Electrode tracking device

Abstract

The present invention relates to an electrode tracking device for forming a marking on an electrode tab of an electrode being transported in one direction or identifying a marking formed on said electrode tab, comprising: a tracking unit configured to be movable in at least one of a horizontal and a vertical direction and including at least one tracking unit among a marking device and a reader; a guide unit including a first guide having an inclined surface at one end and supporting one side of an electrode, and a second guide having an inclined surface at a position corresponding to the inclined surface of the first guide and supporting the other side of the electrode; an interlocking unit including a first support member having one end coupled to the first guide and the other end coupled to the tracking unit so as to be slidable in the vertical direction, and a second support member having one end coupled to the second guide and the other end coupled to the tracking unit so as to be slidable in the vertical direction; and a foreign substance receiving unit open to the top; wherein the foreign substance receiving unit is coupled to either the tracking unit or the interlocking unit.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an electrode tracking device for forming a marking on an electrode tab of an electrode being transported in one direction or for identifying a marking formed on said electrode tab. The electrode tracking device of the present invention is characterized by including a foreign substance receiving portion capable of collecting fine foreign substances generated during operation or position change. Background Technology

[0003] Rechargeable batteries are attracting significant attention as an energy source for various product categories, including mobile devices and electric vehicles. As a promising energy resource capable of replacing conventional products that use fossil fuels, these batteries are gaining prominence as an eco-friendly energy source because they do not generate byproducts during use.

[0004] Secondary batteries are classified according to the shape of the battery case into cylindrical or prismatic batteries, in which a jelly roll is embedded within a cylindrical or prismatic metal can, and pouch-type batteries, in which a jelly roll is embedded within a pouch-type case made of an aluminum laminate sheet.

[0005] Among the secondary batteries mentioned above, pouch-type batteries undergo vision inspection to measure the external shape of the electrode tabs of the pouch-type battery cells before being shipped as products. Additionally, to ensure traceability of each electrode, markings can be left on the electrode tabs assigned to each electrode, and the movement of the electrodes can be tracked through vision inspection or similar methods. At this time, a structure is required to support the electrode tabs so that they do not shake while the markings are being inspected.

[0006] FIG. 1 shows a general tap guide unit (10) capable of guiding an electrode tap (T) (20). According to FIG. 1, the conventional tap guide unit (10) has a pair of guides (20) spaced apart at a predetermined distance in the vertical direction and arranged side by side. An opening (O) may be formed in the guides (20) so that an electrode tap (T) passing through them can be exposed to the outside.

[0007] FIG. 2 shows a conventional electrode (E) tracking device comprising a tap guide unit (10) and a tracking unit (30) of FIG. 1, wherein the tracking unit (30) is provided at a position corresponding to the opening (O) of the tap guide unit (10).

[0008] The electrode (E) passing through the pair of guides (20) moves so that the electrode tab (T) is exposed to the opening (O). The tracking unit (30) may be a marking device that forms a marking on the electrode tab (T), or a reader that identifies the marking formed on the tab. When the electrode tab (T) of the electrode (E) passing between the guides (20) is exposed to the opening (O), the tracking unit (30) provided as above leaves a marking mark on the electrode tab (T) or inspects the marking mark.

[0009] The conventional tap guide unit (10) can flexibly adjust its position in accordance with changes in the width, thickness, and position of the electrode tap (T) of the electrode (E) being transported.

[0010] During the process of adjusting the position of the tab guide unit (10) as described above, friction may occur between mechanical parts, causing fine foreign substances to float. If such foreign substances adhere to the electrode tab (T), it may cause a decrease in the quality of the electrode (E). Such degradation of the electrode (E) quality ultimately leads to a decrease in the performance of the secondary battery. Prior art literature

[0012] Korean Registered Patent No. 10-1605229 The problem to be solved

[0013] Accordingly, the present invention was devised to solve the above-mentioned problems and aims to provide an electrode tracking device capable of effectively collecting foreign substances generated by friction, etc.

[0014] Other objects and advantages of the present invention may be understood from the following description and will become more clearly apparent from the embodiments of the present invention. Furthermore, it will be readily apparent that the objects and advantages of the present invention can be realized by the means and combinations thereof set forth in the claims. means of solving the problem

[0016] According to the present invention, an electrode tracking device is provided for forming a marking on an electrode tab of an electrode being transported in one direction, or for identifying a marking formed on the electrode tab.

[0017] The electrode tracking device comprises: a tracking unit configured to be movable in at least one of a horizontal and a vertical direction and including at least one tracking unit among a marking device and a reader; a guide unit including a first guide having an inclined surface at one end and supporting one side of an electrode tab, and a second guide having an inclined surface at a position corresponding to the inclined surface of the first guide and supporting the other side of the electrode tab; an interlocking unit including a first support member having one end coupled to the first guide and the other end coupled to the tracking unit so as to be slidable in the vertical direction, and a second support member having one end coupled to the second guide and the other end coupled to the tracking unit so as to be slidable in the vertical direction; and a foreign substance receiving unit open to the top; wherein the foreign substance receiving unit is coupled to either the tracking unit or the interlocking unit.

[0018] The electrode is transported such that the electrode tab passes between the first guide and the second guide, and the first guide and the second guide may be positioned so that the entering electrode tab faces the inclined surface.

[0019] At least one of the first guide and the second guide included in the guide portion includes an opening, and the electrode can be transported so that the electrode tab is exposed in the opening.

[0020] The tracking unit may include: a main body having a tracking unit inside and a first guide rail coupled to the first support member on one side; and a protruding member attached to one side of the main body and having a second guide rail coupled to the second support member on one side.

[0021] The tracking unit is positioned so that the electrode being transported passes through the lower part, and the guide unit is provided at the lower part of the tracking unit to guide the electrode tab of the electrode being transported.

[0022] The above foreign substance receiving portion may be coupled to a support member positioned closer to the tracking portion among the first and second support members of the interlocking portion.

[0023] The first guide is positioned below the electrode being transported, and the second guide is positioned to be interposed between the first guide and the main body, and the second guide may include an opening at a position corresponding to the tracking unit.

[0024] The second support member comprises: a sliding portion formed to extend downward along the longitudinal direction of the main body and coupled to the protruding member so as to slide with respect to the second guide rail; a fixed portion provided at the lower part of the sliding portion and coupled to the second guide; and a connecting portion connecting the sliding portion and the fixed portion; and the foreign matter receiving portion may be coupled to the fixed portion.

[0025] The above foreign substance receiving portion and the second guide are each coupled to both sides of the fixed portion, the second guide is positioned at a location corresponding to the tracking unit of the main body, and the foreign substance receiving portion can be positioned at a location corresponding to the first guide rail and the second guide rail.

[0026] The above foreign substance receiving portion includes a bottom plate; and a side plate positioned to be erected along the edge of the bottom plate; and the foreign substance receiving portion may be coupled such that the side plate is fixed to the second support member.

[0027] The tracking unit is positioned so that the electrode being transported passes through the upper part, and the guide unit is provided on the upper part of the tracking unit to guide the electrode tab of the electrode being transported.

[0028] The above foreign substance receiving portion can be coupled to a protruding member included in the above tracking portion.

[0029] The first guide is positioned above the electrode being transported, and the second guide is positioned to be interposed between the first guide and the main body, and the second guide may include an opening at a position corresponding to the tracking unit.

[0030] The above foreign substance receiving portion can be positioned at a location corresponding to the first guide rail.

[0031] The above foreign substance receiving portion includes a bottom plate; and a side plate positioned to be erected along the edge of the bottom plate; and the foreign substance receiving portion may be coupled such that the side plate is fixed to the protruding member. Effects of the invention

[0033] According to the present invention, foreign substances generated during the process of forming a marking on an electrode tab or identifying a marking formed on the electrode tab can be effectively removed to prevent deterioration of the electrode quality. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0035] Figure 1 shows a conventional tap guide unit. Figure 2 shows the tap guide unit and tracking unit of Figure 1. FIG. 3 relates to an electrode tracking device according to a first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4 shows the electrode passing through the electrode tracking device of Figure 3. Figure 5 shows a disassembled part of the electrode tracking device of Figure 3. FIG. 6 shows the arrangement of the tracking unit and the second guide of the electrode tracking device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 7 shows a foreign substance receiving portion included in an electrode tracking device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8 shows a second support member of the interlocking part and a foreign substance receiving part coupled to the second support member. Figure 9 shows the arrangement of the foreign substance receiving portion and the second guide. FIG. 10 shows an embodiment of raising and lowering the second support member of an electrode tracking device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 11 shows an embodiment of raising and lowering the first support member of an electrode tracking device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 12 shows an embodiment of raising and lowering the first support member and the second support member of an electrode tracking device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 13 shows an electrode tracking device according to a second embodiment of the present invention. Figure 14 shows the electrode passing through the electrode tracking device of Figure 13. Figure 15 shows a disassembled part of the electrode tracking device of Figure 13. FIG. 16 shows the arrangement of the tracking unit and the second guide of the electrode tracking device according to the second embodiment. FIG. 17 shows a foreign substance receiving portion included in an electrode tracking device according to a second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 18 shows a protruding member and a foreign substance receiving portion coupled to the protruding member. FIG. 19 shows an embodiment of raising and lowering the second support member of an electrode tracking device according to a second embodiment. FIG. 20 shows an embodiment of raising and lowering the first support member of an electrode tracking device according to a second embodiment. FIG. 21 shows an embodiment in which the first support member and the second support member of an electrode tracking device according to the second embodiment are raised together. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0036] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Prior to this, terms and words used in this specification and claims should not be interpreted as being limited to their ordinary or dictionary meanings, and should be interpreted in a meaning and concept consistent with the technical spirit of the present invention, based on the principle that the inventor can appropriately define the concept of the terms to best describe his invention.

[0037] Therefore, the embodiments described in this specification and the configurations illustrated in the drawings are merely the most preferred embodiments of the present invention and do not represent all of the technical ideas of the present invention; thus, it should be understood that various equivalents and modifications that can replace them may exist at the time of filing this application.

[0038] In addition, in describing the present invention, if it is determined that a detailed description of related known components or functions may obscure the essence of the invention, such detailed description is omitted.

[0039] Since embodiments of the present invention are provided to more fully explain the invention to those skilled in the art, the shapes and sizes of the components in the drawings may be exaggerated, omitted, or schematically depicted for clearer explanation. Accordingly, the size or proportion of each component does not entirely reflect the actual size or proportion.

[0042] The present invention relates to an electrode tracking device for forming a marking on an electrode tab of an electrode being transported in one direction, or for identifying a marking formed on said electrode tab.

[0043] FIGS. 3 to 12 relate to an electrode tracking device according to a first embodiment of the present invention, and FIGS. 13 to 21 relate to an electrode tracking device according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] Hereinafter, the electrode tracking device of the present invention will be described with reference to each drawing.

[0046] (First embodiment)

[0047] FIG. 3 relates to an electrode (E) tracking device according to a first embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 4 shows an electrode (E) passing through the electrode (E) tracking device of FIG. 3, and FIG. 5 shows a disassembled part of the electrode (E) tracking device of FIG. 3.

[0048] The electrode (E) tracking device of the present invention includes a tracking unit (100), a guide unit (200), and an interlocking unit (300) as shown in FIG. 3.

[0049] The tracking unit (100) is positioned so that the electrode (E) being transported passes through the lower part as shown in FIG. 4.

[0050] The tracking unit (100) includes a tracking unit (111) that forms a marking on the electrode tab (T) of the electrode (E) being transported, or identifies the formed marking.

[0051] The tracking unit (111) may be a marking device that marks on the electrode tab (T) with a laser, or a reader that identifies the marking formed on the electrode tab (T). If necessary, the tracking unit (100) may include both a marking device and a reader.

[0052] The tracking unit (100) is configured to be movable in at least one of the horizontal and vertical directions.

[0053] The tracking unit (100) includes a tracking unit (111) inside and a main body (110) including a first guide rail (112) on one side.

[0054] The main body (110) has an open bottom, and the tracking unit (111) is provided within the main body (110) so as to be exposed through the opening (O).

[0055] The tracking unit (111) is provided facing downward so as to form a marking or identify on an electrode tab (T) passing through the lower part of the open body (110).

[0056] The first guide rail (112) is formed in a straight line. More specifically, the first guide rail (112) is formed to extend in the longitudinal direction of the main body (110), that is, in the vertical direction on the drawing.

[0057] The tracking unit (100) further includes a second guide rail (121) that is extended and maintained horizontally with respect to the first guide rail (112).

[0058] The second guide rail (121) is formed in a straight line, similar to the first guide rail (112), and is spaced apart from the first guide rail (112) at a predetermined distance to maintain a horizontal position with respect to the first guide rail (112).

[0059] The tracking unit (100) may further include a protruding member (120) attached to one side of the main body (110) as shown in FIG. 3.

[0060] The above protruding member (120) is coupled to one side of the side corresponding to the circumference of the main body (110) where the first guide rail (112) is formed.

[0061] The above protruding member (120) is applied to avoid interference between operating parts and serves to create a height difference between the first guide rail (112) and the second guide rail (121).

[0062] Accordingly, the second guide rail (121) may be formed on the main body (110) in the same way as the first guide rail (112), or may be formed on a protruding member (120) coupled to the main body (110).

[0064] The electrode (E) tracking device of the present invention includes a guide unit (200) capable of guiding the electrode tab (T) to the position of the tracking unit (111) during the process of the tracking unit (111) forming a marking on the electrode tab (T) of the electrode (E) or identifying the marking.

[0065] The guide section (200) is provided at the bottom of the tracking section (100) and guides the electrode tab (T) of the electrode (E) being transported.

[0066] The guide portion (200) includes a first guide (200a) that supports one side of an electrode (E) and has an inclined surface at one end, and a second guide (200b) that supports the other side of an electrode tab (T) and has an inclined surface at a position corresponding to the inclined surface of the first guide (200a).

[0067] According to FIGS. 3 and 4, a first guide (200a) and a second guide (200b) are arranged to face each other at the bottom of the main body (110). The first guide (200a) and the second guide (200b) are spaced apart by a predetermined distance so that an electrode tab (T) can pass between them.

[0068] The first guide (200a) is positioned below the electrode (E) being transported, and the second guide (200b) is positioned to be interposed between the first guide (200a) and the main body (110).

[0069] The first guide (200a) and the second guide (200b) are positioned so that the entering electrode tab (T) faces the inclined surface.

[0070] The electrode (E) moves horizontally so that the electrode tab (T) passes between the first guide (200a) and the second guide (200b) located at the bottom of the main body (110). At this time, the electrode tab (T) enters in the direction where the inclined surfaces of the first guide (200a) and the second guide (200b) are located. That is, the electrode tab (T) moves along the inclined surfaces of the first guide (200a) and the second guide (200b) to the bottom of the main body (110).

[0071] At least one of the first guide (200a) and the second guide (200b) includes an opening (O).

[0072] The second guide (200b) of the electrode (E) tracking device according to the first embodiment of the present invention includes an opening (O).

[0073] The second guide (200b) includes an opening (O) at a position corresponding to the tracking unit (111).

[0074] The electrode (E) passing between the first guide (200a) and the second guide (200b) is positioned and transported so that the electrode tab (T) is exposed at the opening (O).

[0075] The tracking unit (111) of the tracking section (100) forms a marking on the electrode tab (T) exposed to the opening (O) of the guide section (200), or identifies the marking on the electrode tab (T).

[0076] FIG. 6 shows the arrangement of the tracking unit (100) and the second guide (200b). For ease of understanding, the tracking unit (100) is shown only as a tracking unit (111) provided within the main body (110).

[0077] According to FIG. 6 above, an opening (O) of the second guide (200b) is formed at a position corresponding to the tracking unit (111), and the tracking unit (111) is positioned toward the opening (O) of the second guide (200b).

[0078] If the tracking unit (111) is a marking device, it can form a marking on the electrode tab (T) passing through the opening (O). Alternatively, if the tracking unit (111) is a reader, it can identify the marking formed on the electrode tab (T) passing through the opening (O).

[0080] The first guide (200a) and the second guide (200b) of the guide section (200) can be coupled to the tracking section (100) by the linkage section (300).

[0081] The above linkage unit (300) serves to guide the guide unit (200) to move back and forth along the guide rail included in the tracking unit (100).

[0082] As shown in FIGS. 3 to 5, the above linkage unit (300) includes a first support member (300a) which is coupled to the first guide (200a) and whose other end is coupled to the tracking unit (100) so that it can slide in the up and down direction, and a second support member (300b) which is coupled to the second guide (200b) and whose other end is coupled to the tracking unit (100) so that it can slide in the up and down direction.

[0083] Specifically, the first support member (300a) is coupled to the first guide rail (112) so as to be slidable with respect to the main body (110), and the second support member (300b) is also coupled to the second guide rail (121) so as to be slidable with respect to the main body (110).

[0084] When the first support member (300a) slides upward on the first guide rail (112), the first guide (200a) coupled to the first support member (300a) rises. Conversely, when the first support member (300a) slides downward on the first guide rail (112), the first guide (200a) coupled to the first support member (300a) lowers.

[0085] Additionally, when the second support member (300b) slides upward on the second guide rail (121), the second guide (200b) coupled to the second support member (300b) rises. Conversely, when the second support member (300b) slides downward on the second guide rail (121), the second guide (200b) coupled to the second support member (300b) lowers.

[0086] The second support member (300b) is composed of a sliding part (300b1), a fixed part (300b3), and a connecting part (300b2).

[0087] Specifically, the second support member (300b) includes a sliding part (300b1) coupled to the protruding member (120) to slide along the second guide rail (121), a fixed part (300b3) coupled to the second guide (200b), and a connecting part (300b2) whose ends are respectively connected to the sliding part (300b1) and the fixed part (300b3).

[0088] More specifically, the second support member (300b) is coupled with the protruding member (120) to slide along the second guide rail (121) as shown in FIG. 5, and includes a sliding part (300b1) formed extending downward along the longitudinal direction of the main body (110), a fixed part (300b3) provided at the bottom of the sliding part (300b1) and coupled with the second guide (200b), and a connecting part (300b2) connecting the sliding part (300b1) and the fixed part (300b3).

[0090] When the first support member (300a) and the second support member (300b) slide on the first guide rail (112) and the second guide rail (121), friction may occur between each support member (300a, 300b) and the guide rail (112, 121).

[0091] Fine foreign substances, such as metal powder, may be floated due to friction generated at the contact points of the support members (300a, 300b) and guide rails (112, 121), and if these foreign substances fall onto the electrode (E), it may cause a deterioration in quality and defects of the secondary battery.

[0092] The electrode (E) tracking device of the present invention is characterized by having a foreign substance receiving section (400) capable of collecting foreign substances generated in the friction zone.

[0093] The above foreign substance receiving portion (400) is open to the top and serves to receive foreign substances falling from the open top.

[0094] FIG. 7 shows a foreign substance receiving portion (400) of the present invention, wherein the foreign substance receiving portion (400) includes a bottom plate (410) and a side plate (420) positioned to be erected along the edge of the bottom plate (410) as shown in FIG. 7.

[0095] Floating foreign matter can be collected by accumulating on the bottom plate (410) of the foreign matter receiving section (400).

[0096] The above foreign substance receiving portion (400) can be coupled to either the tracking portion (100) or the interlocking portion (300).

[0097] The electrode (E) tracking device according to the first embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that the foreign substance receiving portion (400) is coupled to the interlocking portion (300). More specifically, the foreign substance receiving portion (400) is coupled to a support member positioned closer to the tracking portion (100) among the first support member (300a) and the second support member (300b) of the interlocking portion (300).

[0098] According to FIGS. 3 to 5, the foreign substance receiving portion (400) is coupled to the second support member (300b).

[0099] FIG. 8 shows a second support member (300b) of the interlocking part (300) and a foreign substance receiving part (400) coupled to the second support member (300b).

[0100] The foreign substance receiving portion (400) is coupled to be fixed to the second support member (300b) as shown in FIG. 8. More specifically, the side plate of the foreign substance receiving portion (400) is fixed to one side of the fixing portion (300b3).

[0101] FIG. 9 shows the arrangement of a foreign substance receiving portion (400) and a second guide (200b), wherein the foreign substance receiving portion (400) and the second guide (200b) are each coupled to both sides of a fixed portion (300b3) as shown in FIG. 9. At this time, the second guide (200b) is positioned at a location corresponding to the tracking unit (111) of the main body (110), and the foreign substance receiving portion (400) is coupled to the other side opposite to one side of the fixed portion (300b3) to which the second guide (200b) is coupled.

[0102] The above foreign substance receiving portion (400) is positioned at a location corresponding to the first guide rail (112) and the second guide rail (121) as shown in FIGS. 3 to 5.

[0103] Accordingly, the foreign substance receiving portion (400) can effectively collect foreign substances generated from the first guide rail (112) and the second guide rail (121).

[0104] The electrode (E) tracking device of the present invention can adjust the position of the tracking unit (100) and the position and spacing of the first guide (200a) and the second guide (200b) included in the guide unit (200) as the thickness and width of the target electrode (E) change.

[0105] In order to adjust the position of the first guide (200a) and the second guide (200b), the first support member (300a) and the second support member (300b) included in the interlocking part (300) are slid relative to the main body (110), and the foreign substances generated at this time accumulate in the foreign substance receiving part (400) coupled to the fixed part (300b3).

[0106] FIG. 10 shows an embodiment of raising and lowering the second support member (300b), FIG. 11 shows an embodiment of raising and lowering the first support member (300a), and FIG. 12 shows an embodiment of raising and lowering the first support member (300a) and the second support member (300b) together.

[0107] According to FIG. 10 above, as the second support member (300b) moves up and down along the second guide rail (121), friction occurs at the contact point between the second support member (300b) and the second guide rail (121). Due to the friction, fine foreign matter may be generated on the surface of the second support member (300b) or the second guide rail (121), but the foreign matter receiving portion (400) provided at the bottom collects the floating foreign matter. Accordingly, the electrode (E) tracking device of the present invention can prevent the surface of the electrode (E) and the electrode tab (T) from being contaminated by the foreign matter.

[0108] According to FIG. 11 above, as the first support member (300a) moves up and down along the first guide rail (112), friction occurs at the contact point between the first support member (300a) and the first guide rail (112). Due to the friction, fine foreign matter may be generated on the surface of the first support member (300a) or the first guide rail (112), but the foreign matter receiving portion (400) provided at the bottom collects the floating foreign matter. Accordingly, the electrode (E) tracking device of the present invention can prevent the surface of the electrode (E) and the electrode tab (T) from being contaminated by the foreign matter.

[0109] According to FIG. 12 above, friction occurs as the first support member (300a) and the second support member (300b) move up and down along the first guide rail (112) and the second guide rail (121), respectively. Due to the friction, fine foreign substances may be generated on the surfaces of the first support member (300a), the second support member (300b), the first guide rail (112), and the second guide rail (121), but the foreign substance receiving portion (400) provided at the bottom collects the floating foreign substances. Accordingly, the electrode (E) tracking device of the present invention can prevent the surfaces of the electrode (E) and the electrode tab (T) from being contaminated by the foreign substances.

[0111] (Second embodiment)

[0112] The electrode (E) tracking device of the present invention may be used by inverting the tracking part (100), the guide part (200), and the linkage part (300) vertically.

[0113] The electrode (E) tracking device according to the second embodiment of the present invention is characterized by having the tracking unit (100), guide unit (200), and linkage unit (300) of the electrode (E) tracking device according to the first embodiment inverted vertically, and having a foreign substance receiving unit (400) coupled to the tracking unit (100).

[0114] FIG. 13 shows an electrode (E) tracking device according to a second embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 14 shows an electrode (E) passing through the electrode (E) tracking device of FIG. 13, and FIG. 15 shows a disassembled part of the electrode (E) tracking device of FIG. 13.

[0115] The electrode (E) tracking device of the present invention includes a tracking unit (100), a guide unit (200), and an interlocking unit (300) as shown in FIG. 13.

[0116] The tracking unit (100) is positioned so that the electrode (E) being transported passes through the top as shown in FIG. 14.

[0117] The tracking unit (100) includes a tracking unit (111) that forms a marking on the electrode tab (T) of the electrode (E) being transported, or identifies the formed marking.

[0118] The tracking unit (111) may be a marking device that marks on the electrode tab (T) with a laser, or a reader that identifies the marking formed on the electrode tab (T). If necessary, the tracking unit (100) may include both a marking device and a reader.

[0119] The tracking unit (100) is configured to be movable in at least one of the horizontal and vertical directions.

[0120] The tracking unit (100) includes a tracking unit (111) inside and a main body (110) including a first guide rail (112) on one side.

[0121] The main body (110) has an open top, and the tracking unit (111) is provided within the main body (110) so as to be exposed through the opening (O).

[0122] The tracking unit (111) is provided facing upward so as to form a marking or identify on an electrode tab (T) passing through the upper part of the open body (110).

[0123] The first guide rail (112) is formed in a straight line. More specifically, the first guide rail (112) is formed to extend in the longitudinal direction of the main body (110), that is, in the vertical direction on the drawing.

[0124] The tracking unit (100) further includes a second guide rail (121) that is extended and maintained horizontally with respect to the first guide rail (112).

[0125] The second guide rail (121) is formed in a straight line, similar to the first guide rail (112), and is spaced apart from the first guide rail (112) at a predetermined distance to maintain a horizontal position with respect to the first guide rail (112).

[0126] The tracking unit (100) may further include a protruding member (120) attached to one side of the main body (110) as shown in FIG. 13.

[0127] The above protruding member (120) is coupled to one side of the side corresponding to the circumference of the main body (110) where the first guide rail (112) is formed.

[0128] The above protruding member (120) is applied to avoid interference between operating parts and serves to create a height difference between the first guide rail (112) and the second guide rail (121).

[0129] Accordingly, the second guide rail (121) may be formed on the main body (110) in the same way as the first guide rail (112), or may be formed on a protruding member (120) coupled to the main body (110).

[0131] The electrode (E) tracking device of the present invention includes a guide unit (200) capable of guiding the electrode tab (T) to the position of the tracking unit (111) during the process of the tracking unit (111) forming a marking on the electrode tab (T) of the electrode (E) or identifying the marking.

[0132] The guide section (200) is provided on the upper part of the tracking section (100) and guides the electrode tab (T) of the electrode (E) being transported.

[0133] The guide portion (200) includes a first guide (200a) that supports one side of an electrode (E) and has an inclined surface at one end, and a second guide (200b) that supports the other side of an electrode tab (T) and has an inclined surface at a position corresponding to the inclined surface of the first guide (200a).

[0134] According to FIGS. 13 and 14, a first guide (200a) and a second guide (200b) are arranged to face each other on the upper part of the main body (110). The first guide (200a) and the second guide (200b) are spaced apart by a predetermined distance so that an electrode tab (T) can pass between them.

[0135] The first guide (200a) is positioned above the electrode (E) being transported, and the second guide (200b) is positioned to be interposed between the first guide (200a) and the main body (110).

[0136] The first guide (200a) and the second guide (200b) are positioned so that the entering electrode tab (T) faces the inclined surface.

[0137] The electrode (E) moves horizontally so that the electrode tab (T) passes between the first guide (200a) and the second guide (200b) located on the upper part of the main body (110). At this time, the electrode tab (T) enters in the direction where the inclined surfaces of the first guide (200a) and the second guide (200b) are located. That is, the electrode tab (T) moves to the upper part of the main body (110) along the inclined surfaces of the first guide (200a) and the second guide (200b).

[0138] At least one of the first guide (200a) and the second guide (200b) includes an opening (O).

[0139] The second guide (200b) of the electrode (E) tracking device according to the second embodiment of the present invention includes an opening (O).

[0140] The second guide (200b) includes an opening (O) at a position corresponding to the tracking unit (111).

[0141] The electrode (E) passing between the first guide (200a) and the second guide (200b) is positioned and transported so that the electrode tab (T) is exposed at the opening (O).

[0142] The tracking unit (111) of the tracking section (100) forms a marking on the electrode tab (T) exposed to the opening (O) of the guide section (200), or identifies the marking on the electrode tab (T).

[0143] FIG. 16 shows the arrangement of the tracking unit (100) and the second guide (200b). For ease of understanding, the tracking unit (100) is shown as only the tracking unit (111) provided within the main body (110).

[0144] According to FIG. 16 above, an opening (O) of the second guide (200b) is formed at a position corresponding to the tracking unit (111), and the tracking unit (111) is positioned toward the opening (O) of the second guide (200b).

[0145] If the tracking unit (111) is a marking device, it can form a marking on the electrode tab (T) passing through the opening (O). Alternatively, if the tracking unit (111) is a reader, it can identify the marking formed on the electrode tab (T) passing through the opening (O).

[0147] The first guide (200a) and the second guide (200b) of the guide section (200) can be coupled to the tracking section (100) by the linkage section (300).

[0148] The above linkage unit (300) serves to guide the guide unit (200) to move back and forth along the guide rail included in the tracking unit (100).

[0149] As shown in FIGS. 13 to 15, the above linkage unit (300) includes a first support member (300a) which is coupled to the first guide (200a) and whose other end is coupled to the tracking unit (100) so that it can slide in the up and down direction, and a second support member (300b) which is coupled to the second guide (200b) and whose other end is coupled to the tracking unit (100) so that it can slide in the up and down direction.

[0150] Specifically, the first support member (300a) is coupled to the first guide rail (112) so as to be slidable with respect to the main body (110), and the second support member (300b) is also coupled to the second guide rail (121) so as to be slidable with respect to the main body (110).

[0151] When the first support member (300a) slides upward on the first guide rail (112), the first guide (200a) coupled to the first support member (300a) rises. Conversely, when the first support member (300a) slides downward on the first guide rail (112), the first guide (200a) coupled to the first support member (300a) lowers.

[0152] Additionally, when the second support member (300b) slides upward on the second guide rail (121), the second guide (200b) coupled to the second support member (300b) rises. Conversely, when the second support member (300b) slides downward on the second guide rail (121), the second guide (200b) coupled to the second support member (300b) lowers.

[0153] The second support member (300b) is composed of a sliding part (300b1), a fixed part (300b3), and a connecting part (300b2).

[0154] Specifically, the second support member (300b) includes a sliding part (300b1) coupled to the protruding member (120) to slide along the second guide rail (121), a fixed part (300b3) coupled to the second guide (200b), and a connecting part (300b2) whose ends are respectively connected to the sliding part (300b1) and the fixed part (300b3).

[0155] More specifically, the second support member (300b) is coupled with the protruding member (120) to slide along the second guide rail (121) as shown in FIG. 15, and includes a sliding part (300b1) formed extending upward along the longitudinal direction of the main body (110), a fixed part (300b3) provided on the upper part of the sliding part (300b1) and coupled with the second guide (200b), and a connecting part (300b2) connecting the sliding part (300b1) and the fixed part (300b3).

[0157] When the first support member (300a) and the second support member (300b) slide on the first guide rail (112) and the second guide rail (121), friction may occur between each support member (300a, 300b) and the guide rail (112, 121).

[0158] Fine foreign substances, such as metal powder, may be floated due to friction generated at the contact points of the support members (300a, 300b) and guide rails (112, 121), and if these foreign substances fall onto the electrode (E), it may cause a deterioration in quality and defects of the secondary battery.

[0159] The electrode (E) tracking device of the present invention is characterized by having a foreign substance receiving section (400) capable of collecting foreign substances generated in the friction zone.

[0160] The above foreign substance receiving portion (400) is open to the top and serves to receive foreign substances falling from the open top.

[0161] FIG. 17 shows a foreign substance receiving portion (400) of the present invention, wherein the foreign substance receiving portion (400) includes a bottom plate (410) and a side plate (420) positioned to be erected along the edge of the bottom plate (410) as shown in FIG. 17.

[0162] Floating foreign matter can be collected by accumulating on the bottom plate (410) of the foreign matter receiving section (400).

[0163] The above foreign substance receiving portion (400) can be coupled to either the tracking portion (100) or the interlocking portion (300).

[0164] The electrode (E) tracking device according to the second embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that the foreign substance receiving portion (400) is coupled to the tracking portion (100). More specifically, the foreign substance receiving portion (400) is coupled to a protruding member (120) included in the tracking portion (100).

[0165] According to FIGS. 13 to 15, the foreign substance receiving portion (400) is positioned on the side of the protruding member (120).

[0166] FIG. 18 shows a protruding member (120) and a foreign substance receiving portion (400) coupled to the protruding member (120).

[0167] The foreign substance receiving portion (400) is coupled to be fixed to one side of the protruding member (120) as shown in FIG. 18. More specifically, the side plate of the foreign substance receiving portion (400) is fixed to the side of the protruding member (120).

[0168] The above foreign substance receiving portion (400) is positioned at a location corresponding to the first guide rail (112) as shown in FIGS. 13 to 15.

[0169] Accordingly, the foreign substance receiving portion (400) can effectively collect foreign substances generated from the first guide rail (112).

[0170] The electrode (E) tracking device of the present invention can adjust the position of the tracking unit (100) and the position and spacing of the first guide (200a) and the second guide (200b) included in the guide unit (200) as the thickness and width of the target electrode (E) change.

[0171] In order to adjust the position of the first guide (200a) and the second guide (200b), the first support member (300a) and the second support member (300b) included in the interlocking part (300) are slid relative to the main body (110), and the foreign substances generated at this time accumulate in the foreign substance receiving part (400) coupled to the protruding member (120).

[0172] FIG. 20 shows an embodiment in which the second support member (300b) is raised and lowered, FIG. 20 shows an embodiment in which the first support member (300a) is raised and lowered, and FIG. 21 shows an embodiment in which the first support member (300a) and the second support member (300b) are raised and lowered together.

[0173] According to FIG. 19 above, as the second support member (300b) moves up and down along the second guide rail (121), friction occurs at the contact point between the second support member (300b) and the second guide rail (121). Due to the friction, fine foreign matter may be generated on the surface of the second support member (300b) or the second guide rail (121), but a foreign matter receiving portion (400) provided at the bottom collects some of the floating foreign matter. Accordingly, the electrode (E) tracking device of the present invention can minimize contamination of the electrode (E) and electrode tab (T) surfaces by the foreign matter.

[0174] According to FIG. 20 above, as the first support member (300a) moves up and down along the first guide rail (112), friction occurs at the contact point between the first support member (300a) and the first guide rail (112). Due to the friction, fine foreign matter may be generated on the surface of the first support member (300a) or the first guide rail (112), but the foreign matter receiving portion (400) provided at the bottom collects the floating foreign matter. Accordingly, the electrode (E) tracking device of the present invention can prevent the surface of the electrode (E) and the electrode tab (T) from being contaminated by the foreign matter.

[0175] According to FIG. 21 above, friction occurs as the first support member (300a) and the second support member (300b) move up and down along the first guide rail (112) and the second guide rail (121), respectively. Due to the friction, fine foreign substances may be generated on the surfaces of the first support member (300a), the second support member (300b), the first guide rail (112), and the second guide rail (121), but the foreign substance receiving portion (400) provided at the bottom collects the floating foreign substances. Accordingly, the electrode (E) tracking device of the present invention can prevent the surfaces of the electrode (E) and the electrode tab (T) from being contaminated by the foreign substances.

[0178] The present invention has been described in more detail above through drawings and embodiments. However, the configurations described in the drawings or embodiments described in this specification are merely one embodiment of the present invention and do not represent all technical concepts of the present invention; therefore, it should be understood that various equivalents and modifications that can replace them may exist at the time of filing this application. Explanation of the symbols

[0180] 10: (Prior Art) Tap Guide Unit 20: (Prior Art) Guide 30: (Prior Art) Tracking Unit 100: Tracking section 110: Main unit 111: Tracking Unit 112: 1st guide rail 120: Protruding member 121: Second guide rail 200: Guide Department 200a: First Guide 200b: Second Guide 300: Interlocking part 300a: First support member 300b: Second support member 300b1: Sliding part 300b2: Connection part 300b3: Fixed part 400: Foreign substance receiving section 410: Floor plate 420: Side panel E: Electrode T: Electrode tab O: Opening

Claims

Claim 1 An electrode tracking device for forming a marking on an electrode tab of an electrode being transported in one direction or identifying a marking formed on said electrode tab, comprising: a tracking unit configured to be movable in at least one of a horizontal and a vertical direction and including at least one tracking unit among a marking device and a reader; a guide unit comprising a first guide having an inclined surface at one end and supporting one side of an electrode tab, and a second guide having an inclined surface at a position corresponding to the inclined surface of the first guide and supporting the other side of the electrode tab; an interlocking unit comprising a first support member having one end coupled to the first guide and the other end coupled to the tracking unit so as to be slidable in the vertical direction, and a second support member having one end coupled to the second guide and the other end coupled to the tracking unit so as to be slidable in the vertical direction; and a foreign substance receiving unit open to the top; wherein the foreign substance receiving unit is coupled to either the tracking unit or the interlocking unit. Claim 2 An electrode tracking device according to claim 1, wherein the electrode is transported such that the electrode tab passes between the first guide and the second guide, and the first guide and the second guide are arranged so that the entering electrode tab faces the inclined surface. Claim 3 In claim 1, at least one of the first guide and the second guide included in the guide portion includes an opening, and the electrode is an electrode tracking device in which the electrode is transported so that an electrode tab is exposed in the opening. Claim 4 An electrode tracking device according to claim 1, wherein the tracking unit comprises: a main body including a tracking unit inside and a first guide rail coupled to the first support member on one side; and a protruding member attached to one side of the main body and including a second guide rail coupled to the second support member on one side. Claim 5 In paragraph 4, the electrode tracking device is configured such that the tracking portion is positioned so that the electrode being transported passes through the lower portion, and the guide portion is provided at the lower portion of the tracking portion to guide the electrode tab of the electrode being transported. Claim 6 In claim 5, the foreign substance receiving portion is an electrode tracking device coupled to a support member positioned closer to the tracking portion among the first support member and the second support member of the interlocking portion. Claim 7 In claim 5, the first guide is positioned below the electrode being transported, the second guide is positioned to be interposed between the first guide and the main body, and the second guide includes an opening at a position corresponding to the tracking unit. Claim 8 In claim 5, the second support member comprises: a sliding portion formed extending downward along the longitudinal direction of the main body and coupled to the protruding member so as to slide with respect to the second guide rail; a fixed portion provided at the lower part of the sliding portion and coupled to the second guide; and a connecting portion connecting the sliding portion and the fixed portion; and the foreign substance receiving portion is coupled to the fixed portion. Claim 9 An electrode tracking device according to claim 8, wherein the foreign substance receiving portion and the second guide are each coupled to both sides of the fixed portion, the second guide is positioned at a location corresponding to the tracking unit of the main body, and the foreign substance receiving portion is positioned at a location corresponding to the first guide rail and the second guide rail. Claim 10 In claim 5, the foreign substance receiving portion comprises a bottom plate; and a side plate positioned to be erected along the edge of the bottom plate; and the foreign substance receiving portion is an electrode tracking device in which the side plate is coupled to be fixed to the second support member. Claim 11 In paragraph 4, the electrode tracking device is configured such that the tracking portion is positioned so that the electrode being transported passes through the upper portion, and the guide portion is provided on the upper portion of the tracking portion to guide the electrode tab of the electrode being transported. Claim 12 In claim 11, the foreign substance receiving portion is an electrode tracking device coupled to a protruding member included in the tracking portion. Claim 13 In claim 11, the electrode tracking device wherein the first guide is positioned above the electrode being transported, the second guide is positioned to be interposed between the first guide and the main body, and the second guide includes an opening at a position corresponding to the tracking unit. Claim 14 In claim 12, the foreign substance receiving portion is an electrode tracking device positioned at a location corresponding to the first guide rail. Claim 15 In claim 11, the foreign substance receiving portion comprises: a bottom plate; and a side plate positioned to be erected along the edge of the bottom plate; and the foreign substance receiving portion is an electrode tracking device in which the side plate is coupled to be fixed to the protruding member.

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