Electrode manufacturing apparatus

Abstract

The electrode manufacturing apparatus of the present invention includes a travel roller for conveying a coated electrode, and a die member disposed on a travel path of the coated electrode and arranged to cut a partial area of the coated electrode, wherein the die member includes an upper die disposed on a top of the coated electrode, and a lower die disposed on a bottom of the coated electrode, the upper die including an upper forming jig arranged to cut the partial area of the coated electrode, and one or more first counterbalancing members connected to the upper forming jig, the upper forming jig being disposed such that a center thereof is offset from a center in a direction of a rotational axis of the travel roller.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an electrode manufacturing method and an electrode manufacturing apparatus, and more specifically, to an electrode manufacturing method and an electrode manufacturing apparatus that can flexibly respond to changes in the length of the coated electrode during the grooving of the electrode tab.

[0002] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0100654, filed on July 30, 2024, and Korean Patent Application No. 10-2025-0099392, filed on July 23, 2025, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Background Technology

[0003] In the manufacture of secondary battery electrodes, a notching process is performed to shape the electrodes into the desired form. This notching process can be broadly divided into two methods: one is to cut the electrode using a die, and the other is to cut the electrode using a laser. Here, notching using a die is usually performed by pressing the electrode into a die to cut a portion of the electrode.

[0004] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an electrode grooving device based on conventional technology. Figure 2 and Figure 3 It is a schematic plan view of the appearance of the electrode formed using a common mold.

[0005] refer to Figures 1 to 3 A typical electrode grooving apparatus 50 for forming a typical electrode includes a main mold 10, wherein an upper mold 11 and a lower mold 12 are arranged facing each other. A coating electrode 1A is introduced between the upper mold 11 and the lower mold 12 of the main mold 10. The upper mold 11 and the lower mold 12 are mounted to be movable in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction). In the grooving process, the upper mold 11 and the lower mold 12 cut a portion of the introduced coating electrode 1A.

[0006] Furthermore, in a typical mold assembly, the upper mold 11 and the lower mold 12 are respectively equipped with an upper forming fixture 20 and a lower forming fixture 30. The upper forming fixture 20 and the lower forming fixture 30 perform grooving processing on one end and the other end of the coated electrode 1A, respectively. In this case, the upper forming fixture 20 includes a first side mold 21 for forming one end of the coated electrode in the electrode length direction (Y-axis direction) and a first other side mold 22 for forming the other end. In addition, the lower forming fixture 30 also includes a second side mold 31 and a second other side mold 32. That is, the first side mold 21 and the second side mold 31 can press and groove the upper and lower surfaces of one side of the coated electrode 1A to form an electrode tab. In addition, the first other side mold 22 and the second other side mold 32 can press and groove the upper and lower surfaces of the other side of the coated electrode 1A to shape the other side of the coated electrode 1A.

[0007] Furthermore, minimizing the vibrations generated during the pressing operation of the coated electrode 1A is crucial, particularly preventing eccentric vibrations during the grooving process. Eccentric vibrations can occur when the center of the main mold 10 does not coincide with the center of the conveyor roller 40 (also known as the travel roller). Therefore, the centers C1 of the upper mold 11 and lower mold 12 in the main mold 10 are designed to be coaxial with the center M of the rotation axis S of the conveyor roller 40 used to convey the coated electrode 1A. In other words, the centers C1 of the upper mold 11 and lower mold 12 are set to be non-eccentric to the center M of the rotation axis S of the conveyor roller 40.

[0008] Meanwhile, when it is necessary to produce electrodes with varying electrode lengths (L) in existing production equipment, the position of the tab formed at one end of the electrode also changes along the electrode length direction. However, in a typical mold assembly 50, it is usually difficult to apply this to electrodes with various electrode lengths.

[0009] Specifically, when Figure 3 The electrode length L2 of the coated electrode 1B shown is changed to be greater than that of the electrode with the coating electrode 1B. Figure 2 When the electrode length L1 of the coating electrode 1A shown is smaller, the position of the step portion 42 formed on the surface of the transfer roller 40 (located at the end in the rotational axis direction S of the transfer roller) must be changed. Therefore, the arrangement and size of the transfer roller 40 must be changed. Furthermore, depending on the change in the transfer roller 40, the positions of the respective centers C2 of the upper mold 11 and the lower mold 12 in the main mold 10 are changed to coincide with the center M in the rotational axis direction of the transfer roller 40. Alternatively, when it is difficult to apply the main mold 10 simply by changing its position, a new main mold 10 must be manufactured.

[0010] Furthermore, during this position change process, the positions of various measuring devices and marking devices used to measure the electrode position must also be changed. Therefore, when it is necessary to produce electrodes with varying electrode lengths, the equipment operating rate decreases and costs increase due to the changes in equipment position and the need for job changes.

[0011] Therefore, a new type of electrode grooving device and electrode grooving method is needed, which can ensure stable grooving quality and allow for flexible and efficient equipment replacement when the electrode length changes. Summary of the Invention

[0012] [Technical Issues]

[0013] The present invention aims to solve the problems that occur in conventional electrode manufacturing processes.

[0014] Specifically, through one example of the present invention, an electrode manufacturing method and an electrode manufacturing apparatus are intended to be provided, which can flexibly respond to changes in the position of the electrode tabs due to changes in the electrode length by adjusting the center position of the mold component via a balancing member.

[0015] Specifically, through one example of the present invention, an electrode manufacturing method and apparatus are provided, which offset the centers of an upper forming jig and a lower forming jig for cutting a portion of the coated electrode with reference to the center in the rotational axis direction of the traveling roller, and adjust the center position of the mold components by means of a balancing member. This aims to significantly improve production efficiency while maintaining electrode quality.

[0016] Furthermore, through one example of the present invention, it is intended to provide an electrode manufacturing method and an electrode manufacturing apparatus that can effectively cope with changes in the eccentricity of mold components.

[0017] [Technical Solution]

[0018] To achieve the above objectives, according to one example of the present invention, an apparatus is provided for manufacturing a secondary battery electrode having electrode tabs by slotting the coated electrode.

[0019] An electrode manufacturing apparatus associated with one example of the present invention includes a travel roller for conveying a coated electrode, and a mold component disposed on the travel path of the coated electrode and arranged to cut a portion of the coated electrode. The mold component is arranged to perform grooving processes, such as cutting a portion of the coated electrode to form electrode tabs on the uncoated portion of the coated electrode.

[0020] Furthermore, the mold components include an upper mold disposed on top of the coating electrode and a lower mold disposed at the bottom of the coating electrode. The lower mold is arranged to cut a portion of the coating electrode together with the upper mold.

[0021] Furthermore, the upper mold includes an upper forming fixture arranged to cut a portion of the coated electrode, and one or more first balancing members connected to the upper forming fixture. The first balancing members do not perform the cutting process of the coated electrode, and as an example, the first balancing members are arranged not to contact the coated electrode during the grooving process.

[0022] Furthermore, the upper forming fixture is configured such that its center is offset from the center in the direction of the rotation axis of the travel roller. Specifically, the upper forming fixture is configured such that its center (or center of gravity) is offset to one side along the direction of the rotation axis of the travel roller, and is not arranged coaxially with the center in the direction of the rotation axis of the travel roller. In this document, "coaxial alignment" means that the center of the upper forming fixture is located on an imaginary axis (orthogonal to the direction of the rotation axis of the travel roller), which passes through the center in the direction of the rotation axis of the travel roller and is parallel to the travel direction of the travel roller.

[0023] Furthermore, the upper mold can be arranged such that its center is coaxial with the center in the direction of the rotation axis of the travel roller. The first balancing member performs the function of moving the center (or center of gravity) of the upper mold along the electrode length direction of the coating electrode (the direction of the rotation axis of the travel roller). The first balancing member can be aligned parallel to the upper forming fixture along the electrode length direction of the coating electrode.

[0024] In addition, the first balancing component can be detachably mounted to the upper forming fixture.

[0025] In addition, the lower mold may include a lower forming fixture arranged to cut a portion of the coated electrode, and one or more second balancing members connected to the lower forming fixture.

[0026] In addition, the lower forming fixture can be configured such that its center is offset from the center in the direction of rotation of the travel roller.

[0027] Furthermore, the lower mold can be arranged such that its center is coaxial with the center of the travel roller in the direction of its rotation axis. The second balancing member performs the function of moving the center (or center of gravity) of the lower mold along the electrode length direction of the coating electrode (the direction of the travel roller's rotation axis). The second balancing member can be arranged parallel to the lower forming fixture along the electrode length direction of the coating electrode.

[0028] The upper forming fixture and the lower forming fixture can be configured such that each center is offset toward the side where the uncoated portion of the electrode patch to be formed is located.

[0029] Furthermore, the centers of the upper and lower molds can be arranged coaxially.

[0030] In addition, the second balancing component can be detachably installed into the lower forming fixture.

[0031] In addition, the upper forming fixture may include a first side mold and a first other side mold, the first side mold being arranged on one side of the coated electrode to form an electrode tab at one end of the coated electrode, and the first other side mold being arranged on the other side of the coated electrode to form the other end of the coated electrode.

[0032] In addition, the lower forming fixture may include a second side mold and a second other side mold, the second side mold being arranged on one side of the coated electrode to form an electrode tab at one end of the coated electrode, and the second other side mold being arranged on the other side of the coated electrode to form the other end of the coated electrode.

[0033] Furthermore, the first balancing member and the second balancing member can each be configured as multiple members. In this case, the multiple first balancing members can be arranged to be connected to each other, and the multiple second balancing members can be arranged to be connected to each other. In this document, the first balancing member and the second balancing member can have the same shape and weight, and can be used as terms to distinguish balancing members respectively connected to the upper forming fixture and the lower forming fixture. Furthermore, in this document, the term "balancing member" can also be used to refer to both the first balancing member and the second balancing member.

[0034] Additionally, the upper forming fixture and the first balancing member can be connected to each other using connecting members. Similarly, the lower forming fixture and the second balancing member can also be connected to each other using connecting members.

[0035] Furthermore, the upper mold may include a distance adjustment member disposed between the upper molding fixture and the first balancing member, the distance adjustment member being arranged to adjust the gap between the upper molding fixture and the first balancing member. Additionally, the gap between the upper molding fixture and the first balancing member can be adjusted by the distance adjustment member, and the center of the upper mold can move along the electrode length direction of the coated electrode according to this gap.

[0036] Furthermore, the lower mold may include a distance adjustment member disposed between the lower molding fixture and the second balancing member, the distance adjustment member being arranged to adjust the gap between the lower molding fixture and the second balancing member. The gap between the lower molding fixture and the second balancing member can be adjusted by the distance adjustment member, and according to this gap, the center of the lower mold can move along the electrode length direction of the coated electrode.

[0037] An electrode manufacturing apparatus related to another example of the invention includes a travel roller for conveying a coated electrode, and a mold component arranged on the travel path of the coated electrode and configured to cut a portion of the coated electrode, wherein the mold component includes an upper mold disposed on top of the coated electrode and a lower mold disposed on bottom of the coated electrode.

[0038] In addition, the upper mold includes an upper forming fixture arranged to cut a portion of the coated electrode, and the lower mold includes a lower forming fixture arranged together with the upper forming fixture to cut a portion of the coated electrode.

[0039] Furthermore, the mold components are arranged such that their center is coaxial with the center in the direction of the rotation axis of the travel roller, and the centers of the upper forming fixture and the lower forming fixture can be offset relative to the center in the direction of the rotation axis of the travel roller.

[0040] In addition, the upper forming fixture and the lower forming fixture can be configured such that each center is offset toward the direction where the uncoated portion of the electrode patch to be formed is located.

[0041] Furthermore, the upper forming fixture may include a first side mold and a first other side mold. The first side mold is arranged on one side of the coated electrode to form an electrode tab at one end of the coated electrode, and the first other side mold is arranged on the other side of the coated electrode to form the other end of the coated electrode. Additionally, the lower forming fixture may include a second side mold and a second other side mold. The second side mold is arranged on one side of the coated electrode to form an electrode tab at one end of the coated electrode, and the second other side mold is arranged on the other side of the coated electrode to form the other end of the coated electrode.

[0042] In addition, the mold component may also include a balancing member connected to at least one of the upper molding fixture and the lower molding fixture.

[0043] In addition, the balancing component can be detachably installed into at least one of the upper forming fixture and the lower forming fixture.

[0044] Furthermore, the first side mold and the second side mold can be disposed at one end of the coating electrode. As an example, the first side mold and the second side mold can be aligned with reference to a stepped portion having a relatively concave surface in the surface of the traveling roller facing the coating electrode. The stepped portion can represent an area where the diameter of the traveling roller changes along the rotation axis of the traveling roller. Furthermore, the first other side mold and the second other side mold can be aligned with reference to the other end of the coating electrode.

[0045] The balancing component performs the function of compensating for the eccentricity of the upper and lower forming fixtures and moving the center of the upper and lower molds.

[0046] The balancing components can be configured as multiple components, and the multiple balancing components can be configured to be connected to each other.

[0047] At least one of the upper forming fixture and the lower forming fixture, as well as the balancing member, can be connected to each other using connecting members.

[0048] In addition, the distance adjustment component can be disposed between at least one of the upper forming fixture and the lower forming fixture and the balancing component connected thereto.

[0049] Furthermore, according to another example of the present invention, a method for manufacturing a secondary battery electrode with electrode tabs by slotting the coated electrode can be provided, and the electrode manufacturing method can be performed using an electrode manufacturing apparatus.

[0050] Furthermore, an electrode manufacturing method related to an example of the present invention includes a conveying step of conveying a coated electrode via a traveling roller, and a grooving step of pressing and forming the electrode using a die component to form electrode tabs on the coated electrode. The die component includes an upper die disposed on top of the coated electrode and a lower die disposed on the bottom of the coated electrode. The upper die includes an upper forming jig arranged to cut a portion of the coated electrode and one or more first balancing members connected to the upper forming jig. The lower die may include a lower forming jig arranged to cut a portion of the coated electrode and one or more second balancing members connected to the lower forming jig. Additionally, the upper and lower forming jigs are configured such that their respective centers are offset relative to the center in the direction of the rotation axis of the traveling roller. Furthermore, the respective centers of the upper and lower dies may be coaxially arranged.

[0051] [Beneficial Effects]

[0052] As described above, the electrode manufacturing apparatus and electrode manufacturing method associated with at least one example of the present invention have the following effects.

[0053] It can flexibly respond to changes in the electrode length of the coated electrode and prevent reduced equipment operating rate and increased costs due to frequent position adjustments of the travel roller or die.

[0054] Furthermore, by combining and arranging balancing components in various ways, the problem of eccentric vibration that occurs during electrode grooving can be solved, and a higher level of dimensional accuracy and productivity can be ensured.

[0055] Furthermore, the flexibility to handle various eccentricities of the travel rollers and die components increases the versatility of the equipment.

[0056] Furthermore, an electrode manufacturing apparatus according to an example of the present invention can implement a dynamic eccentricity compensation system, which, by including a distance adjustment member, is capable of responding to changes in the eccentricity of the mold components. This allows for flexible handling of various variables that may occur during electrode manufacturing, ultimately contributing to improved electrode quality and increased productivity. Attached Figure Description

[0057] Figure 1The front view of a mold used to form a typical coated electrode is shown schematically.

[0058] Figure 2 and Figure 3 This is a schematic plan view showing the appearance of coated electrodes formed using a typical mold.

[0059] Figure 4 This is a schematic partial side view showing a partial appearance of an electrode assembly, including an electrode manufactured by an electrode manufacturing apparatus according to an example of the invention.

[0060] Figure 5 This is a schematic side view illustrating the appearance of a coated electrode formed using an electrode manufacturing apparatus according to an example of the present invention.

[0061] Figure 6 This is a schematic plan view showing the appearance of a coated electrode formed using an electrode manufacturing apparatus according to a first example of the invention.

[0062] Figure 7 This is a schematic plan view showing the appearance of a coated electrode formed using an electrode manufacturing apparatus according to a second example of the invention.

[0063] Figure 8 This is a schematic plan view showing the appearance of a coated electrode formed using an electrode manufacturing apparatus according to a third example of the invention.

[0064] Figure 9 This is a schematic plan view showing the appearance of a coated electrode formed using an electrode manufacturing apparatus according to a fourth example of the invention.

[0065] Figure 10 This is a schematic plan view showing the appearance of a coated electrode formed using an electrode manufacturing apparatus according to a fifth example of the invention.

[0066] Figure 11 This is a flowchart illustrating the steps of an electrode manufacturing method according to an example of the present invention.

[0067] Figure 12 This is a schematic plan view showing the appearance of a secondary battery manufactured using the electrode manufacturing apparatus and electrode manufacturing method of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0068] In the following, an electrode manufacturing apparatus and electrode manufacturing method for a secondary battery according to an example of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0069] Furthermore, regardless of the reference numerals used, identical or corresponding parts are given by the same or similar reference numerals, and their repeated descriptions will be omitted. In order to facilitate interpretation, the size and shape of each component shown may be enlarged or reduced.

[0070] Figure 4 This is a schematic partial side view showing the appearance of the electrode assembly 320, including electrodes 321, 323 manufactured by an electrode manufacturing apparatus 100 according to an example of the present invention. Figure 5 This is a schematic side view showing the appearance of a coated electrode 310 formed using an electrode manufacturing apparatus 100 according to an example of the present invention.

[0071] Reference Figure 4 and Figure 5 According to an example of the present invention, the electrode manufacturing apparatus 100 is an apparatus for manufacturing a secondary battery electrode 321 provided with electrode tabs 351 by slotting a coated electrode 310A.

[0072] Reference Figure 4 Secondary battery electrodes 321 and 322 are Figure 4 The electrode assembly 320 is partially constructed. Specifically, the electrode assembly 320 may include a positive electrode 321, a negative electrode 322, and a separator 326 between the positive electrode 321 and the negative electrode 322. In this document, electrodes 321 and 322 may be either the positive electrode 321 or the negative electrode 322. Secondary battery 300 (see...) Figure 12 The device has a positive electrode contact 351 and a negative electrode contact (not shown) respectively disposed on the positive electrode 321 and the negative electrode 322. The positive electrode contact 351 and the negative electrode contact can then be connected to the positive electrode lead 331 and the negative electrode lead (not shown) respectively by soldering or the like. In this document, the term "electrode contact" may refer to either the positive electrode contact or the negative electrode contact.

[0073] Figure 6 This is a schematic plan view showing the appearance of the coated electrode 310A formed using an electrode manufacturing apparatus according to a first example of the invention.

[0074] refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6 The electrode manufacturing apparatus 100, 100A of the present invention includes a traveling roller 110 for conveying a coated electrode 310A. Here, the coated electrode 310A refers to a configuration in which an electrode active material is coated on the surface of a current collector. Subsequently, the coated electrode 310A formed by the electrode manufacturing apparatus 100 of the present invention can ultimately be used as electrodes 321, 322 of the electrode assembly 320.

[0075] The traveling roller 110 can continuously convey the sheet-shaped coating electrode 310A. The rotational speed and conveying speed of the traveling roller 110 can be appropriately set according to the manufacturing conditions of the coating electrode 310A. Furthermore, as the material of the traveling roller 110, rubber or polyurethane, which has excellent friction with the coating electrode 310A, can be used. The traveling roller 110 can convey the coating electrode 310A along the traveling direction F, and the traveling direction F can be orthogonal to the rotation axis direction of the traveling roller.

[0076] The electrode manufacturing apparatus 100, 100A of the present invention includes a mold component 120 for pressing a coated electrode 310A during a grooving process. Specifically, the mold component 120 includes an upper mold 121 and a lower mold 122. The mold component 120 is disposed on the travel path of the coated electrode 310A.

[0077] Furthermore, the upper mold 121 includes an upper forming jig 123 arranged to cut a portion of the coating electrode 310A, and one or more first balancing members 130 connected to the upper forming jig 123. The first balancing members 130 do not perform the cutting process of the coating electrode 310A, and as an example, during the grooving process, the first balancing members 130 are arranged not to contact the coating electrode 310A.

[0078] Furthermore, the lower mold 122 includes a lower forming fixture 125 arranged to cut a portion of the coated electrode 310A. At this time, the centers C3 of the upper forming fixture 123 and the lower forming fixture 125 are offset relative to the center M in the direction of the rotation axis of the traveling roller 110. Additionally, the lower mold 122 includes one or more second balancing members 130a connected to the lower forming fixture 125.

[0079] Here, the centers C3 of the upper forming fixture 123 and the lower forming fixture 125 refer to the centers of the mold component 120 in the length direction (Y-axis direction, electrode length direction of the coated electrode, or rotation axis direction of the travel roller), which can be the same as the electrode length direction of the coated electrode 310A, wherein the uncoated portion is formed on the two side edges. Furthermore, in this document, the center C5 of the mold component 120 and the centers C3 of the upper forming fixture 123 and the lower forming fixture 125 can each represent the center of gravity. Moreover, the centers of the mold component 120, the upper mold 121, and the lower mold 123 can be arranged coincidentally, and the centers of the mold component 120, the upper mold 121, and the lower mold 123 can be arranged coaxially.

[0080] Here, "offset setting" means that the center C3 of the upper forming jig 123 and the lower forming jig 125 in the mold component 120 is set to the forming position of the electrode tab 351 along the electrode length direction (Y-axis direction) of the coating electrode 310A, and is spaced apart from the center M in the rotation axis direction of the traveling roller 110 by a predetermined distance.

[0081] Furthermore, the mold component 120 is configured to form the electrode tabs 351 on the coating electrode 310A. Specifically, when the upper mold 121 descends to press the coating electrode 310A, the lower mold 122 can support the coating electrode 310A. The pressing pressure and speed of the mold component 120 can be set taking into account the material and thickness of the coating electrode 310A, the desired pattern, etc. With this configuration, the electrode manufacturing apparatus 100 of the present invention, by aligning the center C5 of the mold component 120 with the center M of the traveling roller 110 through the first balancing member 130 and the second balancing member 130a, can effectively cope with changes in the electrode length of the coating electrode 310A or changes in the position of the electrode tabs 351. Therefore, the reduction in productivity and increase in cost due to frequent changes and adjustments of rollers or molds can be suppressed, and stability and efficiency can be improved.

[0082] Furthermore, the centers C3 of the upper forming jig 123 and the lower forming jig 125 can be set to be offset toward the side where the uncoated portion 323 of the electrode patch 351 to be formed is located on the coated electrode 310A.

[0083] Specifically, the electrode tab 351 is a protruding portion formed at one end of the coating electrode 310A, and its position in the electrode length direction changes according to the electrode length L3 of the coating electrode 310A. At this time, even if the center C3 of the upper forming jig 123 and the lower forming jig 125 does not coincide with the center of the traveling roller 110 used to transport the coating electrode 310A, whenever the position of the electrode tab 351 in the electrode length direction (Y-axis direction) changes, the center of the mold component 120 and the center of the traveling roller 110 must be arranged coaxially.

[0084] Therefore, to solve the problems of conventional techniques, when the center C3 of the upper forming jig 123 and the lower forming jig 125 is set at a position offset from the center M of the travel roller 110, that is, offset towards the uncoated portion 323 of the electrode tab 351, the electrode manufacturing apparatus 100, 100A of the present invention can arrange the center of the mold component 120 coaxially with the center of the travel roller 110 by means of the first balancing member 130 and the second balancing member 130a. Therefore, even when the electrode length of the coated electrode 310A changes, the arrangement change of the mold component 120 can be minimized, and the electrode forming process can be performed without changing the position of the existing travel roller 110 or by replacing it with a new travel roller.

[0085] Meanwhile, the upper forming fixture 123 may include a first side mold 126 and a first other side mold 127. In addition, the lower forming fixture 125 may include a second side mold 128 and a second other side mold 129.

[0086] Reference Figure 5 and Figure 6 The first side mold 126 and the first other side mold 127 disposed on the upper mold 121 can be spaced apart from each other along the electrode length direction (Y-axis direction) of the coating electrode 310A. In addition, the second side mold 128 and the second other side mold 129 disposed on the lower mold 125 can be spaced apart from each other along the electrode length direction (Y-axis direction) of the coating electrode 310A.

[0087] The coated electrode 310A may have a coated portion and two uncoated portions located on either side of the coated portion. The two uncoated portions may be located at one end and the other end of the coated electrode 310A along the length direction (Y-axis direction).

[0088] A first-side mold 126 can be disposed at one end of the electrode 310A to which the electrode tab 351 is to be formed, along the length direction (Y-axis direction) of the electrode, to shape the electrode tab 351. For example, the first-side mold 126 can be disposed on the uncoated portion 323 (also referred to as the first uncoated portion) located on one side of the electrode 310A. This allows the first-side mold 126 to form the electrode tab 351 on the uncoated portion 323. For this purpose, the first-side mold 126 can have a mold pattern that matches the shape of the electrode tab 351. For example, the first-side mold 126 can include a rectangular pattern for forming the rectangular electrode tab 351.

[0089] Furthermore, the second side mold 128 disposed on the lower mold 122 can be disposed at one end of the electrode to be formed electrode tab 351 in the electrode length direction (Y-axis direction) to form the electrode tab 351. In other words, the second side mold 128 can be disposed at a position that can engage with the first side mold 126 in the vertical direction.

[0090] Furthermore, the first other-side mold 127 can be disposed at the other end of the coating electrode 310A in the electrode length direction (Y-axis direction) to shape the other end of the coating electrode 310A (the uncoated portion at the other end). This can be used to cut or shape the other end of the coating electrode 310A into a desired shape. For example, tasks such as deburring the tip of the other end of the coating electrode 310A can be performed to cleanly shape the other end of the coating electrode 310A or to cut the other end of the coating electrode 310A into a specific pattern.

[0091] Additionally, the second other-side mold 129, which is provided on the lower mold 122, can be provided at the other end of the coating electrode 310A in the electrode length direction (Y-axis direction) to shape the other end of the coating electrode 310A. That is, the second other-side mold 129 can be provided at a position that can engage with the first other-side mold 127 in the vertical direction.

[0092] Furthermore, the centers C3 (center of the upper forming fixture) of the first side mold 126 and the first other side mold 127, as well as the centers C3 (center of the lower forming fixture) of the second side mold 128 and the second other side mold 129, can be offset relative to the center M in the rotation axis direction of the travel roller 110. Specifically, the centers of the first side mold 126 and the first other side mold 127 belonging to the upper mold 121, and the centers of the second side mold 128 and the second other side mold 129 belonging to the lower mold 125, can be offset by the same distance from the center M in the rotation axis direction of the travel roller 110.

[0093] As an example, the first side mold 126 and the second side mold 128 can be aligned with reference to a stepped portion 111 with a relatively recessed surface in the surface of the traveling roller 110 facing the coating electrode 310A. The first other side mold 127 and the second other side mold 129 can be aligned with reference to the other end of the coating electrode 310A. Here, in the shape of the stepped portion 111, the height of the roller surface facing the electrode tab 351 is lower than the height of the roller surface facing the rest of the coating electrode 310A.

[0094] Specifically, the stepped portion 111 refers to the boundary of the area where the roller thickness is formed to be thinner than other portions. For example, the stepped portion 111 may have a step size of approximately 1 μm to 5 μm. This stepped portion 111 is provided on the pressing line P through which the electrode tab 351 passes, thereby preventing flipping during tab transfer.

[0095] Electrode manufacturing apparatus 100, 100A associated with an example of the present invention may include a first balancing member 130 and a second balancing member 130a to compensate for the eccentricity of the offset upper forming jig 123 and lower forming jig 125.

[0096] The first balancing member 130 and the second balancing member 130a serve to make the center of gravity of the mold component 120 coincide with the center M of the travel roller 110. For example, the first balancing member 130 and the second balancing member 130a can be made of the same material as the mold component 120 and have the same thickness. (Refer to...) Figure 5 and Figure 6The first balancing member 130 and the second balancing member 130a can be connected to the side opposite to the offset of the upper forming jig 123 and the lower forming jig 125 (i.e., the side opposite to the direction of forming the electrode contacts).

[0097] For example, when the upper forming jig 123 and the lower forming jig 125 are offset to a position where they coincide with the center M of the mold component 120 and the center M of the travel roller 110, i.e., when the center M of the mold component 120 and the center M of the travel roller 110 are coaxially arranged and spaced 10 mm apart in the electrode length direction, the first balancing member 130 and the second balancing member 130a can be installed to extend 10 mm in a direction opposite to the center M of the travel roller 110. Therefore, the eccentric clamping force of the coated electrode 310A generated by the upper forming jig 123 and the lower forming jig 125 is balanced by the first balancing member 130 and the second balancing member 130a.

[0098] Reference Figure 5 and Figure 6 The center C5 of the mold component 120, which is connected to the first balancing member 130 and the second balancing member 130a, can be coaxially arranged with the center M in the direction of rotation of the travel roller 110. As a result, the horizontal balance of the mold component 120 can be stably maintained, thereby applying uniform pressure to the coating electrode 310A.

[0099] Figure 7 This is a schematic plan view showing the appearance of the electrode manufacturing apparatus 100B forming a coated electrode 310B using a second example according to the invention. In the following examples, the first balancing member 130 and the second balancing member 130a may have the same dimensions and structure. Furthermore, in the upper and lower forming jigs, their respective centers of gravity may be set symmetrically with respect to the coated electrode. Additionally, in the upper mold 121 and lower mold 122 connected to the first and second balancing members 130a, their respective centers of gravity may be set symmetrically with respect to the coated electrode. For ease of explanation, in the various examples, only the upper mold 121 and the first balancing member 130 are shown in the drawings.

[0100] refer to Figure 6 and Figure 7 , Figure 7 The electrode length L4 of the coated electrode 310B shown is formed to have a ratio of Figure 6 The electrode length L3 of the coated electrode 310 shown is a longer dimension. Therefore, compared with Figure 6 Compared to the electrode manufacturing apparatus 100A, the arrangement of the first side mold 126 and the second side mold 127 is the same along the rotation axis direction of the travel roller 110, but the arrangement of the first other side mold 128 and the second other side mold 129 can be different.

[0101] Furthermore, in the electrode manufacturing apparatus 100B according to the second example of the present invention, the centers C4 of the upper forming jig 123 and the lower forming jig 125 are offset relative to the center M in the rotation axis direction of the traveling roller 110. Figure 6 Compared to the respective centers C3 of the upper forming jig 123 and lower forming jig 125 of the electrode manufacturing apparatus 100A shown, the respective centers C4 of the upper forming jig 123 and lower forming jig 125 of the electrode manufacturing apparatus 100B according to the second example of the present invention may have different positions because the arrangement of the first other side mold 128 and the second other side mold 129 has changed.

[0102] also, Figure 7 The traveling roller 110 of the electrode manufacturing apparatus 100B can have the same characteristics as... Figure 6 The electrode manufacturing apparatus 100A shown has the same arrangement and dimensions as the travel roller 110. Therefore, compared to the situation in conventional electrode manufacturing apparatus where the size and position of the travel roller must be changed, the present invention can utilize the existing travel roller 110 as is, thereby having the advantage of reducing equipment costs and installation time.

[0103] In addition, Figure 7 In the electrode manufacturing apparatus 100B, with Figure 6 Compared to the electrode manufacturing apparatus 100A, Figure 7 The length R2 of the first balancing member 130 shown in the electrode length direction (Y-axis direction) can be shorter than Figure 6 The length R1 of the first balancing member 130 shown is [reference needed]. Figure 5 and Figure 7 The first balancing member 130 and the second balancing member 130a may have a protruding length in the electrode length direction that is appropriately set according to the eccentricity.

[0104] Figure 8 This is a schematic plan view showing the appearance of the coated electrode 310A formed using the electrode manufacturing apparatus 100C according to a third example of the present invention.

[0105] and Figure 6 Compared to the electrode manufacturing apparatus 100A, reference Figure 5 and Figure 8 According to the third example of the present invention, the electrode manufacturing apparatus 100C may be provided with a plurality of first balancing members 130 and a plurality of second balancing members 130a. In addition, the plurality of first balancing members 130 may be configured to be connected to each other, and the plurality of second balancing members (not shown) may be configured to be connected to each other.

[0106] refer to Figure 5 and Figure 8The first balancing member 130 and the second balancing member 130a may each include a first member 131 and a second member 132. The total length R3 of the first member 131 and the second member 132 in the electrode length direction (Y-axis direction) can be designed to correspond to the eccentricity. For example, when the eccentricity between the upper forming fixture and the lower forming fixture is 20 mm, the length of the first member 131 can be set to 12 mm, and the length of the second member 132 can be set to 8 mm.

[0107] At this point, the first component 131 and the second component 132 can be detachably connected to each other by means such as an interference fit. Therefore, the lengths of the first component 131 and the second component 132 can be flexibly adjusted according to changes in the eccentricity of the upper and lower forming jigs. For example, when the eccentricity has been reduced to 12 mm, a compensation structure optimized for the changed eccentricity can be achieved by removing the second component 132 and using only the first component 131.

[0108] Figure 9 This is a schematic plan view showing the appearance of an electrode formed using the electrode manufacturing apparatus 100D according to a fourth example of the present invention.

[0109] Reference Figure 9 In the electrode manufacturing apparatus 100D according to the fourth example of the present invention, with Figure 6 Compared to the electrode manufacturing apparatus 100A, the upper forming fixture 123 and the first balancing member 130 can be connected to each other using the connecting member 140.

[0110] Specifically, the connecting member 140 can be located between the upper forming jig 123 and the first balancing member 130, thus being arranged to mechanically connect the upper forming jig 123 and the first balancing member 130. For example, the connecting member 140 can be provided with various fastening elements, such as bolts, nuts, and clips. For example, bolt holes can be formed on the respective central axes of the upper forming jig 123 and the first balancing member 130, and a robust connection structure can be obtained by inserting the ends of the bolts into the respective bolt holes and securing the bolts with nuts.

[0111] Furthermore, the connecting member 140 can also be used to adjust the relative positions of the upper forming jig 123 and the first balancing member 130. Specifically, the present invention can change the relative position of the first balancing member 130 with respect to the upper forming jig 123 by changing the insertion position of the bolt passing through the connecting member 140 relative to the bolt hole. Thus, the eccentricity compensation amount can be finely adjusted.

[0112] Figure 10 This is a schematic plan view showing the appearance of the coated electrode 310 formed using the electrode manufacturing apparatus 100E according to the fifth example of the present invention.

[0113] Reference Figure 10 The electrode manufacturing apparatus 100E according to a fifth example of the present invention may include a distance adjustment member 150. Specifically, the distance adjustment member 150 may be provided to adjust the spacing between the first balancing member 130 and the upper forming jig 123. For this purpose, the distance adjustment member 150 may be disposed between the upper forming jig 123 and the first balancing member 130.

[0114] The distance adjustment member 150 is mounted on either or both of the upper forming jig 123 and the first balancing member 130, thereby changing the interval between them. For this purpose, the distance adjustment member 150 may include various drive elements, such as motors, cylinders, or actuators.

[0115] For example, by installing a linear actuator as a distance adjustment member 150 and controlling the linear actuator, the first balancing member 130 can be moved back and forth in the electrode length direction (Y-axis direction) of the coated electrode 310A. In this case, the eccentricity compensation amount can be continuously changed by adjusting the displacement of the linear actuator.

[0116] Figure 11 This is a flowchart illustrating the steps of an electrode manufacturing method 200 according to an example of the present invention.

[0117] Reference Figures 4 to 11 According to the electrode manufacturing method 200 of this example, a secondary battery electrode 321 having electrode contacts 351 is manufactured by slotting coated electrodes 310A and 310B.

[0118] Specifically, the electrode manufacturing method 200 according to this example mainly includes a transfer step M10 and a grooving step M20.

[0119] First, in the conveying step M10, the coating electrode 310A is conveyed via the travel roller 110. The coating electrode 310A can be provided in roll form or in sheet form. The travel roller 110 can continuously convey the coating electrode 310A. The conveying speed can be adjusted according to subsequent processing.

[0120] Next, in the grooving step M20, the coating electrode 310 is pressed using the mold component 120, and the eccentricity of the mold component 120 is adjusted by the first balancing member 130 and the second balancing member 130a. As described above, even if the position of the electrode tab 351 changes according to the change of the electrode length of the coating electrode 310, the arrangement of the travel roller 110 can remain unchanged due to the offset arrangement of the upper forming jig 123 and the lower forming jig 125.

[0121] The mold component 120 used in the grooving step M20 includes an upper mold 121 and a lower mold 122. The centers C3 of the upper forming jig 123 and the lower forming jig 125 are offset relative to the center M in the direction of the rotation axis of the travel roller 110.

[0122] Furthermore, the center C3 of the upper forming jig 123 and the lower forming jig 125 of the present invention can be set to be offset toward the side where the uncoated portion 323 of the electrode patch 351 to be formed is located on the coated electrode 310.

[0123] Furthermore, the upper forming fixture 123 may include a first side mold 126 and a first other side mold 127. Additionally, the lower forming fixture 125 may include a second side mold 128 and a second other side mold 129.

[0124] In addition, the center C3 of the first side mold 126 and the first other side mold 127, as well as the center C3 of the second side mold 128 and the second other side mold 129, can be offset based on the center M in the direction of the rotation axis of the traveling roller.

[0125] Furthermore, the first side mold 126 and the second side mold 128 can be aligned with reference to the stepped portion 111 with a relatively concave surface in the surface of the traveling roller 110 facing the coating electrode 310A. The first other side mold 127 and the second other side mold 129 can be aligned with reference to the other end of the coating electrode 310A.

[0126] As described above, the first balancing member 130 and the second balancing member 130a can be connected to compensate for the eccentricity of the upper forming jig 123 and the lower forming jig 125. The lengths R1, R2, and R3 of the first balancing member 130 and the second balancing member 130a can be determined according to the eccentricity.

[0127] Reference Figure 5 and Figure 6 The center C5 of the mold component 120, which is connected to the first balancing component 130 and the second balancing component 130a, is coaxially arranged with the center M in the direction of the rotation axis of the traveling roller 110.

[0128] Furthermore, the first balancing member 130 and the second balancing member 130a can be provided as multiple members. The first member 131 and the second member 132 can be arranged to be connected to each other.

[0129] like Figure 9 As shown, the upper forming fixture 123 and the balancing member 130 can be connected to each other using the connecting member 140. Furthermore, the lower forming fixture 125 and the balancing member 130 can be connected to each other using the connecting member 140.

[0130] like Figure 10 As shown, the distance adjustment member 150 can be disposed between at least one of the upper forming jig 123 and the lower forming jig 125 and the balancing member 130.

[0131] Figure 12 This is a schematic plan view showing the appearance of a secondary battery 300 manufactured using the electrode manufacturing apparatus 100 and electrode manufacturing method of the present invention.

[0132] Reference Figure 5 and Figure 12 The secondary battery 300 includes an electrode assembly 320, an electrolyte (not shown), and a housing 360, with the electrode assembly 320 housed in a receiving portion 362 of the housing 360. Furthermore, the secondary battery 300 includes an electrode lead portion 330 electrically connected to the electrode assembly 320 and serving as an external terminal. Here, the electrode lead portion 330 may include a positive electrode lead 331 and a negative electrode lead 333. The electrode lead portion 330 may be provided with a protective film 340 for electrical insulation between the leads and the housing 360.

[0133] The electrode assembly 320 includes an electrode 321 manufactured by the electrode manufacturing apparatus 100 and electrode manufacturing method 200 of the present invention.

[0134] Preferred examples of the invention described above have been disclosed for illustrative purposes, and those skilled in the art with ordinary knowledge of the invention will be able to make various modifications, alterations and additions within the spirit and scope of the invention, and such modifications, alterations and additions should be considered to fall within the scope of the appended claims.

[0135] [Industrial Applications]

[0136] According to the electrode manufacturing method and electrode manufacturing apparatus associated with at least one example of the present invention, the changes in electrode length of the coated electrode can be flexibly addressed when grooving the electrode patch.

Claims

1. An electrode manufacturing apparatus, comprising: Traveling rollers are used to convey coated electrodes; and A mold component is disposed on the travel path of the coating electrode and arranged to cut a portion of the coating electrode, wherein... The mold component includes an upper mold disposed on top of the coating electrode and a lower mold disposed at the bottom of the coating electrode. The upper mold includes an upper forming fixture arranged to cut a portion of the coated electrode, and one or more first balancing members connected to the upper forming fixture. The upper forming fixture is configured such that its center is offset from the center in the direction of the rotation axis of the travel roller.

2. The electrode manufacturing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein... The upper mold is arranged such that its center is coaxial with the center in the direction of the rotation axis of the traveling roller.

3. The electrode manufacturing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein... The first balancing component is detachably mounted to the upper forming fixture.

4. The electrode manufacturing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein... The lower mold includes a lower forming fixture arranged to cut a portion of the coated electrode, and one or more second balancing members connected to the lower forming fixture. The lower forming fixture is configured such that its center is offset from the center in the direction of the rotation axis of the travel roller.

5. The electrode manufacturing apparatus according to claim 4, wherein... The lower die is arranged such that its center is coaxial with the center of the traveling roller in the direction of the rotation axis.

6. The electrode manufacturing apparatus according to claim 4, wherein The second balancing component is detachably mounted to the lower forming fixture.

7. The electrode manufacturing apparatus according to claim 4, wherein The upper forming fixture includes a first side mold and a first other side mold. The first side mold is arranged on one side of the coating electrode to form an electrode tab at one end of the coating electrode, and the first other side mold is arranged on the other side of the coating electrode to form the other end of the coating electrode. The lower forming fixture includes a second side mold and a second other side mold. The second side mold is arranged on one side of the coating electrode to form an electrode tab at one end of the coating electrode, and the second other side mold is arranged on the other side of the coating electrode to form the other end of the coating electrode.

8. The electrode manufacturing apparatus according to claim 4, wherein The first balancing component and the second balancing component are each configured as multiple components. Multiple first balancing components are arranged to be able to connect with each other. Multiple second balancing components are arranged to be able to connect with each other.

9. The electrode manufacturing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein The upper forming fixture and the first balancing member are connected to each other using connecting members.

10. The electrode manufacturing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: A distance adjustment member is disposed between the upper forming fixture and the first balancing member, the distance adjustment member being arranged to adjust the gap between the upper forming fixture and the first balancing member.

11. An electrode manufacturing apparatus, comprising: Traveling rollers are used to convey coated electrodes; and A mold component is arranged along the travel path of the coating electrode and configured to cut a portion of the coating electrode, wherein... The mold component includes an upper mold disposed on top of the coating electrode and a lower mold disposed at the bottom of the coating electrode. The upper mold includes an upper forming fixture arranged to cut a portion of the coated electrode, and the lower mold includes a lower forming fixture arranged together with the upper forming fixture to cut a portion of the coated electrode. The mold component is arranged such that its center is coaxial with the center in the direction of the rotation axis of the travel roller. The centers of the upper forming fixture and the lower forming fixture are offset relative to the center of the traveling roller in the direction of the rotation axis.

12. The electrode manufacturing apparatus according to claim 11, wherein The upper forming fixture and the lower forming fixture are configured such that each center is offset toward the uncoated portion of the electrode patch to be formed on the coated electrode.

13. The electrode manufacturing apparatus according to claim 11, wherein The upper forming fixture includes a first side mold and a first other side mold. The first side mold is arranged on one side of the coating electrode to form an electrode tab at one end of the coating electrode, and the first other side mold is arranged on the other side of the coating electrode to form the other end of the coating electrode. The lower forming fixture includes a second side mold and a second other side mold. The second side mold is arranged on one side of the coating electrode to form an electrode tab at one end of the coating electrode, and the second other side mold is arranged on the other side of the coating electrode to form the other end of the coating electrode.

14. The electrode manufacturing apparatus according to claim 11, wherein The mold component also includes a balancing member connected to at least one of the upper forming fixture and the lower forming fixture.

15. The electrode manufacturing apparatus according to claim 14, wherein The balancing component is detachably mounted to at least one of the upper forming fixture and the lower forming fixture.

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