Inclined Electrode Assembly Insertion for Pouch Hinge Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for inserting electrode assemblies into pouch-type secondary batteries require complex configurations to prevent placement failures and can cause stress concentration and cracking in the pouch due to repetitive bending, especially when vertically dropping the assembly.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus and method using an articulated robot with a clamping unit that inclines the electrode assembly for insertion through an open space between the upper and lower pouches, reducing the bendable range of the hinge part and minimizing stress on the pouch.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the electrode assembly is vertically dropped into the pouch, then the insertion process is simple, but the hinge part undergoes stress concentration and cracking due to repetitive bending
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the insertion direction from vertical (one-dimensional dropping) to inclined (multi-dimensional approach). The electrode assembly is inserted at an angle between 30-60 degrees relative to the horizontal plane, allowing it to enter the pouch through the open space without causing repetitive bending to the hinge part, thus resolving the contradiction between simple insertion and hinge durability
2Reliability
If a separate complicated configuration is used to prevent placement failure, then the electrode assembly placement reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs an articulated robot with multiple degrees of freedom to dynamically adjust the insertion trajectory and angle. This dynamic system can adapt to different pouch configurations and electrode assembly positions, ensuring reliable placement without requiring complex additional restraint mechanisms or guides
Solution Approach 2:
The articulated robot performs multiple functions: it holds the electrode assembly, positions it at the correct angle, guides it into the pouch, and ensures proper placement. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate specialized devices for each function, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high reliability
Data Source
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AI summary
Proposed is an apparatus for inserting an electrode assembly, the apparatus including a clamping unit configured to clamp or unclamp the electrode assembly, and an articulated robot including one or more links rotatably connected to each other by j oint shafts and configured to mount the clamping unit on a front link. Here, the electrode assembly is inclinedly introduced and accommodated in a pouch through an open space between an upper pouch and a lower pouch. In addition, proposed is a method of inserting an electrode assembly using the above-described apparatus.