Device and method for superposing separator strips and foils, preferably for electrochemical cells intended to produce batteries

Abstract

A stacking apparatus and method for stacking a separator (NS) with a foil (201, 301), the stacking apparatus comprising: a stacking unit (1) comprising a stacking surface (10); a feeding unit (20) of said separation strip (NS), comprising an exit orientation control device (R2) arranged directly upstream of said stacking unit (10), said exit orientation control device (R2) being designed to define an exit reference direction (DRU); a manipulation unit (130) configured to move the exit orientation control device (R2) and / or the overlay surface (10), respectively, to maintain a first distance (D1) between the exit orientation control device (R2) and the overlay surface (10), measured according to the exit reference direction (DRU) and comprised between 0 mm and 30 mm.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a device for laminating separating strips and foils, for example of the type formed by laminating separating strips in alternating fashion with foils.

[0002] The invention further relates to a method for laminating a separator tape and a foil.

[0003] The invention is preferably, but not exclusively, applied in the field of production of electrochemical cells, for example intended for producing pouch cells or prismatic cells; in the production of these types of cells, stacks of separator strips are used, preferably stacks of separator strips alternating with foils.

[0004] In particular, in the relevant technical field it is known to combine different superposed layers of a separator tape folded upon itself with electrode foils placed between the different layers to form a structure suitable for producing electrochemical cells intended for producing batteries.

[0005] An example of an apparatus and method for manufacturing batteries by stacking separator tapes in an alternating arrangement with foils provides that the stacked unit is displaced by a controlled oscillating motion using a servo motor and a speed reducer.

[0006] In this specification and the appended claims, unless explicitly stated otherwise, certain terms and expressions shall be deemed to have the meanings expressed in the following definitions.

[0007] The term "dividing tape" refers to any solid product that is presented in the form of an elongated tape or strip within an industrial production line, i.e., an element that extends longitudinally significantly longer than transversely. The dividing tape may be formed from a single strip or strip of material, or may be formed from a plurality of overlapping strips to form a multi-layered element.

[0008] The divider strip may also have properties such as allowing a certain degree of bending during its advancement along the associated production line.

[0009] For example, the separator strip can be used by overlapping alternating insulating layers to form a stack or sandwich for producing an electrochemical cell.

[0010] Furthermore, the term "separator tape" refers to a tape-like product having properties that allow separation and / or isolation from other components disposed in its vicinity.

[0011] This separation can be achieved by physical or chemical properties, depending on the intended conditions of use.

[0012] An example of such a separation property may be embodied by an electrically insulating polymer strip arranged in contact with the foil of the conductor electrode.

[0013] The above-mentioned specific configuration is only an example and not a limitation.

[0014] Other embodiments may include a polymeric tape having some flexibility such that the tape can be folded upon itself.

[0015] According to some examples, these materials may be polyolefins, including, for example, polyethylene, polypropylene, or copolymers derived therefrom.

[0016] In this context, the term "stacking" refers to the act of forming a structure comprising multiple layers of a separator strip folded upon itself to form a continuous structure suitable for separating or isolating other components between different horizontal pieces of separator material.

[0017] The term "superimposed structure" refers to any structure formed by superimposing, i.e. folding upon itself, a tape, a strip, or a tape-like article in a broader sense, so as to form different superimposed layers depending on the projection or overlap of the tape, preferably in the vertical direction. It will be understood that such superimposed or folded structures are intended to achieve at least partial separation of potential products between the layers and do not necessarily require direct contact between the different layers of the tape employed.

[0018] Usually, this stacked structure is identified as a "Z-type structure" based on the folded shape formed by the different layers.

[0019] As described above, this stacked structure can be applied not only to the field of electrochemical cells, but also to other fields, for example, the stacked structure can also be used in the field of conductors or capacitors therein.

[0020] The term "working path" refers to a closed path traveled by a manipulator or similar moving element, wherein the starting point and the end point of the path substantially coincide.

[0021] The term "continuous" when referring to a movement refers to an operation that is carried out without interruption, i.e. there are no stops or interruptions in the operation. In particular, preferably but not exclusively when referring to the feeding or movement of a belt, the term "continuous" means that the belt never stops during the feeding or movement of the belt.

[0022] Similarly, the term "continuous" may also be used for a product, such as a separator strip, ie a product having no interruptions or distinct separations within the product and which thus presents itself as a single entity during the processing steps or use.

[0023] Furthermore, as previously mentioned, it should be taken into account that the tape employed in the different illustrative steps of the industrial process of interest is preferably a continuous separator tape; therefore, the technical solution requires a step of folding the continuous separator tape upon itself to form at least two overlapping layers of the above-mentioned stacked structure, thereby highlighting at least one process difference compared to the following technology: the technology of sequentially stacking pre-formed or pre-cut single or multiple separator layers (i.e., the concept of simply releasing a pre-structured architecture and being able to be identified using the narrowest meaning of the term "stacked").

[0024] The term "substantially constant" with respect to a measured value or quantity, such as for example the displacement angle of an object during its trajectory, i.e. the angle formed by an object during its displacement, means that the measured value or quantity maintains a value over time: the value preferably varies by a maximum of ±10%, more preferably by a maximum of ±5%, even more preferably by a maximum of ±2%.

[0025] The term "direction" refers to an identifiable vector having a direction and orientation as described or illustrated in the specification and any accompanying drawings. In other words, in this context, when the term "direction" is used, the direction refers to the direction of the orientation. In some discussions, the components of a free vector are described as its direction, orientation, and norm or modulus (or less strictly, scalar modulus) in order to describe the components of the free vector in a more precise and detailed manner. More specifically, in this context, "norm" refers to the Euclidean distance between two corresponding starting and end points of a distance vector, that is, the square root of the sum of the squares of its components.

[0026] The term "substantially equal to 0 mm" refers to a minimum value that may deviate from the exact 0 mm only due to the dimensional constraints of the relevant kinematic mechanism, and the magnitude of such deviation is typically a few millimeters.

[0027] The terms "upstream" or "downstream" refer to objects or process steps that occur respectively before or after a particular sequential flow. When these terms refer to the "direction of deployment of the dividing tape," they refer to the preceding or following step, respectively, relative to the path that the dividing tape travels in the direction of advancement of the dividing tape, from the initial release or dispensing element (roller, reel, etc.) to the stacking surface on which the dividing tape is stacked.

[0028] In this context, "to be deployed" is a synonym for "unrolling".

[0029] Furthermore, in the examples and discussions given, the term "foil" may be replaced by "electrode" when the embodiments relate to applications in electrochemical cells.

[0030] The term "while following according to at least one component" as used in relation to B following A means that the shift of A is consistent with the shift of B, ie the B shift vector and the A shift vector have equal components.

[0031] In this context, the term "maintaining the same angular orientation in all possible spatial configurations" means that a particular arrangement of a device or object uniquely associated with a set of vectors oriented in a particular way in space does not cause that orientation of the set of vectors to change, regardless of the spatial configuration adopted. In other words, when this condition occurs, displacement operators applied to the set of vectors will only produce permitted translations and not rotations.

[0032] The term “Y is immediately downstream of X” means that device or product Y is identified as being immediately after X in sequence, with no other intervening devices or products between X and Y.

[0033] The term "selectively extendable" refers to varying the extension length of an object or portion thereof to achieve an increase without predetermined geometric constraints or limitations.

[0034] The term "while the stacked structure (S) is being formed" refers to actions or process states occurring during any of all steps in forming the stacked structure.

[0035] The term "coherent," when referring to the movement of two or more elements, means that the elements perform substantially the same movement and perform substantially the same movement substantially simultaneously. This term should be understood as a synonym for "integrated," but the term has a broader meaning in terms of the structural constraints involved.

[0036] In other words, the two elements, which are displaced according to a consistent motion, move as a single body, but one of the two elements is not necessarily directly connected or constrained to the other and may be associated with different units and components of the device. In practice, it can be provided that the respective manipulation systems of the two elements are constructed, programmed or operated so that the two elements move together in a coordinated manner when necessary. In addition, it can be provided, for example, that temporary constraints, i.e. physical or digital constraints, are used between the two elements, which, in some process steps, can connect the two elements to each other and coordinate them so that they move together, and then separate the two elements so that they can move independently.

[0037] It should also be noted that the expression "displacing an object between a first position and a second position" refers both to displacing from the first position to the second position and from the second position to the first position.

[0038] This definition applies in an analogous manner to similar expressions of movement, such as, for example, transferring or moving a general object between two locations, between two areas or even between two different operating configurations.

[0039] In the context of the continuous need to improve the performance and efficiency of production processes, the applicant has initially discovered that in a production line for forming a stacked structure suitable for forming electrochemical cells intended to produce batteries, the speed at which the separator tape advances relative to the cells whose stacking is carried out can become an important factor limiting the production capacity of the production line itself.

[0040] In addition, this limitation becomes more critical when high precision is required in forming the stacked structure.

[0041] In particular, the Applicant has found that in many applications, such as in the field of production of electrochemical cells, it is necessary to ensure high precision in the geometry of the stack and in the steps of positioning the foils of the electrodes from one stack to another in order to ensure the desired properties of the finished product.

[0042] Furthermore, the applicant has previously discovered that in the above-described production line for forming a stacked structure, it is necessary to fold a separator tape layer 180° to create a subsequent separator tape layer that overlaps and is vertically aligned with the underlying separator tape layer.

[0043] The Applicant has found that, during the forming step of the superposition structure, the separating strip is displaced and suffers a significant change in angular orientation, thereby generating over time a complex evolution of the direction of advancement of the separating strip along the entire feed path to the predetermined superposition surface.

[0044] Furthermore, through targeted research and in-depth analysis, the applicant has discovered that such rapid displacement of the separation strips in space and changes in their angular orientation during the stacking process may cause serious damage to the strips themselves.

[0045] The Applicant has in fact discovered that when the deployment direction of the median strip changes over time, an asymmetric state of hydrodynamic lateral pressure acting on the advancing median strip may be generated.

[0046] Applicants have internally identified this phenomenon and named it the "sail effect".

[0047] Applicants have discovered that this asymmetric state of the sail effect can lead to significant micro- and macro-deformations in the structure of the divider, thereby potentially damaging the materials constituting key components of the stacked structure.

[0048] More seriously, the applicant has found that such microscopic and macroscopic deformations of the structure of the separator strip may lead to the generation of unwanted tension states, which may even cause the strip to break when these deformations are associated with excessive tension conditions, and may induce uncontrolled stretching states, or even local stretching, when these deformations are associated with tension deficiency conditions, leading to the generation of creases and wrinkles, which in turn may potentially destroy the effective alignment of the various layers and the correct contact between the superimposed surfaces. In addition, the applicant has found that these problems related to structural damage to the separator strip and / or the generation of non-constant uniform tension states and significant irregularities in the resulting contact surfaces are particularly critical in specific electric field application scenarios, where the desired insulation or contact conditions between the different components must be absolutely guaranteed with maximum reliability and reproducibility.

[0049] The Applicant has discovered that this detrimental operational condition generated on the median strip is related to the speed of advancement and therefore the speed of spatial displacement of the median strip itself during the deployment and superposition steps.

[0050] The Applicant has thus realised that it is possible to increase the stacking speed of the separating tape by significantly reducing or avoiding damage to the separating tape during the formation of the stacking structure and even during the positioning step of the foil between the layers of the separating tape, compared to prior art solutions.

[0051] Ultimately, the applicant has discovered that by minimizing the portion of the divider strip exposed to the asymmetric state of hydrodynamic lateral pressure and by advancing the divider strip while maintaining a predetermined angular orientation as much as possible, the deployment and stacking operations can be accelerated without affecting the dimensional accuracy and spatial deployment of the stacked structure and without creating uncontrolled, deleterious tension states in the strip.

[0052] Due to these characteristics, the tape can be advanced at increased unwinding and stacking speeds, thereby overcoming limitations on process speeds that can be employed according to the teachings of the prior art.

[0053] Furthermore, the applicant has found that the invention can also be advantageously applied to the steps of grabbing the tape to start stacking on the desired stacking surface or cutting the separating tape and positioning the foil on the separating tape.

[0054] Therefore, in a first aspect of the present invention, the present invention relates to a laminating device, preferably a laminating device for laminating a separator tape and a foil.

[0055] Preferably, the apparatus comprises stacked units.

[0056] Preferably, the stacking unit comprises a stacking surface.

[0057] Preferably, the stacking surface is configured to receive said separating strip and said foil.

[0058] Preferably, the device comprises a feeding unit.

[0059] Preferably, the feeding unit is configured to feed the dividing tape along a feeding path.

[0060] Preferably, the feed unit comprises exit orientation control means.

[0061] Preferably, the exit orientation control means is arranged directly upstream of said stacking unit.

[0062] Preferably, the departure orientation control device is designed to define a departure reference direction of the separation zone.

[0063] Preferably, the device comprises an operating unit comprising a first operating device and / or a second operating device.

[0064] Preferably, the first manipulator and / or the second manipulator are configured to move the departure orientation control device and / or the superposition surface, respectively, to maintain a first distance between the departure orientation control device and the superposition surface.

[0065] Preferably, the first distance is measured according to the departure reference direction.

[0066] Preferably, said first distance is between 0 mm and 30 mm, more preferably between 0 mm and 15 mm, even more preferably substantially equal to 0 mm.

[0067] The applicant has found that, thanks to these features, a sufficiently contained distance can be maintained between the orientation control device and the superposition surface. This distance is preferably defined taking into account the overall size constraints of the associated kinematic mechanism.

[0068] In this way, the sail effect on the strip segment downstream from the orientation control device can be minimized by reducing the extension of the strip segment included in this segment. In fact, the applicant has found that if it is necessary to significantly change the angular orientation of the separator strips to be superimposed, it can be acted on downstream from the orientation control device by reducing the amount of the separator strip that may be exposed to the misalignment state of the orientation change and therefore to the hydrodynamic lateral pressure. In this way, the damage caused by the sail effect can be significantly reduced or eliminated.

[0069] Furthermore, applicants have realised that the longitudinal extent of the divider can be increased or decreased, thereby effectively creating a coiling or uncoiling of the divider, as the sail effect only occurs when such a change in extension is accompanied by a change in angular orientation.

[0070] In this way, the applicant has at least partially solved the problems of the prior art by limiting the first distance between the departure orientation control device and the superimposed surface to be sufficiently limited to impose constraints associated with displacements having a component in a direction parallel to the first distance, while allowing greater freedom of movement when displacing from the departure orientation control device in a direction close to a state perpendicular to the departure reference direction of the dividing strip.

[0071] Based on a second aspect, the invention also relates to a method for forming a stack of separator tapes, preferably for use in producing an electrochemical cell for a battery.

[0072] Preferably, the method comprises arranging a feeding unit configured to feed the dividing tape along a feeding path.

[0073] Preferably, the feeding unit comprises a departure orientation control device designed to define a departure reference direction of the dividing strip.

[0074] Preferably, the method comprises arranging a movable superposition surface and defining a second working path.

[0075] Preferably, the method comprises laminating the dividing strip at the laminating surface.

[0076] Preferably, the superposition of the dividing strips is performed by maintaining a first distance between the departure orientation control device and the superposition surface, which first distance is measured according to the departure reference direction of the dividing strips and is between 0 mm and 30 mm, more preferably between 0 mm and 15 mm, and even more preferably is substantially equal to 0 mm.

[0077] In addition, based on this aspect, the same advantages as those described with respect to the aforementioned aspects can also be achieved.

[0078] In at least one of the above aspects, the present invention may have at least one additional preferred feature among the following additional preferred features.

[0079] Preferably, the second manipulation means of the superposition surface is configured to displace the superposition surface along a second working path.

[0080] Preferably, said first distance is substantially constant for at least 40% of the time of said second working path, more preferably at least 50%, more preferably at least 80%, even more preferably 100%.

[0081] In this way, the sail effect can be effectively reduced for most of the process steps associated with the unfolding and stacking of the separating strips, while keeping the first distance constant over time and equal to a predetermined value. Furthermore, a predetermined and limited variation of this first distance can be provided, specifically aiming to achieve further advantages without compromising the tension state or causing damage to the separating strips to be stacked, while still ensuring a high overall process speed.

[0082] Preferably, the feeding unit comprises a first orientation control device included in the feeding path.

[0083] Preferably, the first orientation control device is positioned upstream of the exit orientation control device relative to the winding direction of the dividing tape to identify at least one storage section of the dividing tape between the first orientation control device and the exit orientation control device.

[0084] Preferably, the first manipulation device is configured to shift the departure orientation control device between the following approach configuration and extended configuration:

[0085] - in the approach configuration, the exiting orientation control device is spaced apart from the first orientation control device by a minimum distance, the minimum distance being measured based on the length of the separation strip when the separation strip is between the first orientation control device and the exiting orientation control device; and

[0086] - in the extended configuration, the exiting orientation control device is spaced apart from the first orientation control device by a maximum distance measured based on the length of the separation strip when the separation strip is between the first orientation control device and the exiting orientation control device.

[0087] Preferably, the first manipulation device is configured to shift the departure orientation control device so that the dividing strip at the storage section maintains the same angular orientation in all spatial configurations that the dividing strip can assume, including between the approach configuration and the extended configuration.

[0088] Preferably, the first operating device is configured such that: only the following portion of the dividing strip located downstream of the departure orientation control device is an end segment: the angular orientation of the portion changes when the overlapping structure (S) of the dividing strip is being formed; the end segment is defined downstream of the departure orientation control device and upstream of the first constraint position and / or second constraint position of the dividing strip relative to the overlapping surface.

[0089] This technical solution allows for the desired accumulation of the separator tape to be used, depending on the process requirements, thereby maintaining a constant tension in the separator tape and ensuring that: the sail effect is eliminated in the accumulation section upstream of the orientation control device, and that the sail effect is minimized or avoided in the section downstream of the orientation control device. In this way, the separator tape can be stacked on the stacking surface, minimizing damage caused by the sail effect, maintaining a constant tension in the separator tape, and ensuring the desired formation accuracy of the stacked structure.

[0090] Preferably, said end section is oriented according to a deviation direction identifiable immediately downstream of said exit orientation control device relative to said deployment direction of said separation strip.

[0091] Preferably, the deviation direction defines a deviation angle relative to the departure reference direction.

[0092] Preferably, the manipulation unit is configured to displace the stand-off orientation control device relative to the superimposed surface by defining a second distance between the stand-off orientation control device and the superimposed surface.

[0093] Preferably, the second distance is defined such that:

[0094] - when the deviation angle is between +80° and -80°, the second distance decreases to a minimum value; and / or

[0095] - when the deviation angle is between +81° and +100° or between -81° and -100°, selectively extending the second distance.

[0096] In this way, thanks to this solution, greater process freedom, adaptability or modularity can be achieved, making it possible to also vary the extension length of the end segments of the dividing strip without significantly affecting the sail effect, maintaining a high process speed and ensuring a constant tension in the dividing strip.

[0097] Preferably, when the deviation angle is between +80° and −80°, the second distance is substantially equal to the first distance.

[0098] In this way, the end sections of the separation strip are kept as confined as possible in order to reduce or eliminate a possible sail effect when the strip has to change angular orientation significantly, ie when the value of the deviation angle varies.

[0099] Preferably, when the deviation angle is between +81° and +100° or between -81° and -100°, the second distance is between 0% and 10% of the maximum length comprised between the first restraining position and the second restraining position.

[0100] Thanks to this technical solution, it is possible to further vary the extension of the end sections - also depending on the specific specifications of the stacked structure to be formed - and / or avoid any interference between the kinematic mechanisms provided in the device.

[0101] Preferably, when the deviation angle is substantially equal to +90° or -90°, the first distance changes as follows:

[0102] - when approaching the superposed surface, the first distance varies from the constant value by a value between the first distance and 200% of the first distance; or

[0103] - when moving away from the superposed surface, the first distance varies from the constant value to a value between the first distance and 200% of the first distance.

[0104] In this way, the overlapping surface can be shifted beyond a state perpendicular to the departure reference direction, so that the end segment portion of the dividing strip overlapping on the overlapping surface can better abut against the overlapping surface, thereby improving the formation accuracy of the overlapping structure; alternatively, the extension length of the end segment can be increased so as to more effectively avoid possible interactions between related motion mechanisms.

[0105] For the purpose of greater clarity, the term "approach shift" refers to a mutual displacement initiated by shortening the distance between the departure orientation control device and the superimposed surface. It should be understood that when the amount of the approach shift is equal to 100% of the first distance, the actual distance between the departure orientation control device and the superimposed surface becomes equal to zero; when the amount of the approach shift is greater than 100% of the first distance, it should be understood that the actual distance between the departure orientation control device and the superimposed surface begins to grow again, thereby maintaining the same approach direction; when the amount of the approach shift is equal to 200% of the first distance, the departure orientation control device is located on the opposite side of the superimposed surface relative to the initial configuration corresponding to the first distance, so that the distance between the departure control device and the superimposed surface is equal to 100% of the first distance, but on the opposite side relative to the superimposed surface. Preferably, the first restraint position and / or the second restraint position of the separating strip relative to the superimposed surface are the points at which the separating strip is restrained at the superimposed surface by the first blocking means and / or the second blocking means, respectively, included in the superimposed unit.

[0106] In this way, the portion of the end section of the median strip to be overlapped can be constrained and precisely defined to form the desired overlap structure. At the same time, due to the definition of the constraint points of the end section, the portion of the median strip that may be exposed to the asymmetric state of lateral hydrodynamic pressure, which would produce the sail effect, can be managed and minimized.

[0107] According to a preferred embodiment, the first and / or second retaining means are clamps, suction cups or electromagnetic systems adapted to selectively retain a portion of the separating strip integrally with the superimposed surfaces.

[0108] In this way, desired portions of the end segment may be reversibly constrained at different points according to a pre-set time sequence.

[0109] According to an embodiment, the stacking surface has a substantially planar extension with a substantially rectangular base.The dimensions of the stacking surface may be arranged according to the desired specifications of the stacking structure to be formed.

[0110] Preferably, the first and / or second stopping means are constrained in an allowed coplanar translation relative to the superimposed surfaces.

[0111] In other words, the first and / or second stopping means are constrained relative to the superposition surface in a variable fixed position in the direction of the distance between the first and second stopping means.

[0112] In this way, the desired dimensions of the superposition surface can be easily and quickly adjusted to the superposition surface employed.

[0113] Preferably, the first stopping means and / or the second stopping means are constrained in an allowed vertical translation relative to the superimposed surface.

[0114] Thanks to this technical solution, it will be possible to more effectively constrain the separation strip relative to the stacking surface while the formation of the stacking structure proceeds.

[0115] Preferably, the exit orientation control means comprises a pair of rollers.

[0116] Thanks to this technical solution, the separation strip can be guided in a facilitating manner according to the variation in the deviation angle, thus minimizing potential damage to the strip itself.

[0117] Preferably, the pair of rollers are facing each other and are designed so that the dividing strip passes between the pair of rollers.

[0118] In this way, the separation strip can be directed more efficiently according to the desired departure reference direction.

[0119] Preferably, the pair of facing rollers have the same diameter and are either idle or placed in controlled rotation about their central axis of rotation by movement produced by direct motorization or by movement produced by indirect motorization via belts, chains or similar technical solutions.

[0120] In this way, surface deformations can be avoided and the travel of the dividing strip can be effectively guided, thereby further enabling a local movement of the dividing strip relative to the upstream feed rate of the dividing strip.

[0121] Preferably, said first orientation control means is a preferably idle roller.

[0122] In this way, the dividing strip can be guided precisely along the feed path.

[0123] Preferably, the apparatus comprises a first foil release assembly and / or a second foil release assembly.

[0124] Preferably, the first foil releasing assembly and / or the second foil releasing assembly is configured relative to the second manipulator so that, during the receiving section of the second working path, when the first foil releasing assembly and / or the second foil releasing assembly moves closer to the overlapping surface, the first foil and / or the second foil are released on the portion of the separating strip located at the overlapping surface at a minimum release distance from the overlapping surface.

[0125] Preferably, the approaching movement is configured to produce a state in which the relative velocity between the first foil release assembly and / or the second foil release assembly and the overlapping surface is substantially zero, and the approaching movement has at least one displacement component parallel to the departure reference direction, preferably, the at least one displacement component is perpendicular to the overlapping surface, and even more preferably, the at least one displacement component is vertical.

[0126] In this way, the construction of stacked structures with electrode foils placed between layers of separating tape can be managed, optimizing the alignment of the electrode foils during the release step, so as to be able to obtain the desired electrochemical cell in a precise and efficient manner.

[0127] In particular, when releasing with a purely vertically maneuvered approach movement, a possible undesired horizontal displacement is avoided and in this way a release and transfer of the foil can be achieved which is also precise, reliable and reproducible.

[0128] Preferably, said end segment is oriented according to said deviation direction, which is identifiable downstream of said exit orientation control device and which defines a deviation angle relative to said exit reference direction.

[0129] Preferably, the first manipulator and the second manipulator are configured to produce a relative displacement between the superposition surface and the departure orientation control device so as to maintain the same deviation angle relative to the departure reference direction essentially constant for a change in the extension length of the end segment, preferably between 10% and 100%, more preferably between 20% and 90%, and even more preferably between 40% and 60%, of the maximum length of the dividing strip between the first restraint position and the second restraint position relative to the superposition surface.

[0130] The applicant has found that due to these features, the angular orientation between the exit orientation control device and the stacking surface can be kept constant during the unfolding and / or stacking steps, so that no sail effect is produced on the dividing strip, because the angular change conditions that lead to the formation of an asymmetric state of lateral fluid dynamic pressure on the dividing strip disappear.

[0131] Preferably, the relative displacement occurs when the deviation angle is between +81° and +100° or between -81° and -100°.

[0132] In this case, the change in the extension length of the end segment of the dividing strip occurs under conditions that are essentially perpendicular to the reference direction of departure of the dividing strip from the orientation control device, thereby allowing the desired amount of change in the dividing strip to be obtained, and this change is used, for example, to more effectively avoid dimensional limitation problems of other nearby motion mechanisms.

[0133] According to other embodiments, the relative displacement occurs when the deviation angle is substantially equal to 0°.

[0134] Thanks to this technical solution, the deployment of the separation strip can be performed while maintaining the same angular orientation given by the departure orientation control means, thus further reducing the damages and deformations that the separation strip may be subjected to.

[0135] Preferably, the second manipulator is configured to move the superposed surface in a continuous motion along the second path, the second path defining a closed curve.

[0136] In this way, a path can be created that does not provide a reversal point and, therefore, a process that never stops, thereby optimizing the completion time of the stacking structure for the electrochemical cells, always maintaining an ideal constant tension in the separating strips, and also avoiding any sudden braking and acceleration of the various working units involved, which would significantly reduce the average service life of these working units. Preferably, the first operating device separated from the orientation control device is configured so that, when the second operating device displaces the stacking surface in a continuous movement, the first operating device follows the second operating device according to at least one component.

[0137] In this way, it is foreseeable that the reservoir is changed according to the movement of the superposed surfaces by providing a desired additional amount of dividing strip for displacement, whereas in this case a stop would necessarily be required according to prior art solutions.

[0138] In other words, this solution avoids interruptions in the feed and movement of the dividing strips that could create unnecessary tension states or, in any case, reduce the productivity of the equipment.

[0139] Preferably, the method comprises the feature wherein said first distance is substantially constant for at least 40%, more preferably at least 50%, more preferably at least 80%, even more preferably 100% of the time of said second working path.

[0140] In this way, as previously described, the sail effect can be effectively reduced for most of the process steps associated with the unfolding and stacking of the separating strips, while keeping the first distance constant over time and equal to a predetermined value. Furthermore, a predetermined and limited variation of this first distance can be provided, specifically aiming to achieve further advantages without compromising the tension state or causing damage to the separating strips to be stacked, while still ensuring a high overall process speed.

[0141] Preferably, when the first operating device shifts the first orientation control device and the away orientation control device from the approach configuration to the extended configuration, the deviation angle varies between +80° and -80°; and when the first operating device shifts the first orientation control device and the away orientation control device from the extended configuration to the approach configuration, the deviation angle varies between +81° and +100° or between -81° and -100°.

[0142] In this way, the steps following one another in different spatial configurations of the device are optimized.

[0143] Preferably, the approaching movement occurs when the deviation angle is between +81° and +100° or between -81° and -100°, even more preferably, the subsequent release of the first foil or the second foil occurs when the deviation angle is between +81° and +100° or between -81° and -100°.

[0144] In this way, the release step of the first foil or the second foil can be performed on the conveyor belt without having to stop the feed of the belt itself.

[0145] Preferably, the method comprises arranging an end section of the separation strip oriented according to a deviation direction identifiable immediately downstream of the departure orientation control device and defining a deviation angle relative to the departure reference direction.

[0146] Preferably, the method comprises displacing the exit orientation control means and / or the superimposed surface relative to one another by defining a second distance between the exit orientation control means and the superimposed surface.

[0147] Preferably, the exit orientation control means and / or the superposition surfaces are displaced relative to each other such that:

[0148] - when the deviation angle (β) is between +80° and -80°, the second distance (D2) decreases to a minimum value; and / or

[0149] - When the deviation angle (β) is between +81° and +100° or between -81° and -100°, the second distance (D2) is selectively extended.

[0150] Thanks to this solution, the approach adopted gives the process a higher degree of freedom, adaptability or modularity, optionally allowing the length of the end segments of the dividing strip to be changed if necessary without significantly exacerbating the sail effect, maintaining a high process speed and ensuring a constant tension in the dividing strip.

[0151] Preferably, the method comprises the following feature: wherein, when the deviation angle is between +80° and -80°, the second distance is substantially equal to the first distance.

[0152] In this way, the end segments of the divider strip are kept contained to reduce or eliminate the sail effect that may occur when the strip must change angular orientation significantly.

[0153] Preferably, the method comprises the following feature: wherein, when the deviation angle is between +81° and +100° or between -81° and -100°, the second distance is between 0% and 10% of the maximum length of the dividing strip between the first restraint position and the second restraint position relative to the overlapping surface.

[0154] In this way, it is possible to further vary the extension of the end sections—this also depends on the specific specifications of the stacked structure to be formed—and / or avoid any interference between the kinematic mechanisms provided in the device.

[0155] Preferably, the method comprises arranging a manipulation unit comprising a first manipulation device and / or a second manipulation device, the first manipulation device and / or the second manipulation device being configured to displace the exit orientation control device and / or the superposition surface, respectively.

[0156] In this way, the desired movement is managed by the steering unit, which is configured to be able to act simultaneously on a part of the feed unit and / or a part of the stacking unit, so that the relative displacement can be optimized in an efficient and precise manner.

[0157] Preferably, the method includes: arranging a first foil releasing component and / or a second foil releasing component, wherein the first foil releasing component and / or the second foil releasing component are configured to release the first foil and / or the second foil on the portion of the separating strip located at the overlapping surface at a minimum release distance from the separating strip when the first foil releasing component and / or the second foil releasing component moves towards the overlapping surface.

[0158] Preferably, the method comprises: performing the approaching movement to produce a state in which the relative speed between the first foil release assembly and / or the second foil release assembly and the superposition surface is substantially zero, and the approaching movement has at least one displacement component parallel to the departure reference direction, preferably, the at least one displacement component is perpendicular to the superposition surface. Preferably, the approaching movement comprises a purely vertical displacement segment, even more preferably, the approaching movement is a purely vertical displacement.

[0159] Preferably, the method comprises releasing the first foil or the second foil onto the portion of the separating tape at the overlapping surface.

[0160] In this way, the release step of the electrode foil can be optimized by effectively controlling the release position of the electrode foil.

[0161] Preferably, the method comprises releasing the first set of first foils and the second set of second foils by placing a folded section of a separating tape of the stacked structure between each of the first set of first foils and the second set of second foils, respectively.

[0162] In this way, the construction of stacked structures with pairs of electrode foils placed between layers of separating tape can be optimized by controlling the alignment of the electrodes during the release step, so that the desired electrochemical cell can be obtained in a precise and efficient manner.

[0163] Preferably, the method comprises releasing the first foil and the second foil when the approaching movement is performed with the deviation angle being between +81° and +100° or between -81° and -100°.

[0164] In this way, release takes place away from the substantially orthogonal state between the reference direction and the superposition surface, which corresponds to a configuration in which the end section of the separating strip actually abuts the superposition surface and thus assumes an ideally planar state for receiving the electrode foil.

[0165] In this way, the operations of releasing and transferring the foils on the separating tape to form the desired stacked structure are further optimized.

[0166] Preferably, the method comprises moving the first manipulator and the second manipulator relative to each other to produce a relative displacement between the superposition surface and the departure orientation control device, thereby maintaining a substantially constant same deviation angle relative to the departure reference direction when the length of the end segment varies between 10% and 100%, more preferably between 20% and 90%, and even more preferably between 40% and 60%, of the maximum length of the dividing strip between the first restraint position and the second restraint position relative to the superposition surface.

[0167] The applicant has found that due to these features, a constant angular orientation between the departure orientation control device and the stacking surface can be maintained during the unfolding and / or stacking steps so that no sail effect is produced on the dividing strip, because the angular change conditions that lead to the formation of an asymmetric state of lateral fluid dynamic pressure on the dividing strip disappear.

[0168] Preferably, the method comprises performing the relative shifting when the deviation angle is between +81° and +100° or between -81° and -100°.

[0169] In this case, the change in the extension length of the end segment of the dividing strip occurs under conditions where the separation from the orientation control device is essentially perpendicular to the separation reference direction, thereby allowing the desired amount of change in the dividing strip to be obtained, and this change is used, for example, to more effectively avoid dimensional limitation problems of other nearby motion mechanisms.

[0170] Preferably, the method comprises performing the relative shifting when the deviation angle is substantially equal to 0°.

[0171] Thanks to this technical solution, the deployment of the dividing strip can be performed while maintaining the same angular orientation imparted by the exit orientation control means, thus further reducing the damages and deformations that the dividing strip may be subjected to.

[0172] Preferably, the method comprises configuring the second manipulation means of the superposed surface to move the superposed surface in a continuous motion along the second path, the second path defining a closed curve.

[0173] Thanks to this technical solution, a non-stop process can be executed, thereby optimizing the completion time of the stacking structure for the electrochemical units, always maintaining an ideal constant tension in the separating strips, and avoiding any sudden braking and acceleration of the various related working units, which would significantly shorten the average service life of these working units.

[0174] Preferably, the method comprises configuring the first actuator to follow the second actuator according to at least one component as the second actuator displaces the superimposed surface in a continuous motion.

[0175] Thanks to this technical solution, it is foreseeable that the storage section changes according to the movement of the superposed surfaces, by providing a desired additional amount of dividing strip for displacement, whereas in this case stops would necessarily be required according to prior art solutions.

[0176] The characteristics and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description of a preferred embodiment of the invention, shown by way of non-limiting example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0177] · Figure 1 is a schematic front view of an apparatus according to the present invention;

[0178] · Figures 2 to 5 is a schematic front view showing the device according to the invention during different operating steps;

[0179] · Figure 6 is a perspective view of an apparatus implemented according to the present invention;

[0180] · Figures 7 to 12 is a schematic front view showing the device according to the invention during a further operating step;

[0181] · Figure 13 is a schematic front view of a detail of a stacked structure that can be formed by the apparatus according to the invention;

[0182] · Figures 14 to 18 Schematic diagrams showing details of the operating steps of the device according to the present invention;

[0183] · Figure 19a 、 Figure 19b 、 Figure 19c Schematic front view, not to scale, showing details of operating steps of the device according to the invention, respectively.

[0184] First refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2, 100 denotes as a whole a laminating device 100 for laminating a separating strip NS and a foil implemented according to the present invention.

[0185] In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus 100 is used to perform the stacking of separating strips NS for producing electrochemical cells.

[0186] However, it should be understood that this represents a possible implementation example and that the device 100 according to the invention can be used to superimpose separating strips also suitable for different uses, even for fields other than those related to the production of electrochemical cells.

[0187] For example, in the field of energy storage, the invention can also be used to form other stacked components intended for use in batteries or supercapacitors.

[0188] In some embodiments, for example, Figure 1 In the embodiment shown, the device 100 can be used in the context of a production line for stacked structures S of electrochemical cells, wherein separator strips NS are stacked by being folded over themselves, thereby performing an overlapping of the layers and placing electrode foils between the layers.

[0189] The separator strip NS is a polymer strip which has, for example, the function of electrically insulating the electrode foils arranged between the different layers.

[0190] Depending on the embodiment, the separator strip NS can be either a single material or a multi-layered piece comprising a plurality of overlapping layers.

[0191] An example of such a material for use as a separator strip is polyethylene.

[0192] Reference Figure 11 Two electrode foils, or electrodes for short, are indicated by 201 and 301, which are positioned on a separator strip NS during the stacking step to form a stacked structure S and thus enable the production of an electrochemical cell.

[0193] In particular, the cathode foil is denoted by 201, and the anode foil is denoted by 301. An example of a material that can be used as a cathode in foil form is aluminum, and an example of a material that can be used as an anode in foil form is copper.

[0194] In its overall configuration, the apparatus 100 implemented according to the embodiments depicted in the accompanying drawings comprises a feeding unit 20 , a stacking unit 1 , a manipulation unit 130 , and a first foil releasing assembly 200 and / or a second foil releasing assembly 300 .

[0195] In a preferred embodiment, the separating tape NS is supplied by a dedicated dispensing device not shown in the drawings. For example, the dispensing device of the separating tape NS can be formed by a large roll in which the separating tape NS is collected so as to be unwound in a continuous manner during operation of the device and thus supplied.

[0196] The separating strips NS supplied by the distributing device are subsequently distributed to a feeding unit 20 which, in a preferred embodiment, is responsible for optimizing the transfer and management of the separating strips NS before they are stacked by the associated stacking unit 1 , the features of which will be described in detail below.

[0197] According to a preferred embodiment, the feeding unit 20 comprises an inlet section (not shown in the drawings), which is preferably adapted to receive the separating strip NS from the dispensing device, and an outlet section, which passes out of the feeding unit 20 via the outlet section 22 and is fed to the stacking unit 1. The stacking unit 1 comprises a stacking surface 10, which is adapted to receive the separating strip NS so as to allow stacking thereof.

[0198] Thus, a feed path PA of a separating strip NS is defined between the inlet section and the outlet section.

[0199] It will be appreciated that the separating tape NS may pass through further units, e.g. for pre-processing the tape, before being supplied to the feeding unit 20. For example, the separating tape may be subjected to pre-cleaning, laser ablation or surface activation operations to homogenize the surface properties of the separating tape.

[0200] In a preferred embodiment, the separating strip NS is fed into the feeding unit 20 in a continuous manner.

[0201] In other words, the separating strip NS is introduced into the feed unit 20 without ever stopping and running at a speed greater than zero and preferably substantially constant.

[0202] However, in some specific cases, it may be necessary to interrupt the continuous supply, or to slow down the advancement of the separating strip NS to meet other operational requirements related to the specific process being performed.

[0203] According to some embodiments, it is possible to continuously unfold the separator NS at a constant speed without interrupting the feeding and unfolding of the separator NS, always keeping the relevant motion mechanism moving to reduce or avoid sudden acceleration and deceleration of the handling device, and always ensuring a constant tension state.

[0204] For this and other purposes, an accumulation device may be provided, which is configured to accumulate a certain amount of said dividing strip NS.

[0205] like Figure 1 、 Figure 6 、 Figure 11 and Figure 12 As shown in the implementation example, the storage device included in the feeding unit 20 may include a first orientation control device R1, which is included on the feeding path PA and is positioned upstream of the departure orientation control device R2 relative to the unfolding direction of the separating strip NS to identify at least one storage segment T of the separating strip NS between the first orientation control device R1 and the departure orientation control device R2.

[0206] According to a preferred embodiment, the device 100 comprises an operating unit 130 which in turn comprises a first operating device 131 .

[0207] according to Figure 11 and Figure 12 In the embodiment shown, the first manipulator 131 is configured to displace the departure orientation control device R2 between an approach configuration CR and an extended configuration CE:

[0208] - in this approach configuration CR, the departure orientation control device R2 is at a minimum distance from said first orientation control device R1 , the minimum distance being measured according to the length of a separation strip NS between the first orientation control device R1 and the departure orientation control device R2; and

[0209] - In this extended configuration CE, said departure orientation control device R2 is at a maximum distance from said first orientation control device R1 , measured according to said length of a separation strip NS between the first orientation control device R1 and the departure orientation control device R2.

[0210] The amount of stored tape may be variable, in that it is envisaged that the amount of stored separating tape NS in terms of length may be variable during different steps of the process to meet specific needs anticipated as described above.

[0211] According to a preferred embodiment, the manipulation unit 130 includes an additional manipulation device (not shown in the drawings) configured to move the first orientation control device R1 to further determine the required amount of the dividing strip NS included in the storage section T.

[0212] Still refer to Figure 1 、 Figure 6 、 Figure 11 and Figure 12It can be seen that the first orientation control device R1 is preferably an idle roller, and the leaving orientation control device R2 includes two rollers R2a and R2b facing each other, and the separator belt NS passes between the two rollers R2a and R2b.

[0213] According to a preferred embodiment, the two facing rollers R2a, R2b included in the exit orientation control device R2 have the same diameter and are idle or are placed in a controlled rotation around the central rotation axis of the two rollers R2a, R2b by means of a movement generated by direct motorization or by means of an indirect motorization via a belt, chain or similar technical solution.

[0214] like Figure 6 As shown in the example of FIG, in the storage section T comprised between the first orientation control device R1 and the exit orientation control device R2, further idle rollers constrained to fixed positions are provided, which allow the separator tape NS to be wound and guided in a controlled manner.

[0215] More preferably, the feeding unit 20 comprises at least one tension control device. Preferably, the feeding unit 20 comprises a buffer element positioned at the storage section T.

[0216] Still refer to Figure 1 , a schematic diagram of a first manipulation device 131 can be seen, which may include, for example, a horizontal guide, a vertical guide, or a combination thereof.

[0217] Still refer to Figure 1 It can be seen that the first operating device 131 of the departure orientation control device R2 is configured to shift the departure orientation control device R2 along the first working path P1.

[0218] like Figure 1 、 Figure 11 and Figure 12 As shown in the example depicted in , the first working path P1 is preferably a straight segment, more preferably, the first working path P1 is perpendicular to the superposition surface 10, even more preferably, the first working path P1 has a vertical orientation.

[0219] In fact, if Figure 11 and Figure 12As shown in , it can be seen that the two rollers R2a, R2b are preferably moved in a purely vertical translation according to said first working path P1, thereby reversibly shifting between the approach configuration CR and the extended configuration CE. It is important that during these shifts, the separating strip NS always maintains the same angular orientation in the storage section T. In other words, although the two rollers R2a, R2b are shifted integrally along said storage section (tract) T according to a purely vertical translation, the orientation imposed by the two rollers R2a, R2b on the separating strip NS remains unchanged, i.e. the two rollers R2a, R2b do not cause a change in the inclination of the strip during these movements. This means that the separating strip NS in the storage section is not subject to an asymmetric state of lateral fluid dynamic pressure and is therefore not subject to a sail effect and the associated potential damage.

[0220] In this way, by varying the distance between the roller comprised in the first orientation control device R1 and the two rollers R2a, R2b comprised in the exit orientation control device R2, the length of the path the strip must actually travel can be varied, thereby allowing the required amount to be stored.

[0221] In this way, considering e.g. Figure 12 In the embodiment described in the text, by lowering the two rollers R2a and R2b, the length of the separating strip NS included in the storage section T can be increased; and considering that the input feeding speed of the feeding unit 20 is constant or basically constant, the belt portion downstream of the two rollers R2a and R2b can be slowed down or stopped without causing the supply of the separating strip NS to necessarily stop.

[0222] This approach will be discussed further in the detailed embodiments below.

[0223] It should also be noted that in a preferred embodiment, the movement of the two rollers R2a, R2b, or more generally the movement away from the orientation control device R2, can be associated with a retaining device for the separating strip NS (not shown in the accompanying drawings), which is configured to selectively control the advancement of the separating strip NS.

[0224] For example, in some embodiments, in order to control the movement of the dividing strip portion NS, a clamp (not shown in the drawings) or other similar retaining element may be provided, which acts on the dividing strip when it is necessary to control, retain or stop the dividing strip.

[0225] The clamping member may advantageously be movable in order to further adjust the feed speed of the associated strip by controlling the movement of the clamping member.

[0226] The clamping element may also be associated with an associated knife element which, if necessary, cuts the separating strip NS to be superimposed so as to interrupt the continuity of said strip within the superimposed structure S. This occurs, for example, when the superposition step of the separating strip NS on the superimposition surface 10 is completed.

[0227] It is also particularly important to point out that the above-mentioned rollers included in the first orientation control device R1 and in the exit orientation control device R2 allow the passing separating strip NS to be managed by giving the separating strip NS a specific direction (depending on the relative position of the rollers, the diameter of the rollers, etc.) and thereby effectively controlling the orientation of the separating strip NS in space.

[0228] In a preferred embodiment, the rollers comprised in the first orientation control device R1 are preferably mounted on buffer elements or similar solutions which allow changing the orientation of the separating strip NS by tilting or shifting the axis of rotation of the rollers themselves.

[0229] Now refer to Figures 1 to 12 , the stacking unit 1 is arranged immediately downstream of the feeding unit 20 to receive the separating tape NS moved by the feeding unit 20 .

[0230] Preferably, the separating strip NS is fed by shifting along the feeding direction, and the departure orientation control device R2 is designed to impart a departure reference direction DRU (i.e., the final angular orientation), which the separating strip NS will adopt if the separating strip is free to continue the imposed movement of the separating strip and if the constraints and movement mechanisms arranged downstream of the departure orientation control device R2 do not interfere.

[0231] For example, from Figure 3 、 Figure 6 and Figure 8 It is seen that the departure reference direction DRU is preferably vertical.

[0232] exist Figure 9 In the example shown, the departure reference direction DRU imposed on the separation strip NS by the two rollers R2a, R2b is horizontal. For more practical and clear purposes, an orientation angle α is defined that defines the angle determined by the departure reference direction DRU relative to the vertical of the environment in which the device 100 is installed.

[0233] In this sense, it is clearly understood how the configuration of the separation strip NS relative to the departure orientation control device R2 determines the departure vertical reference direction DRU and the direction equal to, for example, Figure 5 The resulting value of the orientation angle α of 0° in the embodiment shown; Figure 9In FIG. 1 , the embodiment is shown in relation to the associated value of the orientation angle α being equal to 90° and leaving the horizontal reference direction DRU.

[0234] Refer to for example Figure 1 or Figure 2 The end section of the separating strip NS is represented by TF, which is defined downstream of the departure orientation control device R2 and upstream of the first constraint position PV1 or the second constraint position PV2 of the separating strip NS relative to the superimposed surface 10.

[0235] It can be seen that according to Figure 11 and Figure 12 In the preferred embodiment shown, the first restraining position PV1 corresponds to the interference point of the first blocking means 51, while the second restraining position PV2 corresponds to the interference point of the second blocking means 52, which are included in the stacking unit 1 and act on the stacking surface 10. More specifically and with reference now only to Figure 12 The first blocking device 51 is a device that is set at a distal position relative to the departure orientation control device R2, while the second blocking device 52 is set at a proximal position relative to the departure orientation control device R2.

[0236] According to a preferred embodiment, the first blocking means 51 and / or the second blocking means 52 are clamps, suction cups or electromagnetic systems suitable for selectively retaining portions of the separating strip NS in an integral manner with the superposition surface 10 .

[0237] According to an embodiment, the stacking surface 10 has a substantially planar development with a substantially rectangular base.The dimensions of the stacking surface 10 may be set according to the desired specifications of the stacking structure S to be formed.

[0238] Furthermore, the relative positions of the first blocking device 51 and / or the second blocking device 52 can also be defined or modified according to the specifications of the desired stacking structure S. In other words, the first blocking device 51 and / or the second blocking device 52 can be constrained by allowing coplanar and / or vertical translation relative to the stacking surface 10.

[0239] According to Figure 11 In some embodiments shown by way of example in FIG. 1 , the stacked unit 1 comprises a plurality of blocking means 51 , 52 .

[0240] Still refer to Figure 11 , it can be seen that the separation zone NS is constrained by the second blocking device 52. In this state, the end section TF is defined downstream from the orientation control device R2 and the second blocking device 52.

[0241] Obviously, when the first blocking means 51 are activated, the extension of the end section TF and the associated deviation angle β change.

[0242] This occurs because it is now the first blocking means 51 that defines the extension and the angular orientation of the end section TF.

[0243] Typically, the activation of the blocking system placed between the exit orientation control device R2 arranged downstream and the blocking device arranged further downstream - such activation realizes the removable constraint of the separating strip NS at the overlapping surface 10 - always leads to a change in the extension length of the end segment and in some cases also to a change in the associated deviation angle β.

[0244] According to the above discussion and as shown by e.g. Figure 11 and Figure 12 From what is shown, it can be seen that the extension length and orientation of the end section TF may vary significantly and rapidly depending on whether the blocking device is engaged on the separating strip NS. In fact, it is obvious that when the clamping member acts on a section of the separating strip NS, thereby constraining said section of the separating strip NS to the superposition surface 10 in an integral manner, this section does not undergo further displacement relative to the superposition surface, but moves rigidly together with the superposition surface, as if this section and the superposition surface define a single body. Therefore, in this sense, it should be clearly pointed out how the section of the separating strip NS that has not yet been constrained to the superposition surface 10 and is arranged downstream of the orientation control device R2 is identified as the above-mentioned end section TF and is characterized in that: before the above-mentioned end section TF of the separating strip NS is further constrained and acts in an integral manner with the superposition surface 10, the extension length and spatial orientation of the above-mentioned end section TF may vary significantly.

[0245] Preferably and with reference to e.g. Figure 3 、 Figure 5 and Figure 8 , shows an embodiment in which the end segment TF is oriented according to a deviation direction DD identifiable downstream of the departure orientation control device R2 and defining a deviation angle β with the departure reference direction DRU.

[0246] In addition, if you can Figure 3 、 Figure 5 and Figure 8 It is further seen that the deviation angle β may vary from approximately +100° to -100° relative to the departure reference direction DRU.

[0247] Due to this angular change of the end section TF, the separating strip NS can be superimposed on the superposition surface 10 by first folding the separating strip NS in one direction and then folding the separating strip NS in the opposite direction, thereby forming a stacking surface 10 as shown in FIG. Figure 13 A series of continuous and overlapping layers is shown.

[0248] Reference Figure 13 It can be seen that the two blocking devices 51 and 52 acting at the first restraining position PV1 and the second restraining position PV2 respectively can act on the portion of the separating strip NS to be restrained at the same time or at different times.

[0249] According to a preferred embodiment, the associated blocking means operate by blocking the new separating tape layer NS once it has been brought substantially abutting against the superposition surface 10 or lower layer of the superposition structure S when it is about to be completed.

[0250] Reference Figure 6 It is noteworthy how the departure reference direction DRU corresponds to the longitudinal axis of an exit plane PU which is coplanar with the separation strip NS at the departure orientation control device R2.

[0251] According to one embodiment, the device 100 comprises a manipulation unit 130 comprising a first manipulation device 131 and / or a second manipulation device 132, the first manipulation device 131 and / or the second manipulation device 132 being configured to move the departure orientation control device R2 and / or the superposition surface 10, respectively, so as to displace the departure orientation control device R2 and / or the superposition surface 10 relative to each other while moving according to the departure reference direction DR, so as to maintain the deviation angle β greater than ±60°, more preferably greater than ±70°, even more preferably greater than ±80°, when the extension length of the end segment TF is greater than 1 / 3 of the maximum length comprised between the first and second restraining positions PV1 and PV2 of the separating strip NS relative to the superposition surface 10. Preferably, the maximum length is measured according to a direction perpendicular to the exit plane PU.

[0252] In fact, it can be seen that considering Figure 1 、 Figure 2 、 Figure 6 、 Figure 11 and Figure 12 As shown, the first manipulator 131 displaces the departure orientation control device R2 while following the movement generated by the superposition surface 10 by means of the second manipulator 132. Preferably, the second manipulator 132 may comprise, for example, a horizontal guide, a vertical guide or a combination thereof.

[0253] According to a preferred embodiment, the displacement caused by the manipulator 131 is configured as a pure vertical translation. Since the first manipulator 131 and the second manipulator 132 are configured to follow each other, this means that the second manipulator 132 will displace the superposition surface 10 by the same vertical translation as that performed by the departure orientation control device R2.

[0254] Refer to for example Figure 1 and Figure 2 It can be seen that the displacement of the superimposed surface 10 produced by the second manipulator 132 defines a second working path P2, which corresponds to a closed path of a complex shape, such as a biloba or a long bow, which includes both horizontal and vertical displacement components, however, the second working path P2 is constructed to shift itself in a manner consistent with the first working path P1 leaving the orientation control device R2.

[0255] In other words, the second working path P2 is configured to include a vertical translation component that is substantially identical in terms of extension and occurrence time to the pure vertical translation performed by the departure orientation control device R2 according to the first working path P1. Figure 2 , the pure vertical translation component included in the first working path P1 and the second working path P2 is marked as V1.

[0256] This means that, while the superimposed surface 10 itself is displaced vertically in a manner consistent with leaving the orientation control device R2, a further displacement of the superimposed surface 10 according to a horizontal component is also performed.

[0257] In this way, a rapid horizontal displacement of the overlapping surface 10 can be produced by changing the deviation angle β at a high speed, resulting in an extension of the end segment TF of the separating strip NS so as to approach the overlapping surface 10 with a short displacement along the second working path P2, thereby finally reaching a contact state between the end segment TF and the overlapping surface 10 at a value equal to the deviation angle β of approximately +90° or -90°.

[0258] In other words and now referring to Figure 7 The manipulation unit 130 is configured to relatively shift the departure orientation control device R2 relative to the superposition surface 10 so as to keep the first distance D1 between the departure orientation control device R2 and the superposition surface 10 measured according to the departure reference direction DRU basically constant and between 0 mm and 30 mm, more preferably between 0 mm and 15 mm, and even more preferably basically equal to 0 mm when the superposition structure of the separating strip NS is being formed.

[0259] For example, from Figure 1 、 Figure 6and Figure 14 As can be seen and as mentioned above, the first distance D1 measured according to the vertical direction preferably always remains smaller than a limit value between 0 mm and 30 mm and always remains as constant as possible, except for the overall constraints of the kinematic mechanism concerned.

[0260] It can be seen that this value can be maintained even when the superposition surface 10 is displaced horizontally by an amount greater than 30 mm, since it is limited here only by the distance according to the vertical component.

[0261] According to the preferred embodiment, Figure 8 And even refer to Figure 10 It can be seen that, in the case where the value of the deviation angle β is close to, for example, +90° or -90°, the first operating device 131 and the second operating device 132 are configured to produce a relative displacement SR between the superposition surface 10 and the departure orientation control device R2, so as to maintain the same deviation angle β relative to the departure reference direction DRU substantially constant when the extension length of the end segment TF varies between preferably 10% and 100%, more preferably between 20% and 90%, and even more preferably between 40% and 60% of the maximum length between the first restraint position PV1 and the second restraint position PV2 of the separating strip NS relative to the superposition surface 10, so as to minimize the amount of the surface of the separating strip NS that is exposed to changes in lateral fluid dynamic pressure caused by changes in the deployment angle of the separating strip NS when the superposition structure of the separating strip NS is being formed.

[0262] In fact, it is obvious that when the superimposed surface 10 is displaced according to the second working path P2, for example, away from the departure orientation control device R2 to be at a deviation angle β equal to 85°±10%, the configuration requires that the departure orientation control device R2 be kept moving with the superimposed surface 10 according to at least one component, that is, the first distance D1 is kept basically constant, so that the relative displacement of the superimposed surface 10 relative to the departure orientation control device R2 is basically horizontal according to the deviation angle β basically equal to +90° or -90°, thereby avoiding the generation of a sail effect on the end segment TF of the separating strip NS in this case.

[0263] According to e.g. Figure 15 In the embodiment shown, when the deviation angle β is substantially equal to +90° or -90°, the first distance D1 changes as follows:

[0264] - when approaching said superposed surface, said first distance D1 varies from said constant value to a value between said first distance and 200% of said first distance; or

[0265] - when moving away from the superimposed surface, the first distance D1 varies from the constant value to a value between the first distance and 200% of the first distance.

[0266] In this way, the value of the deviation angle β can be further increased, for example by more effectively guiding the dividing strip NS to abut against the overlapping surface 10 and by reducing the possibility of wrinkles forming on the surface of the dividing strip NS while the dividing strip NS is constrained by the first blocking device 51 and / or the second blocking device 52.

[0267] Reference Figure 19a 、 Figure 19b 、 Figure 19c , shows in detail some moments related to the variation of the first distance D1 when the leaving orientation control device R2 and the superposition surface 10 move towards each other. In the example thus depicted, the first distance D1 is measured according to the vertical axis Z. More in detail, Figure 19a The state where the first distance D1 is equal to 10 mm and the approach displacement starts is schematically shown in FIG. For ease of explanation and for example purposes only, consider the case where the departure orientation control device R2 is substantially stationary and the stacking surface 10 is displaced to approach along the departure reference direction DRU, i.e., upwards. Figure 19b In FIG. 1 , it can be seen that the stacking surface 10 has reached a height away from the orientation control device R2 and the first distance D1 has become substantially zero. Figure 19c The following moment is shown: the superimposed surface 10 continues Figure 19b The still ongoing movement in , while maintaining the same direction and orientation, thereby adds a further vertical upward displacement value equal in modulus to the initial value of the first distance D1. In this configuration, the deviation angle β is substantially equal to 110°.

[0268] Reference Figure 2 , the manipulation unit 130 is configured to displace the departure orientation control device R2 relative to the superposed surface 10 by defining a second distance D2 between the departure orientation control device R2 and the superposed surface 10, so that:

[0269] When the deviation angle β is between +80° and -80°, the second distance D2 is reduced to a minimum value; and / or

[0270] When the deviation angle β is between +81° and +100° or between -81° and -100°, the second distance D2 is selectively extended.

[0271] Still refer to Figure 2 It can be seen that the second distance D2 is identified as the minimum distance between any portion of the orientation control device R2 and any portion of the superimposed surface 10.

[0272] Therefore, it can be clearly understood that when the deviation angle β is between +80° and −80°, the second distance D2 may preferably be substantially equal to the first distance D1 , thereby satisfying the conditions set for the first distance D1 between 0 mm and 30 mm.

[0273] Furthermore, according to a preferred embodiment, when the deviation angle β is between +81° and +100° or between -81° and -100°, the second distance D2 is between 0% and 70% of the maximum length between the first restraint position PV1 and the second restraint position PV2.

[0274] Alternatively, according to other preferred embodiments, when the deviation angle β is between +81° and +100° or between -81° and -100°, the second distance D2 is between 0% and 10% of the maximum length included between the first restraint position PV1 and the second restraint position PV2.

[0275] According to e.g. Figure 11 、 Figure 16 and Figure 17 In the illustrated embodiment, the device preferably includes a first foil releasing component 200 and a second foil releasing component 300, and the first foil releasing component 200 and the second foil releasing component 300 are configured relative to the second manipulator 132 to: during the receiving section TR of the second working path P2, when the first foil releasing component 200 or the second foil releasing component 300 performs an approaching movement Mac relative to the stacking surface 10, the first foil 201 or the second foil 301 is released to the portion of the separating strip NS located at the stacking surface 10 at a minimum release distance DmR from the stacking surface 10, the approaching movement Mac is configured to produce a state of substantially zero relative speed between the first foil releasing component 200 and / or the second foil releasing component 300 and the stacking surface 10, and the approaching movement Mac has at least one displacement component parallel to the departure reference direction DRU, preferably, the at least one displacement component is perpendicular to the stacking surface 10, and more preferably, the at least one displacement component is in a vertical direction.

[0276] According to an embodiment, the first foil release assembly 200 and / or the second foil release assembly 300 respectively include corresponding first shifting devices 210 and / or second shifting devices 310, and the first shifting devices 210 and / or the second shifting devices 310 are configured to selectively shift the first foil release assembly 200 and / or the second foil release assembly 300 according to the approach movement Mac.

[0277] Preferably, the first displacement device 210 and / or the second displacement device 310 is a motion mechanism with two degrees of freedom. More preferably, the first displacement device 210 and / or the second displacement device 310 is a combination of a horizontal guide and a vertical guide.

[0278] according to Figure 16 and Figure 17 In the preferred embodiment shown, the approach movement Mac basically starts when the first orientation control device R1 and the departure orientation control device R2 are in the approach configuration CR, and the approach movement Mac basically ends when the first orientation control device R1 and the departure orientation control device R2 are in the extended configuration CE.

[0279] Now refer to Figure 2 and Figure 17 And considering the preferred embodiment, it can be seen that this overall configuration means that when the leaving orientation control device R2 is vertically translated by the first orientation control device R1 which shifts itself away from the pure vertical movement V1, thereby shifting from the approach configuration CR to the extended configuration CE, the superimposed surface 10 and the second foil release assembly 300 perform a movement having the same vertical component V1 to achieve a state of consistent or integrated movement with essentially the same vertical component between the three different devices in this process step.

[0280] This sophisticated coordination mechanism ensures that the release of the second foil 301 takes place with minimal potential damage to the stacking structure S being formed; minimal sail effect, which is conferred by the guarantee condition of the first distance D1 between 0 mm and 30 mm; constant tension in the separating strip NS, which is ensured by the ability to selectively determine the storage section T and to perform continuous movement of the stacking surface, which is allowed by the fact that the entire system shifts vertically by shifting itself from the approach configuration to the extended configuration when releasing the first foil 201 or the second foil 301.

[0281] This cooperation mechanism also applies when the first foil 201 is released by the foil release assembly 300 .

[0282] Preferably and with reference to Figure 11The first foil release assembly 200 and the second foil release assembly 300 respectively include a first holding device 230 and a second holding device 330, and the first holding device 230 and the second holding device 330 are configured to: allow the first foil 201 and the second foil 301 to be selectively held, for example, before and during approaching the movement Mac, and release the first foil 201 and the second foil 301 by deactivating the first holding device 230 and the second holding device 330, for example, deactivating the first holding device 230 and the second holding device 330 when approaching the end of the movement Mac.

[0283] These first holding device 230 and second holding device 330 are vacuum systems, such as suction cups, for example.

[0284] According to one embodiment, the second manipulating device 132 is configured to displace the superimposed surface 10 along the receiving section TR of the second working path P2 so as to bring the superimposed surface 10 closer to the first displacement device 210 and / or the second displacement device 310 during the approaching movement Mac.

[0285] Due to this technical solution, the approaching time can be shortened and the relative speed between the superposition surface 10 and the first foil releasing assembly 200 or the second foil releasing assembly 300 in the approaching step can be increased.

[0286] According to another embodiment, the second manipulator 132 is configured to shift the stacking surface 10 along the receiving section TR of the second working path P2 so as to shift the stacking surface 10 away from the first manipulator 210 and / or the second manipulator 310 during the approaching movement Mac, the approach being performed by a difference in displacement speed between the stacking surface 10 and the first foil release assembly 200 or the second foil release assembly 300.

[0287] In this way, an approach between the stacking surface 10 and the first foil release assembly 200 or the second foil release assembly 300 may be performed that allows for release in a smooth or non-abrupt manner.

[0288] The invention also relates to the implementation of a method 500 for forming a stack S of separator strips NS, preferably for use in electrochemical cells intended for manufacturing a battery.

[0289] The method 500 provides the following steps: arranging the device 100 comprising a fixed frame on which the feeding unit 20, the manipulation unit 130, the stacking unit 1 and the first and second electrode release assemblies 200, 300 are constrained.

[0290] The steering unit 130 comprises a vertical guide 131 which allows a pure vertical translation of the two rollers R2a, R2b which are facing and rotating in opposite directions, and a combined horizontal-vertical guide 132 which allows a complex spatial displacement which will be discussed in detail below. According to an alternative embodiment, the exit orientation control device R2 comprises four rollers.

[0291] The superposition surface 10 is mounted on a device integrally constrained to the combined horizontal-vertical guide 132 .

[0292] The vertical guide 131 and the combined horizontal-vertical guide 132 are mounted on the fixed frame of the apparatus 100 and are guided in a motorized manner.

[0293] Downstream of the distribution area (not shown in the figures), the separation strip NS passes through the feed unit 20. Figure 1 、 Figure 16 and Figure 17 The separating strip NS passes through a storage section T included in the feeding unit 20 , which is defined between a driven roller R1 and two rollers R2 a , R2 b provided at the exit of the storage section T itself.

[0294] Downstream of the two rollers R2 a , R2 b , the conveyor belt is stably constrained to the stacking surface 10 by means of clamps 52 .

[0295] For the purpose of greater clarity and completeness of description, Table 1 is shown, which shows an example of a sequence of operations performed by the apparatus 100 according to the method 500 of forming a stacked structure S.

[0296]

[0297] Table 1. Example of a main sequence of operations for forming a stacked structure S

[0298] Refer to Table 1 and Figure 18 It can be seen that, in step 1 , the end section TF of the separating strip NS is oriented according to a deviation angle β equal to 0°.

[0299] The end segment TF is measured immediately downstream of the last point of contact between the roller R2b and the separating strip NS and immediately upstream of the point of contact between the first clamp 52 and the separating strip NS.

[0300] The length of the end section TF is about 12 mm. The first distance D1 is equal to 7 mm and the second distance D2 is equal to the first distance D1.

[0301] exist Figure 18Also shown is a second closed working path P2 made by the combined horizontal-vertical guide 132, showing that the second closed working path P2 is roughly bilobed in shape (similar to a horizontally placed infinity symbol), and the second closed working path P2 has roughly straight and vertical lateral segments (as can be seen from the parallel relationship between these parts of the second working path P2 and the vector coordinate system shown, where Z represents the vertical axis).

[0302] Furthermore, in step 1, the driven roller R1 and the counter-rotating and facing rollers R2a, R2b are in the extended configuration CE. The storage section T is measured from the horizontal diameter of the driven roller R1 to the horizontal diameter of the counter-rotating and facing rollers R2a, R2b according to the length of the dividing strip NS.

[0303] In step 2, refer to Figure 18 , the stacking surface 10 moves simultaneously to the right (corresponding to the increase in coordinate position Y) and upward (corresponding to the increase in coordinate position Z). The separation strip NS is still held by the second clamping member 52 (see, for example Figure 5 ).

[0304] At the same time, the two rollers R2a, R2b rotating in opposite directions and facing each other are vertically raised (corresponding to an increase in the coordinate position Z) by the vertical guide 131, thereby shifting from the extended configuration CE to the close configuration CR.

[0305] If you can Figure 18 As can be seen from Table 1, the deviation angle β increases from 0° to 90°.

[0306] In the shown Figures 1 to 5 and Figures 7 to 18 A two-dimensional view in plane YZ is shown.

[0307] Therefore, in this discussion, the situation where the change in position along X would be significant will not be accounted for.

[0308] In addition, refer to Figure 6 It can be seen that the displacement of the separation strip NS along the axis X and therefore the displacement of the outlet plane PU along the axis X may cause the strip itself to be misaligned and / or twisted, which may affect or damage the effect of the present invention itself.

[0309] In step 3 and refer to Figure 16 , in pure vertical translation, the counter-rotating and facing rollers R2a, R2b have reached close to the configuration CR, with a deviation angle β substantially equal to 90° and the superposition surface 10 to the right of the two rollers R2a, R2b.

[0310] The separating strip NS substantially abuts against the superposition surface 10 and is further blocked by the first clamping piece 51 .

[0311] Still refer to Figure 16 At the end of step 3, the second electrode release assembly 300 has reached the following position: above the position, the second electrode release assembly 300 faces the stacking surface 10.

[0312] The first distance D1 is equal to about 3 mm, while the second distance D2 is equal to about 7 mm, the second distance D2 being measured as the smallest distance between any portion of the two rollers R2 a , R2 b and any portion of the superposition surface 10 .

[0313] In step 4, the "movement pause" begins. As previously mentioned, the following situation exists: the displacement vectors of the first working path of the two rollers R2a, R2b and the displacement vector of the second working path of the superposition surface 10 are consistent in direction, orientation and magnitude.

[0314] This displacement vector is a pure vertical translation directed downward (corresponding to a displacement with negative values ​​only in the component Z), which displaces the two rollers R2a, R2b and the superposition surface integrally from the close configuration CR towards the extended configuration CE. Throughout the "displacement" period, the deviation angle β remains substantially equal to +90°.

[0315] At the end of step 4 , a configuration equal to about 6 / 7 of the extended configuration CE is reached and the “movement pause” ends, thus ending the step of following and releasing the second electrode 301 onto the first fold of the separating strip NS of the stacked structure S with minimal approach.

[0316] During step 4, the two rollers R2a, R2b, the superposition surface 10 and the second electrode release assembly 300 have been moved by the same displacement according to the same displacement vector.

[0317] The first distance D1 and the second distance D2 have the same values ​​as those in step 3 .

[0318] In step 5, the superposition surface 10 is displaced downwards and to the left in a similar manner to step 2 but in an opposite displacement direction. Concurrently, the two rollers R2a, R2b are translated further downwards, reaching the extended configuration CE.

[0319] In this step 5, the deviation angle β is reduced from +90° to 0°, thereby returning to a state equivalent to step 1, but the difference is that, at this time, the separating tape NS is held by the first clamping member 51 and the electrode 301 has been placed on the first folded layer of the separating tape NS.

[0320] Steps 6 through 10 represent the left-side mirroring of what occurs on the right side during steps 2 through 5, causing the first electrode release assembly 200 to interfere.

[0321] Thus, consistently, at the end of step 10 (the spatial configuration of the device 100 being identical to that of step 1 ), the two layers of separating strips NS will have been folded onto the superposition surface 10 and the two electrodes 301 , 201 (cathode and anode) positioned on the superposition surface 10 .

[0322] Obviously, the method 500 can continue from step 10 to execute a new step 2 to form the desired stacked structure S.

[0323] More generally, so far combined Figure 1 All elements described in the shown embodiments can be combined with all possible embodiments provided by the invention and described above.

[0324] It goes without saying that, in order to meet specific and occasional application needs, those skilled in the art will be able to make further modifications and variations, which still fall within the scope of protection defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A stacking device (100) for stacking a separator strip (NS) and a foil (201, 301), the device (100) comprising: - a stacking unit (1), said stacking unit (1) comprising: o a stacking surface (10) configured to receive the separating strip (NS) and the foil; a feeding unit (20) configured to feed the separating strip (NS) along a feeding path (PA), wherein: o the feeding unit (20) comprises a departure orientation control device (R2), the departure orientation control device (R2) being arranged directly upstream of the stacking unit (1); o The departure orientation control device (R2) is designed to define a departure reference direction (DRU) of the separation strip (NS), - a manipulation unit (130), said manipulation unit (130) comprising a first manipulation device (131) and / or a second manipulation device (132), said first manipulation device (131) and / or said second manipulation device (132) being configured to move said departure orientation control device (R2) and / or said superposition surface (10), respectively, so as to maintain a first distance (D1) between said departure orientation control device (R2) and said superposition surface (10), said first distance (D1) being measured according to said departure reference direction (DRU), and said first distance (D1) being between 0 mm and 30 mm, more preferably, said first distance (D1) being between 0 mm and 15 mm, even more preferably, said first distance (D1) being substantially equal to 0 mm.

2. The device (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein the second manipulator (132) of the superposition surface (10) being configured to displace the superposition surface (10) along a second working path (P2), ·The first distance (D1) is substantially constant for at least 40% of the time of the second working path (P2); more preferably, the first distance (D1) is substantially constant for at least 50% of the time of the second working path (P2); more preferably, the first distance (D1) is substantially constant for at least 80% of the time of the second working path (P2); even more preferably, the first distance (D1) is substantially constant for 100% of the time of the second working path (P2).

3. The device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The feeding unit (20) comprises a first orientation control device (R1) included in the feeding path (PA) and positioned upstream of the exit orientation control device (R2) with respect to the deployment direction of the separating strip (NS) to identify at least one storage section (T) of the separating strip (NS) between the first orientation control device (R1) and the exit orientation control device (R2); The first manipulator (131) is configured to displace the departure orientation control device (R2) between an approach configuration (CR) and an extended configuration (CE) as follows: - in the approach configuration (CR), the departure orientation control device (R2) is spaced apart from the first orientation control device (R1) by a minimum distance, the minimum distance being measured based on the length of the separation strip (NS) when the separation strip (NS) is between the first orientation control device (R1) and the departure orientation control device (R2); and - in the extended configuration (CE), the departure orientation control means (R2) is spaced apart from the first orientation control means (R1) by a maximum distance, the maximum distance being measured based on the length of the separation strip (NS) when the separation strip (NS) is between the first orientation control means (R1) and the departure orientation control means (R2), As a result, the separating strip (NS) at the storage section (T) maintains the same angular orientation in all spatial configurations between the approach configuration (CR) and the extended configuration (CE), and only the following portion of the separating strip (NS) located downstream of the departure orientation control device (R2) is the end segment (TF): the angular orientation of the portion changes when the superposition structure (S) of the separating strip (NS) is being formed; and the end segment (TF) is defined downstream of the departure orientation control device (R2) and upstream of the first constraint position (PV1) and / or the second constraint position (PV2) of the separating strip (NS) relative to the superposition surface (10).

4. The device (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein: the end segment (TF) being oriented according to a deviation direction (DD), said deviation direction (DD) being identifiable downstream of said departure orientation control device (R2) relative to said deployment direction of said separation strip (NS), and said deviation direction (DD) defining a deviation angle (β) relative to said departure reference direction (DRU); The manipulation unit (130) is configured to displace the departure orientation control device (R2) relative to the superposition surface (10) by defining a second distance (D2) between the departure orientation control device (R2) and the superposition surface (10) so that: - when the deviation angle (β) is between +80° and -80°, the second distance (D2) decreases to a minimum value; and / or - When the deviation angle (β) is between +81° and +100° or between -81° and When the angle is between -100°, the second distance (D2) is selectively extended.

5. The device (100) according to claim 4, wherein When the deviation angle (β) is substantially equal to +90° or -90°, the first distance (D1) changes as follows: When approaching the superposed surface (10), the first distance (D1) varies from the constant value to a value between the first distance (D1) and 200% of the first distance (D1); or When moving away from the superposition surface (10), the first distance (D1) changes from the constant value to a value between the first distance (D1) and 200% of the first distance (D1).

6. The device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the device (100) comprises a first metal foil releasing assembly (200) and / or a second metal foil releasing assembly (300), wherein the first metal foil releasing assembly (200) and / or the second metal foil releasing assembly (300) are configured relative to the second manipulator (132) to release the first metal foil (201) and / or the second metal foil releasing assembly when the first metal foil releasing assembly (200) and / or the second metal foil releasing assembly (300) perform an approaching movement (Mac) relative to the superimposed surface (10) during the receiving section (TR) of the second working path (P2). The metal foil (301) is released on the portion of the separation strip (NS) located at the superposition surface (10) at a minimum release distance (DmR) from the superposition surface (10); the approach movement (Mac) is configured to produce a state in which the relative speed between the first metal foil release component (200) and / or the second metal foil release component (300) and the superposition surface (10) is approximately zero, and the approach movement (Mac) has at least one displacement component parallel to the departure reference direction (DRU), preferably, the at least one displacement component is perpendicular to the superposition surface (10), and even more preferably, the at least one displacement component is vertical.

7. A method (500) for forming a stacked structure (S) of separator strips (NS), preferably said stacked structure (S) of separator strips (NS) being used for producing an electrochemical cell for a battery, said method (500) comprising: - arranging a feeding unit (20) configured to feed the separating strip (NS) along a feeding path (PA), the feeding unit (20) comprising a departure orientation control device (R2) designed to define a departure reference direction (DRU) of the separating strip (NS); - arranging a movable superposition surface (10) and defining a second working path (P2); - superimposing the separating strip (NS) at the superimposed surface (10) while maintaining a first distance (D1) between the departure orientation control device (R2) and the superimposed surface (10), the first distance (D1) being measured according to the departure reference direction (DRU) of the separating strip (NS), and the first distance (D1) being between 0 mm and 30 mm, more preferably, the first distance (D1) being between 0 mm and 15 mm, and even more preferably, the first distance (D1) being approximately equal to 0 mm.

8. The method (500) according to the preceding claim, wherein The first distance (D1) is substantially constant for at least 40% of the time of the second working path (P2); more preferably, the first distance (D1) is substantially constant for at least 50% of the time of the second working path (P2); more preferably, the first distance (D1) is substantially constant for at least 80% of the time of the second working path (P2); even more preferably, the first distance (D1) is substantially constant for 100% of the time of the second working path (P2).

9. The method (500) according to claim 7 or claim 8, comprising: arranging an end segment (TF) of the separation strip (NS), the end segment (TF) being oriented according to a deviation direction (DD) identifiable immediately downstream of the departure orientation control device (R2) and defining a deviation angle (β) relative to the departure reference direction (DRU); displacing the departure orientation control means (R2) and / or the superposition surface (10) relative to one another by defining a second distance (D2) between the departure orientation control means (R2) and the superposition surface (10) such that: - when the deviation angle (β) is between +80° and -80°, the second distance (D2) decreases to a minimum value; and / or - When the deviation angle (β) is between +81° and +100° or between -81° and When the angle is between -100°, the second distance (D2) is selectively extended.

10. The method (500) according to the preceding claim, wherein When the deviation angle (β) is between +80° and −80°, the second distance ( D2 ) is substantially equal to the first distance ( D1 ).

11. The method (500) of claim 9, wherein: When the deviation angle (β) is between +81° and +100° or between -81° and -100°, the second distance (D2) is between 0% and 10% of the maximum length of the separation strip (NS) between the first restraint position (PV1) and the second restraint position (PV2) relative to the superposition surface (10).

12. The method (500) according to any one of claims 7 to 11, comprising: Arranging a first metal foil releasing assembly (200) and / or a second metal foil releasing assembly (300), wherein the first metal foil releasing assembly (200) and / or the second metal foil releasing assembly (300) are configured to release the first metal foil (201) and / or the second metal foil (301) onto a portion of the separating strip (NS) located at the overlapping surface (10) at a minimum release distance (DmR) from the separating strip (NS) when the first metal foil releasing assembly (200) and / or the second metal foil releasing assembly (300) and the overlapping surface (10) perform an approaching movement (Mac); said approaching movement (Mac) being performed to produce a state in which the relative velocity between the first foil release assembly (200) and / or the second foil release assembly (300) and the superposition surface (10) is substantially zero, and said approaching movement (Mac) having at least one displacement component parallel to the departure reference direction (DRU), preferably, said at least one displacement component being perpendicular to the superposition surface (10), even more preferably, said at least one displacement component being vertical; • releasing the first foil (201) or the second foil (301) onto the portion of the separating strip (NS) located at the superposition surface (10).

13. The method (500) according to the preceding claim, comprising: ·Release the first group of first metal foils (201) and the second group of second metal foils (301) respectively by placing a folded section of the separating strip (NS) of the stacking structure (S) between each of the first group of first metal foils (201) and the second group of second metal foils (301); preferably, the first metal foil (201) and the second metal foil (301) are released when the approach movement (Mac) is performed when the deviation angle (β) is between +81° and +100° or between -81° and -100°.

14. The method (500) according to any one of claims 7 to 13, comprising: A second manipulator (132) of the superposed surface (10) is configured to move the superposed surface (10) in a continuous motion along the second path (P2), the second path (P2) defining a closed curve.

15. The method (500) according to the preceding claim comprises configuring the first manipulator (131) of the departure orientation control device (R2) so that, when the second manipulator (132) displaces the superimposed surface (10) in a continuous motion, the first manipulator (131) follows the second manipulator (132) according to at least one component.

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