the air passage gradually decreases from top to bottom.

12. The welding equipment according to claim 8, wherein, The welding plate of the positive electrode welding device is provided with a sealing component, which includes a sealing needle. The sealing needle extends at least partially into the clearance hole to seal the liquid injection hole on the cylindrical battery.

13. The welding equipment according to claim 12, wherein, Also includes: The quick-change plugging component assembly is located on one side of the positive electrode welding device and is used to replace the plugging component.

14. The welding equipment according to claim 13, wherein, The quick-change plugging component assembly includes: Mounting base; A buffer is used to store multiple of the aforementioned plugging components; A quick-change clamp is movably disposed on the mounting base for removing the sealing member from the welding pressure plate and installing the sealing member on the buffer member onto the corresponding welding pressure plate.

15. The welding equipment according to claim 14, wherein, The welding fixture body is provided with a locking member, which is adapted to switch from a locked state to an unlocked state under the drive of the quick-change clamping member. In the locked state, the locking member locks the sealing member on the welding pressure plate, and in the unlocked state, the sealing member is allowed to disengage from the welding pressure plate.

16. The welding equipment according to claim 15, wherein, The sealing component further includes a fixing part, and the sealing needle is disposed on the fixing part; the welding fixture body is provided with an installation part and a pressing part, the pressing part is movably disposed on the installation part and linked with the locking component, the pressing part is adapted to drive the locking component to switch from the locked state to the unlocked state under the action of the quick-change clamping component, so as to allow the quick-change clamping component to clamp the sealing component.

17. The welding equipment according to claim 14, wherein, The mounting base includes: The first guide rail extends along the first direction; A second guide rail is disposed on the first guide rail and extends along the second direction, and the second guide rail moves along the first direction under the guidance of the first guide rail; A third guide rail is disposed on the second guide rail and extends along a third direction. The third guide rail moves along the second direction under the guidance of the second guide rail. The quick-change clamp is disposed on the third guide rail and is movable along the third direction under the guidance of the third guide rail. The first direction, the second direction, and the third direction are arranged perpendicularly to each other, and one of the three is the vertical direction.

18. The welding equipment according to any one of claims 1-17, wherein, The tilting tower includes a tilting rotating component and a tilting cam. The tilting rotating component rotates about a central axis extending in the vertical direction, and the tilting cam is coaxially arranged with the tilting rotating component. Multiple flipping clamp assemblies are circumferentially disposed on the flipping rotating member and rotate synchronously with the flipping rotating member. The flipping clamp assembly also includes a flipping clamp body. The flipping clamping member is rotatably disposed on the flipping clamp body. The flipping clamp assembly slides circumferentially along the flipping cam under the drive of the flipping rotating member. The flipping clamping member rotates relative to the flipping clamp body under the action of the flipping cam to flip the placement orientation of the cylindrical battery.

19. The welding equipment according to claim 18, wherein, The flipping clamp assembly further includes a transmission mechanism, which is located on the flipping clamp body. The flipping clamping member is connected to the flipping cam via the transmission mechanism. The transmission mechanism includes a gear and a rack. The gear is connected to the flipping clamping member. The rack extends in the vertical direction and slides circumferentially along the flipping cam. The rack meshes with the gear. Under the action of the flipping cam, the rack moves in the vertical direction relative to the flipping clamp body. The flipping clamping member rotates relative to the flipping clamp body under the drive of the gear.

20. The welding equipment according to claim 18, wherein, The tilting tower also includes an opening and closing cam, which is coaxially arranged with the tilting rotating component; The flipping clamp assembly slides circumferentially along the opening and closing cam under the drive of the flipping rotating member, and the flipping clamping member switches between a closed state that clamps the cylindrical battery and an open state that releases the cylindrical battery under the action of the opening and closing cam.

21. The welding equipment according to claim 18, wherein, The tilting tower also includes a lifting cam assembly, which is coaxially arranged with the tilting rotating component; at least part of the tilting clamp assembly moves relative to the tilting rotating component in the vertical direction under the action of the lifting cam assembly.

22. The welding equipment according to claim 21, wherein, The flipping clamp assembly also includes: The first flipping pusher is movably disposed on the flipping fixture body in the vertical direction and located below the flipping clamping member; The second flipping pusher is movably disposed on the flipping fixture body in the vertical direction and located above the flipping clamping member; The first flipping pusher and the second flipping pusher are both slidably engaged with the lifting cam assembly. Under the action of the lifting cam assembly, the first flipping pusher moves upward relative to the flipping fixture body, pushing the cylindrical battery to the position to be flipped. Under the action of the lifting cam assembly, the second flipping pusher moves downward relative to the flipping fixture body, pushing the cylindrical battery to the initial position.

23. The welding equipment according to claim 22, wherein, The flipping clamp assembly also includes: The second cup positioning component is fixed to the main body of the flipping clamp and is located between the flipping clamp and the first flipping push component, and is used to position the cup that carries the cylindrical battery. The first flipping pusher moves upward relative to the flipping clamp body under the action of the lifting cam assembly, pushing the cylindrical battery away from the cup; the second flipping pusher moves downward relative to the flipping clamp body under the action of the lifting cam assembly, pushing the cylindrical battery into the cup.

24. The welding equipment according to any one of claims 1-23, wherein, It also includes: a first transfer member, disposed between the negative electrode welding device and the flipping device, to transfer the cylindrical battery welded on the negative electrode welding device to the flipping device.

25. The welding equipment according to claim 24, wherein, The first transfer member is provided with a first guide member for guiding the cylindrical battery from the negative electrode welding device to the flipping device.

26. The welding equipment according to any one of claims 1-25, wherein, Also includes: A testing device is used to test the cylindrical battery welded on the positive electrode welding device.

27. The welding equipment according to claim 26, wherein, The testing apparatus includes: A test tower includes a test rotating component and a test cam, wherein the test rotating component rotates about a central axis extending in the vertical direction, and the test cam is coaxially arranged with the test rotating component; Multiple test fixture assemblies are arranged circumferentially on the test rotating member and rotate synchronously with the test rotating member. Each test fixture assembly is used to mount the cylindrical battery and includes a test piece for testing the internal resistance of the cylindrical battery. The test fixture assembly slides circumferentially along the test cam under the drive of the test rotating component, and the test piece moves vertically relative to the test rotating component under the action of the test cam.

28. The welding equipment according to claim 27, wherein, The test fixture assembly includes: The test fixture body includes a test clamp for clamping the cylindrical battery. The test piece is movably disposed on the test fixture body in the vertical direction and is located above the test clamp. The test piece includes a positive electrode probe and a negative electrode probe. The test piece slides with the test cam and moves downward relative to the test fixture body under the action of the test cam. The positive electrode probe stops at the positive electrode post of the cylindrical battery, and the negative electrode probe stops at the casing of the cylindrical battery to test the internal resistance of the cylindrical battery.

29. The welding equipment according to claim 28, wherein, The number of positive electrode probes and negative electrode probes are both multiple, and the radius of the imaginary circle containing the multiple negative electrode probes is larger than the radius of the imaginary circle containing the multiple positive electrode probes.

30. The welding equipment according to claim 28, wherein, The test piece also includes: A mounting base is provided on which the positive electrode probe and the negative electrode probe are disposed; A positioning sleeve is provided on the fixing base and is used to position the cylindrical battery.

31. The welding equipment according to claim 28, wherein, The test fixture assembly further includes a third cup positioning component, which is fixed to the main body of the test fixture and located below the test clamping component, for positioning the cup that supports the cylindrical battery.

32. The welding equipment according to claim 27, wherein, Also includes: A second transfer device is disposed between the positive electrode welding device and the testing device to transfer the cylindrical battery welded on the positive electrode welding device to the testing device.

33. The welding equipment according to claim 32, wherein, The second transfer member is provided with a second guide member for guiding the cylindrical battery from the positive electrode welding device to the testing device.

34. The welding equipment according to any one of claims 26-33, wherein, Also includes: The first workbench, on which the negative electrode welding device and the flipping device are arranged side by side; The second workbench, on which the positive electrode welding device and the testing device are arranged side by side.

35. The welding equipment according to claim 34, wherein, Also includes: A transmission mechanism is provided between the flipping device and the positive electrode welding device for transmitting the flipped cylindrical battery from the flipping device to the positive electrode welding device.

36. A welding method for a cylindrical battery, wherein, Includes the following steps: A housing with an opening, an end cap, and an electrode assembly connected to a positive current collector and a negative current collector are provided, wherein the positive current collector is connected to the positive electrode tab of the electrode assembly, and the negative current collector is connected to the negative electrode tab of the electrode assembly. Weld the end cap and the negative electrode current collector together with the end cap facing upwards. Flip the shell so that the positive electrode post faces upward and the end cap faces downward; The positive current collector and the positive electrode post are welded together with the positive electrode post facing upwards to obtain a cylindrical battery.

37. The welding method for a cylindrical battery according to claim 36, wherein, Before welding the end cap and the negative current collector in the upward orientation of the end cap, the process includes: The shell is arranged with the opening facing downwards and the positive electrode post facing upwards. The electrode assembly is installed into the housing; Flip the shell so that the opening faces upward and the positive electrode post faces downward; The opening is sealed with the end cap facing upwards.

38. The welding method for a cylindrical battery according to claim 37, wherein, The step of sealing the opening with the end cap includes: welding the outer periphery of the end cap and the opening edge of the shell body along the circumferential direction of the end cap.

39. The welding method for a cylindrical battery according to claim 36, wherein, After welding the positive current collector and the positive terminal, the process includes testing the internal resistance of the cylindrical battery.

40. The welding method for a cylindrical battery according to claim 39, wherein, After testing the internal resistance of the cylindrical battery, the method includes: detecting the sealing performance of the cylindrical battery with the positive terminal facing upwards.

41. The welding method for a cylindrical battery according to claim 40, wherein, The method for detecting the sealing performance of the cylindrical battery includes injecting detection gas into the injection hole on the positive electrode post.

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