Apparatus for simulating thermal wrinkling of an electrode sheet and simulation method using the apparatus

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to an apparatus for simulating thermal wrinkles of an electrode sheet and a simulation method using the same, and more particularly, to an apparatus for simulating thermal wrinkles of an electrode sheet generated during drying of an electrode sheet coated with an active material and a simulation method using the same, the apparatus including an electrode sheet fixing unit configured to apply a tensile load to an electrode sheet (S) in a state in which opposite ends of the electrode sheet are fixed so that the electrode sheet is stretched by a predetermined length, a temperature adjusting unit configured to heat the electrode sheet fixing unit to a predetermined temperature while covering the electrode sheet fixing unit, and a rail configured to move the temperature adjusting unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 2021-0154371, filed on November 11, 2021, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0002] The present invention relates to an apparatus for simulating thermal wrinkling of an electrode sheet and a simulation method using the apparatus, and more specifically, to an apparatus for simulating thermal wrinkling of an electrode sheet and a simulation method using the apparatus, which can perform tests under the same conditions as an electrode drying apparatus to closely examine the causes of thermal wrinkling and establish optimal drying conditions. Background Technology

[0003] With the technological advancements and increasing demands of mobile devices such as smartphones, laptops, and digital cameras, research on rechargeable and dischargeable secondary batteries has been actively pursued. Furthermore, secondary batteries, as an alternative energy source to fossil fuels that contribute to air pollution, have been applied to electric vehicles (EVs), hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (P-HEVs), and energy storage systems (ESS).

[0004] Currently, the most widely used rechargeable batteries include lithium-ion batteries, lithium polymer batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, and nickel-zinc batteries.

[0005] Typically, such secondary batteries are configured such that the electrode assembly and electrolyte are housed within the battery casing.

[0006] Electrode assemblies can typically be jelly roll assemblies, stacked assemblies, stacked / folded assemblies, or laminated / stacked assemblies. The jelly roll assemblies are configured to have a structure in which long sheet-shaped positive and long sheet-shaped negative electrodes are wound together with separators inserted therebetween. The stacked assemblies are configured to have a structure in which rectangular positive and rectangular negative electrodes are stacked together with separators inserted therebetween. The stacked / folded assemblies are configured to have a structure in which cell cells are wound together using long separators. The laminated / stacked assemblies are configured to have a structure in which cell cells are stacked together with separators inserted therebetween and then attached to each other.

[0007] In addition to commonly used liquid electrolytes, the electrolyte can be replaced by a solid electrolyte or a gel-type quasi-solid electrolyte obtained by adding additives to a solid electrolyte, the gel-type quasi-solid electrolyte having an intermediate phase between liquid and solid.

[0008] The electrode assembly is housed within the battery casing, and based on the type of battery casing, secondary batteries can be classified as cylindrical batteries with electrode assemblies mounted in cylindrical metal cans, prismatic batteries with electrode assemblies mounted in prismatic metal cans, or pouch batteries with electrode assemblies mounted in pouch-shaped casings made of aluminum laminates.

[0009] Meanwhile, the method for manufacturing electrodes for secondary batteries includes dispersing active materials, conductive agents, and binders in a solvent to prepare a slurry, applying the slurry to an electrode current collector, and drying the slurry.

[0010] At this point, the electrode can be dried by introducing the sheet electrode into the drying apparatus in a wound state on a roller and drying the electrode. However, in this case, when the drying process is performed in an overlapping state, there is a difference in dryness between the inside and outside of the electrode.

[0011] Figure 1 This is a schematic front view illustrating the structure of a conventional electrode drying apparatus. Figure 2 This is a view showing the state of the uncoated portion before (a) and after (b) the electrode sheet is introduced into the chamber using a conventional electrode sheet drying apparatus.

[0012] like Figure 1 As shown, the conventional electrode drying apparatus includes a chamber 11 with an empty interior, a heating tool 12, and a guide roller 13, and the electrode 20 is dried while passing through the conventional electrode drying apparatus.

[0013] The advantage of this device is that it can dry the electrode sheet 20 uniformly. However, since the entire electrode sheet 20 is heated, therefore... Figure 2 As shown in (b), thermal wrinkles are generated in the uncoated portion, which is the portion where no active material is applied and the electrode current collector is exposed.

[0014] Further research has been conducted to minimize or prevent this thermal wrinkling phenomenon. In particular, tests have been performed under the same conditions as those of the electrode drying apparatus to closely examine the causes of the thermal wrinkling.

[0015] As an example, an electrode sheet coated with active material is stretched to a predetermined length at room temperature to measure the required tensile load, and heat is applied under the same drying conditions to measure the tensile load. Subsequently, the tensile load is measured while maintaining room temperature. In this way, the tensile load is evaluated under the same drying conditions as the actual electrode, and the optimal improvement of the drying process or apparatus is designed based on the results.

[0016] However, measuring tensile loads at high temperatures is not easy. Typically, a universal testing machine (UTM) is used to measure tensile loads; however, heating the UTM to a predetermined temperature range is not easy. Of course, a chamber large enough to house the UTM can be used. However, in this case, the various sensors mounted to the UTM cannot withstand the high temperatures, making it impossible to house the entire UTM within the chamber. Furthermore, when performing tests simulating thermal wrinkling of electrode sheets, the tensile range is only a few micrometers; therefore, if possible, the test must be performed while suppressing UTM movement to obtain accurate results.

[0017] (Existing technical literature)

[0018] (Patent Document 1) Korean Patent Publication No. 2167118 Summary of the Invention

[0019] [Technical Issues]

[0020] The present invention was made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and the object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus for simulating thermal wrinkling of an electrode sheet, the apparatus being able to simulate the thermal wrinkling phenomenon that occurs in the uncoated portion of the electrode sheet.

[0021] Another object of the present invention is to provide a thermal wrinkling simulation method capable of simulating thermal wrinkling phenomena that occur in the uncoated portion of an electrode sheet.

[0022] [Technical Solution]

[0023] To achieve the above objective, the apparatus for simulating thermal wrinkling of an electrode sheet according to the present invention is an apparatus for simulating thermal wrinkling of an electrode sheet generated during the drying of an electrode sheet coated with an active material, the apparatus comprising: an electrode sheet fixing unit (100) configured to apply a tensile load to the electrode sheet while the opposite ends of the electrode sheet (S) are fixed, so as to stretch the electrode sheet to a predetermined length; a temperature adjustment unit (200) configured to heat the electrode sheet fixing unit (100) to a predetermined temperature while covering the electrode sheet fixing unit (100); and a track (300) configured to move the temperature adjustment unit (200).

[0024] Furthermore, in the apparatus for simulating thermal wrinkling of electrode sheets according to the present invention, the electrode sheet fixing unit (100) may include: a holding portion (110), including a first holding portion (111) and a second holding portion (112), wherein the first holding portion (111) is provided with a first fixing portion (111') fixing the upper end of the electrode sheet (S), and the second holding portion (112) is located below the first holding portion (111), and the second holding portion (112) is provided with a second fixing portion (112') fixing the lower end of the electrode sheet (S); and a loading portion (120), including a first loading rod (121) connected to the first holding portion (111) and a support for the second holding portion (112). The first loading rod (122) is configured to move the first loading rod (121) up and down; a support frame (140) includes a vertical rod (141) vertically positioned in an extended predetermined length state and a horizontal rod (142) configured to move up and down along the vertical rod (141), one side of the horizontal rod being connected to the drive unit (130); a controller (150) connected to the support frame (140) and configured to control and measure the tensile length and tensile load of the electrode sheet (S); and a support mold (160) configured to support the lower end of the second holding part (112) and the lower end of the vertical rod (141).

[0025] Furthermore, in the apparatus for simulating thermal folding of electrode sheets according to the present invention, the temperature adjustment unit (200) may be composed of a first component (210) and a second component (220) located on opposite side surfaces of the electrode sheet fixing unit (100). The first component (210) may include a first cover portion (211) as a rectangular plate and a first wheel (213) mounted to the lower end of the first cover portion (211) to make the first cover portion (211) movable. The second component (220) may include a second cover portion (221) as a rectangular plate and a second wheel (223) mounted to the lower end of the second cover portion (221) to make the second cover portion (221) movable. A heating portion may be provided on the inner surface of the first cover portion (211) and / or the second cover portion (221), the heating portion being configured to maintain the electrode sheet fixing unit (100) at a predetermined temperature.

[0026] Furthermore, in the apparatus for simulating thermal folding of electrode sheets according to the present invention, the upper part of the first cover (211) may be arched facing the electrode sheet fixing unit (100).

[0027] Furthermore, in the device for simulating thermal folding of electrode sheets according to the present invention, the upper part of the second cover (221) may be arched facing the electrode sheet fixing unit (100).

[0028] Furthermore, in the apparatus for simulating thermal folding of electrode sheets according to the present invention, an extension may be provided on the opposite side or one side of the first cover (211), the extension extending in the direction toward the electrode sheet fixing unit (100).

[0029] Furthermore, in the device for simulating thermal folding of electrode sheets according to the present invention, an extension may be provided on the opposite side or one side of the second cover (221), the extension extending in the direction toward the electrode sheet fixing unit (100).

[0030] Furthermore, in the apparatus for simulating thermal folding of electrode sheets according to the present invention, a plurality of nozzles may be provided at the edge of the inner surface of the first cover (211) and / or the second cover (221), the plurality of nozzles being configured to form an air curtain to maintain the electrode sheet fixing unit (100) at a predetermined temperature.

[0031] Furthermore, the method for simulating thermal folding of an electrode sheet according to the present invention includes: (a) fixing the electrode sheet to an electrode sheet fixing unit (100) at room temperature; (b) setting a stretch length and applying a load to measure the tensile force; (c) moving a temperature adjustment unit (200) to cover the opposite side surface of the electrode sheet fixing unit (100) and measuring the tensile force; and (d) moving the temperature adjustment unit (200) so that the electrode sheet fixing unit (100) is exposed to room temperature and measuring the tensile force.

[0032] Furthermore, in the method for thermally folding the simulated electrode sheet according to the present invention, in step (c), the temperature adjustment unit (200) can be preheated to a predetermined temperature.

[0033] Furthermore, in the method for simulating thermal folding of an electrode sheet according to the present invention, step (c) may also include heating the temperature adjustment unit (200) to a predetermined temperature after positioning the temperature adjustment unit (200) on the opposite side surface of the electrode sheet fixing unit (100).

[0034] Furthermore, in the method for thermally folding the simulated electrode sheet according to the present invention, in steps (c) and (d), the temperature adjustment unit (200) can move along the track (300).

[0035] Furthermore, in the method for thermally pleating the simulated electrode sheet according to the present invention, in step (c), an air curtain can be formed by a nozzle positioned along the edge of the inner surface of the first cover (211) and / or the second cover (221).

[0036] [Beneficial Effects]

[0037] The apparatus for simulating thermal wrinkling of an electrode sheet according to the present invention and the simulation method using the apparatus have the advantage that the holding part used to hold the electrode sheet to be measured can be mainly heated, thereby preventing the apparatus from failing or malfunctioning due to heat.

[0038] Furthermore, the apparatus for simulating thermal wrinkling of electrode sheets according to the present invention and the simulation method using the apparatus have the advantage that, while the electrode sheet fixing unit, including the holding part on which the electrode sheet to be measured is mounted, remains stationary, only the temperature adjustment unit is moved, thereby improving the reliability of the measurement results. Attached Figure Description

[0039] Figure 1 This is a schematic front view showing the structure of a conventional electrode drying apparatus.

[0040] Figure 2 This is a view showing the state of the uncoated portion before (a) and after (b) the electrode sheet is introduced into the chamber using a conventional electrode sheet drying apparatus.

[0041] Figure 3 This is a side view of the electrode sheet fixing unit according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 4 This is a front view of the electrode sheet fixing unit according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] Figure 5 This is a perspective view of the holding portion of the electrode sheet fixing unit according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] Figure 6 This is a perspective view showing an apparatus for simulating thermal wrinkling of an electrode sheet according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 The front view of the apparatus shown for simulating thermal wrinkling of electrode sheets.

[0046] Figure 8 This is a front view showing an apparatus for simulating thermal wrinkling of an electrode sheet according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] Figure 9 This is a front view showing an apparatus for simulating thermal wrinkling of an electrode sheet according to a third embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0048] In this application, it should be understood that the terms "comprising," "having," "including," etc., specify the presence of the stated features, numbers, steps, operations, elements, components, or combinations thereof, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, elements, components, or combinations thereof.

[0049] Furthermore, the same reference numerals will be used throughout the accompanying drawings to refer to parts that perform similar functions or operations. Where the specification states that one part is connected to another part, this means not only that one part can be directly connected to the other part, but also that one part can be indirectly connected to the other part via yet another part. Additionally, including an element does not mean excluding other elements, but rather that such elements may also be included, unless otherwise specified.

[0050] In the following description, an apparatus for simulating thermal wrinkling of an electrode sheet according to the present invention and a simulation method using the apparatus will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0051] Figure 3 This is a side view of the electrode sheet fixing unit according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4 This is a front view of the electrode sheet fixing unit according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Figure 5 This is a perspective view of the holding portion of the electrode sheet fixing unit according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] The apparatus for simulating thermal wrinkling of electrode sheets according to the present invention is a simulation device that determines the cause of thermal wrinkling in electrode sheets during the drying process of electrode sheets coated with active materials, so that the drying process can be performed under optimal conditions.

[0053] The apparatus for simulating thermal wrinkling of an electrode sheet includes: an electrode sheet fixing unit 100 configured to apply a load to an electrode sheet S while the opposite ends of the electrode sheet are fixed, so as to stretch the electrode sheet S to a predetermined length and measure the tensile force; a temperature adjustment unit configured to heat the electrode sheet fixing unit 100 to a predetermined temperature while covering the electrode sheet fixing unit 100 to achieve the drying conditions of the actual electrode sheet; and a track configured to move the temperature adjustment unit back and forth or left and right.

[0054] First, refer to Figures 3 to 5 Detailed description of electrode plate fixing unit 100.

[0055] The electrode fixing unit 100 includes a holding part 110, a loading part 120, a driving part 130, a support frame 140, a controller 150, a support mold 160, and a support leg 170.

[0056] Specifically, the holding part 110 configured to fix the electrode sheet S to be measured is composed of a pair of holding parts positioned separately from each other, namely, the first holding part 111 and the second holding part 112.

[0057] The first holding part 111, which is provided with a first fixing part 111', fixes the upper end of the electrode plate S, and the second holding part 112, which is provided with a second fixing part 112', fixes the other end of the electrode plate S, namely the lower end.

[0058] Here, although there are no particular restrictions on the fixing method, as long as it can withstand the predetermined tensile load, the opposite ends of the electrode sheet S can be fixed with high-temperature heat-resistant tape (e.g., polyimide film).

[0059] The loading portion 120, which is configured to increase the distance between the first holding portion 111 and the second holding portion 112 in order to apply a tensile load to the electrode sheet S, may consist of a first loading rod 121 connected to the first holding portion 111 and a second loading rod 122 configured to support the second holding portion 112 below the second holding portion.

[0060] Here, although the first loading rod 121 and the second loading rod 122 can move independently, only the first loading rod 121 connected to the first holding part 111 is movable, because it is advantageous to pull the first holding part 111, which is in a relatively high position, upward to measure the tensile force.

[0061] The drive unit 130 is configured to move the first loading rod 121 up and down, so that the electrode sheet S is stretched to a length set by the controller 150.

[0062] The support frame 140 configured to support the first loading rod 121 can be composed of a vertical rod 141 and a horizontal rod 142. The vertical rod 141 is vertically positioned in a state of extending a predetermined length, and the horizontal rod 142 is configured to be able to move up and down along the vertical rod 141. One side of the horizontal rod is connected to the drive unit 130. However, there are no particular limitations on the construction of the support frame, as long as the support frame can move as described above.

[0063] If possible, preferably, the controller 150, configured to control and measure the tensile length of the electrode sheet S and the tensile load at that time, is located on the upper part of the vertical rod 141. The reason is that when measuring the tensile load, heating must be carried out within a temperature range similar to that of the actual drying oven, and damage or malfunction of the controller 150 due to heating must be prevented.

[0064] The support mold 160 is configured to securely support the retaining part 110, the loading part 120, the driving part 130, the support frame 140, and the controller 150. Specifically, the lower end of the second retaining part 112 and the lower end of the vertical rod 141 are fixed to the support mold 160.

[0065] Meanwhile, as needed, multiple support legs 170 can be provided on the bottom surface of the support mold 160, and the length of each support leg 170 is adjustable to maintain the horizontality of the support mold 160.

[0066] Additionally, although not shown in the figure, a temperature sensor can be installed at the holding part 110 or the vertical rod 141 to measure the temperature near the electrode plate S, and the measured temperature can be transmitted to the controller 150 for storage.

[0067] Next, a temperature adjustment unit configured to heat the electrode sheet fixing unit to a predetermined temperature while covering the electrode sheet fixing unit 100 will be described.

[0068] Figure 6 This is a perspective view showing an apparatus for simulating thermal wrinkling of an electrode sheet according to a first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 7 yes Figure 6 The front view of the apparatus shown for simulating thermal wrinkling of electrode sheets.

[0069] like Figure 6 and 7 As shown, the temperature adjustment unit 200 is composed of a first component 210 and a second component 220 located on opposite side surfaces of the electrode sheet fixing unit 100.

[0070] First, the first component 210 may include a first cover 211, a first heating part 212, a first wheel 213, and a first rope 214.

[0071] Specifically, the first cover 211 is located in the direction toward one side of the electrode sheet fixing unit 100 and has a rectangular plate shape that extends relative to the ground so as to fully cover one side of the electrode sheet fixing unit 100.

[0072] The first heating part 212 is located on the inner surface of the first cover part 211 to heat the electrode sheet fixing unit 100 (more specifically, the holding part 110 on which the electrode sheet S is fixed) to a predetermined temperature range.

[0073] Here, various known heat sources capable of applying heat to reach a predetermined temperature can be used as the first heating unit 212, such as heating coils or infrared lamps; however, the invention is not limited thereto.

[0074] The first wheel 213 is installed at the lower end of the first cover 211 and is configured to move the first cover 211 back and forth along the first track 310.

[0075] Meanwhile, the first rope 214 is configured to be held by a worker's hand or connected to a separate drive unit when the first cover 211 is pushed or pulled. Although the first rope is shown in the figures as being mounted to one edge of the first cover, the first rope may be provided on the side surface of the first cover 211.

[0076] The second component 220 includes a second cover 221, a second heating part 222, a second wheel 223, a second rope 224, and a nozzle 225.

[0077] The second cover 221 is configured to face the first cover 211 at a predetermined distance from the first cover 211, so that it is located in the direction toward the other side of the electrode sheet fixing unit 100, and has the same external shape as the first cover 211.

[0078] The second heating part 222 located on the inner surface of the second cover 221, the second wheel 223 installed at the lower end of the second cover 221, and the second rope 224 installed on one edge of the second cover 221 are the same as the first heating part 212, the first wheel 213 and the first rope 214 of the first member 210, so their repeated description will be omitted.

[0079] Meanwhile, nozzle 225 can be further disposed in the second component 220. Since the temperature-sensitive controller 150 is disposed in the electrode plate fixing unit 100, it is not possible to heat the entire electrode plate fixing unit 100.

[0080] Therefore, when the controller 150 is exposed to the outside, the main heating element 110 is heated. At this time, the portion without the first cover 211 and the second cover 221 is exposed to the outside of the space defined by the cover, which may make it difficult to accurately adjust the temperature around the holding element 110.

[0081] Nozzle 225 is configured to overcome the aforementioned disadvantages. Multiple nozzles are arranged along the edge of the inner surface of the second cover 221 to form an air curtain, making it easy to adjust the temperature around the retaining part 110.

[0082] Here, preferably, the air injected through the nozzle 225 is heated to a temperature range that is as similar as possible to the temperature around the holding part 110.

[0083] Although nozzle 225 is shown in the drawings as being disposed on the second member 220, nozzle 225 may be disposed on the first member 210 instead of the second member 220.

[0084] In addition, the heating element can be provided in either the first component 210 or the second component 220.

[0085] The track 300 configured as the moving temperature adjustment unit 200 consists of a first track 310 and a second track 320. A first wheel 213 is mounted on the first track 310, and a second wheel 223 is mounted on the second track 320 to provide a moving path for the first component 210 and the second component 220.

[0086] Figure 8 This is a front view showing an apparatus for simulating thermal wrinkling of an electrode sheet according to a second embodiment of the present invention. Except for the external shapes of the first cover 211 and the second cover 221, the second embodiment is structurally similar to the reference design. Figure 6 and 7 The first embodiment described is the same.

[0087] That is, in the second embodiment, the upper part of the first cover 211 and the upper part of the second cover 221 are arched facing the electrode sheet fixing unit 100 in order to prevent heated air from flowing upward, thereby making it easier to adjust the temperature around the holding part 110.

[0088] Of course, the desired effect can be achieved even if only the upper part of the cover is arched.

[0089] Figure 9 This is a front view showing an apparatus for simulating thermal wrinkling of an electrode sheet according to a third embodiment of the present invention. Except for the external shapes of the first cover 211 and the second cover 221, the third embodiment is structurally similar to the reference design. Figure 8 The second embodiment described is the same.

[0090] That is, in the third embodiment, an extension is provided on the opposite side or one side of the first cover 211 and the opposite side or one side of the second cover 221. The extension is in a bent state in the direction toward the electrode sheet fixing unit 100 so as to prevent hot air from flowing forward or backward, thereby making it easier to adjust the temperature around the holding part 110.

[0091] Of course, the desired effect can be achieved even if only one extension is provided on the cover.

[0092] Furthermore, it is obvious that an extension in a bent state may be provided at each of the first cover portion 211 and the second cover portion 221 in the first embodiment.

[0093] Next, a method for simulating thermal wrinkles of an electrode sheet using the apparatus for simulating thermal wrinkles of an electrode sheet according to the present invention will be described.

[0094] The method for simulating thermal wrinkling of an electrode sheet includes: (a) fixing the electrode sheet to an electrode sheet fixing unit at room temperature (20 to 25°C); (b) setting a stretch length and applying a load to measure the tensile force; (c) moving a temperature adjustment unit to cover the opposite side surface of the electrode sheet fixing unit and measuring the tensile force; and (d) moving the temperature adjustment unit to expose the electrode sheet fixing unit to room temperature (20 to 25°C) and measuring the tensile force.

[0095] Here, thermal wrinkles on the electrode sheet can be wrinkles that often occur in the uncoated portion (i.e., the portion without active material coating) during the drying process of the electrode sheet.

[0096] Meanwhile, in step (c), the temperature adjustment unit can be moved to cover the opposite side surface of the electrode sheet fixing unit while the temperature adjustment unit is preheated to a predetermined temperature, or the temperature adjustment unit can be heated to a predetermined temperature after it is located on the opposite side surface of the electrode sheet fixing unit.

[0097] In addition, in step (c), a nozzle positioned along the edge of the inner surface of the cover can be operated to form an air curtain, and then the tensile force can be measured while the air curtain is formed.

[0098] Furthermore, the temperature in step (c) can be within the range of temperatures applied when the actual electrode sheet is drying, such as 150 to 200°C, the set stretching length can be 0.5 to 2.0 mm, and the holding time for each step can be several minutes; however, these can be changed or adjusted without limitation.

[0099] Moreover, in steps (c) and (d), preferably, the temperature adjustment unit moves along the track.

[0100] Although the specific details of the invention have been described in detail, those skilled in the art will understand that the detailed description only discloses preferred embodiments of the invention and therefore does not limit the scope of the invention. Consequently, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes and modifications are possible without departing from the category and concept of the invention, and it will be apparent that such changes and modifications fall within the scope of the appended claims.

[0101] [Description of reference numerals in the attached figures]

[0102] 100: Electrode plate fixing unit

[0103] 110: Maintaining Department

[0104] 111: First Maintenance Section

[0105] 111': First fixed part

[0106] 112: Second Maintenance Section

[0107] 112': Second fixing part

[0108] 120: Loading Department

[0109] 121: First loading rod

[0110] 122: Second loading rod

[0111] 130: Drive Unit

[0112] 140: Supporting Frame

[0113] 141: Vertical rod

[0114] 142: Horizontal bar

[0115] 150: Controller

[0116] 160: Support mold

[0117] 170: Support Leg

[0118] 200: Temperature adjustment unit

[0119] 210: First component

[0120] 211: First cover

[0121] 212: First heating section

[0122] 213: First Round

[0123] 214: The First Rope

[0124] 220: Second component

[0125] 221: Second cover

[0126] 222: Second heating section

[0127] 223: Second Round

[0128] 224: The Second Rope

[0129] 225: Nozzle

[0130] 300: Track

[0131] 310: First Track

[0132] 320: Second Track

[0133] S: Electrode plate

Claims

1. An apparatus for simulating thermal wrinkling of an electrode sheet produced during the drying process of an electrode sheet coated with an active material, the apparatus comprising: The electrode sheet fixing unit is configured to apply a tensile load to the electrode sheet while the opposite ends of the electrode sheet are fixed, so that the electrode sheet is stretched to a predetermined length. A temperature adjustment unit is configured to heat the electrode sheet fixing unit to a predetermined temperature while covering the electrode sheet fixing unit; as well as The track is configured to move the temperature adjustment unit. The temperature adjustment unit is composed of a first component and a second component located on opposite side surfaces of the electrode fixing unit. The first component includes a first cover portion that is a rectangular plate and a first wheel mounted to the lower end of the first cover portion to enable the first cover portion to move. The second component includes a second cover portion as a rectangular plate and a second wheel mounted to the lower end of the second cover portion to enable the second cover portion to move. A heating element is provided on the inner surface of the first cover and / or the second cover, the heating element being configured to maintain the electrode sheet fixing unit at a predetermined temperature.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The electrode fixing unit includes: The holding part includes a first holding part and a second holding part. The first holding part is provided with a first fixing part that fixes the upper end of the electrode sheet. The second holding part is located below the first holding part and is provided with a second fixing part that fixes the lower end of the electrode sheet. The loading part includes a first loading rod connected to the first holding part and a second loading rod supporting the second holding part; The drive unit is configured to move the first loading rod up and down; A support frame includes a vertical rod that is vertically positioned in a state of being extended to a predetermined length and a horizontal rod that is configured to move up and down along the vertical rod, one side of the horizontal rod being connected to the drive unit; A controller, connected to the support frame, is configured to control and measure the tensile length and tensile load of the electrode sheets; and The support mold is configured to support the lower end of the second retaining part and the lower end of the vertical rod.

3. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The upper part of the first cover is arched and faces the electrode sheet fixing unit.

4. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The upper part of the second cover is arched and faces the electrode sheet fixing unit.

5. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, An extension is provided on the opposite side or one side of the first cover, the extension being bent in the direction toward the electrode sheet fixing unit.

6. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, An extension is provided on the opposite side or one side of the second cover, the extension being bent in the direction toward the electrode sheet fixing unit.

7. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, A plurality of nozzles are provided at the edge of the inner surface of the first cover and / or the second cover, the plurality of nozzles being configured to form an air curtain to maintain the electrode sheet fixing unit at a predetermined temperature.

8. A method for simulating thermal wrinkling of an electrode sheet using an apparatus for simulating thermal wrinkling of an electrode sheet generated during the drying process of an electrode sheet coated with an active material, the method comprising: (a) Fix the electrode sheet to the electrode sheet fixing unit at room temperature; (b) Set the stretch length and apply a load to measure the tensile force; (c) Move the temperature adjustment unit to cover the opposite side surface of the electrode sheet fixing unit and measure the tensile force; as well as (d) Move the temperature adjustment unit to expose the electrode plate fixing unit to room temperature and measure the tensile force. The device includes: The electrode sheet fixing unit is configured to apply a tensile load to the electrode sheet while the opposite ends of the electrode sheet are fixed, so that the electrode sheet is stretched to a predetermined length. A temperature adjustment unit is configured to heat the electrode sheet fixing unit to a predetermined temperature while covering it; and The track is configured to move the temperature adjustment unit.

9. The method according to claim 8, wherein, The device is the device according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

10. The method according to claim 8, wherein, In step (c), the temperature adjustment unit is preheated to a predetermined temperature.

11. The method according to claim 8, wherein, Step (c) further includes heating the temperature adjustment unit to a predetermined temperature after positioning the temperature adjustment unit on the opposite side surface of the electrode sheet fixing unit.

12. The method according to claim 8, wherein, In steps (c) and (d), the temperature adjustment unit moves along the track.

13. The method according to claim 8, wherein, In step (c), an air curtain is formed by nozzles positioned along the edge of the inner surface of the first cover and / or the second cover.

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