Method for processing metal foil coiled material raw material into electrode coiled material

Abstract

A method of processing a metal foil coil feedstock into an electrode coil comprises the steps of operating a die coater to coat the metal foil coil feedstock with an active material layer on the metal foil coil feedstock; supplying a first portion of the metal foil coil stock from the first supply roll to the die coater; providing a second supply roll carrying a second portion of the metal foil coil stock; providing an adhesive to a leading end of the second portion of the metal foil web stock; applying the front end of the second part of the metal foil coil raw material to the section of the first part of the metal foil coil raw material, so that the adhesive is clamped between the first part and the second part of the metal foil coil raw material; and severing a first portion of the metal foil web stock from the first supply roll at or behind the adhesive.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a method of processing metal foil web material into an electrode web, and to a machine configured to perform the method. Background Art

[0002] In modern society, with the widespread use of portable devices such as mobile phones, laptops, video cameras, and digital cameras, the development of battery technology has become extremely important. Furthermore, in an effort to address air pollution and reduce carbon dioxide emissions caused by existing internal combustion engine vehicles powered by fossil fuels, rechargeable / dischargeable secondary batteries have become an indispensable power source for electric vehicles (EVs), hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (P-HEVs). Consequently, there is a growing demand for improved secondary batteries.

[0003] Currently commercialized secondary batteries include nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, nickel-zinc batteries, and lithium secondary batteries. Among these, lithium secondary batteries have attracted considerable attention due to their various advantages. For example, compared to nickel-based secondary batteries, lithium secondary batteries exhibit virtually no memory effect, allowing for easy charging and discharging, as well as extremely low self-discharge rates and high energy density.

[0004] Secondary batteries can be classified into cylindrical batteries (electrode assemblies housed in cylindrical metal cans), prismatic batteries (electrode assemblies housed in prismatic metal cans), and pouch-type batteries based on the shape of the battery case. Pouch-type secondary batteries generally house an electrode assembly having a structure in which electrodes and separators are alternately arranged within a pouch-shaped case made of laminated aluminum sheets.

[0005] In addition, secondary batteries can also be classified based on the structure of the stacked positive and negative electrodes (with a separator inserted between the positive and negative electrodes). Typically, it can have a stacked (laminated) structure in which a plurality of positive and negative electrodes cut into predetermined unit sizes are stacked in sequence, with a separator inserted between the positive and negative electrodes, and so on. In recent years, in order to solve the problems caused by the roll-type electrode assembly and the stacked electrode assembly, a stacked / folded electrode assembly has been developed, which is a combination of the roll-type electrode assembly and the stacked electrode assembly. This stacked electrode assembly may also be referred to as an electrode stack assembly.

[0006] Electrodes (i.e., positive and negative electrodes) are typically formed in a process whereby a stock metal foil coil is processed into electrode coils by coating the stock metal foil with a layer of active material and subsequently separating the individual electrodes from the coated stock metal foil coil. The coils are typically supplied to the processing assembly in the form of supply rolls. To maximize output, it is desirable to operate the processing assembly with as little downtime as possible and to ensure that the produced electrodes meet quality standards, thereby minimizing discharge. To this end, it is desirable to switch from one supply roll to the next as efficiently as possible.

[0007] KR 10-2023-0004997A1 describes an electrode sheet connecting method in which a partial web from a first supply roll is attached to a downstream portion from a second supply roll by intersecting an edge of the first portion with an edge of the second portion so as to align them and applying tape to the mutual surfaces of the joined portions.

[0008] Different attachment methods for electrode foils are described in KR 10-1269482 B1, US 2012 318 462 A1 or JP 1997 0219 189 A2.

[0009] In assemblies that process metal foil coil stock into electrode coils, the common method of switching from a first supply coil to a second supply coil results in significant downtime between processing the first section of the coil and the second, downstream section. Furthermore, the attachment of the leading section to the downstream section often results in poor coating quality downstream of the connection, requiring the poor-quality material to be discarded and unusable in battery production.

[0010] Furthermore, with traditional methods, sticky adhesive residues can accumulate on deflection pulleys, tension rollers, etc., which can cause damage to the web being processed and require tedious cleaning and downtime, reducing production efficiency. Summary of the Invention

[0011] Technical issues

[0012] The object of the present disclosure is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art and in particular to provide an improved method of processing metal foil coil stock into electrode coils which allows for fast, reliable and / or efficient production, preferably of the highest quality.

[0013] Technical Solution

[0014] The subject matter according to the independent claims solves one or more problems known from the prior art. Specific embodiments are given by the features of the dependent claims.

[0015] Therefore, a method for processing a metal foil coil stock into an electrode coil is provided. The electrode coil can be further processed to be used as an electrode plate, etc., in particular, as a positive electrode plate or a negative electrode plate. In particular, the electrode plate produced in the method for processing a metal foil coil stock into an electrode coil as described below can be formed into a jellyroll-type electrode assembly, a stacked electrode assembly, or a stacked / folded electrode assembly. The method for processing the metal foil coil stock includes several steps.

[0016] A method for processing a metal foil coil stock includes the step of operating a die coater to coat the metal foil coil stock with an active material layer. During processing of the metal foil coil stock, the die coater may be operated continuously and / or constantly to apply the active material layer to the metal foil coil stock. The method for processing the metal foil coil stock may include the steps of operating one or more die coaters to coat a first surface and / or a second surface of the metal foil coil stock with an active material layer. It may be preferred that the method for processing the metal foil coil stock include: a first step of operating a first die coater to coat the first surface of the metal foil coil stock with a first active material layer; and a second step of operating a second die coater to coat the second surface of the metal foil coil stock with a second active material layer, wherein the first and second active material layers may preferably contain or consist of the same components. The first coating step and the second coating step may be performed sequentially. One or more drying steps may be performed directly after the respective coating steps to dry and solidify the active material layer. In particular, the first drying step may be performed after the first coating step (and in particular before the subsequent second coating step). The second coating step may be followed by a second drying step.

[0017] The method of processing a metal foil coil stock further comprises the steps of supplying a first portion of the metal foil coil stock from a first supply reel to a die coater, and providing a second supply reel carrying a second portion of the metal foil coil stock. As the metal foil coil stock is supplied from the supply reel to the die coater, it may travel along one or more intermediate components or sections, such as pulleys, particularly including at least one or more deflection pulleys and / or tension rollers.

[0018] The term "coil stock" should be understood as a general term referring to coil-type stock, such as films, sheets, foils, meshes, porous materials (such as screens, foams, and nonwoven fabrics), etc. The coil stock has a coil length dimension that is much greater than a coil width dimension, wherein the coil width dimension is much greater than the coil thickness dimension. For example, the coil thickness dimension of the metal foil coil stock to be processed can be configured in the range of 1 μm and 100 μm, preferably between 3 μm and 30 μm, and more preferably between 5 μm and 15 μm. For example, the coil width dimension of the metal foil coil stock to be processed can be configured in the range of 1 mm and 5000 mm, preferably between 10 mm and 1000 mm, and more preferably between 50 mm and 500 mm. For example, the coil length dimension of the metal foil coil stock to be processed can be configured in the range of 10 m and 100 km, preferably between 100 m and 50 km, and more preferably between 500 m and 25 km. During processing, in particular during the coating step, a typical rate of movement of the coil stock may be approximately 100 m / min. When newly mounted on the supply reel, the coil length dimensions may preferably be wound around the respective supply reel. The supply from the supply reel to the die coater may preferably move in the coil length direction. The axis of rotation of the supply reel is preferably arranged parallel to the coil width direction. The radial direction of the supply reel preferably corresponds to the coil thickness direction. The first supply reel and the second supply reel preferably carry the same type of metal foil coil stock. Preferably, the supply reels carry metal foil coil stock of the same thickness dimension and / or the same width dimension. It is not mandatory, but it may be preferred, that the supply reels carry metal foil coil stock of the same or at least similar coil length dimensions, at least initially before unwinding.

[0019] The method also includes the step of applying adhesive to the leading end of the second portion of the metal foil coil stock. The leading end of the metal foil coil stock includes its leading edge and the portion of the coil trailing the leading edge. The adhesive may be applied to the leading edge of the second portion or at a distance from the leading edge. The adhesive may be applied to the second portion in an adhesive region extending in both the widthwise and lengthwise directions of the second portion. The adhesive region may preferably extend continuously from the first (left) transverse edge to the second (right) transverse edge. The longitudinal extension of the adhesive region may not exceed the widthwise extension of the metal foil coil stock and / or the widthwise extension of the adhesive region. The adhesive may be applied to the second portion as a layer extending continuously across the entire width of the metal foil coil stock. Alternatively, the adhesive may be applied to the second portion in a pattern (preferably a regular pattern, such as a pattern comprising a plurality of dots, lines, etc.). Preferably, the distance between the adhesive and the leading edge in the lengthwise direction of the coil may be less than 1 meter, particularly less than 10 cm or less than 1 cm. The step of applying adhesive to the leading end of the second portion of the metal foil coil stock may be performed before or simultaneously with providing the second supply roll. The adhesive may be applied to the leading end of the second portion of the metal foil while the second portion of the metal foil is fully wound onto the second supply roll, before it is wound onto the supply roll, or after unwinding of the second portion of the metal foil from the second supply roll has begun. The adhesive may be applied to the second portion of the metal foil coil stock, for example, in liquid or solid form (e.g., as a piece of adhesive tape). The adhesive applied to the leading end of the second portion of the metal foil coil stock may include a solvent, particularly a water-based solvent or an organic solvent.

[0020] The method further includes the step of applying the leading end of the second portion of the metal foil coil stock to the section of the first portion of the metal foil coil stock, such that the adhesive is sandwiched between the first and second portions of the metal foil coil stock. The first and second portions are preferably applied to each other so that their respective longitudinal directions are aligned. Alternatively or additionally, it may be preferred that, when the leading end of the second portion is applied to the first portion, the first (left) lateral edge and / or the second (right) lateral edge of the first and second portions are aligned. The adhesive may be applied to the first portion in an attachment region extending along both the width and length of the second portion. The attachment region may preferably extend continuously from the first (left) lateral edge of the second portion to the second (right) lateral edge. The attachment region may extend in the length direction no greater than the width direction of the metal foil coil stock and / or the width direction of the attachment region. When the leading end of the second portion is applied to the section of the first portion, the adhesive may adhere to the first and / or second portion. For example, the adhesive may comprise a liquid adhesive or adhesive tape that adheres to both the first and second portions. The adhesion area may be as large as or larger than the attachment area.

[0021] The method for processing a metal foil coil stock into an electrode coil further includes the step of severing a first portion of the metal foil coil stock from a first supply coil at the adhesive (particularly in the attachment region) or after the adhesive (particularly downstream of the attachment region). The severing step is preferably performed only with respect to the first portion. In particular, the severing step leaves a second portion of the metal foil coil stock intact.

[0022] The leading end of the metal foil coil stock can be the radially outermost portion of the metal foil coil stock on the corresponding supply reel before being unwound from the reel. The leading end of the coil stock can generally refer to the front-most portion of the metal foil coil stock as it travels through the machine. As the second portion travels, the second portion follows the leading end of the metal foil coil stock through the processing machine. Specifically, the leading edge of the leading end is the first portion of the second portion of the metal foil material that contacts components or parts of the machine processing the metal foil coil stock during the process (particularly, before other portions of the second portion contact those components or parts). Given the process direction in a machine configured to perform the process, the leading end can be referred to as the forward end of the second portion of the metal foil coil stock. The leading edge forms the boundary of the leading end. During the process, the entire second portion of the metal foil coil stock may trail the leading edge. Specifically, the machine includes a first die coater for coating a first surface of the metal foil coil stock with a first active material layer and a second die coater configured to coat a second surface of the metal foil coil stock with a second active material layer.

[0023] Advantageously, the method described above allows for a particularly strong bond to be achieved between the portions of metal foil coil stock to be coated in a die coater. The method allows for the rapid attachment of a second portion to a first portion for its replacement, thereby minimizing downtime for switching from one supply to another. By attaching the first and second portions via adhesive sandwiched between the portions of the coil, the amount of adhesive that could contaminate components such as deflection pulleys, tensioning rollers, etc. is significantly reduced.

[0024] When the supply from the first supply roll nears its end, a switch of the metal foil coil stock to the second supply roll can be performed as described herein, and the second supply roll can thereby become the (new) first supply roll. During or after the switch from the first supply roll to the second supply roll, the first supply roll can be discarded, and the second supply roll can be placed in the position of the (now: former) first supply roll. For example, the second supply roll can be moved along the rotational path to the position of the (now: former) first supply roll to serve as the (new) first supply roll, particularly until the metal foil coil stock from the (now: second) supply roll is nearly completely unwound. The second supply roll can be pivoted from a supply position to an operational position, in which the second supply roll can be positioned before or even during the attachment of the second portion of the coil to the first portion, and in which the supply roll can be retained for the majority of the duration of the process of coating the metal foil coil stock with the active material coating and / or between supply roll switches.

[0025] Preferred embodiments of the method according to the present disclosure further include the step of providing an adhesive comprising a first section proximate the leading end of the first portion of the metal foil coil stock and a second section distal thereto. Preferably, severing can be performed within the adhesion and / or attachment region defined by the second section. Alternatively, severing can be performed near the second section or at its downstream end, downstream of the second section. The adhesive in the first section can have different properties than the adhesive in the second section, particularly with respect to attachment to the first portion. Severing is performed at the second section. It may be preferred to sever such that the first portion of the metal foil coil stock has a trailing end that is partially, or preferably completely, located within the second section. In particular, the adhesive is provided such that the second section trails the first section. It may be preferred that the adhesive is provided near or on the leading end in the first section, with the second section of adhesive being downstream of the leading end. The first section has a first length in the longitudinal direction of the coil, and the second section has a second length. The first length may be substantially equal to or equal to the second length. In particular, the second length may be longer than the first length. Alternatively, the first length can be longer than the second length. In some embodiments, the second section is longer than the first section. In particular, the length of the second section is no greater than the width of the metal foil coil stock.

[0026] In a preferred further refinement, a gap is provided separating the segment from the second segment. This gap preferably refers to an area on the first and / or second portions of the metal foil coil stock material that is free of any adhesive. The gap may be provided to the second portion, extending both widthwise and lengthwise. It may be preferred to provide the gap by applying adhesive to the leading end of the second portion of the metal foil coil stock material such that a first segment of adhesive is provided immediately adjacent to or on the leading end, and a second segment of adhesive is provided downstream of the leading end at a distance from the first segment, thereby defining the gap. The gap may preferably extend continuously from a first (left) transverse edge to a second (right) transverse edge of the first and / or second portions. The gap may extend lengthwise no greater than the widthwise extension of the metal foil coil stock material. Specifically, the gap may extend in the longitudinal direction of the coil by a gap length that is at least as long as the first segment and / or at least as long as the second segment. Alternatively, the gap may extend in the longitudinal direction of the coil no longer than the gap length of the first segment and / or the gap length of the second segment. The gap length may be less than both the first and second segments. It may be preferred that the gap extends in the longitudinal direction of the coil at least as long as the first section and no longer than the gap length of the second section.The gap may be provided between the first and second sections, extending continuously across the entire width of the metal foil coil stock.

[0027] In another further refinement that can be combined with the previous refinement, the adhesive force provided by the adhesive to retain the first portion is weaker in the second section than in the first section. The adhesive force in the first section can be particularly greater than the adhesive force in the second section, preferably at least twice as great, or preferably at least ten times as great. It may be preferred that the adhesive force attaching the leading end of the second section of the metal foil coil stock to the first section of the metal coil is particularly strong, so that most of the pulling force is transferred. It may be preferred that the adhesive force attaching the trailing end, or "tail," of the first section of the metal foil coil stock to the second section of the metal coil is relatively weak, so that the trailing end, or tail, can be secured to prevent wobbling. The adhesive force in the first section is preferably much stronger than the adhesive force in the second section. The adhesive force provided by the adhesive can be in the range of 5 gf / 25 mm to 2000 gf / 25 mm, preferably in the range of 10 gf / 25 mm to 1000 gf / 25 mm. The adhesive force in the first section may be not less than 750 gf / 25 mm, in particular not less than 850 gf / 25 mm, preferably not less than 1000 gf / 25 mm. The adhesive force in the second section may not exceed 200 gf / 25 mm, in particular not more than 100 gf / 25 mm, preferably not more than 50 gf / 25 mm. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the adhesive force in the second section may be 20 gf / 25 mm, and the adhesive points in the first section may be at least 900 gf / 25 mm. Providing the adhesive may include: providing a first adhesive means, such as a first double-sided tape, in the first section; and providing a second adhesive means, such as a second double-sided tape, in the second section. By providing a relatively weak adhesive force for the second section, contamination of the deflection pulley, tensioning roller, etc. due to excess adhesive exposed at or behind the trailing edge of the first section can be minimized. The adhesive force can be determined according to EN1939:2003 or ASTM D3330.

[0028] According to some embodiments, the adhesive is provided as a double-sided tape. In such embodiments where the adhesive comprises different sections with different adhesive properties, a first double-sided tape may be provided in the first section, and a second double-sided tape may be provided in the second section. The double-sided tape may include a first adhesive layer for attaching to the first portion of the metal foil web stock and a second adhesive layer for attaching to the second portion of the metal foil web stock. The double-sided tape may also include a base layer sandwiched between the first and second adhesive layers. The adhesive properties of the first and second adhesive layers of the double-sided tape may be the same or different. In particular, the adhesive properties of the first and second adhesive layers of the double-sided tape provided in the first section may be the same. Alternatively or additionally, the adhesive properties of the first and second adhesive layers of the double-sided tape provided in the second section may be different; in particular, the adhesive force of the second adhesive layer may be less than the adhesive force of the first adhesive layer, preferably less than half, and more preferably less than one-tenth. Using double-sided tape as the adhesive has been shown to be advantageous because the tape can be applied in a very simple yet precise manner. The use of adhesive tape may be advantageous in order to avoid soiling of deflection pulleys, tensioning rollers etc., since the position and amount of adhesive is well defined.

[0029] The adhesive may be provided to the second portion, the second portion having a thickness less than the width of a slot of a die coater through which the metal foil web stock passes. It may be preferred to select the adhesive, particularly a double-sided adhesive tape, such that the thickness of the composite metal foil web stock in the attachment / adhesion region where the first and second portions of the metal foil web stock overlap is less than the slot of the die coater through which the metal foil web stock passes during coating of the metal foil web stock through the coater. It may be preferred that the thickness of the composite metal foil material, including the adhesive sandwiched between the first and second portions of the metal foil web stock, is less than the active material layer applied to one side of the metal foil web stock during the coater operation step.

[0030] In some embodiments, a combined stamping and cutting tool is used to perform the severing step and the step of applying the front end of the second part to the first part. The severing step and the applying step can be performed simultaneously. The combined tool can be used to push the first part against the second part with the adhesive arranged between the first and second parts, and to sever the second part in the attachment area. The combined tool may include a cutting tool configured to connect the first part of the metal foil coil stock and a stamping tool for pushing the first part against the adhesive arranged on the second part. By using the combined tool to perform the actions to achieve the attaching step and the severing step, the metal foil coil stock can be processed particularly quickly and reliably. The use of the combined tool allows the second part to be cut cleanly and precisely according to the desired relationship with the adhesive, in particular the attachment area.

[0031] In some embodiments, a coating machine is operated to continuously apply the active material to the metal foil coil stock. Specifically, the coating machine is operated to continuously apply the active material to the metal foil coil stock as it travels through the coating machine. Specifically, the coating machine can operate continuously while the supply of the metal foil coil stock is switched from a first supply reel to a second supply reel. Preferably, the coating machine operates continuously downstream of a point in the processing assembly where the leading end of the second portion of the metal foil coil stock is applied to a section of the first portion of the metal foil coil stock. The coating machine can operate upstream of a device, such as an oven, for securing the newly applied active material coating to the metal foil coil stock. The method can include operating multiple die coaters to coat the metal foil coil stock with a layer of active material, wherein a first die coater can be operated to coat a first side of the coil and a second coater can be operated to coat a second side of the coil opposite the first side. The multiple die coaters can operate continuously and simultaneously to apply the active material layer to the coil.

[0032] A first die coater can be operated to coat a first side of the metal foil coil stock, preferably the side of the metal foil coil stock where the tail end formed by severing the first portion is located, wherein the first die coater is positioned downstream of where the second portion is attached to the first portion. A first device (e.g., a first oven) can be operated to affix the first active material layer to the metal foil coil stock and is positioned downstream of the first die coater, preferably immediately downstream of the first die coater. The first oven, etc., is preferably positioned between the first die coater and the second die coater in the direction of travel of the metal foil coil stock.

[0033] A second die coater can be operated to coat a second side of the metal foil coil stock, preferably the side of the metal foil coil stock where the leading end of the second portion is disposed, wherein the second die coater is disposed downstream of the location where the second portion is attached to the first portion. A second device (e.g., a second oven) can be operated to affix the second active material layer to the metal foil coil stock and is disposed downstream of, preferably immediately downstream of, the second die coater.

[0034] It may be preferred to coat the second side of the metal foil coil stock with the active material after coating the first side of the metal foil coil stock with the active material.The second die coater may be arranged downstream of the first die coater.

[0035] In some embodiments, the active material is applied over the adhesive on the first side of the metal foil coil stock (where the tail end of the first part formed by cutting is arranged), in particular directly on the adhesive. The second part can be cut so that the tail end of the second part is formed above the adhesion area. By applying the active material layer over the adhesive, in particular on the first side of the metal foil and / or in particular directly on the adhesive, in particular on the second section of the adhesive, the trailing edge of the first part is maintained, which is firmly held between the adhesive and the active material. It may be preferred to coat the opposite side, wherein the leading end of the second part is firmly adhered to the second part, thereby achieving a particularly clean and reliable attachment. By providing the active material coating on the adhesive shortly after cutting the first part and thereby exposing the adhesive, contamination of assembly parts downstream of the first die coater, in particular deflection pulleys, tensioning rollers, etc., can be minimized or even prevented.

[0036] In some embodiments, the first and second supply rolls supply the same metal foil coil stock. Specifically, the first and second supply rolls supply the metal foil coil stock comprising a copper alloy. Alternatively or additionally, the first and second supply rolls supply the metal foil coil stock comprising an aluminum alloy. Alternatively, the first and second supply rolls supply the metal foil coil stock comprising an aluminum alloy or a copper alloy.

[0037] According to some embodiments, the severing step is performed along a severing line that crosses the first portion (particularly at an angle between 60° and 120°, preferably between 80° and 100°) relative to the direction of travel of the metal foil coil stock. More specifically, the severing line may pass through the first portion perpendicularly or approximately perpendicularly relative to the direction of travel of the metal foil coil stock.

[0038] In particular, the severing step may form a serrated edge along the trailing end of the first portion. The serrations may be formed as an angular pattern pointing downstream, particularly at acute angles. By forming a serrated edge along the trailing end of the first portion, the transition from the first portion may be improved, thereby avoiding tears in the foil or active material layer.

[0039] In some embodiments, adhesive is applied to the radially outward-facing side of the second portion of the metal foil coil stock on the second supply reel. The adhesive may be applied to the outer circumference of the second supply reel before or after the reel is provided to the processing assembly. The adhesive is applied to the second reel before the adhesive is applied to the first portion. The adhesive is preferably applied to the outer surface of the second reel. The adhesive may preferably be applied to the second reel before the metal foil coil stock is unwound from the second supply reel.

[0040] In some embodiments, the adhesive is applied to the radially inward-facing side of the first portion of the metal foil coil stock on the first supply reel. Alternatively, the adhesive can be applied to the radially outward-facing side of the first portion of the metal foil coil stock on the first supply reel. The adhesive can preferably be attached to the first portion of the metal foil coil stock after it is unwound from the first supply reel. Preferably, the adhesive is applied to a section of the first portion of the metal foil coil stock that is closer to the trailing end than the leading end of the first portion attached to the first supply reel. The adhesive can be applied to a section of the first portion of the metal foil coil stock that is less than 1 km, preferably less than 500 m, and more preferably less than 250 m or less than 100 m from the trailing end of the second portion attached to the first supply reel. The adhesive and the second portion of the coil are preferably attached to the section of the first portion of the coil shortly before the supply from the first supply reel becomes empty.

[0041] In a preferred embodiment of the method disclosed herein, after applying the active material layer to the metal foil coil stock, the portion of the electrode coil containing the adhesive is separated from the portion of the electrode coil designated for use as the electrode, wherein the portion includes the adhesive and no more than 15,000 mm, and particularly no more than 1,500 mm, of metal foil coil stock following the adhesive, and wherein the portion is designated for disposal. Because the disruption to the coating caused by switching from the first supply roll to the second supply roll is minimized, and only the minimally affected material in the area where the attachment was made and a small distance downstream thereof is removed, the length of coil to be discarded can be minimized. By using the method described herein, the discarding of metal foil coil stock coated with the active material layer can be minimized, resulting in a more efficient production process.

[0042] The present invention further relates to a machine configured for processing a metal foil coil stock into an electrode coil according to the method described above. The machine may particularly include at least one first support for a first supply of metal foil coil stock (particularly a first supply roll) and a second support for a second supply of metal foil coil stock (particularly a second supply roll). In particular, the machine includes a device configured to apply adhesive (particularly to a leading end of a second portion of the metal foil coil stock, particularly to a location of electrode coil material in the second supply, preferably to the second supply roll). The machine may include a device configured to attach the first portion of the metal foil coil stock to the second portion of the metal foil coil stock. The machine may also include a cutting device configured to sever an end of the first portion of the metal foil coil stock to form a trailing edge of the first portion. It may be preferred that the machine include a combined cutting and attaching device. The combined cutting / attaching tool may include a coactor (such as an electric motor or piston actuator) for applying a cutting force to sever the first portion to form the trailing edge and an attaching force to urge the adhesive against the first and second portions of the metal foil coil stock from opposite sides. Additionally, the machine may include a winding device and / or a driving device configured to drive the metal foil coil stock.The machine may include a plurality of parts, such as a deflection pulley, a tensioning roller, and the like.

[0043] A battery typically includes two electrodes of opposite polarity, namely a negative electrode and a positive electrode. The electrodes are arranged together with a separator in a common container. The separator separates the container so that the negative electrode and the positive electrode do not directly contact each other to avoid short circuits. In addition, the common container is filled with an electrolyte solution that allows ions to transfer from the positive electrode to the negative electrode to allow a chemical reaction to release electrical energy. The electrodes of the battery can each include a corresponding foil. The foil can include or consist of a conductive material. In particular, the foil can consist of or include a metal or a metal alloy, including aluminum or copper or consisting of, for example, aluminum or copper. It may be preferred that at least one electrode of the battery is implemented as a foil coated with an active electrode material (in simple terms, an active material).

[0044] For example, an electrode configured to act as a negative electrode may be provided with an active material layer configured to receive and / or store (preferably releasably store) ions. The active material (particularly the active material of the negative electrode) may include graphite as its main component. An electrode configured to act as a positive electrode may be provided with an active material configured to release ions. The active material (particularly the active material for the positive electrode) may include or consist of a metal oxide, such as lithium oxide. The active material may, for example, include or consist of LCO (LiCoO2), NCM (Li(NiCoMn)O2), NCA (Li(NiCoAl)O2), LMO (LiMn2O) and / or LFP (LiFePO4). The active material may include conductive additives, binders, fillers and other components (active material mixture). The active positive electrode material may be configured to be replenishable. The process of releasing ions from the positive electrode active material and receiving ions by the negative electrode active material may be referred to as discharging. The process of releasing ions from the negative electrode active material and replenishing the positive electrode active material with ions may generally be referred to as charging or recharging. The active materials used in the electrodes of a battery are believed to be essential for determining the properties of the battery, such as its capacity, voltage, and memory effect.

[0045] In the present disclosure, the positive electrode active material coated on the positive electrode plate and the negative electrode active material coated on the negative electrode plate may include, but are not limited to, any known active material in the technical field related to the present disclosure.

[0046] In an embodiment, the positive active material may include a x M y ]O 2+z (A includes at least one of Li, Na or K; M includes at least one selected from Ni, Co, Mn, Ca, Mg, Al, Ti, Si, Fe, Mo, V, Zr, Zn, Cu, Al, Mo, Sc, Zr, Ru and Cr; x ≥ 0, 1 ≤ x + y ≤ 2, 0.1 ≤ z ≤ 2; the stoichiometric coefficients x, y and z are selected to maintain the electrical neutrality of the compound).

[0047] In another embodiment, the positive electrode active material may be an alkali metal compound xLi M disclosed in US Pat. No. 6,677,082 and US Pat. No. 6,680,143. 1 O2(1x)Li2M 2 O3(M 1 comprising at least one element having an average oxidation state of trivalent; M 2 including at least one element having an average oxidation state of tetravalent; 0≤x≤1).

[0048] In yet another embodiment, the positive electrode active material may be of the formula Li a M1 x Fe 1-x M 2 y P 1-y M 3 z O 4z Indicated by (M 1 including at least one selected from the group consisting of Ti, Si, Mn, Co, Fe, V, Cr, Mo, Ni, Nd, Al, Mg, and Al; M 2 including at least one selected from the group consisting of Ti, Si, Mn, Co, Fe, V, Cr, Mo, Ni, Nd, Al, Mg, Al, As, Sb, Si, Ge, V, and S; M 3 including a halogen group element optionally including F; 0≤1; a≤2, 0≤x≤1, 0≤y≤1; 1, 0≤z≤1; the stoichiometric coefficients a, x, y and z are selected to maintain the electrical neutrality of the compound) or Li3M 2 Lithium metal phosphate represented by (PO4)3 [M includes at least one selected from Ti, Si, Mn, Fe, Co, V, Cr, Mo, Ni, Al, Mg and Al].

[0049] Preferably, the positive electrode active material may include primary particles and / or secondary particles formed by agglomeration of the primary particles.

[0050] In one embodiment, the negative electrode active material may include a carbon material, lithium metal or a lithium metal compound, silicon or a silicon compound, tin or a tin compound. Metal oxides having a potential of less than 2 V, such as TiO2 and SnO2, may be used as the negative electrode active material. The carbon material may include low-crystalline carbon and high-crystalline carbon.

[0051] However, the problems to be solved by the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to the above-mentioned problems, and various extensions can be made within the scope of the technical ideas included in the present disclosure.

[0052] Beneficial effects

[0053] According to an embodiment, switching from a first supply to a second supply in a machine and process for manufacturing an electrode plate in a coil-like manner can be made more reliable. According to an embodiment, defects near the adhesive attaching the leading first part to the trailing second part are less likely to occur and less severe. The switch from the first supply to the second supply can be completed more quickly. The production method can operate in a continuous manner without having to pause to switch from one supply to another. According to an embodiment, switching from a first supply to a second supply in a machine and process for manufacturing an electrode plate in a coil-like manner can be made more efficient. According to an embodiment, there is little need to clean the adhesive from the machine parts.

[0054] The effects of the present disclosure are not limited to the above-described effects, and additional other effects not described above will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the appended claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0055] Figure 1 It is a machine for processing metal foil coil raw materials into electrode coils;

[0056] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Detailed view of the composite tool in the machine;

[0057] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of a second supply roll according to the first embodiment;

[0058] Figure 4 It includes the first part and the Figure 3 a schematic diagram of a second portion of a second supply roll of metal foil coil stock;

[0059] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of a second supply reel according to a second embodiment;

[0060] Figure 6 It includes the first part and the Figure 5 a schematic diagram of a second portion of a second supply roll of metal foil coil stock;

[0061] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of a second supply reel according to a third embodiment;

[0062] Figure 8 It includes the first part and the Figure 7 a schematic diagram of a second portion of a second supply roll of metal foil coil stock; and

[0063] Figure 9 It includes the first part and the Figure 7 Another schematic diagram of a second portion of a second supply roll of metal foil coil stock. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0064] Hereinafter, various embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily implement these embodiments. The present disclosure can be modified in various ways and is not limited to the embodiments set forth herein.

[0065] Parts irrelevant to the description will be omitted to clearly describe the present disclosure, and the same reference numerals denote the same elements throughout the description.

[0066] In addition, in the drawings, for the convenience of description, the size and thickness of each element are arbitrarily shown, and the present disclosure is not necessarily limited to those shown in the drawings. In the drawings, the thickness of layers, regions, etc. are exaggerated for clarity. In the drawings, the thickness of some layers and regions are exaggerated for the convenience of description.

[0067] Furthermore, it should be understood that when an element, such as a layer, film, region, or plate, is referred to as being "on" or "over" another element, it can be directly on the other element, or intervening elements may be present. Conversely, when an element is referred to as being "directly on" another element, this means that no other intervening elements are present. Furthermore, the terms "on" or "above" refer to being positioned above or below a referenced portion, and do not necessarily mean being positioned at the upper end of the referenced portion facing oppositely from the force of gravity. Similarly, similar to the case where an element is described as being "on" or "above" another portion, the case where an element is described as being "below" or "beneath" another portion will also be understood with reference to the above.

[0068] In addition, throughout the specification, when a part is referred to as "including" or "comprising" a certain component, it means that the part may also include other components, and does not exclude other components, unless otherwise specified. Throughout the specification, unless otherwise specified, each element may be singular or plural.

[0069] In addition, when an element is referred to as being “connected,” “coupled,” or “linked” to another element, the element may be directly connected or coupled to the other element, but it should be understood that there may be intermediate elements between each element, or each element may be “connected,” “coupled,” or “linked” to each other via another element.

[0070] Throughout the specification, unless expressly stated otherwise, "A and / or B" means A or B or both A and B, and unless expressly stated otherwise, "C to D" means C or greater and D or less.

[0071] Hereinafter, the method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with the aid of an exemplary machine for carrying out the method and a product of this method.

[0072] For illustration purposes, Figure 1Figure 1 shows a machine 100 configured to process a metal foil coil 1 into an electrode coil 2. The metal foil coil 1 typically has a thickness of only a few microns, a width of tens of centimeters, and can be over 1 kilometer long. The metal foil coil 1 is placed on a supply reel 10 or 20 and transported through the machine 100 according to the transport direction indicated by the arrow. Within the machine 100, the metal foil coil 1 travels along a plurality of deflection pulleys 110 and tensioning rollers 120. Some of the pulleys can be driven to apply tension to the metal foil coil 1, while others may be idle. The tensioning rollers 120 are configured to press laterally against the traveling metal foil coil 1 to modify its path, thereby allowing for some variations in travel speed or elasticity. The metal foil coil 1 then passes through a die coater 130, which is configured and operated to supply an active material layer 3 to the metal foil coil, thereby forming the electrode coil 2. Downstream of the die coater 130 , an oven 140 is provided for curing the active material layer 3 to stabilize the electrode web 2 .

[0073] exist Figure 1 In the schematic diagram of the machine 100 shown, only one die coater 130 and subsequent oven 140 are shown, coating only the first side of the metal foil coil stock 1. It may be preferred that the metal foil coil stock 1 is then fed through a second die coater and subsequent second oven for coating the opposite second side of the metal foil coil stock, so as to produce an electrode coil (not shown) supplied with active material layers on both sides of the metal foil coil stock. Downstream of the one or more ovens, one or more separation devices may be provided for cutting individual sheets from the electrode coil 2 (not shown). The separation devices may be operated to produce individual electrode sheets for use in batteries. The one or more separation devices may be operated to cut off portions of the electrode coil that are of substandard quality, for example, portions of the metal foil coil stock 1 with adhesive 31 sandwiched between the first portion 11 and the second portion 21.

[0074] Before the machine 100 exhausts the continuous supply of metal foil coil stock 1 delivered from the first supply reel 10, a second supply reel 20 is provided. The second supply reel 20 is provided with an adhesive 31 and a leading end 22 of a portion 21 of metal foil coil stock 1 wound thereon. To switch the supply of metal foil coil stock 1 from the first supply reel 10 to the second supply reel 20, adhesive 31 is applied to the first portion 11 of metal foil coil stock 1 from the first supply reel 10 to attach the second portion 21 of metal foil coil stock 1 from the second supply reel 20. When the leading end 22 is attached to a central section of the first portion 11 distal from the end of the first portion 11, the second portion 21 is connected to the core of the first supply reel. After the second portion 21 is attached to the first portion 11, a severing tool is used to cut the first portion 11 to form a trailing edge 19 of the first portion 11 adjacent to the adhesive 31. The adhesive 31 helps to form a continuous metal foil web stock 1 from the first portion 11 and the second portion 21 , which will be supplied to the die coater 130 to be processed into the electrode web 2 .

[0075] It is desirable to maintain a continuous flow of metal foil coil stock 1 for processing into electrode coil 2. The continuous flow of metal foil coil stock 1 to die coater 130 and its downstream components should not be interrupted. Therefore, the supply switch must be performed before the first supply roll 10 is depleted of metal foil coil stock 1. To avoid any processing interruption, second portion 21 from the new second supply roll 20 is adhered to first portion 11 while first portion 11 is being delivered from first supply roll 10 to die coater 130, resulting in a joint section of the continuous metal foil coil stock 1 containing metal foil coil stock 1 from both first portion 11 and second portion 12. This joint section contains two layers of metal foil coil stock 1 and an intermediate adhesive 31, and therefore cannot serve as the basis for a high-quality electrode after being coated with active material 3. To minimize the joint section, given the need for reliable adhesion, first portion 11 is severed as quickly and as close to adhesive 31 as possible after attaching second portion 21. In some embodiments, the tail end 19 of first portion 11 can be positioned downstream relative to adhesive 31. However, it may be preferred that the trailing end 19 of the first portion 11 is arranged within the adhesion area defined by the presence of the adhesive 31 on the second portion 21 .

[0076] Due to the forces acting on the metal foil web stock 1 as it travels through the machine 100, particularly if the first portion 11 is severed in the adhesive region covered by the adhesive 31, some components of the machine 100 (such as the deflection pulley 110 or the tensioning roller 120) may be exposed to the adhesive 31, which may leave residue. If the adhesive residue causes the metal foil web stock 1 to stick to a part of the machine, this may cause damage to the web stock 1 or the machine and interrupt the production process. To prevent adhesive from sticking to parts of the machine, attempts are made to reduce the number of machine components between the die coater 130 and the supply reels 10, 20.

[0077] It is generally preferred that the die coater 130 (or in the case of a machine comprising a plurality of die coaters 130, the die coater through which the coil from the supply end first travels) is operated to first coat that side of the metal foil coil stock 1 where the tail end 19 formed by severing the first portion 11 is arranged.

[0078] In some embodiments, the tail of the first portion 11 trails behind the attachment section to cover the adhesive 31. Figure 3 In the depicted embodiment, the trailing end 19 is loosely connected to the second portion (in the manner of a tail or flap) by means of adhesive 31, which attaches the second portion 21 to an attachment section of the first portion 11 at a distance from the trailing edge 19. It may sometimes be desirable to avoid the presence of such a tail-like portion of the first portion 11. Metal foil coil stock 1 having a tail-like trailing edge 19 exhibits an increased risk of damage within the die coater 130, which is believed to be caused by accidental misalignment of the tail.

[0079] In some embodiments, particularly embodiments where the first portion 11 is severed to form a tail end 19 in the bonding area, the adhesive 31 provided to the second portion 21 of the metal foil coil stock 1 provides a strong bond in the first section 33 and a weak bond in the second section 35. Figure 7 In such an embodiment, in which the tail end 19 of the first portion 11 is formed in the bonding area, it may be preferred that the tail end 19 is formed in the second section 35 of the adhesive 31. Thus, when the metal foil coil stock 1 is pulled through the machine 100, the adhesive 31 provides a strong bond in the first section 33 for firmly holding the first portion 11 and the second portion 21 together, but the adhesive 31 exhibiting the strong bond is not exposed from the first portion 11.

[0080] Second section 35 trails first section 33. In second section 35, the adhesive force of adhesive 31 can be significantly weaker than the adhesive force in first section 33. The weak adhesive force in second section 35 can be so weak that it is insufficient to provide reliable attachment of first portion 11 and second portion 21 given the tensile forces experienced by metal foil web stock 1 in machine 100. The weak adhesive force of second section 35 can be configured to secure trailing end 19 of first portion 11 to second portion 21. Adhesives with only relatively weak adhesive force have been found to leave little residue when exposed to machine components, and even when residue of the weak adhesive is found, it does not pose a significant risk to the process.

[0081] Figure 2 A detailed view of a combined tool 30 used in the illustrated embodiment is shown for pushing the first part 11 against the adhesive 31 on the second part 21 and severing the first part 11. A person skilled in the art will appreciate that, instead of the illustrated combined tool 30, a separator tool could be provided, such as a first tool for stamping and a second tool for cutting. The use of the combined tool 30 has the advantage that the attachment of the first part 11 to the second part 21 and the cutting of the tail end 19 of the first part 11 can be achieved simultaneously in a particularly simple and reliable manner. By using a combined tool for stamping and severing, the distance between the attachment point and the severing point can be defined with very small tolerances.

[0082] The tool 30 includes a stamping portion configured to push the first portion 11 against the adhesive section of the second portion 21 covered with the adhesive 31. The tool 30 is preferably configured to be movable over a distance that can be set according to the diameter of the second supply roll 20, so that the same tool 30 can be used regardless of whether the second supply roll 20 has a relatively small diameter or a relatively large diameter, such as Figure 2 As shown in .

[0083] The cutter of the tool 30 is configured to cut off the second portion 21 of the metal foil web stock 1 at a position behind the first section 21 of the adhesive area, wherein the second portion 21 is applied with the adhesive 31 by means of the die. The extension of the adhesive section in the travel direction or longitudinal direction of the metal foil web stock can be set according to the effective distance between the cutter and the die of the combined tool 30, or the adhesive 31 can be supplied in a longitudinal dimension sufficient to allow different effective cutting distances.

[0084] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the second supply reel 20 according to the first embodiment, and Figure 4 is comprised of the first part 11 and from according to Figure 3A schematic diagram of a metal foil coil stock 1 with a second portion 21 of a second supply reel 20 is shown. The (second) supply reel 20 carries the (second) portion 21 of the metal foil coil stock 1. The supply reel 20 is a wound roll of the metal foil coil stock 1. The metal of the metal foil coil stock 1 can be, for example, copper, a copper alloy, aluminum, or an aluminum alloy. The metal foil coil stock 1 has a predetermined coil length. The thickness of the metal foil coil stock 1 in the radial direction and its width in the axial direction are preferably constant throughout the coil length.

[0085] Leading edge 22 of second portion 21 extends in the axial direction of supply roll 20 along a straight line parallel to the roll's axis of rotation. Adhesive 31 is supplied to second portion 21 immediately adjacent to leading edge 22. The bonding area defined by adhesive 31, arranged on the outer circumference of second supply roll 20, begins at the leading edge. Adhesive 31 extends across nearly the entire width of metal foil web stock 1. Only a small border region at the transverse edges of metal foil web stock 1 is free of adhesive. This border region may be no larger than 1 cm, specifically no larger than 5 mm or no larger than 1 mm, on one or both transverse edges. The bonding area forms a uniform layer across the top of metal foil web stock 1. Adhesive 31 may comprise adjacent sections of differing adhesive properties, or consist of a single section of constant adhesive properties. Adhesive 31 covers the bonding area on second portion 21, the length of which in the longitudinal direction of the web is greater than the thickness of the adhesive and may be 1 cm or more.

[0086] Figure 4 A section of a metal foil coil stock 1 is shown, which is obtained by Figure 3 The roll 20 is shown as being formed by attaching a second portion 21 to a first portion 11 of a metal foil coil stock 1. Adhesive 31, which attaches the first and second portions 11 and 21, is positioned at the leading edge of the second portion. The first portion's trailing end 19 is spaced apart from adhesive 31. Trailing end 19 is formed along a straight line that is substantially perpendicular to the lateral edges of the metal foil coil stock 1. A serrated edge 18 is formed on trailing end 19.

[0087] [Mode for the Invention]

[0088] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of the second supply reel 20 according to the first embodiment, and Figure 6 is comprised of the first part 11 and from according to Figure 5 Schematic diagram of the metal foil coil stock 1 of the second portion 21 of the second supply roll 20.

[0089] Figure 5The embodiment of the second supply roll 20 shown in FIG differs from the above-described embodiments in the arrangement of adhesive 31. Adhesive 31 is supplied to the second portion 21 and a first section 33 proximal to the front end 22 of the second portion 21, and a second section 35 distal to the front end 22. Optionally, a gap 37 may be provided between the first section 33 and the second section 35. The first section 33, the second section 35, and the optional gap 37 may extend laterally, specifically perpendicularly, relative to the lateral edges of the metal foil coil stock material 1 in a straight path. The adhesive 31 may be attached to the second portion 21 at a short distance in the longitudinal direction from the front end 22. The front end 22, the first section 33, the second section 35, and the optional gap 37 may be arranged parallel to the front end 22.

[0090] exist Figure 6 In the embodiment shown, according to Figure 5 The second portion 21 of the metal foil coil stock 1 is connected to the first portion 11. Adhesive 31, which attaches the first and second portions 11 and 21, is positioned near the leading edge of the second portion. The first portion has a trailing end 19 spaced from adhesive 31 and located behind a second section 35 of adhesive. Trailing end 19 is formed along a straight line that is substantially perpendicular to the lateral edge of the metal foil coil stock 1. A serrated edge is formed on trailing end 19.

[0091] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of the second supply reel 20 according to the first embodiment, and Figure 8 and Figure 9 is comprised of the first part 11 and from according to Figure 7 Schematic diagram of the metal foil coil stock 1 of the second portion 21 of the second supply roll 20.

[0092] Figure 7 The embodiment of the second supply roll 20 shown in FIG differs from the above-described embodiments only in that the adhesive 31 is flush with the leading end 22. The first and second sections 33, 35 of adhesive can have the same adhesive strength for attaching the first portion 11, or preferably, the first section 33 has a significantly stronger adhesive strength than the trailing second section 35. As shown, the second section 35 and the first section 33 can have the same or substantially the same dimensions. Alternatively, the second section 35 can have a shorter or longer longitudinal extension than the longitudinal extension of the first section 33. Figure 8A second section 35 is shown having a longer longitudinal extension than the first section 33. The height of the adhesive 31 is preferably constant. In particular, in embodiments where the adhesive 31 comprises different sections 33, 35, both sections 33 and 35 may have the same height, or substantially the same height, in the thickness direction of the metal foil coil stock 1. The widths of the first section 33 and the second section 35 of the adhesive 31 are substantially the same or identical in the axial direction of the second supply roll 20. The border region laterally adjacent to the first section 33 and the second section 35 is preferably constant or substantially constant. The border region laterally adjacent to the first section 33 and the second section 35 preferably has the same or substantially the same dimensions on both lateral sides. In particular, the border region may be no more than 1 cm wide, particularly no more than 5 mm wide, and preferably no more than 1 mm wide.

[0093] Figure 8 A detailed schematic cross-section through the adhesion region of a metal foil web stock 1 is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, the adhesive 31 comprises a double-sided tape. Specifically, the adhesive 31 comprises a first section 33 and a second section 35, with the first section 33 comprising a first double-sided tape and the second section 35 comprising a second double-sided tape. The tape comprises a base layer 47 or matrix layer. The tape further comprises adhesive layers 41 and 43 on each side of the base layer 47. The first adhesive layer 41 is configured to provide a first adhesive force for retaining the first portion 11 of the metal foil web stock 1. The second adhesive layer 43 is configured to provide a second adhesive force for retaining the second portion 21 of the metal foil web stock 1. The adhesive forces of the first and second adhesive layers 41, 43 of the respective adhesive tapes may be the same or different. It may be preferred that the adhesive tape used in the first section 33 exhibit the same adhesive force or holding force in both adhesive layers 41, 43. It may be preferred that the adhesive tape used in the second section 35 exhibit a greater adhesive force or holding force in the second adhesive layer 43 than in the first adhesive layer 41. The first adhesive force for holding the first portion 11 may be much greater in the first section 33 than in the second section 35. The strong adhesive force in the first section 33 may be 1000 gf / 25 mm or greater. The weak adhesive force in the second section may be 50 gf / 25 mm or less.

[0094] First portion 11 of metal foil coil stock 1 completely covers first section 33. Second section 33 is only partially covered by first portion 11. A portion of second section 33 of adhesive 31 is exposed by first portion 1. First portion 11 can be sized to partially expose adhesive 31 in second section 35 behind trailing end 19. Additionally, first portion 11 can be sized to partially expose adhesive 31 in second section 35 behind serrated edge 18 of first portion 11. Gap 37 can be completely covered by first portion 11. If first portion 11 has serrated edge 18, a portion of gap 37 can be exposed. The thickness of adhesive 31 can be greater than the thickness of the metal foil in one or both of first portion 11 and second portion 21.

[0095] Figure 9 Shown according to Figure 8 Schematic diagram of a metal foil coil stock 1 depicting a first portion 11 and a second portion 21 securely attached to each other. A first section 33 of adhesive 31 secures the first and second portions using a strong adhesive force. First portion 21 completely covers first section 33 and gap 37. Second section 35 is partially covered and partially exposed by first portion 11. The first portion has a trailing end 19 with a serrated edge 18 positioned in the adhesion area of ​​second section 35 of adhesive 31 supplied to second portion 21.

[0096] Markings 51 may be arranged along one or both lateral edges of the metal foil web stock 1. The markings may be provided, for example, at regular intervals, such as every 1000 mm. It may be preferred that one such marking be arranged at the leading end 22 of the second portion 21 and / or at the first section 33. Such markings may help identify the location of the adhesive 31, particularly after both sides of the metal foil web stock 1 are coated with active material 3 to produce the electrode web 2.

[0097] Before attaching the tape to the first portion 11 , the tape may be covered with a release film.

[0098] Although the preferred embodiments of the present disclosure have been described in detail above, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and various modifications and improvements made by those skilled in the art using the basic concepts of the present disclosure defined in the appended claims also fall within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0099] (Explanation of Reference Numerals)

[0100] 1 Metal foil coil raw materials

[0101] 2 Electrode coil

[0102] 3 Active material layer

[0103] 10 First Supply Volume

[0104] 11 Part 1

[0105] 18 Jagged Edges

[0106] 19 tail end

[0107] 20 Second Supply Volume

[0108] 21 Part 2

[0109] 22 Front-end

[0110] 30 Combination Tools

[0111] 31 Adhesive

[0112] 33 First Segment

[0113] 35 Second Section

[0114] 37 Gap

[0115] 41 First adhesive layer

[0116] 43 Second adhesive layer

[0117] 45 Grassroots

[0118] 51 Mark

[0119] 100 machines

[0120] 110 deflection pulley

[0121] 120 tension roller

[0122] 130 Die Coating Machine

[0123] 140 Oven

Claims

1. A method for processing a metal foil coil raw material into an electrode coil, the method comprising the following steps: operating a die coater to coat the metal foil web stock with a layer of active material on the metal foil web stock; supplying a first portion of metal foil coil stock from a first supply roll to the die coater; providing a second supply roll carrying a second portion of the metal foil coil stock; providing an adhesive to the leading end of the second portion of the metal foil coil stock; applying the leading end of the second portion of the metal foil web stock to a section of the first portion of the metal foil web stock such that the adhesive is sandwiched between the first and second portions of the metal foil web stock; as well as The first portion of the metal foil coil stock is severed from the first supply roll at or behind the adhesive.

2. The method according to claim 1, further comprising the steps of: The adhesive is provided to include a first section near the front end and a second section away from the front end, wherein the severing is performed at the second section.

3. The method according to claim 2, wherein: A gap is provided separating the first section from the second section.

4. The method according to claim 2 or 3, wherein: The adhesive force provided by the adhesive for holding the first portion is weaker in the second section than in the first section.

5. The method according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein: The severing step and the step of applying the leading end of the second portion to the first portion are performed using a combined stamping and cutting tool.

6. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The die coater is operated to continuously coat the active material onto the metal foil coil stock.

7. The method according to claim 6, further comprising the steps of: in, A first die coater is operated to coat a first side of the metal foil coil stock, preferably the side of the metal foil coil stock where the severed tail end of the first portion is disposed, wherein the first die coater is disposed downstream of where the second portion is attached to the first portion.

8. The method according to claim 7, wherein: A second die coater is operated to coat a second side of the metal foil coil stock, preferably the side of the metal foil coil stock where the leading end of the second portion is disposed, wherein the second die coater is disposed downstream of where the second portion is attached to the first portion.

9. The method according to claim 8, wherein After coating the first side of the metal foil coil stock with the active material, the second side of the metal foil coil stock is coated with the active material.

10. The method according to any one of claims 6 to 9, wherein: The active material is applied to the first side of the metal foil web stock over the adhesive, in particular directly onto the adhesive.

11. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The first supply coil and the second supply coil supply the same metal foil coil raw material, in particular comprising or consisting of a copper alloy and / or an aluminum alloy.

12. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The severing step is performed along a severing line that crosses the first portion relative to the travel direction of the metal foil coil stock, in particular at an angle between 60° and 120°, preferably between 80° and 100°, more preferably perpendicularly.

13. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The severing step forms a serrated edge along the trailing end of the first portion.

14. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The adhesive is provided to a radially outwardly facing side of the second portion of the metal foil coil stock on the second supply roll.

15. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The adhesive is applied to a radially inwardly facing side of the first portion of the metal foil coil stock on the first supply roll.

16. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein After applying the active material layer to the metal foil coil stock, The portion of the electrode web containing the adhesive is separated from the portion of the electrode web designated for use as an electrode, The portion includes the adhesive and a metal foil coil material that is no more than 15000 mm, especially no more than 1500 mm, following the adhesive. Of these, the portion will be discarded.

17. A machine configured to process metal foil coil stock into electrode coil according to the method of any one of claims 1 to 16.

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