Overview of Optical Digital Measuring Challenges and Technologies in Laser Welded Components in EV Battery Module Design and Manufacturing
Heikki Saariluoma, Aki Piiroinen, Anna Unt, Jukka Hakanen, Tuomo Rautava, Antti Salminen
Abstract
Ensuring the precision and repeatability of component assembly in the production of electric vehicle (EV) battery modules requires fast and accurate measuring methods. The durability of EV battery packs depends on the quality of welded connections, therefore exact positioning of the module components is critical for ensuring safety in exploitation. Laser welding is a non-contact process capable of welding dissimilar materials with high precision, for that reason it has become the preferred joining method in battery production. In high volume manufacturing, one of the main production challenges is reducing the time required for assessment of dimensional and geometrical accuracy prior to joining. This paper reviews the challenges of EV battery design and manufacturing and discusses commercially available scanner-based measurement systems suitable for fabrication of battery pack components. Versatility of novel metrological systems creates new opportunities for increasing the production speed, quality and safety of EV battery modules.