Electrode assembly manufacturing system

Abstract

An electrode assembly manufacturing system according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a supply unit that supplies an electrode assembly in which an anode, a separator, and a cathode are wound in a jelly-roll form, a pressurizing unit that pressurizes the electrode assembly, a transfer unit that receives the electrode assembly from the supply unit and transfers it to the pressurizing unit, and an implant processing unit that provides and retrieves an implant inserted into the electrode assembly.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an electrode assembly manufacturing system. Background Technology

[0002] In general, as the electrical, electronic, telecommunications, and computer industries develop rapidly, the demand for high-performance and high-safety secondary batteries has recently increased sharply. In particular, driven by the trends toward lighter, lighter, and more portable electrical and electronic products, secondary batteries, which are core components, are also required to be lighter and smaller.

[0003] Specifically, as environmental pollution issues such as air pollution and noise resulting from the mass adoption of automobiles and the need for new forms of energy sources due to oil depletion have emerged, the necessity for developing electric vehicles to solve these problems has increased, and there is a demand for the development of batteries with high output and high energy density as their power source.

[0004] In response to these demands, the secondary battery is one of the high-performance, next-generation, advanced new types of batteries that has recently been receiving the most attention. Lithium, used as the anode, is the most sought-after electrode material for high-energy density batteries due to its very low density and standard reduction potential.

[0005] The electrode assembly, a core component of a secondary battery, consists of stacked negative plates, positive plates, and separators; it is important for this electrode assembly to maintain a stable shape throughout each stage of the manufacturing process.

[0006] Electrode assemblies may be deformed by external shocks, vibrations, or loads during transportation and handling processes in the production line. For example, if the physical shape of the electrode assembly is deformed, the gap between the electrode plate and the separator may become uneven, increasing the likelihood of localized short circuits in specific areas or performance degradation such as reduced output and decreased charging efficiency of the secondary battery.

[0007] Accordingly, there is a need to develop various production technologies that allow the shape of electrode assemblies to be maintained during the process of moving or assembling them on the production line.

[0008] The information described above disclosed in the background technology of this invention is intended only to enhance understanding of the background of the present invention and may therefore include information that does not constitute prior art. The problem to be solved

[0009] One objective of the technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide an electrode assembly manufacturing system that includes an implant inserted into an electrode assembly and an implant processing unit, thereby stably maintaining the shape of the electrode assembly during transport.

[0010] The problems that the present invention aims to solve are not limited to those mentioned above, and other problems and advantages of the present invention not mentioned can be understood from the following description and will be more clearly understood by the embodiments of the present invention.

[0011] Furthermore, it will be understood that the problems and advantages to be solved by the present invention can be realized by the means and combinations thereof set forth in the patent claims. means of solving the problem

[0012] One aspect of the present invention provides an electrode assembly manufacturing system comprising: a supply unit for supplying an electrode assembly in which an anode, a separator, and a cathode are wound in a jelly roll form; a pressurizing unit for pressurizing the electrode assembly; a transfer unit for receiving the electrode assembly from the supply unit and transferring it to the pressurizing unit; and a prosthesis processing unit for providing and recovering a prosthesis inserted into the electrode assembly.

[0013] Additionally, the implant processing unit may include an implant supply unit that provides the implant to the transfer unit; and an implant recovery unit that recovers the implant inserted into the electrode assembly.

[0014] In addition, the implant recovery unit may be positioned closer to the pressurizing unit than to the implant supply unit.

[0015] Additionally, the implant processing unit may further include an implant circulation unit that circulates a plurality of the implants along a preset path.

[0016] In addition, the implant circulation unit is located adjacent to the transfer unit, and the preset path may be a pulmonary circulation path.

[0017] In addition, the implant supply unit receives the implant circulating on the implant circulation unit and inserts the implant into the electrode assembly being transported on the transport unit, and the implant recovery unit recovers the implant from the electrode assembly being transported on the transport unit and provides it to the implant circulation unit.

[0018] In addition, the implant recovery unit can recover the implant inserted into the electrode assembly before the electrode assembly is pressurized by the pressurizing unit.

[0019] Additionally, the implant supply unit may include a first lifting unit for lifting the electrode assembly being transported on the transport unit; and an insertion unit for inserting the implant into the electrode assembly that has been lifted by the first lifting unit.

[0020] In addition, the insert can linearly move the longitudinal central axis of the electrode assembly.

[0021] Additionally, the implant recovery unit may include: a second lifting unit that is transported on the transport unit and raises the electrode assembly into which the implant is inserted; and an ejection unit that removes the implant from the electrode assembly raised by the second lifting unit.

[0022] Another aspect of the present invention provides an electrode assembly manufacturing system comprising: a supply unit for supplying an electrode assembly in which an anode, a separator, and a cathode are wound in a jelly roll form; a pressurizing unit for pressurizing the electrode assembly; a transfer unit for receiving the electrode assembly from the supply unit and transferring it to the pressurizing unit; and a prosthesis processing unit for providing a prosthesis to the electrode assembly while the electrode assembly is being transferred by the transfer unit.

[0023] Additionally, the implant processing unit may include an implant supply unit that provides the implant to the transfer unit; and an implant recovery unit that recovers the implant inserted into the electrode assembly.

[0024] In addition, the implant recovery unit may be positioned closer to the pressurizing unit than to the implant supply unit.

[0025] Additionally, the implant processing unit may further include an implant circulation unit that circulates a plurality of the implants along a preset path.

[0026] In addition, the implant circulation unit is located adjacent to the transfer unit, and the preset path may be a pulmonary circulation path.

[0027] In addition, the implant supply unit receives the implant circulating on the implant circulation unit and inserts the implant into the electrode assembly being transported on the transport unit, and the implant recovery unit recovers the implant from the electrode assembly being transported on the transport unit and provides it to the implant circulation unit.

[0028] In addition, the implant recovery unit can recover the implant inserted into the electrode assembly before the electrode assembly is pressurized by the pressurizing unit.

[0029] Additionally, the implant supply unit may include a first lifting unit for lifting the electrode assembly being transported on the transport unit; and an insertion unit for inserting the implant into the electrode assembly that has been lifted by the first lifting unit.

[0030] In addition, the insert can linearly move the longitudinal central axis of the electrode assembly.

[0031] Additionally, the implant recovery unit may include: a second lifting unit that is transported on the transport unit and raises the electrode assembly into which the implant is inserted; and an ejection unit that removes the implant from the electrode assembly raised by the second lifting unit. Effects of the invention

[0032] An electrode assembly manufacturing system according to embodiments of the present invention includes a mold processing unit that provides and retrieves a mold to an electrode assembly transported along a transport unit, thereby having the effect of stably maintaining the shape of the electrode assembly while it is transported.

[0033] However, the effects obtainable through the present invention are not limited to those described above, and other unmentioned technical effects will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the invention below. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0034] The following drawings attached to this specification illustrate preferred embodiments of the present invention and serve to further enhance understanding of the technical concept of the present invention together with the detailed description of the invention provided below; therefore, the present invention should not be interpreted as being limited only to the matters described in such drawings. FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an electrode assembly manufacturing system according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 is a side view of the electrode assembly manufacturing system illustrated in Figure 1. Figure 3 is a side view of the electrode assembly shown in Figure 1. FIG. 4 is a drawing for explaining the usage state in which the first lifting unit shown in FIG. 2 lifts the electrode assembly. FIG. 5a is a front view of the state in which an insertion part inserts a prosthesis into the lifted electrode assembly shown in FIG. 4. FIG. 5b is a side view of the usage state in which an insertion part inserts a prosthesis into the lifted electrode assembly shown in FIG. 4. FIG. 6 is a drawing illustrating the usage state in which the first lifting unit lowers the electrode assembly into which the implant shown in FIG. 5 is inserted. FIG. 7 is a drawing for explaining the usage state in which the second lifting unit lifts the electrode assembly into which the implant shown in FIG. 6 is inserted. FIG. 8a is a front view of the usage state in which the discharge unit retrieves the implant from the raised electrode assembly shown in FIG. 7. FIG. 8b is a side view of the usage state in which the discharge unit retrieves the implant from the raised pole assembly shown in FIG. 7. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0035] The present invention is capable of various modifications and may have various embodiments; specific embodiments are illustrated in the drawings and described in detail in the detailed description. The effects and features of the present invention, and the methods for achieving them, will become clear by referring to the embodiments described below in detail together with the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below but can be implemented in various forms.

[0036] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. When describing with reference to the drawings, identical or corresponding components are given the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0037] In the following embodiments, terms such as first, second, etc. are used not in a limiting sense, but for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another component.

[0038] In the following examples, singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0039] In the following embodiments, terms such as "include" or "have" mean that the features or components described in the specification are present, and do not preclude the possibility that one or more other features or components may be added.

[0040] In the following embodiments, when a part such as a unit, area, or component is described as being on or above another part, it includes not only cases where it is directly on top of another part, but also cases where another unit, area, or component is interposed in between.

[0041] In the following embodiments, terms such as "connect" or "combine" do not necessarily imply a direct and / or fixed connection or combination of two members unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, nor do they exclude the interposition of another member between the two members.

[0042] Unless there is an explicit description of the order of the steps constituting the method according to the present invention or a description contrary to it, said steps may be performed in a suitable order. The present invention is not necessarily limited to the order in which said steps are described.

[0043] For example, if an embodiment can be implemented differently, a specific process sequence may be performed differently from the order described. For example, two processes described consecutively may be performed substantially simultaneously or proceed in the reverse order of the order described.

[0044] In the drawings, the size of components may be exaggerated or reduced for convenience of explanation. For example, the size and thickness of each component shown in the drawings are depicted arbitrarily for convenience of explanation, so the following embodiments are not necessarily limited to those illustrated.

[0045] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. When describing with reference to the drawings, identical or corresponding components are given the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0046] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an electrode assembly manufacturing system according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a side view of the electrode assembly manufacturing system illustrated in FIG. 1.

[0047] Referring to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, an electrode assembly manufacturing system (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention manufactures an electrode assembly (EA) by performing at least one of a lamination process, a winding process, a transfer process, and a pressurizing process, and may include a supply unit (100), a pressurizing unit (200), a transfer unit (300), and an implant processing unit (400).

[0048] Referring to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, a supply unit (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention supplies an electrode assembly (EA) to a pressurizing unit (200) to a transfer unit (300), and may be located at one end of the transfer unit (300).

[0049] For example, the supply unit (100) can supply an electrode assembly (EA) in which the positive electrode (12), separator (13), and negative electrode (11) are wound in a jelly roll shape to the transfer unit (300), and a detailed description of the electrode assembly (EA) supplied by the supply unit (100) will be provided in the description of FIG. 3.

[0050] The supply unit (100) can be composed of various devices within a technical concept that allows for the initial manufacturing of an electrode assembly (EA) and smooth supply to the transfer unit (300). The electrode assembly (EA) provided by the supply unit (100) can be transferred to the pressurizing unit (200) through the transfer unit (300), and the pressurizing process of the electrode assembly (EA) can be performed at the pressurizing unit (200).

[0051] The supply unit (100) can perform a process of stacking an anode (12), a separator (13), and a cathode (11) to manufacture an electrode assembly (EA), or a process of winding the stacked electrode assembly (EA) into a jelly roll.

[0052] For example, the supply unit (100) can produce a cylindrical electrode assembly (EA) by winding a stacked structure of an anode, a separator, and a cathode with constant tension.

[0053] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the pressurizing unit (200) can perform a press process to press an electrode assembly (EA) wound in the shape of a jelly roll.

[0054] For example, the pressurizing unit (200) can perform a press process to reduce the thickness of the case into which the electrode assembly (EA) is inserted after inserting the electrode assembly (EA) into a cylindrical or rectangular case.

[0055] The pressurizing unit (200) can perform a process of increasing the density of the electrode assembly (EA) or increasing the bonding degree between the anode (12), separator (13), and cathode (11) by pressing the jelly roll type electrode assembly (EA) with a constant pressure.

[0056] As a result, the electrode assembly (EA) is pressurized, thereby reducing the interlayer contact resistance of the electrode assembly (EA) and improving electrical characteristics.

[0057] The pressurizing part (200) may be composed of a flat plate press or a roller press of the electrode assembly (EA).

[0058] In an optional embodiment, the pressurizing unit (200) may include a temperature control function and may strengthen the bonding strength of the electrode assembly (EA) or improve specific physical properties by applying heat to the electrode assembly (EA) during the press process.

[0059] Referring to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, a transfer unit (300) according to one embodiment of the present invention receives an electrode assembly (EA) from a supply unit (100) and transfers it to a pressurizing unit (200), and can be extended along a pre-set path from the area where the supply unit (100) is located to the area where the pressurizing unit (200) is located.

[0060] The transfer unit (300) can be composed of various devices within a technical concept capable of transferring the electrode assembly (EA). For example, the transfer unit (300) may include at least one of a conveyor, a chain drive, a belt drive, a linear actuator, a roller, a pneumatic cylinder, a screw drive, a cart system, a manipulator, a vacuum pickup device, a linear motor, a modular transfer system, or a robot arm.

[0061] The transfer unit (300) can transfer a tray on which at least one electrode assembly (EA) is placed, and for example, four electrode assemblies (EA) can be sequentially placed on one side of the tray along the transfer direction of the transfer unit (300).

[0062] Referring to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, an implant processing unit (400) according to one embodiment of the present invention provides and retrieves an implant (PS) inserted into an electrode assembly (EA) to the electrode assembly (EA), and may include an implant supply unit (410), an implant retrieval unit (420), and an implant circulation unit (430).

[0063] The implant processing unit (400) can provide an implant (PS) to the electrode assembly (EA) being transported while the electrode assembly (EA) is being transported by the transport unit (300).

[0064] In this specification, the implant (PS) can be interpreted as a cylindrical member having an elliptical cross section, which is inserted into an internal space (HS) defined as the inner surface of a jelly-roll type electrode assembly (EA).

[0065] The major and / or minor radii of the cross-section of the implant (PS) may be equal to or relatively smaller than the inner diameter of the electrode assembly (EA) wound in a jelly roll shape.

[0066] As a result, the implant (PS) can be smoothly inserted into the internal space (HS) of the electrode assembly (EA).

[0067] The length of the prosthesis (PS) may be equal to or relatively larger than the length of the electrode assembly (EA).

[0068] As a result, when the implant (PS) is inserted into the electrode assembly (EA), the outer surface of the implant (PS) can come into contact with all areas of the inner surface of the electrode assembly (EA), so the implant (PS) can stably support the electrode assembly (EA).

[0069] The implant (PS) can be made of a material with a low coefficient of friction. For example, the implant (PS) can be made of thermoplastic plastics such as polyoxymethylene (POM), polyamide (PA), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), and acetal.

[0070] As an optional embodiment, the implant (PS) may be made of a metal material. For example, the implant (PS) may be made of a metal material that provides high strength and a low coefficient of friction, such as stainless steel, copper alloy, aluminum alloy, titanium alloy, etc.

[0071] As an optional embodiment, the implant (PS) may be made of a ceramic material. For example, the implant (PS) may be made of aluminum oxide (alumina), silicon nitride, zirconium oxide (zirconia), etc.

[0072] The description regarding the implant processing unit (400) will be explained in detail in the description regarding FIGS. 4 to FIGS. 8b.

[0073] Figure 3 is a side view of the electrode assembly shown in Figure 1.

[0074] The electrode assembly (EA) may include a negative electrode (11) (or a first electrode plate), an anode (12) (or a second electrode plate), and a separator (13) (or a separator) interposed between the negative electrode (11) and the anode (12). This electrode assembly (EA) may be formed by winding a laminate of the negative electrode (11), the separator (13), and the anode (12) into a jelly roll shape.

[0075] The cathode (11) includes a cathode active material layer coated on both sides of a cathode current collector plate, which is made of a conductive metal foil, for example, copper or nickel foil or mesh, but is not limited thereto. Here, the cathode active material layer may be, for example, but is not limited thereto, a carbon-based material, Si, Sn, tin oxide, tin alloy composite, transition metal oxide, lithium metal nitrite, or metal oxide.

[0076] In the negative electrode non-existent portion where a negative electrode active material layer is not formed on the negative electrode collector plate, a roughly flat negative electrode tab (14) may be fixed (e.g., welded), although not limited to, for example.

[0077] That is, one end of the cathode tab (14) is electrically connected to the cathode-free portion, and the other end can protrude and extend outward. Additionally, an insulating member (14a) is attached to the cathode tab (14) to prevent the cathode tab (14) from short-circuiting with the laminate exterior material.

[0078] The positive electrode (12) includes a positive electrode active material layer coated on both sides of a positive electrode current collector plate made of a metal foil with excellent conductivity, for example, aluminum foil or mesh, although not limited to, for example.

[0079] Here, the positive active material layer may be a chalcogenide compound, for example, but not limited to, and may be a complex metal oxide such as LiCoO2, LiMn2O4, LiNiO2, LiNiMnO2, etc.

[0080] In the anode-free portion where the anode active material layer is not formed on the anode collector plate, an anode tab (15) may be fixed (e.g., welded), although not limited thereto. Additionally, an insulating member (15a) may be attached to the anode tab (15) to prevent the anode tab (15) from short-circuiting with the laminate outer material.

[0081] A separator (13) is interposed between the negative electrode (11) and the positive electrode (12) to prevent an electrical short circuit between the negative electrode (11) and the positive electrode (12). Practically, a pair of separators (13) are provided, and the negative electrode (11) is formed to be squeezed between the pair of separators (13).

[0082] Additionally, the separator (13) may be made of any one selected from the group consisting of, for example but not limited to, polyethylene, polypropylene, and a porous copolymer of polyethylene and polypropylene. The separator (13) may be formed wider than the cathode (11) and the anode (12) to prevent an electrical short circuit between the cathode (11) and the anode (12). Such a separator (13) will be described again below.

[0083] The cathode (11) comprises a cathode collector plate (11a), a cathode first active material layer (or cathode first active material coating part) (11f), a cathode second active material layer (or cathode second active material coating part) (11g), and the cathode tab (14) described above. The cathode collector plate (11a) comprises a roughly flat cathode first surface (11a) and a roughly flat cathode second surface (11b) which is opposite to the cathode first surface (11a).

[0084] Additionally, the first active material layer (11f) of the negative electrode is coated on the first negative surface (11a) of the negative electrode collector plate (11a), and the second active material layer (11g) of the negative electrode is coated on the second negative surface (11b) of the negative electrode collector plate (11a).

[0085] Here, a first negative electrode blank area (or first negative electrode active material non-coating area) (11c) (corresponding to approximately 1 turn from one end) is provided at the winding end of the first negative electrode surface (11a) where the first negative electrode active material layer (11f) is not coated, and a second negative electrode blank area (or first negative electrode active material non-coating area) (11d) (corresponding to approximately 2 turns from the other end) is provided at the winding end of the second negative electrode surface (11b) where the second negative electrode active material layer (11g) is not coated.

[0086] Additionally, a third non-coated portion (11e) (or a non-coated portion of the second active material) (corresponding to approximately one turn from one end) may be provided on the winding end of the second negative surface (11b) where the second negative active material layer (11g) is not coated.

[0087] In addition, the negative electrode blank portion may not be provided at the winding end of the first negative electrode surface (11a). Of course, depending on the case, a second negative electrode active material layer (11g) may be extended and formed instead of the second negative electrode blank portion (11d), or a negative electrode blank portion may be provided at the winding end of the first negative electrode surface (11a).

[0088] It should be noted that the coating or non-coating of the active material on the first surface (11a) and the second surface (11b) of the negative electrode (11) at the end of the winding can be varied depending on the characteristics of the secondary battery, so the present invention is not limited to the contents described herein. Here, an extension of approximately 3 mm that is not coated with active material may be further formed at the end of the winding of the negative electrode current collector plate (11a).

[0089] Meanwhile, a cathode tab (14) can be fixed to the first cathode blank (11c) or the second cathode blank (11d) of the cathode (11) by, for example, but not limited to, ultrasonic welding, laser welding, or resistance welding.

[0090] Meanwhile, a pair of separators (13a, 13b) cover the first non-dead section (11c), the second non-dead section (11d), the third non-dead section (11e), the first active material layer (11f), and the second active material layer (11g) of the aforementioned cathode (11), and the length and width of the pair of separators (13a, 13b) may be approximately equal to or greater than the length and width of the cathode (11).

[0091] The positive electrode (12) comprises a positive electrode collector plate (12a), a positive electrode first active material layer (or positive electrode first active material coating part) (12d), a positive electrode second active material layer (or positive electrode second active material coating part) (12e), and the positive electrode tab (15) described above. The positive electrode collector plate (12a) comprises a roughly flat positive electrode first surface (12b) and a roughly flat positive electrode second surface (12c) which is the opposite side of the positive electrode first surface (12b). Additionally, the positive electrode first active material layer (12d) is coated on the positive electrode first surface (12b) of the positive electrode collector plate (12a), and the positive electrode second active material layer (12e) is coated on the positive electrode second surface (12c) of the positive electrode collector plate (12a).

[0092] In the first positive surface (12b), a first positive surface (or a first positive active material non-coating section) (12a) (corresponding to approximately 2 turns from one end) in which the first positive active material layer (12d) is not coated at the end of the winding may be provided, and in the first positive surface (12b), a second positive surface (or a first positive active material non-coating section) (12b) (corresponding to approximately 2 turns from the other end) in which the first positive active material layer (12d) is not coated may be provided, and in addition, in the second positive surface (12c), a third positive surface (or a second positive active material non-coating section) (12c) (corresponding to approximately 2 turns from one end) in which the second positive active material layer (12e) is not coated may be provided at the end of the winding may be provided.

[0093] In addition, the winding end of the second positive surface (12c) may not be provided with a non-coated positive portion (or a non-coated portion of the second positive active material).

[0094] Here, an anode tab (15) can be fixed to the first anode section (12a) or the third anode section (12c) of the anode (12) by, for example, but not limited to, ultrasonic welding, laser welding, or resistance welding.

[0095] The adhesive layer (30) may be formed by spraying / applying to the entire area or a part of the first non-reinforced portion (12a) of the anode (12) at the winding end of the anode (12). This adhesive layer (30) may include, for example, but is not limited to, a PS (Poly Styrene)-based adhesive or a rubber-based adhesive. The adhesive strength of the adhesive layer (30), such as the PS-based adhesive or the rubber-based adhesive, may be equal to or higher than the adhesive strength of the adhesive layer, such as a silicone-based binder, an acrylate-based binder, or a PVDF (Polyvinylidene Fluoride) binder, which adheres the separator (13a, 13b) to the cathode (11) or anode (12).

[0096] The width and length of such adhesive layer (30) may be equal to or smaller than the width and length of the first non-removable portion (12a) of the anode (12), for example, although not limited thereto.

[0097] The adhesive layer (30) can generally be formed on the inner side of the outermost portion including the winding end of the anode (12). Accordingly, the adhesive layer (30) substantially serves to adhere the separator (13a or 113b) to the inner side of the outermost portion including the winding end of the anode (12).

[0098] Here, FIG. 3 shows that the adhesive layer (30) adheres the separator (13a) to the anode (12), but if the separator (13b) is wound one more turn than the separator (13a), the adhesive layer (30) adheres the separator (13b) to the anode (12).

[0099] The adhesive layer (30) is formed to cover the electrode assembly (EA) at least once. That is, the adhesive layer (30) is formed on the first anode uncovered portion (12a) (or the first anode end uncovered portion), so that it faces the second cathode uncovered portion (11d) (or the first cathode end uncovered portion) and / or the third anode uncovered portion (12c) (or the second anode end uncovered portion) through the separator (13a, 13b).

[0100] FIG. 4 is a drawing for explaining the usage state in which the first lifting unit shown in FIG. 2 lifts the electrode assembly, FIG. 5a is a front view drawing of the usage state in which the insertion unit inserts the implant into the lifted electrode assembly shown in FIG. 4, FIG. 5b is a side view drawing of the usage state in which the insertion unit inserts the implant into the lifted electrode assembly shown in FIG. 4, FIG. 6 is a drawing for explaining the usage state in which the first lifting unit lowers the electrode assembly with the implant inserted shown in FIG. 5.

[0101] Referring to FIGS. 1, FIGS. 2, FIGS. 4 to 6, an implant supply unit (410) according to one embodiment of the present invention provides an implant (PS) to a transfer unit (300) and may include a first lifting unit (411) and an insertion unit (417).

[0102] The implant supply unit (410) receives the implant (PS) circulating on the implant circulation unit (430) and can insert the implant (PS) into the electrode assembly (EA) being transported on the transport unit (300).

[0103] The implant circulation unit (430) can circulate multiple implants (PS) along a preset path.

[0104] For example, the implant circulation unit (430) can circulate the implant (PS) along a preset pulmonary circulation path, and the implant (PS) circulation unit can be positioned adjacent to the transport unit (300).

[0105] The implant circulation unit (430) can be made of various devices in a technical concept capable of circulating or transporting multiple implants (PS) along the aforementioned preset path.

[0106] For example, the implant circulation unit (430) may include at least one of a conveyor, chain drive, belt drive, linear actuator, roller, pneumatic cylinder, screw drive, cart system, manipulator, vacuum pickup device, linear motor, modular transfer system, or robot arm.

[0107] The implant supply unit (410) may be positioned adjacent to the supply unit (100), and, for example, the distance between the implant supply unit (410) and the supply unit (100) may be relatively shorter than the distance between the implant recovery unit (420) and the supply unit (100).

[0108] The implant supply unit (410) can be placed between the supply unit (100) and the pressurizing unit (200).

[0109] The implant supply unit (410) can be positioned between the transfer unit (300) and the implant circulation unit (430). As a result, the implant supply unit (410) can grasp or adsorb the implant (PS) circulating in the implant circulation unit (430) and insert it into the electrode assembly (EA) being transferred through the transfer unit (300).

[0110] Hereinafter, the ‘first area’ is defined as an area of ​​the transfer unit (300) adjacent to the supply unit (100), and the ‘second area’ is defined as an area of ​​the transfer unit (300) located closer to the pressurizing unit (200) than the first area.

[0111] The implant supply unit (410) can grasp or adsorb the electrode assembly (EA) being transported on the first area and lift the electrode assembly (EA) to the transport unit (300).

[0112] The implant supply unit (410) can insert an implant (PS) into the lifted electrode assembly (EA), for example, the implant supply unit (410) can grasp or adsorb an implant (PS) circulating in the implant circulation unit (430) and then insert the implant (PS) into the inner region of the lifted electrode assembly (EA) on the transfer unit (300).

[0113] For example, the implant supply unit (410) can lift the upper surface of the electrode assembly (EA) being transported on the first area to the transport unit (300), and the lifted electrode assembly (EA) can have its internal space (HS) open in the vertical direction (based on FIG. 2 and FIG. 4) by its own weight.

[0114] Through this, as the electrode assembly (EA) is lifted, the internal space (HS) of the electrode assembly (EA) is expanded in the vertical direction, thereby securing a spatial margin in which an implant (PS) can be inserted into the internal space (HS), and the implant supply unit (410) can insert the implant (PS) into the expanded internal space (HS).

[0115] The implant supply unit (410) can lower the electrode assembly (EA) with the implant (PS) inserted into it back to one side of the transfer unit (300) while it is in a lifted state.

[0116] Through this, the implant (PS) can support the inner surface of the electrode assembly (EA), and the electrode assembly (EA) can be transported along the transport section (300) to the pressurizing section (200) side while the inner surface is supported.

[0117] As a result, while the electrode assembly (EA) is being transported along the transport section (300), the inner surface is supported by the implant (PS), thereby preventing the electrode plate of the electrode assembly (EA) from sagging.

[0118] Referring to FIGS. 4 to 6, a first lifting unit (411) according to one embodiment of the present invention lifts an electrode assembly (EA) and may include a first adsorption pad (412), a first lifter (413), and a first driving unit (414).

[0119] A first adsorption pad (412) according to one embodiment of the present invention adsorbs one surface of an electrode assembly (EA) and can be connected to the end of a first lifter (413).

[0120] For example, the first adsorption pad (412) can adsorb the upper surface of the electrode assembly (EA).

[0121] The first adsorption pad (412) can be made of various devices within the technical concept of being able to adsorb one side of the electrode assembly (EA). For example, the first adsorption pad (412) can be made of at least one of a vacuum pad, a suction cup, a magnetic adsorption device, an electrostatic adsorption pad, a silicone pad, a polyurethane pad, a nanofiber adsorption pad, or an adhesive pad including an adhesive material.

[0122] The first lifter (413) is connected to the first suction pad (412) and can adjust the position of the first suction pad (412). For example, the first lifter (413) can receive power from the first drive unit (414) to adjust the position of the first suction pad (412) in a first direction (up and down direction based on FIG. 2) and / or a second direction (left and right direction based on FIG. 2).

[0123] The first lifter (413) may be composed of various devices capable of adjusting the position of the first suction pad (412), for example, the first lifter (413) may be composed of a robot arm, a manipulator, a SCARA robot, a delta robot, a Cartesian robot, a linear actuator, a hydraulic cylinder, a pneumatic cylinder, an electric cylinder, a ball screw mechanism, a servo motor, a stepper motor, a guide rail sliding mechanism, a cam drive device, etc.

[0124] The first drive unit (414) can provide driving force to the first lifter (413).

[0125] In an optional embodiment, the first driving unit (414) may include a pump, etc., for discharging internal gas of the first adsorption pad (412) to form an internal region of the first adsorption pad (412) at low pressure or vacuum.

[0126] Referring to FIG. 4, the first lifting unit (411) can lift an electrode assembly (EA) being transported on the first area.

[0127] For example, by driving the first lifter (413), the first adsorption pad (412) can be adsorbed on the upper surface of the electrode assembly (EA) being transported in the first area, and after the first adsorption pad (412) is adsorbed on the upper surface of the electrode assembly (EA), the first lifter (413) can raise the first adsorption pad (412) to separate the electrode assembly (EA) from the transport unit (300).

[0128] Referring to FIGS. 4, 5a, and 5b, the electrode assembly (EA) raised from the transfer unit (300) while adsorbed to the first adsorption pad (412) on the upper surface can have its lower surface sag downward due to its own weight, thereby allowing the internal space (HS) to expand in the vertical direction.

[0129] Referring to FIG. 5a and FIG. 5b, an insertion part (417) according to one embodiment of the present invention can insert a prosthesis (PS) into the internal space (HS) of an electrode assembly (EA).

[0130] The insertion part (417) can grasp the implant (PS) circulated in the implant circulation part (430) and insert the implant (PS) into the internal space (HS) of the electrode assembly (EA) being transported through the transport part (300).

[0131] The insertion part (417) can be positioned between the implant circulation part (430) and the transfer part (300), and can rotate between the implant circulation part (430) and the transfer part (300).

[0132] As a result, the insertion part (417) can look toward the implant circulation part (430) and grasp the implant (PS), and the insertion part (417) can rotate to look toward the transfer part (300) while grasping the implant (PS), and the insertion part (417) that looks toward the transfer part (300) by rotating can insert the implant (PS) into the electrode assembly (EA).

[0133] The insertion part (417) can insert a prosthesis (PS) into the internal space (HS) of the electrode assembly (EA) lifted on the first region.

[0134] For example, the insertion part (417) can move linearly along the longitudinal central axis (AX) of the electrode assembly (EA), and after the insertion part (417) grasps the implant (PS), the implant (PS) can be moved along the longitudinal central axis (AX) of the electrode assembly (EA) to insert the implant (PS) into the internal space (HS) of the electrode assembly (EA).

[0135] The insertion part (417) can adjust the position and / or orientation of the implant (PS). For example, the insertion part (417) can adjust the position of the implant (PS) so that the implant (PS) is positioned on the longitudinal central axis (AX) of the electrode assembly (EA), and the insertion part (417) can adjust the orientation of the implant (PS) so that the longitudinal central axis of the implant (PS) and the longitudinal central axis (AX) of the electrode assembly (EA) are coaxial or parallel to each other.

[0136] Referring to FIG. 6, the first lifting unit (411) can lower the electrode assembly (EA) into which the implant (PS) is inserted by the insertion unit (417).

[0137] As a result, the inner surface of the electrode assembly (EA) can be supported by the outer surface of the implant (PS) and can be seated on one surface of the transfer unit (300), and the electrode assembly (EA) can be transferred by the transfer unit (300) while the inner surface is supported by the implant (PS).

[0138] FIG. 7 is a drawing illustrating the usage state in which the second lifting unit lifts the electrode assembly into which the implant shown in FIG. 6 is inserted, FIG. 8a is a front view of the usage state in which the removal unit retrieves the implant from the lifted electrode assembly shown in FIG. 7, and FIG. 8b is a side view of the usage state in which the removal unit retrieves the implant from the lifted electrode assembly shown in FIG. 7.

[0139] Referring to FIGS. 1, FIGS. 2, FIGS. 7 to 8b, an implant recovery unit (420) according to one embodiment of the present invention recovers an implant (PS) from an electrode assembly (EA) being transported on a transport unit (300), and may include a second lifting unit (421) and an outgoing unit (427).

[0140] The implant recovery unit (420) can recover the implant (PS) from the electrode assembly (EA) transferred from the transfer unit (300) and supply the implant (PS) to the implant circulation unit (430).

[0141] The implant recovery unit (420) can be placed between the supply unit (100) and the pressurizing unit (200).

[0142] The implant recovery unit (420) can be positioned between the transfer unit (300) and the implant circulation unit (430). As a result, the implant recovery unit (420) can return the implant (PS) recovered from the electrode assembly (EA) back to the implant circulation unit (430).

[0143] The implant recovery unit (420) can grasp or adsorb the electrode assembly (EA) being transported in the second area and lift the electrode assembly (EA) to the transport unit (300).

[0144] The implant recovery unit (420) can recover the implant (PS) from the lifted electrode assembly (EA), for example, the implant recovery unit (420) can recover the implant (PS) while gripping or adsorbing the electrode assembly (EA) on the second area, and the implant recovery unit (420) can transfer the recovered implant (PS) to the implant circulation unit (430).

[0145] For example, the implant supply unit (410) can lift the upper surface of the electrode assembly (EA) being transported in the second area to the transport unit (300), and the lifted electrode assembly (EA) can have its internal space (HS) open in the vertical direction (based on FIG. 2 and FIG. 4) due to its own weight.

[0146] Through this, as the electrode assembly (EA) is lifted, the internal space (HS) of the electrode assembly (EA) is expanded in the vertical direction, so that the implant recovery unit (420) can smoothly withdraw the implant (PS) from the internal space (HS), and the implant supply unit (410) can withdraw the implant (PS) from the expanded internal space (HS).

[0147] The implant supply unit (410) can lower the electrode assembly (EA) from which the implant (PS) has been withdrawn back to one side of the transfer unit (300).

[0148] Through this, the implant (PS) is removed just before the electrode assembly (EA) enters the pressurizing section (200), so that the electrode assembly (EA) can perform a pressurizing process in the pressurizing section (200).

[0149] Referring to FIGS. 7 to 8b, a second lifting unit (421) according to one embodiment of the present invention lifts an electrode assembly (EA) and may include a second adsorption pad (422), a second lifter (423), and a second driving unit (424).

[0150] A second adsorption pad (422) according to one embodiment of the present invention adsorbs one surface of an electrode assembly (EA) and can be connected to the end of a second lifter (423).

[0151] For example, the second adsorption pad (422) can adsorb the upper surface of the electrode assembly (EA).

[0152] The second adsorption pad (422) can be made of various devices within the technical concept of being able to adsorb one side of the electrode assembly (EA). For example, the second adsorption pad (422) can be made of at least one of a vacuum pad, a suction cup, a magnetic adsorption device, an electrostatic adsorption pad, a silicone pad, a polyurethane pad, a nanofiber adsorption pad, or an adhesive pad including an adhesive material.

[0153] The second lifter (423) is connected to the second suction pad (422) and can adjust the position of the second suction pad (422). For example, the second lifter (423) can receive power from the second drive unit (424) to adjust the position of the second suction pad (422) in a first direction (up and down direction based on FIG. 2) and / or a second direction (left and right direction based on FIG. 2).

[0154] The second lifter (423) may be composed of various devices capable of adjusting the position of the second suction pad (422), for example, the second lifter (423) may be composed of a robot arm, a manipulator, a SCARA robot, a delta robot, a Katrian robot, a linear actuator, a hydraulic cylinder, a pneumatic cylinder, an electric cylinder, a ball screw mechanism, a servo motor, a stepper motor, a guide rail sliding mechanism, a cam drive device, etc.

[0155] The second drive unit (424) can provide driving force to the second lifter (423).

[0156] In an optional embodiment, the second driving unit (424) may include a pump, etc., for discharging internal gas of the second adsorption pad (422) to form an internal region of the second adsorption pad (422) at low pressure or vacuum.

[0157] Referring to FIG. 7, the second lifting unit (421) can lift the electrode assembly (EA) being transported on the second area.

[0158] For example, by driving the second lifter (423), a second adsorption pad (422) can be adsorbed on the upper surface of the electrode assembly (EA) being transported in the second area, and after the second adsorption pad (422) is adsorbed on the upper surface of the electrode assembly (EA), the second lifter (423) can raise the second adsorption pad (422) to separate the electrode assembly (EA) from the transport unit (300).

[0159] Referring to FIG. 7, the electrode assembly (EA) raised from the transfer unit (300) while adsorbed to the second adsorption pad (422) on the upper surface can have its lower surface sag downward due to its own weight, thereby allowing the internal space (HS) to expand in the vertical direction.

[0160] Referring to FIG. 8a and FIG. 8b, the extraction portion (427) according to one embodiment of the present invention can extract an implant (PS) from the internal space (HS) of the electrode assembly (EA).

[0161] For example, the extraction unit (427) can extract the implant (PS) from the electrode assembly (EA) lifted by the second lifting unit (421).

[0162] The discharge section (427) can be positioned between the implant circulation section (430) and the transfer section (300), and can rotate between the implant circulation section (430) and the transfer section (300).

[0163] As a result, the discharge unit (427) can look toward the transfer unit (300) and retrieve the implant (PS) from the electrode assembly (EA), and then the discharge unit (427) can rotate to look toward the implant circulation unit (430) while holding the retrieved implant (PS), and the discharge unit (427), which looks toward the implant circulation unit (430) by rotating, can place the implant (PS) on the implant circulation unit (430).

[0164] The extraction part (427) can move linearly along the longitudinal central axis (AX) of the electrode assembly (EA), and the extraction part (427) can grasp the implant (PS) inserted into the internal space (HS), and then move the implant (PS) along the longitudinal central axis (AX) of the electrode assembly (EA) to extract the implant (PS) to the outside of the electrode assembly (EA).

[0165] The extraction unit (427) can adjust the position and / or orientation of the implant (PS). For example, the extraction unit (427) can adjust the position of the implant (PS) so that the implant (PS) is positioned on the longitudinal central axis (AX) of the electrode assembly (EA), and the extraction unit (427) can adjust the orientation of the implant (PS) so that the longitudinal central axis of the implant (PS) and the longitudinal central axis (AX) of the electrode assembly (EA) are coaxial or parallel to each other.

[0166] Referring to FIG. 8a and FIG. 8b, the second lifting unit (421) can lower the electrode assembly (EA) from which the implant (PS) has been removed by the discharge unit (427).

[0167] As a result, the electrode assembly (EA) from which the implant (PS) has been removed is transferred to the pressurizing unit (200) through the transfer unit (300), and the pressurizing process can be performed.

[0168] An electrode assembly manufacturing system (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a prosthesis processing unit (400) that provides and recovers a prosthesis (PS) to an electrode assembly (EA) being transported along a transport unit (300), thereby having the effect of stably maintaining the shape of the electrode assembly (EA) while it is being transported.

[0169] Each of the embodiments described above can be implemented independently, but it goes without saying that the structure of each embodiment can be applied in combination to other embodiments.

[0170] As such, the present invention has been described with reference to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings, but this is merely illustrative, and those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications and equivalent alternative embodiments are possible therefrom. Accordingly, the true technical scope of protection of the present invention should be determined by the technical spirit of the appended claims.

[0171] The specific practices described in the embodiments are examples and do not limit the scope of the embodiments in any way. Furthermore, unless specifically stated as “essential,” “importantly,” etc., components may not be strictly necessary for the application of the invention.

[0172] In the specification of the embodiments (particularly in the claims), the use of the term “above” and similar descriptive terms may be in both singular and plural. Furthermore, if a range is described in the embodiments, it is considered to include the invention to which individual values ​​belonging to said range are applied (unless otherwise stated), and this is equivalent to describing each individual value constituting said range in the detailed description.

[0173] The use of all examples or exemplary terms (e.g., etc.) in the present invention is merely for the purpose of describing the invention in detail and, unless limited by the claims, the scope of the invention is not limited by such examples or exemplary terms. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications, combinations, and changes may be configured according to design conditions and factors within the scope of the claims or equivalents to which they are added.

[0174] The scope of the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and all scopes equivalent to or equivalently modified from the claims set forth below, as well as the claims set forth below, shall be considered to fall within the scope of the concept of the present invention. Explanation of the symbols

[0175] 1: Electrode assembly manufacturing system EA: Electrode assembly PS: Implant 100: Supply unit 200: Pressurizing part 300: Transfer unit 400: Implant Processing Unit 410: Implant supply unit 411: 1st Elevator 412: 1st suction pad 413: 1st Lifter 414: 1st drive unit 417: Insert 420: Implant recovery unit 421: Second elevator 422: Second suction pad 423: 2nd Lifter 424: Second drive unit 427: Outbound Section 430: Implant circulation section

Claims

Claim 1 An electrode assembly manufacturing system comprising: a supply unit for supplying an electrode assembly in which a positive electrode, a separator, and a negative electrode are wound in a jelly roll shape; a pressurizing unit for pressurizing the electrode assembly; a transfer unit for receiving the electrode assembly from the supply unit and transferring it to the pressurizing unit; and a prosthesis processing unit for providing and recovering a prosthesis to be inserted into the electrode assembly. Claim 2 An electrode assembly manufacturing system according to claim 1, wherein the implant processing unit comprises: an implant supply unit that provides the implant to the transfer unit; and an implant recovery unit that recovers the implant inserted into the electrode assembly. Claim 3 In paragraph 2, the electrode assembly manufacturing system wherein the implant recovery unit is positioned closer to the pressurizing unit than the implant supply unit. Claim 4 In paragraph 2, the implant processing unit further comprises an implant circulation unit that circulates a plurality of the implants along a preset path; an electrode assembly manufacturing system. Claim 5 In paragraph 4, the implant circulation unit is located adjacent to the transfer unit, and the preset path is a pulmonary circulation path, an electrode assembly manufacturing system. Claim 6 An electrode assembly manufacturing system according to claim 4, wherein the implant supply unit receives the implant circulating on the implant circulation unit and inserts the implant into the electrode assembly being transported on the transport unit, and the implant recovery unit recovers the implant from the electrode assembly being transported on the transport unit and provides it to the implant circulation unit. Claim 7 In paragraph 2, the implant recovery unit recovers the implant inserted into the electrode assembly before the electrode assembly is pressurized by the pressurizing unit, in an electrode assembly manufacturing system. Claim 8 In paragraph 2, the implant supply unit comprises: a first lifting unit for lifting the electrode assembly being transported on the transport unit; and an insertion unit for inserting the implant into the electrode assembly lifted by the first lifting unit; an electrode assembly manufacturing system. Claim 9 In claim 8, the electrode assembly manufacturing system, wherein the insertion part linearly moves the longitudinal central axis of the electrode assembly. Claim 10 In claim 8, the implant recovery unit comprises: a second lifting unit that is transported on the transport unit and raises the electrode assembly into which the implant is inserted; and an ejection unit that removes the implant from the electrode assembly raised by the second lifting unit; an electrode assembly manufacturing system. Claim 11 An electrode assembly manufacturing system comprising: a supply unit for supplying an electrode assembly in which a positive electrode, a separator, and a negative electrode are wound in a jelly roll shape; a pressurizing unit for pressurizing the electrode assembly; a transfer unit for receiving the electrode assembly from the supply unit and transferring it to the pressurizing unit; and a prosthesis processing unit for providing a prosthesis to the electrode assembly while the electrode assembly is being transferred by the transfer unit. Claim 12 In claim 11, the implant processing unit comprises: an implant supply unit that provides the implant to the transfer unit; and an implant recovery unit that recovers the implant inserted into the electrode assembly; an electrode assembly manufacturing system. Claim 13 In claim 12, the electrode assembly manufacturing system wherein the implant recovery unit is positioned closer to the pressurizing unit than the implant supply unit. Claim 14 In claim 12, the implant processing unit further comprises an implant circulation unit that circulates a plurality of the implants along a preset path; an electrode assembly manufacturing system. Claim 15 In claim 14, the above-mentioned implant circulation unit is located adjacent to the above-mentioned transfer unit, and the above-mentioned preset path is a pulmonary circulation path, an electrode assembly manufacturing system. Claim 16 In claim 14, the implant supply unit receives the implant circulating on the implant circulation unit and inserts the implant into the electrode assembly being transported on the transport unit, and the implant recovery unit recovers the implant from the electrode assembly being transported on the transport unit and provides it to the implant circulation unit, an electrode assembly manufacturing system. Claim 17 In claim 12, the implant recovery unit recovers the implant inserted into the electrode assembly before the electrode assembly is pressurized in the pressurizing unit, an electrode assembly manufacturing system. Claim 18 In claim 12, the implant supply unit comprises: a first lifting unit for lifting the electrode assembly being transported on the transport unit; and an insertion unit for inserting the implant into the electrode assembly lifted by the first lifting unit; an electrode assembly manufacturing system. Claim 19 In claim 18, the electrode assembly manufacturing system, wherein the insertion part linearly moves the longitudinal central axis of the electrode assembly. Claim 20 In claim 18, the implant recovery unit comprises: a second lifting unit that is transferred on the transfer unit and raises the electrode assembly into which the implant is inserted; and an ejection unit that removes the implant from the electrode assembly raised by the second lifting unit; an electrode assembly manufacturing system.

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