Electrode tracking device

Abstract

The invention relates to an electrode tracking device which forms a mark on an electrode contact of an electrode conveyed in one direction or recognizes a mark formed on the electrode contact. The apparatus includes: a tracking section that moves in at least one of a horizontal direction or a vertical direction and includes at least one tracking unit of a marker and a reader; a guide portion including a first guide having an inclined surface at one end and supporting one side of the 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; a linkage portion including a first support member having one end coupled to the first guide and the other end coupled to the tracking member so as to be slidable in the up-down direction, and a second support member having one end coupled to the second guide and the other end coupled to the tracking member so as to be slidable in the up-down direction, the sliding block can slide up and down; and a foreign matter accommodating part which is open at the top. The foreign matter accommodating part is connected to the tracking part or the linkage part.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an electrode tracking device that forms a mark on an electrode terminal of an electrode transported in one direction, or identifies a mark formed on an electrode terminal. The electrode tracking device of the present invention is characterized by including a foreign matter receiving portion capable of collecting fine foreign matter generated during operation or position change.

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority from Korean Patent Application No. 10-2023-0090256, filed on Jul. 12, 2023, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Background Art

[0003] Secondary batteries are attracting attention as energy sources for various products such as mobile devices and electric vehicles. These batteries are considered a promising energy source that can replace conventional products using fossil fuels because they do not produce byproducts from energy use, making them popular as an environmentally friendly energy source.

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

[0005] In secondary batteries such as those described above, pouch-type batteries may undergo visual inspection to measure the appearance of the electrode tabs of the pouch-type battery cells before being shipped as products. Furthermore, marking symbols may be left on the electrode tabs assigned to each electrode to ensure traceability of each electrode, and movement of the electrodes may be tracked through visual inspection, etc. In this case, a structure is required to support the electrode tabs so that they do not shake during inspection of the marking symbols on the electrode tabs.

[0006] Figure 1 FIG. 1 shows a typical joint guide unit 10 capable of guiding an electrode joint T. Figure 1 The conventional joint guide unit 10 includes a pair of guide members 20 arranged in parallel and spaced apart a predetermined distance in the vertical direction. The guide members 20 may have openings O formed to allow the electrode joint T passing therethrough to be exposed to the outside.

[0007] Figure 2 A conventional electrode E tracking device is shown, which includes Figure 1 The tracking unit 30 is provided at a position corresponding to the opening O of the joint guide unit 10.

[0008] The electrode E passing through the pair of guides 20 moves so that the electrode joint T is exposed to the opening O. The tracking unit 30 may be a marker that forms a mark on the electrode joint T, or a reader that recognizes a mark formed on the joint. When the electrode joint T of the electrode E passing between the guides 20 is exposed to the opening O, the tracking unit 30 configured as described above leaves a marking symbol or an inspection marking symbol on the electrode joint T.

[0009] The conventional joint guiding unit 10 can flexibly adjust its position according to the changes in the width and thickness of the conveyed electrode E, the position of the electrode joint, etc.

[0010] During the adjustment of the position of the joint guide unit 10 as described above, friction between mechanical components may occur, causing small foreign matter to float. If such foreign matter adheres to the electrode joint T, the quality of the electrode E may be degraded. This deterioration in the quality of the electrode E ultimately leads to a decrease in the performance of the secondary battery.

[0011] [Patent Document] Korean Patent Publication No. 10-1605229 Summary of the Invention

[0012] Technical issues

[0013] Therefore, the present invention is designed to solve the above-mentioned problems, and the present invention aims to provide an electrode tracking device that can effectively collect foreign matter generated by friction or the like.

[0014] Other purposes and advantages of the present invention will be understood from the following description, and other purposes and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent through the embodiments of the present invention. In addition, it is apparent that the purposes and advantages of the present invention can be achieved through the devices and combinations described in the claims.

[0015] Technical Solution

[0016] According to the present invention, there is provided an electrode tracking device for forming a mark on an electrode connector of an electrode transported in one direction or recognizing a mark formed on the electrode connector.

[0017] The electrode tracking device includes: a tracking part, which is configured to move in at least one of a horizontal direction and a vertical direction, and includes at least one tracking unit selected from a marker and a reader; a guide part, which includes a first guide and a second guide, one end of the first guide has an inclined surface and the first guide supports one surface of the electrode connector, and the second guide has an inclined surface at a position corresponding to the inclined surface of the first guide and supports the other surface of the electrode connector; a linkage part, which includes a first support member and a second support member, one end of the first support member is connected to the first guide and the other end is connected to the tracking part so as to be able to slide in the up and down directions, one end of the second support member is connected to the second guide and the other end is connected to the tracking part so as to be able to slide in the up and down directions; and a foreign matter accommodating part, which is open upward, wherein the foreign matter accommodating part is connected to the tracking part or the linkage part.

[0018] The electrode is conveyed such that the electrode tab passes between the first guide and the second guide, wherein the first guide and the second guide may be arranged such 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, wherein the electrode may be conveyed such that the electrode tab is exposed through the opening.

[0020] The tracking portion may include: a main body including a tracking unit therein and including a first guide rail coupled to the first supporting 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 supporting member on one side.

[0021] The tracking portion is configured to allow the electrode being transported to pass through a lower portion thereof, wherein the guide portion may be provided at a lower portion of the tracking portion to guide the electrode connector of the electrode being transported.

[0022] The foreign matter receiving portion may be coupled to one of the first supporting member and the second supporting member of the link portion that is closer to the tracking portion.

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

[0024] The second supporting member may include: a sliding portion, which is connected to the protruding member to slide along the second guide rail and extends downward in the longitudinal direction of the main body; a fixing portion, which is arranged at a lower portion of the sliding portion and is connected to the second guide member; and a connecting portion, which connects the sliding portion and the fixing portion, wherein the foreign matter receiving portion can be connected to the fixing portion.

[0025] The foreign matter receiving portion and the second guide are respectively coupled to both sides of the fixing portion, the second guide is provided at a position corresponding to the tracking unit of the main body, and the foreign matter receiving portion may be provided at a position corresponding to the first guide rail and the second guide rail.

[0026] The foreign matter receiving portion may include: a bottom plate; and a side plate provided upright along an edge of the bottom plate, wherein the foreign matter receiving portion may be coupled such that the side plate is fixed to the second supporting member.

[0027] The tracking portion is configured to allow the electrode to be transported to pass through an upper portion thereof, wherein the guide portion may be provided at an upper portion of the tracking portion to guide the electrode connector of the electrode to be transported.

[0028] The foreign matter receiving portion may be coupled to the protruding member included in the tracking portion.

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

[0030] The foreign matter receiving portion may be provided at a position corresponding to the first guide rail.

[0031] The foreign matter receiving portion may include: a bottom plate; and a side plate provided upright along an edge of the bottom plate, wherein the foreign matter receiving portion may be coupled such that the side plate is fixed to the protruding member.

[0032] Beneficial effects

[0033] According to the present invention, foreign matter generated during a process of forming a mark on an electrode tab or recognizing a mark formed on the electrode tab can be effectively removed, thereby preventing deterioration of electrode quality. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0034] Figure 1 A conventional joint guide unit is shown.

[0035] Figure 2 Shown Figure 1 Tag guidance unit and tracking unit.

[0036] Figure 3 An electrode tracking device according to a first embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0037] Figure 4 Shown through Figure 3 The electrodes of the electrode tracking device.

[0038] Figure 5 Shown Figure 3 Exploded view of a portion of the electrode tracking device.

[0039] Figure 6 The arrangement of the tracking portion and the second guide of the electrode tracking device according to the first embodiment is shown.

[0040] Figure 7 A foreign matter receiving portion included in the electrode tracking device according to the first embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0041] Figure 8 The second support member of the linkage portion and the foreign matter receiving portion coupled to the second support member are shown.

[0042] Figure 9 The arrangement of the foreign matter receiving portion and the second guide is shown.

[0043] Figure 10 An embodiment of raising and lowering the second supporting member of the electrode tracking device according to the first embodiment is shown.

[0044] Figure 11 An example of raising and lowering the first supporting member of the electrode tracking device according to the first embodiment is shown.

[0045] Figure 12 An example is shown in which both the first supporting member and the second supporting member of the electrode tracking device according to the first embodiment are raised and lowered.

[0046] Figure 13 An electrode tracking device according to a second embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0047] Figure 14 Shown through Figure 13 The electrodes of the electrode tracking device.

[0048] Figure 15 Shown Figure 13 Exploded view of a portion of the electrode tracking device.

[0049] Figure 16 The arrangement of the tracking portion and the second guide of the electrode tracking device according to the second embodiment is shown.

[0050] Figure 17A foreign matter receiving portion included in an electrode tracking device according to a second embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0051] Figure 18 A protruding member and a foreign matter receiver coupled to the protruding member are shown.

[0052] Figure 19 An example of raising and lowering the second supporting member of the electrode tracking device according to the second embodiment is shown.

[0053] Figure 20 An example of raising and lowering the first supporting member of the electrode tracking device according to the second embodiment is shown.

[0054] Figure 21 An example in which both the first supporting member and the second supporting member of the electrode tracking device according to the second embodiment are raised and lowered is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0055] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Before that, it should be noted that the terms or words used in this specification and claims should not be interpreted in their ordinary or dictionary meanings, but should be interpreted in a sense and concept consistent with the technical concept of the present invention based on the principle that the inventor can appropriately define the concept of the term to best describe his invention.

[0056] Therefore, the embodiments described in this specification and the configurations shown in the accompanying drawings are merely preferred embodiments of the present invention and do not represent all the technical spirit of the present invention. It should be understood that various equivalents and modifications that can replace these embodiments may exist when this application is filed.

[0057] Furthermore, if it is determined that a detailed description of known configurations or functions related to the present invention may obscure the essence of the present invention, the detailed description may be omitted.

[0058] The embodiments of the present invention are provided to enable those skilled in the art to more fully explain the present invention, and for the purpose of clearer explanation, the shapes and sizes of the components in the drawings may be exaggerated, omitted, or schematically illustrated. Therefore, the size or ratio of each component does not fully reflect the actual size or ratio.

[0059] The present invention relates to an electrode tracking device, which forms a mark on an electrode connector of an electrode transported in one direction, or recognizes a mark formed on the electrode connector.

[0060] Figures 3 to 12 The present invention relates to an electrode tracking device according to a first embodiment. Figures 13 to 21 The present invention relates to an electrode tracking device according to a second embodiment.

[0061] Hereinafter, the electrode tracking device of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0062] (First embodiment)

[0063] Figure 3 The present invention relates to an electrode E tracking device according to a first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4 Shown through Figure 3 Electrode E of the tracking device, Figure 5 yes Figure 3 Exploded view of a portion of the Electrode E tracking device.

[0064] like Figure 3 As shown in FIG, the electrode E tracking device of the present invention includes a tracking part 100, a guiding part 200 and a linkage part 300.

[0065] like Figure 4 As shown in FIG, the tracking portion 100 is arranged so that the transmitted electrode E passes through the lower portion.

[0066] The tracking part 100 includes a tracking unit 111 that forms a mark on the electrode tap T of the transferred electrode E or recognizes a mark formed on the electrode tap T.

[0067] The tracking unit 111 may be a marker that marks the electrode tab T with a laser, or a reader that recognizes a mark formed on the electrode tab T. If necessary, the tracking portion 100 may include both a marker and a reader.

[0068] The tracking portion 100 is provided to be movable in at least one of a horizontal direction and a vertical direction.

[0069] The tracking portion 100 includes a main body 110 including a tracking unit 111 therein and a first guide rail 112 at one side.

[0070] The main body 110 has an opened lower portion, and the tracking unit 111 is provided inside the main body 110 to be exposed through the opening O.

[0071] The tracking unit 111 is disposed to face downward to form a mark on the electrode tap T passing through the lower portion of the opened body 110 or to recognize a mark on the electrode tap T.

[0072] The first guide rail 112 is formed in a straight line. More specifically, the first guide rail 112 extends in the longitudinal direction of the main body 110, that is, in the up-down direction in the figure.

[0073] The tracking portion 100 further includes a second guide rail 121 extending horizontally in alignment with the first guide rail 112 .

[0074] The second guide rail 121 is also formed in a straight line similar to the first guide rail 112 and is spaced apart from the first guide rail 112 by a predetermined distance so as to maintain horizontal alignment.

[0075] like Figure 3 As shown in , the tracking portion 100 may further include a protruding member 120 attached to one side of the body 110 .

[0076] The protruding member 120 is coupled to one side of the body 110 where the first guide rail 112 is formed.

[0077] The protruding member 120 serves to avoid interference between operating parts and to generate a height difference between the first guide rail 112 and the second guide rail 121 .

[0078] Therefore, the second guide rail 121 may be formed on the body 110 like the first guide rail 112 , or may be formed on the protruding member 120 coupled to the body 110 .

[0079] The electrode E tracking device of the present invention includes a guide portion 200 , which can guide the electrode terminal T to the position of the tracking unit 111 during the process of forming a mark on the electrode terminal T or recognizing the mark on the electrode terminal T by means of the tracking unit 111 .

[0080] The guide part 200 is provided at a lower portion of the tracking part 100 to guide the electrode tap T of the electrode E being transferred.

[0081] The guide portion 200 includes a first guide 200a having an inclined surface at one end for supporting one surface of the electrode E and a second guide 200b having an inclined surface at a position corresponding to the inclined surface of the first guide 200a for supporting the other surface of the electrode tab T.

[0082] according to Figure 3 and Figure 4 , the first guide member 200a and the second guide member 200b are disposed to face each other at a lower portion of the body 110. The first guide member 200a and the second guide member 200b are spaced apart by a predetermined distance to allow the electrode tab T to pass therebetween.

[0083] The first guide 200 a is disposed below the transfer electrode E, and the second guide 200 b is disposed to be interposed between the first guide 200 a and the body 110 .

[0084] The first guide 200 a and the second guide 200 b are disposed so that the incoming electrode tap T faces the inclined surface.

[0085] The electrode E moves horizontally, allowing the electrode tab T to pass between the first guide 200a and the second guide 200b located at the lower portion of the main body 110. At this time, the electrode tab T enters in the direction of the inclined surfaces of the first and second guides 200a and 200b. In other words, the electrode tab T moves toward the lower portion of the main body 110 along the inclined surfaces of the first and second guides 200a and 200b.

[0086] At least one of the first guide 200 a and the second guide 200 b includes an opening O.

[0087] The second guide 200 b of the electrode E tracking device according to the first embodiment of the present invention includes an opening O.

[0088] The second guide 200 b includes an opening O at a position corresponding to the tracking unit 111 .

[0089] The electrode E passing between the first guide 200 a and the second guide 200 b is transferred such that the electrode tap T is exposed to the opening O.

[0090] The tracking unit 111 of the tracking portion 100 forms a mark on the electrode tap T exposed to the opening O of the guide portion 200 or recognizes a mark on the electrode tap T.

[0091] Figure 6 1 and 2. The arrangement of the tracking portion 100 and the second guide 200b is shown. For ease of understanding, only the tracking unit 111 provided in the main body 110 is shown in the tracking portion 100.

[0092] according to Figure 6 , the opening O of the second guide 200 b is formed at a position corresponding to the tracking unit 111 , and the tracking unit 111 is disposed toward the opening O of the second guide 200 b .

[0093] If the tracking unit 111 is a marker, it may form a mark on the electrode tap T passing through the opening O. Alternatively, if the tracking unit 111 is a reader, it may recognize a mark formed on the electrode tap T passing through the opening O.

[0094] The first guide member 200 a and the second guide member 200 b of the guide portion 200 may be coupled to the tracking portion 100 via the link portion 300 .

[0095] The linkage portion 300 guides the guide portion 200 to reciprocate along a guide rail included in the tracking portion 100 .

[0096] like Figures 3 to 5As shown in , the linkage portion 300 includes a first support member 300a and a second support member 300b, the first support member 300a is coupled to the first guide 200a at one end and to the tracking portion 100 at the other end to slide in the up and down directions, and the second support member 300b is coupled to the second guide 200b at one end and to the tracking portion 100 at the other end to slide in the up and down directions.

[0097] Specifically, the first support member 300 a is coupled to the first guide rail 112 to slide relative to the main body 110 , and the second support member 300 b is also coupled to the second guide rail 121 to slide relative to the main body 110 .

[0098] 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 descends.

[0099] In addition, 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 falls.

[0100] The second supporting member 300b is composed of a sliding portion 300b1, a fixing portion 300b3, and a connecting portion 300b2.

[0101] Specifically, the second supporting member 300b includes a sliding portion 300b1, a fixing portion 300b3 and a connecting portion 300b2, wherein the sliding portion 300b1 is connected to the protruding member 120 to slide relative to the second guide rail 121, the fixing portion 300b3 is connected to the second guide member 200b, and both ends of the connecting portion 300b2 are respectively connected to the sliding portion 300b1 and the fixing portion 300b3.

[0102] More specifically, if Figure 5 As shown in the figure, the second supporting member 300b is connected to the protruding member 120 to slide relative to the second guide rail 121, and includes a sliding portion 300b1 extending downward along the longitudinal direction of the main body 110, a fixing portion 300b3 provided at the lower portion of the sliding portion 300b1 and connected to the second guide member 200b, and a connecting portion 300b2 connecting the sliding portion 300b1 and the fixing portion 300b3.

[0103] When the first and second support members 300 a and 300 b slide along the first and second guide rails 112 and 121 , friction may occur between each support member 300 a and 300 b and the guide rails 112 and 121 .

[0104] Friction at the contact points between the support members 300a, 300b and the guide rails 112, 121 may cause fine foreign matter such as metal powder to float. If such foreign matter falls onto the electrodes E, it may cause quality degradation and defects in the secondary battery.

[0105] The electrode E tracking device of the present invention is characterized in that a foreign matter receiving portion 400 capable of collecting foreign matter generated in a region where friction occurs is employed.

[0106] The foreign matter receiving portion 400 is opened upward to catch foreign matter dropped from the opened upper portion.

[0107] Figure 7 FIG. 4 shows a foreign body receiving portion 400 of the present invention. Figure 7 As shown in FIG, the foreign matter receiving portion 400 includes a bottom plate 410 and side plates 420 , and the side plates 420 are provided to stand along the edge of the bottom plate 410 .

[0108] The floating foreign matter may be accumulated and collected on the bottom plate 410 of the foreign matter receiving portion 400 .

[0109] The foreign matter receiving portion 400 may be coupled to the tracking portion 100 or the linking portion 300 .

[0110] The electrode E tracking device according to the first embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that the foreign matter receiving portion 400 is coupled to the linkage portion 300. More specifically, the foreign matter receiving portion 400 is coupled to the one of the first supporting member 300a and the second supporting member 300b of the linkage portion 300 that is closer to the tracking portion 100.

[0111] according to Figures 3 to 5 , the foreign matter receiving portion 400 is coupled to the second supporting member 300 b.

[0112] Figure 8 The second support member 300 b of the linkage portion 300 and the foreign matter receiving portion 400 coupled to the second support member 300 b are illustrated.

[0113] like Figure 8 As shown in FIG, the foreign matter receiving portion 400 is coupled to be fixed to the second supporting member 300b. More specifically, the foreign matter receiving portion 400 is fixed such that the side plate is fixed to one side of the fixing portion 300b3.

[0114] Figure 9 4 shows the arrangement of the foreign matter receiving portion 400 and the second guide member 200b. Figure 9As shown in FIG, the foreign matter receiving portion 400 and the second guide 200b are respectively coupled to both sides of the fixing portion 300b3. At this time, the second guide 200b is provided at a position corresponding to the tracking unit 111 of the main body 110, and the foreign matter receiving portion 400 is coupled to the side of the fixing portion 300b3 opposite to the side to which the second guide 200b is coupled.

[0115] The foreign matter receiving portion 400 is provided at a position corresponding to the first guide rail 112 and the second guide rail 121. Figures 3 to 5 As shown in .

[0116] Therefore, the foreign matter receiving portion 400 can effectively collect foreign matter generated from the first guide rail 112 and the second guide rail 121 .

[0117] The electrode E tracking device of the present invention can adjust the position of the tracking portion 100 and the positions and intervals of the first and second guides 200a and 200b included in the guide portion 200 as the thickness and width of the target electrode E change.

[0118] To adjust the positions of the first and second guides 200a and 200b, the first and second support members 300a and 300b included in the linkage portion 300 slide relative to the body 110. Foreign matter generated at this time accumulates in the foreign matter receiving portion 400 coupled to the fixing portion 300b3.

[0119] Figure 10 An embodiment of the second supporting member 300b being lifted and lowered is shown. Figure 11 An embodiment in which the first supporting member 300a is raised and lowered is shown, and Figure 12 An embodiment is shown in which the first supporting member 300a and the second supporting member 300b are raised and lowered together.

[0120] according to Figure 10 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. This friction may cause small foreign matter to form on the surface of the second support member 300b or the second guide rail 121. However, the foreign matter receiving portion 400 provided at the bottom collects any floating foreign matter. Therefore, the electrode E tracking device of the present invention prevents the surfaces of the electrode E and the electrode connector T from being contaminated by foreign matter.

[0121] according to Figure 11As 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. This friction may cause small foreign matter to form on the surface of the first support member 300a or the first guide rail 112. However, the foreign matter receiving portion 400 provided at the bottom collects the floating foreign matter. Therefore, the electrode E tracking device of the present invention prevents the surfaces of the electrode E and the electrode connector T from being contaminated by foreign matter.

[0122] according to Figure 12 When the first and second support members 300a and 300b move up and down along the first and second guide rails 112 and 121, respectively, friction occurs. This friction may produce small foreign matter on the surfaces of the first and second support members 300a and 300b, and the first and second guide rails 112 and 121. However, the foreign matter receiving portion 400 disposed at the bottom collects these floating foreign matter. Therefore, the electrode E tracking device of the present invention prevents foreign matter from contaminating the surfaces of the electrode E and the electrode connector T.

[0123] (Second embodiment)

[0124] The electrode E tracking device of the present invention can also be used by reversing the tracking portion 100 , the guiding portion 200 , and the linkage portion 300 .

[0125] The electrode E tracking device according to the second embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that the foreign matter receiving portion 400 is coupled to the tracking portion 100 by reversing the tracking portion 100 , the guide portion 200 , and the linking portion 300 of the electrode E tracking device according to the first embodiment.

[0126] Figure 13 FIG. 4 shows an electrode E tracking device according to a second embodiment of the present invention. Figure 14 Shown through Figure 13 Electrode E of the tracking device, Figure 15 yes Figure 13 Exploded view of a portion of the Electrode E tracking device.

[0127] like Figure 13 As shown in FIG, the electrode E tracking device of the present invention includes a tracking part 100, a guiding part 200 and a linkage part 300.

[0128] like Figure 14 As shown in FIG, the tracking portion 100 is arranged so that the transmitted electrode E passes through the upper portion.

[0129] The tracking part 100 includes a tracking unit 111 that forms a mark on the electrode tap T of the transferred electrode E or recognizes a mark formed on the electrode tap T.

[0130] The tracking unit 111 may be a marker that marks the electrode tab T with a laser, or a reader that recognizes a mark formed on the electrode tab T. If necessary, the tracking portion 100 may include both a marker and a reader.

[0131] The tracking unit 100 is configured to be movable in at least one of a horizontal direction and a vertical direction.

[0132] The tracking portion 100 includes a main body 110 including a tracking unit 111 therein and a first guide rail 112 at one side.

[0133] The main body 110 has an opened upper portion, and the tracking unit 111 is provided inside the main body 110 to be exposed through the opening O.

[0134] The tracking unit 111 is disposed to face upward to form a mark on the electrode tap T passing through the upper portion of the opened main body 110 or to recognize a mark on the electrode tap T.

[0135] The first guide rail 112 is formed in a straight line. More specifically, the first guide rail 112 extends in the longitudinal direction of the main body 110, that is, in the up-down direction in the figure.

[0136] The tracking portion 100 further includes a second guide rail 121 extending horizontally in alignment with the first guide rail 112 .

[0137] The second guide rail 121 is also formed in a straight line similar to the first guide rail 112 and is spaced apart from the first guide rail 112 by a predetermined distance so as to maintain horizontal alignment.

[0138] like Figure 13 As shown in , the tracking portion 100 may further include a protruding member 120 attached to one side of the body 110 .

[0139] The protruding member 120 is coupled to one side where the first guide rail 112 is formed, among the side surfaces corresponding to the periphery of the body 110 .

[0140] The protruding member 120 serves to avoid interference between operating parts and to generate a height difference between the first guide rail 112 and the second guide rail 121 .

[0141] Therefore, the second guide rail 121 may be formed on the body 110 like the first guide rail 112 , or may be formed on the protruding member 120 coupled to the body 110 .

[0142] The electrode E tracking device of the present invention includes a guide portion 200 , which can guide the electrode terminal T to the position of the tracking unit 111 during the process in which the tracking unit 111 forms or recognizes a mark on the electrode terminal T.

[0143] The guide portion 200 is provided on an upper portion of the tracking portion 100 to guide the electrode tap T of the electrode E being transferred.

[0144] The guide portion 200 includes a first guide 200a having an inclined surface at one end for supporting one surface of the electrode E and a second guide 200b having an inclined surface at a position corresponding to the inclined surface of the first guide 200a for supporting the other surface of the electrode tab T.

[0145] according to Figure 13 and Figure 14 , the first guide member 200a and the second guide member 200b are disposed to face each other at an upper portion of the body 110. The first guide member 200a and the second guide member 200b are spaced apart by a predetermined distance to allow the electrode tab T to pass therebetween.

[0146] The first guide 200 a is disposed above the transfer electrode E, and the second guide 200 b is disposed to be interposed between the first guide 200 a and the body 110 .

[0147] The first guide 200 a and the second guide 200 b are disposed so that the incoming electrode tap T faces the inclined surface.

[0148] The electrode E moves horizontally, allowing the electrode tab T to pass between the first guide 200a and the second guide 200b located at the upper portion of the main body 110. At this time, the electrode tab T enters in the direction of the inclined surfaces of the first and second guides 200a and 200b. In other words, the electrode tab T moves toward the upper portion of the main body 110 along the inclined surfaces of the first and second guides 200a and 200b.

[0149] At least one of the first guide 200 a and the second guide 200 b includes an opening O.

[0150] The second guide 200 b of the electrode E tracking device according to the second embodiment of the present invention includes an opening O.

[0151] The second guide 200 b includes an opening O at a position corresponding to the tracking unit 111 .

[0152] The electrode E passing between the first guide 200 a and the second guide 200 b is transferred such that the electrode tap T is exposed to the opening O.

[0153] The tracking unit 111 of the tracking portion 100 forms a mark on the electrode tap T exposed to the opening O of the guide portion 200 or recognizes a mark on the electrode tap T.

[0154] Figure 161 and 2. The arrangement of the tracking portion 100 and the second guide 200b is shown. For ease of understanding, only the tracking unit 111 provided in the main body 110 is shown in the tracking portion 100.

[0155] according to Figure 16 , the opening O of the second guide 200 b is formed at a position corresponding to the tracking unit 111 , and the tracking unit 111 is disposed toward the opening O of the second guide 200 b .

[0156] If the tracking unit 111 is a marker, it may form a mark on the electrode tap T passing through the opening O. Alternatively, if the tracking unit 111 is a reader, it may recognize a mark formed on the electrode tap T passing through the opening O.

[0157] The first guide member 200 a and the second guide member 200 b of the guide portion 200 may be coupled to the tracking portion 100 via the link portion 300 .

[0158] The linkage portion 300 guides the guide portion 200 to reciprocate along a guide rail included in the tracking portion 100 .

[0159] like Figures 13 to 15 As shown in , the linkage portion 300 includes a first support member 300a and a second support member 300b, the first support member 300a is coupled to the first guide 200a at one end and to the tracking portion 100 at the other end to slide in the up and down directions, and the second support member 300b is coupled to the second guide 200b at one end and to the tracking portion 100 at the other end to slide in the up and down directions.

[0160] Specifically, the first support member 300 a is coupled to the first guide rail 112 to slide relative to the main body 110 , and the second support member 300 b is also coupled to the second guide rail 121 to slide relative to the main body 110 .

[0161] 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 descends.

[0162] In addition, 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 falls.

[0163] The second supporting member 300b is composed of a sliding portion 300b1, a fixing portion 300b3, and a connecting portion 300b2.

[0164] Specifically, the second supporting member 300b includes a sliding portion 300b1, a fixing portion 300b3 and a connecting portion 300b2, wherein the sliding portion 300b1 is connected to the protruding member 120 to slide relative to the second guide rail 121, the fixing portion 300b3 is connected to the second guide member 200b, and both ends of the connecting portion 300b2 are respectively connected to the sliding portion 300b1 and the fixing portion 300b3.

[0165] More specifically, if Figure 15 As shown in the figure, the second supporting member 300b includes: a sliding portion 300b1, which is connected to the protruding member 120 to slide relative to the second guide rail 121 and extends upward along the longitudinal direction of the main body 110; a fixing portion 300b3, which is arranged on the upper portion of the sliding portion 300b1 and is connected to the second guide member 200b; and a connecting portion 300b2, which connects the sliding portion 300b1 and the fixing portion 300b3.

[0166] When the first and second support members 300 a and 300 b slide along the first and second guide rails 112 and 121 , friction may occur between each support member 300 a and 300 b and the guide rails 112 and 121 .

[0167] Friction at the contact points between the support members 300a, 300b and the guide rails 112, 121 may cause fine foreign matter such as metal powder to float. If such foreign matter falls onto the electrodes E, it may cause quality degradation and defects in the secondary battery.

[0168] The electrode E tracking device of the present invention is characterized in that a foreign matter receiving portion 400 capable of collecting foreign matter generated in a region where friction occurs is employed.

[0169] The foreign matter receiving portion 400 is opened to the upper portion and is used to catch foreign matter dropped from the opened upper portion.

[0170] Figure 17 FIG. 4 shows a foreign body receiving portion 400 of the present invention. Figure 17 As shown in FIG, the foreign matter receiving portion 400 includes a bottom plate 410 and side plates 420 , and the side plates 420 are provided to stand along the edge of the bottom plate 410 .

[0171] The floating foreign matter may be accumulated and collected on the bottom plate 410 of the foreign matter receiving portion 400 .

[0172] The foreign matter receiving portion 400 may be coupled to the tracking portion 100 or the linking portion 300 .

[0173] The electrode E tracking device according to the second embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that the foreign matter receiving portion 400 is coupled to the tracking portion 100. More specifically, the foreign matter receiving portion 400 is coupled to the protruding member 120 included in the tracking portion 100.

[0174] according to Figures 13 to 15 , the foreign matter receiving portion 400 is provided on a side of the protruding member 120 .

[0175] Figure 18 The protruding member 120 and the foreign matter receiver 400 coupled to the protruding member 120 are shown.

[0176] like Figure 18 As shown in FIG, the foreign matter receiving portion 400 is coupled to be fixed to one side of the protruding member 120. More specifically, the foreign matter receiving portion 400 is fixed such that the side plate is fixed to the side surface of the protruding member 120.

[0177] The foreign matter receiving portion 400 is provided at a position corresponding to the first guide rail 112. Figures 13 to 15 As shown in .

[0178] Therefore, the foreign matter receiving portion 400 can effectively collect foreign matter generated from the first guide rail 112 .

[0179] The electrode E tracking device of the present invention can adjust the position of the tracking portion 100 and the positions and intervals of the first and second guides 200a and 200b included in the guide portion 200 as the thickness and width of the target electrode E change.

[0180] To adjust the positions of the first and second guides 200a and 200b, the first and second support members 300a and 300b included in the link portion 300 slide relative to the body 110. Foreign matter generated at this time accumulates in the foreign matter receiving portion 400 coupled to the protruding member 120.

[0181] Figure 19 An embodiment of lifting and lowering the second supporting member 300b is shown. Figure 20 An embodiment of raising and lowering the first support member 300a is shown, and Figure 21 An embodiment is shown in which the first supporting member 300a and the second supporting member 300b are raised and lowered together.

[0182] according to Figure 19As the second support member 300b moves up and down along the second guide rail 121, friction occurs at the contact points between the second support member 300b and the second guide rail 121. This friction may cause small foreign matter to form on the surfaces of the second support member 300b or the second guide rail 121. However, the foreign matter receiving portion 400 provided at the bottom collects some of the floating foreign matter. Therefore, the electrode E tracking device of the present invention minimizes foreign matter contamination of the surfaces of the electrode E and the electrode joint T.

[0183] according to Figure 20 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. This friction may cause small foreign matter to form on the surface of the first support member 300a or the first guide rail 112. However, the foreign matter receiving portion 400 provided at the bottom collects the floating foreign matter. Therefore, the electrode E tracking device of the present invention prevents foreign matter from contaminating the surfaces of the electrode E and the electrode joint T.

[0184] according to Figure 21 As the first and second support members 300a and 300b move up and down along the first and second guide rails 112 and 121, respectively, friction occurs. This friction may create small foreign matter on the surfaces of the first and second support members 300a and 300b, and the first and second guide rails 112 and 121. However, the foreign matter receiving portion 400 disposed below collects these floating foreign matter. Therefore, the electrode E tracking device of the present invention prevents foreign matter from contaminating the surfaces of the electrode E and the electrode connector T.

[0185] The present invention has been described in more detail above with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. However, it should be understood that the configuration shown in the drawings or embodiments described herein is only one embodiment of the present invention and does not represent all technical concepts of the present invention, and that various equivalents and modifications that can replace these embodiments may exist at the time of filing this application.

[0186] [Explanation of Reference Numerals]

[0187] 10: (Prior Art) Joint Guide Unit

[0188] 20: (Prior Art) Guide

[0189] 30: (Prior Art) Tracking Unit

[0190] 100: Tracking Department

[0191] 110: Main body

[0192] 111: Tracking unit

[0193] 112: First rail

[0194] 120: Protruding component

[0195] 121: Second rail

[0196] 200: Guidance Department

[0197] 200a: First guide

[0198] 200b: Second guide

[0199] 300: Linkage Department

[0200] 300a: First supporting member

[0201] 300b: Second supporting member

[0202] 300b1: Sliding part

[0203] 300b2: Connection

[0204] 300b3: fixed part

[0205] 400: Foreign matter receiving part

[0206] 410: Base plate

[0207] 420: Side panels

[0208] E: Electrode

[0209] T: Electrode connector

[0210] O: Open

Claims

1. An electrode tracking device, the electrode tracking device being used to form a mark on an electrode connector of an electrode transported in one direction, or to identify a mark formed on the electrode connector, the electrode tracking device comprising: a tracking section configured to move in at least one of a horizontal direction and a vertical direction and comprising at least one tracking unit selected from a marker and a reader; a guide portion comprising a first guide member and a second guide member, wherein one end of the first guide member has an inclined surface and the first guide member supports one surface of the electrode tab, and the second guide member has an inclined surface at a position corresponding to the inclined surface of the first guide member and supports the other surface of the electrode tab; a linkage portion including a first supporting member and a second supporting member, the first supporting member having one end coupled to the first guide and the other end coupled to the tracking portion so as to be able to slide in the up-down direction, and the second supporting member having one end coupled to the second guide and the other end coupled to the tracking portion so as to be able to slide in the up-down direction; as well as a foreign body receiving portion, the foreign body receiving portion being open upward, Wherein, the foreign matter receiving portion is connected to the tracking portion or the linkage portion.

2. The electrode tracking device according to claim 1, wherein: The electrode is conveyed so that the electrode contact 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.

3. The electrode tracking device according to claim 1, wherein: At least one of the first guide member and the second guide member included in the guide portion includes an opening, and The electrode is conveyed such that the electrode contact is exposed through the opening.

4. The electrode tracking device according to claim 1, wherein: The tracking unit includes: a main body including a tracking unit therein and including a first guide rail coupled to the first supporting member on one side; and A protruding member is attached to one side of the main body and includes a second guide rail coupled to the second support member at one side.

5. The electrode tracking device according to claim 4, wherein: The tracking portion is arranged so that the electrode being conveyed passes through the lower portion thereof, and The guide portion is provided at a lower portion of the tracking portion to guide the electrode connector of the transferred electrode.

6. The electrode tracking device according to claim 5, wherein: The foreign matter receiving portion is coupled to one of the first supporting member and the second supporting member of the link portion, which is closer to the tracking portion.

7. The electrode tracking device according to claim 5, wherein: The first guide is provided below the electrode being conveyed, and the second guide is provided 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.

8. The electrode tracking device according to claim 5, wherein: The second supporting member comprises: a sliding portion coupled to the protruding member to slide along the second guide rail and extending downward in a longitudinal direction of the main body; a fixing portion provided at a lower portion of the sliding portion and coupled to the second guide; and a connecting portion connecting the sliding portion and the fixing portion, and The foreign matter receiving portion is coupled to the fixing portion.

9. The electrode tracking device according to claim 8, wherein: The foreign matter receiving portion and the second guide are respectively coupled to both sides of the fixing portion, The second guide is provided at a position corresponding to the tracking unit of the main body, and The foreign matter receiving portion is provided at a position corresponding to the first guide rail and the second guide rail.

10. The electrode tracking device according to claim 5, wherein: The foreign matter receiving portion includes: base plate; and side panels, the side panels being arranged upright along the edges of the bottom panel, and The foreign matter receiving portion is coupled such that the side plate is fixed to the second supporting member.

11. The electrode tracking device according to claim 4, wherein: The tracking portion is arranged so that the electrode to be transported passes through the upper portion thereof, and The guide portion is provided on an upper portion of the tracking portion to guide the electrode connector of the transferred electrode.

12. The electrode tracking device according to claim 11, wherein: The foreign matter receiving portion is coupled to the protruding member included in the tracking portion.

13. The electrode tracking device according to claim 11, wherein: The first guide is provided above the electrode being conveyed, and the second guide is provided 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.

14. The electrode tracking device according to claim 12, wherein: The foreign matter receiving portion is provided at a position corresponding to the first guide rail.

15. The electrode tracking device according to claim 11, wherein: The foreign matter receiving portion comprises: base plate; and side panels, the side panels being arranged upright along the edges of the bottom panel, and The foreign matter receiving portion is coupled such that the side plate is fixed to the protruding member.

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