Protective tape attachment device and battery cell manufacturing method using the same

Abstract

The present invention relates to a protective tape attachment device for electrode tab protection of a secondary battery and a battery cell manufacturing method using the same, and more particularly, to a protective tape attachment device capable of attaching both ends of a protective tape and a battery cell manufacturing method using the same. According to one example of the present invention, it may provide a protective tape attachment device capable of vertically joining both ends of a protective tape to each other by a main attachment device that attaches the protective tape to an electrode tab and an end attachment device that moves on both sides of the main attachment device independently of the main attachment device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a protective strip attachment device for protecting electrode contacts of a secondary battery and a method for manufacturing a battery cell using the protective strip attachment device, and more specifically, to a protective strip attachment device capable of attaching both ends of a protective strip and a method for manufacturing a battery cell using the protective strip attachment device.

[0002] This application claims priority based on Korean Patent Application No. 10-2023-0081113, dated June 23, 2023, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Background Technology

[0003] A secondary battery is a battery that can be reused by converting chemical energy into electrical energy during discharge and electrical energy into chemical energy during charging.

[0004] Secondary batteries can include nickel-cadmium (Ni-Cd) batteries, nickel-metal hydride (Ni-MH) batteries, lithium metal batteries, lithium-ion (Li-Ion) batteries, and lithium-ion polymer batteries (hereinafter referred to as "LIPB").

[0005] Lithium-ion batteries have a cycle life of about 500 cycles or longer and a short charging time of about 1 to 2 hours. They are also about 30% to 40% lighter than nickel-metal hydride batteries, resulting in weight reduction. Furthermore, they have the highest voltage (30V to 37V) per cell among existing rechargeable batteries and excellent energy density, which allows them to have characteristics optimized for mobile devices.

[0006] As a lithium secondary battery, pouch-type battery cells are widely used, in which the electrode assembly is sealed by a pouch as an aluminum sealing material.

[0007] Typically, electrode assemblies, which are internal components of a battery cell, are manufactured by assembling and integrating unit bodies that are stacked in a four-layer structure of positive electrode / separator / negative electrode / separator, or a five-layer structure of positive electrode / separator / negative electrode / separator / positive electrode, or negative electrode / separator / positive electrode / separator / negative electrode. These electrode assemblies are then housed in a pouch shell, which serves as the encapsulation material. Pouch-type batteries house the electrode assemblies in a pouch made of a soft polymer material with an irregular shape.

[0008] In the case of a pouch-type battery cell, the pouch is manufactured by forming a cup-shaped receiving portion that accommodates the electrode assembly on a pouch film made of a flexible material. That is, when a receiving portion with a space for accommodating the electrode assembly is formed in the pouch film, the electrode assembly is stored in the receiving space of the receiving portion, and the edges are sealed, thereby manufacturing a secondary battery. This pouch film consists of multiple layers, such as an outer coating, a metal barrier layer, and an inner adhesive layer.

[0009] Figure 1 This is an exploded perspective view showing the components of a pouch-type secondary battery using conventional technology. Figure 2 This is a side view showing the internal components of a conventional pouch-type secondary battery.

[0010] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 The pouch cell 20 includes an electrode assembly 50, which includes a positive electrode 24 and a negative electrode 22, and a separator 23 inserted between the positive electrode 24 and the negative electrode 22. Electrode active materials are applied to the electrode plates on the positive electrode 24 and the negative electrode 22.

[0011] In the multiple positive electrodes 24, the electrode tabs are placed together by a tab guiding process, and after pre-soldering, the electrode tabs can be soldered to the positive electrode lead 51.

[0012] Similarly, in the multiple negative electrodes 22, the electrode tabs are placed together by a tab guiding process, and after pre-soldering, the electrode tabs can be soldered to the negative electrode lead 52.

[0013] When the electrode assembly 50 is housed in the bag housing 21, the leads 51, 52 are pulled out to form an electrical connection with an external terminal (not shown).

[0014] When the electrode assembly 50 is manufactured, it is housed in a receiving portion 21b1 formed in the lower bag film 21b. In this case, multiple leads 51, 52 of the electrode assembly 50 protrude from the receiving portion 21b1. After the electrode assembly 50 is inserted into the bag, a bag-forming process can be performed, and then the electrolyte can be injected into the bag shell. Subsequently, after performing initial charging and discharging (activation process), a sealing process can be performed to seal the edges 1b2 of the upper bag film 21a and the lower bag film 21b by heat sealing. After the sealing process, by performing aging and inspection processes, the manufacturing of the battery cell 50 can finally be completed.

[0015] Figure 3 This is a partial plan view showing a portion of a pouch-type electrode assembly using conventional technology. Then, Figure 4 This is a partial plan view showing a portion of a bag-type electrode assembly using conventional technology.

[0016] Leads 51 and 52 are provided with lead film 60. That is, leads 51 and 52 penetrate the bag, with the upper and lower surfaces of the leads in contact with the bag, and lead film 60 is provided in this contact portion for electrical insulation. Lead film 60 can melt when the bag is sealed to increase the sealing strength between leads 51 and 52 and the bag.

[0017] The soldering process can be performed on the leads 51 and 52 while the lead film 60 is firmly attached to the leads. Therefore, in the manufacturing process of the electrode assembly 50 and the battery cell 20, the process for attaching the lead film 60 to the leads can be omitted.

[0018] Based on the positive electrode, the electrode tab 25 and lead 51 are firmly connected to each other by resistance welding, ultrasonic welding, or laser welding, resulting in a weld portion 25a with a rough surface. Since such a weld portion 25a comes into contact with the bag during subsequent manufacturing processes, it may cause insulation failure in the bag. Therefore, as... Figure 4 As shown, the protective strip 70 is attached to the weld portion 25a to protect the weld portion 25a formed between the lead wire 51 and the electrode tab 25.

[0019] Meanwhile, during the electrode tab guiding process, pre-welding process, or electrode tab welding process (main welding process), or in subsequent processes, the electrode tabs located on the top or bottom layer may break. Therefore, the protective strip 70 can also be a strip used to prevent the electrode tabs from breaking.

[0020] The protective strip 70 may be attached to one side of the upper or lower surface of the electrode contact, or it may be attached to both sides.

[0021] Figure 5 This is a schematic front view showing the appearance of a tape attachment device using conventional techniques for attaching protective tape.

[0022] The conventional attachment device 80 may include an upper attachment device 81 and a lower attachment device 82, which can respectively attach the upper protective strip 71 and the lower protective strip 72 to the upper and lower surfaces of the weld portion 25a. Specifically, the upper attachment device 81 can apply pressure to the upper surface of the weld portion 25a to attach the upper protective strip 71 to the upper surface of the weld portion 25a, and the lower attachment device 82 can apply pressure to the lower surface of the weld portion 25a to attach the lower protective strip 72 to the lower surface of the weld portion 25a.

[0023] However, conventional attachment devices 80 can only attach the upper protective strip 71 and the lower protective strip 72 to the upper and lower surfaces of the welding portion 25a of the electrode contact 25 and the lead 51, respectively. However, the two ends 71a of the upper protective strip 71 and the two ends 72a of the lower protective strip 72 (which protrude on both sides of the welding portion 25a) do not fully contact each other, thus causing them to not attach to each other, or even if they are attached, they are easily separated from each other due to external impact.

[0024] At both ends of such an unattached protective strip, the joint may detach from the electrode tabs due to external pressure or electrolyte flow, or the unattached portion may fold. Specifically, when the ends of the protective strip are folded towards the sealed area of ​​the bag, the ends of the protective strip may become lodged between the bag membranes during the bag sealing process, thus hindering heat sealing and potentially creating unsealed areas. In this way, if moisture penetrates from the outside through the unsealed area of ​​the bag, there is a concern about accelerated swelling within the battery cell.

[0025] Korean Patent Publication No. 2014-0137836 (hereinafter referred to as the "prior patent") discloses an attachment device in which the process of adsorption tape and the process of attachment tape are performed in sequence by linearly moving the adsorption portion of the tape up and down.

[0026] A prior patent discloses a device with an attachment mechanism, wherein the attachment mechanism attaches a protective strip to the uncoated portion of the electrode plate and the electrode contacts above and below.

[0027] The prior patent attaches the cut strip directly to the strip adsorption portion of the electrode plate by raising and lowering it, thus attaching the strip to the electrode tab, but does not disclose a separate adhesive structure or adhesive mechanism to join the two ends of the strip.

[0028] Therefore, a method is needed that can effectively secure the two ends of the protective tape attached to the lead while it passes horizontally through the lead. Summary of the Invention

[0029] Technical issues

[0030] The purpose of this invention is to solve the problems caused by conventional protective tape attachment devices or methods.

[0031] By way of an example of the present invention, it is intended to provide a protective strip attachment device and a protective strip end attachment device capable of attaching the two ends of each of the upper protective strip and the lower protective strip to each other, and a method for manufacturing a battery cell using the protective strip attachment device and the protective strip end attachment device.

[0032] By way of one example of the present invention, it is intended to provide a protective strip attachment device that can be easily added to a main attachment device for attaching a protective strip to an electrode tab and thus enabling the two ends of the protective strip to be joined together, and a method for manufacturing a battery cell using the protective strip attachment device.

[0033] By way of one example of the present invention, it is intended to provide a protective tape attachment device that applies an end attachment device that is raised and lowered independently relative to the main attachment device and thus can effectively prevent the end attachment device from interfering with the process of attaching the protective tape to the main attachment device, and a method for manufacturing a battery cell using the protective tape attachment device.

[0034] By way of one example of the present invention, it is intended to provide a protective strip attachment device capable of preventing damage to the protective strip during the process of pressurizing and joining the two ends of the protective strip and increasing the joining length of the two ends, and a method of manufacturing a battery cell using the protective strip attachment device.

[0035] Technical solution

[0036] To achieve the above objectives, according to an example of the present invention, a protective tape attachment device may be provided, the protective tape attachment device comprising an upper main attachment device for attaching an upper protective tape to an upper surface of an electrode tab disposed in an electrode assembly, and a lower main attachment device for attaching a lower protective tape to a lower surface of an electrode tab, and further comprising an upper end attachment device and a lower end attachment device.

[0037] The upper attachment device can be installed on both sides of the upper main attachment device, and can be configured to pressurize both ends of the upper protective strip extending outward from both sides of the upper main attachment device.

[0038] The lower attachment device can be installed on both sides of the lower main attachment device, and can be configured to pressurize both ends of the lower protective strip extending outward from both sides of the lower main attachment device.

[0039] Preferably, the upper attachment device and the lower attachment device are configured to simultaneously apply pressure to both ends of the upper protective strip and both ends of the lower protective strip, respectively, so that the two ends of the upper protective strip and the two ends of the lower protective strip engage with each other.

[0040] The two ends of the upper protective strip and the two ends of the lower protective strip are inserted between the upper and lower attachment devices. Therefore, when the upper and lower attachment devices move in opposite directions (i.e., in the direction closer to each other), the two ends of the upper and lower protective strips can overlap each other to be pressurized simultaneously. In this way, the adhesive force between the two strips can be further strengthened.

[0041] Preferably, after pressurization of the upper main attachment device, the upper attachment device moves downward from the upper main attachment device, and after pressurization of the lower main attachment device, the lower attachment device moves upward from the lower main attachment device.

[0042] Preferably, the upper attachment device and the lower attachment device are configured to be raised and lowered integrally with the upper main attachment device and the lower main attachment device, respectively.

[0043] The upper attachment device and the lower attachment device are configured to be raised and lowered independently relative to the upper main attachment device and the lower main attachment device, respectively.

[0044] Preferably, the upper attachment device has an adsorption surface for adsorbing the upper protective strip, and the lower attachment device has an adsorption surface for adsorbing the lower protective strip.

[0045] The adsorption surface can adsorb the non-adhesive surface of the protective tape, so that the adhesive surface of the protective tape faces the electrode contacts.

[0046] With the upper attachment device positioned above the adsorption surface of the upper main attachment device, the upper protective tape is adsorbed onto the adsorption surface of the upper main attachment device, and the attachment of the upper protective tape can be performed. With the lower attachment device positioned below the adsorption surface of the lower main attachment device, the lower protective tape is adsorbed onto the adsorption surface of the lower main attachment device, and the attachment of the lower protective tape can be performed.

[0047] The upper attachment device and the lower attachment device may each include a pressure block and a moving member, wherein the pressure block is configured to apply pressure to the end of the upper or lower protective belt; and the moving member moves the pressure block in the vertical direction.

[0048] Preferably, the pressure block has rounded edges that contact the extended beginning portions at both ends of the upper or lower protective strip. This prevents abrupt bending of the protective strip as it leaves the electrode tab.

[0049] The movable component may include wheels that guide the movement of the pressure block relative to the upper or lower main attachment device. The upper or lower main attachment device may be provided with a guide rail for the movement path of the guide wheels.

[0050] The upper and lower attachment devices may include roller members having multiple rollers configured to move up and down along one side of the upper or lower main attachment device to apply pressure to one side of the upper or lower protective belt.

[0051] The roller component can be configured to apply pressure to the upper or lower protective belt while moving from the inside to the outside end of the upper or lower protective belt.

[0052] The multiple rollers may include a movable roller and a pressure roller, the movable roller being configured to move up and down along one side of the upper main attachment device or the lower main attachment device, and the pressure roller being configured to apply pressure to the upper surface of the upper protective belt or the lower surface of the lower protective belt.

[0053] The moving roller can be configured to guide the raising and lowering of the roller assembly, and the pressure roller can be configured to apply pressure to the protective belt while the roller assembly is in direct contact with the protective belt.

[0054] The roller assembly may include a transmission component that transmits the vertical movement of the moving roller to the vertical and horizontal movement of the pressure roller.

[0055] The pressure roller can be configured such that it applies pressure to the protective belt in the vertical direction at the start of pressure application, and applies pressure to the protective belt in the horizontal direction while maintaining vertical pressure during pressure application. That is, preferably, the pressure roller is configured to be able to oscillate relative to the moving roller via a transmission member.

[0056] To achieve the above objectives, according to an example of the present invention, a method for manufacturing a secondary battery can be provided, the method including a wrapping step of attaching a protective tape to electrode contacts. Specifically, the secondary battery manufacturing method may include: a welding step of welding electrode contacts and electrode leads to an electrode assembly; a wrapping step of attaching an upper protective tape and a lower protective tape to the electrode contacts; a shell-forming step of heat-melting a bag containing the electrode assembly with the attached upper and lower protective tapes to form a bag shell; an injection step of injecting electrolyte into the bag shell; and a sealing step of sealing the bag shell.

[0057] Preferably, in the wrapping step, the upper protective tape and the lower protective tape are attached to the upper and lower surfaces of the electrode contact piece respectively by the pressure of the upper main attachment device and the lower main attachment device. Then, independently of the pressure of the upper main attachment device and the lower main attachment device, the two ends of the upper protective tape and the two ends of the lower protective tape extending outward from both sides of the electrode contact piece are attached to each other vertically by the pressure of the upper end attachment device and the lower end attachment device.

[0058] Preferably, the upper main attachment device and the upper end attachment device are configured to be symmetrical with respect to the electrode contacts and the lower main attachment device and the lower end attachment device, and to move in the opposite direction to the movement direction of the lower main attachment device and the lower end attachment device, for attaching the protective strip and attaching both ends. That is, the upper end attachment device and the lower end attachment device move to push against each other, so that the ends of the upper protective strip and the lower protective strip inserted between the two devices can engage with each other.

[0059] Preferably, after the upper main attachment device is pressurized, the upper attachment device moves downward from the upper main attachment device, and after the lower main attachment device is pressurized, the lower attachment device moves upward from the lower main attachment device.

[0060] In other words, preferably, after the protective tape is attached to the electrode tab, the two ends of the protective tape are joined together vertically. Therefore, after the protective tape is stably attached to the electrode tab, a firm connection can be performed from the beginning to the end of both ends of the protective tape.

[0061] Preferably, the pressurization of the upper and lower attachment devices is performed while the upper and lower main attachment devices are kept pressurized.

[0062] The upper and lower attachment devices may include pressure blocks that apply pressure to both ends of the upper or lower protective belt by raising and lowering it.

[0063] The upper and lower attachment devices may include pressure rollers that apply pressure to both ends of the upper or lower protective belt by raising and lowering the rollers and applying roller pressure.

[0064] The end attachment device can be configured to raise and lower the adsorption surface of the main attachment device, and the raising and lowering gap can be preset.

[0065] In the case of the upper attachment device, preferably, the upper attachment device adsorbs the protective tape onto the adsorption surface of the main attachment device at a position higher than the adsorption surface of the main attachment device. Therefore, interference between the upper protective tape and the upper attachment device can be eliminated during the adsorption of the upper protective tape. Then, preferably, after the protective tape has been attached via the upper main attachment device, the upper attachment device moves to a position lower than the adsorption surface of the main attachment device to engage the two ends of the protective tape. Thus, by minimizing the lifting distance of the upper attachment device, a short processing speed can be expected through a simple structure.

[0066] To achieve the above objectives, according to one example of the present invention, a strip end attachment device can be provided separately from the main attachment device for attaching the protective strip to the upper and lower sides of the electrode tab.

[0067] The end attachment device may include an upper end attachment device and a lower end attachment device.

[0068] The upper attachment device can be configured to pressurize both ends of the upper protective strip by descending, and the lower attachment device can be configured to pressurize both ends of the lower protective strip by ascending. The upper and lower attachment devices can be configured to be symmetrical vertically and can be configured to move in opposite directions.

[0069] Beneficial effects

[0070] According to one example of the present invention, a protective strip attachment device and a protective strip end attachment device capable of attaching the two ends of each of the upper and lower protective strips to each other can be provided, as well as a method for manufacturing a battery cell using the protective strip attachment device and the protective strip end attachment device.

[0071] By way of an example of the present invention, a protective tape attachment device that can be easily added to a main attachment device for attaching a protective tape to an electrode tab and thus enabling the two ends of the protective tape to be joined together can be provided, as well as a method for manufacturing a battery cell using the protective tape attachment device.

[0072] By way of an example of the present invention, a protective tape attachment device can be provided that employs an end attachment device that is raised and lowered independently relative to the main attachment device and thus can effectively prevent the end attachment device from interfering with the process of attaching the protective tape to the main attachment device, and a method for manufacturing a battery cell using the protective tape attachment device.

[0073] By way of an example of the present invention, a protective strip attachment device capable of preventing damage to the protective strip during the process of pressurizing and joining the two ends of the protective strip and increasing the joining length of the two ends can be provided, as well as a method of manufacturing a battery cell using the protective strip attachment device. Attached Figure Description

[0074] Figure 1 This is an exploded perspective view showing the components of a pouch-type secondary battery using conventional technology.

[0075] Figure 2 This is a side view showing the internal components of a conventional pouch-type secondary battery.

[0076] Figure 3 This is a partial plan view showing a portion of a bag-type electrode assembly using conventional technology.

[0077] Figure 4 This is a partial plan view showing a portion of a bag-type electrode assembly using conventional technology.

[0078] Figure 5 This is a schematic front view showing the appearance of a tape attachment device using conventional techniques for attaching protective tape.

[0079] Figure 6 This is a conceptual diagram illustrating a component of a protective strap attachment device according to an example of the present invention.

[0080] Figure 7 This is a front view schematically showing the appearance of a protective strap attachment device according to an example of the present invention.

[0081] Figure 8This is a side view schematically showing some components of a protective strap attachment device according to an example of the invention.

[0082] Figure 9 and Figure 10 This is a front view schematically illustrating the operational appearance of a protective tape attachment device according to an example of the present invention.

[0083] Figure 11 It is magnification Figure 9 A partially enlarged view of a portion of the protective tape attachment device.

[0084] Figure 12 and Figure 13 This is a front view schematically illustrating the operational appearance of a protective strap attachment device according to another example of the invention.

[0085] Figure 14 This is a flowchart of a battery cell manufacturing method according to an example of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0086] In the following, a bag forming apparatus according to an example of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0087] Furthermore, regardless of the reference numerals, identical or corresponding parts are given by the same or similar reference numerals, and repeated descriptions will be omitted. In addition, for ease of interpretation, the size and shape of each component shown in the figure may be enlarged or reduced.

[0088] Figure 6 This is a conceptual diagram illustrating components of a protective strap attachment device 1000 according to an example of the present invention. Figure 7 This is a front view schematically showing the appearance of a protective strap attachment device 1000 according to an example of the present invention.

[0089] Reference Figure 6 and Figure 7 A protective strip attachment device 1000 according to an example of the present invention can be provided, such that the protective strip is attached to the upper and lower surfaces of the electrode contacts 25 disposed in the electrode assembly 50, and furthermore, the two ends of the protective strips 71, 72 are attached to each other.

[0090] The portion of the electrode tab 25 covered by the protective strips 71 and 72 may be the portion soldered to the electrode lead.

[0091] Specifically, the protective tape attachment device 1000 may include an upper main attachment device 121. The upper main attachment device 121 may be configured such that the upper protective tape 71 is pressed against the upper surface of a portion of the electrode tab 25 disposed in the electrode assembly 50 to be attached. The upper main attachment device 121 may be configured such that a lower portion directly presses against the upper surface of the upper protective tape 71. The upper main attachment device 121 may be moved vertically by a separate first linear drive unit 131. For example, the first linear drive unit 131 may include a linear motor or a servo motor to cause the upper main attachment device 121 to move vertically linearly.

[0092] The upper main attachment device 121 can pressurize the upper protective strip 71 attached to the electrode contact 25 to strengthen the attachment force. In addition, the upper main attachment device 121 can attach the upper protective strip to the electrode contact 25 by pressing the upper protective strip 71 to the electrode contact 25 while the upper protective strip 71 is in an adsorbed state.

[0093] Furthermore, according to an example of the protective tape attachment device 1000, the protective tape 72 may include a lower main attachment device 122. The lower main attachment device 122 may be configured such that the lower protective tape 72 is pressed against the lower surface of the portion of the electrode tab 25 disposed in the electrode assembly 50 to be attached. The lower main attachment device 122 may be configured such that the upper portion directly presses against the lower surface of the lower protective tape 72. The lower main attachment device 122 may be moved vertically by a separate second linear drive unit 132. For example, the second linear drive unit 132 may include a linear motor or a servo motor to allow the lower main attachment device 122 to be raised and lowered linearly.

[0094] One side of the protective strips 71 and 72 can be in a state where adhesive has been applied, while the other side can be in a state where no adhesive has been applied. That is, the side facing the electrode tab 25 (adhesive surface) can be in a state where adhesive has been applied, and the other side facing the main attachment devices 121 and 122 (non-adhesive surface) can be in a state where no adhesive has been applied.

[0095] The main attachment devices 121 and 122 can adsorb and fix the unadhesive, non-adhesive surfaces of the protective tape, and can release the adsorption after bonding is completed. This adsorption can be performed using a vacuum. Therefore, adsorption surfaces 121b and 122b for adsorbing the protective tape are formed on the main attachment devices 121 and 122. The adsorption surfaces 121b and 122b can be configured to be parallel to the electrode contact surfaces.

[0096] Meanwhile, the upper main attachment device 121 and the lower main attachment device 122 can be configured to be symmetrical, and preferably, they operate simultaneously to attach the upper protective strip 71 and the lower protective strip 72, as described below. Additionally, the upper main attachment device 121 and the lower main attachment device 122 can be configured to operate in opposite directions.

[0097] Preferably, the protective strap attachment device 1000 according to an example of the present invention includes an upper attachment device 111. The upper attachment device 111 may be disposed on both sides of the upper main attachment device 121.

[0098] Additionally, preferably, the protective strap attachment device 1000 according to an example of the present invention includes a lower attachment device 112. The lower attachment device 112 may be disposed on both sides of the lower main attachment device 122.

[0099] Figure 7 The diagram shows the state in which the protective strips 71 and 72 are adsorbed onto the adsorption surfaces 121b and 122b of the main attachment devices 121 and 122. That is, Figure 7 The diagram shows the ready state for attaching the protective strip to the electrode contacts.

[0100] First, in order to adsorb the protective tapes 71 and 72 onto the adsorption surfaces 121b and 122b, a process can be performed whereby the protective tape is pulled out from the roll, positioned at the bottom of the main attachment device, and then cut into appropriate lengths. In this case, two ends 71a and 72a are formed, separated from the sides of the adsorption surfaces. Therefore, interference with the end attachment devices 111 and 122 may occur during the process of adsorbing the protective tape onto the main attachment device. Therefore, as shown, in the process of preparing to attach the protective tape to the electrode tabs, it is preferable that the end attachment devices 111 and 122 are positioned spaced apart from the adsorption surfaces 121b and 122b.

[0101] As shown in the figure, the upper attachment device 111 is disposed on the upper main attachment device 121, thereby allowing the upper attachment device 111 to be raised and lowered integrally with the upper main attachment device 121. Furthermore, it is preferable that the upper attachment device 111 is configured to raise and lower independently of the raising and lowering of the upper main attachment device 121. This feature can also be applied to the lower attachment device 112 and the lower main attachment device 122.

[0102] First, the upper main attachment device 121 and the lower main attachment device 122 can approach the electrode contact 25 to attach the upper and lower protective strips to the electrode contact 25. This is done when the ends of the upper and lower protective strips are not attached to each other. Then, with the upper and lower main attachment devices stopped, the upper and lower attachment devices further approach the electrode contact 25 to apply pressure to the protective strips in both directions. In this way, the ends of the upper protective strip can be joined to the ends of the lower protective strip.

[0103] Therefore, according to an example of the protective tape attachment device 1000, the protective tape 71 and the lower protective tape 72 are provided as an upper attachment device 111 and a lower attachment device 112, as well as an upper main attachment device 121 and a lower main attachment device 122, such that after the upper protective tape 71 and the lower protective tape 72 are attached to the upper and lower surfaces of the electrode contact 25, the two ends 71a of the upper protective tape 71 and the two ends 72a of the lower protective tape 72 can engage with each other.

[0104] Therefore, the protective tape attachment device 1000 according to an example of the present invention can solve the problem in conventional technology where the two ends 71a of the upper protective tape 71 and the two ends 72a of the lower protective tape 72 are not in complete contact with each other and therefore do not attach to each other, or are easily separated from each other due to external impact. Furthermore, it can solve the problem that in the unattached ends 71a, 72a of the protective tapes 71, 72, the joint portions may detach from the electrode contacts 25 due to external pressure or electrolyte flow, or the unattached portions may be folded. In particular, it can prevent the ends 71a, 72a of the protective tapes 71, 72 from being between the bag films during the bag sealing process, thus preventing unsealed areas from occurring, when the ends of the protective tapes 71, 72 are folded toward the sealing area of ​​the bag.

[0105] Figure 8 This is a side view schematically showing the appearance of some components of a protective strap attachment device 1000 according to an example of the present invention.

[0106] According to an example of the protective strap attachment device 1000 of the present invention, the upper attachment device 111 can be configured to be raised and lowered independently relative to the upper main attachment device 121. The protective strap attachment device 1000 may further include a third linear drive unit 133 for moving the upper attachment device 111 up and down. For example, the third linear drive unit 133 may be provided with a linear motor. In addition, in the upper main attachment device 121, an upper guide rail portion 121a may be formed on the side to provide a path for the upper attachment device 111 to move up and down. The upper guide rail portion 121a may be formed such that a portion of the guide rail portion 121a is longitudinally embedded in the side of the upper main attachment device 121 in the vertical direction. The upper guide rail portion 121a may have an embedding space in which a portion of the upper main attachment device 121 can be inserted. That is, the upper attachment device 111 can move up and down along the upper guide rail portion 121a.

[0107] Furthermore, in an example of the protective strap attachment device 1000 according to the present invention, the lower attachment devices 112 can each be configured to rise and fall independently relative to the lower main attachment device 122. The protective strap attachment device 1000 may further include a fourth linear drive unit 134 for moving the lower attachment devices 112 up and down. For example, the fourth linear drive unit 134 may be provided with a linear motor. In addition, in the lower main attachment device 122, a lower guide rail portion 122a is formed on the side to provide a path for the up and down movement of the lower attachment device 112. The lower guide rail portion 122a may be configured such that a portion of the lower guide rail portion 122a is longitudinally embedded in the side of the lower main attachment device 122 in the vertical direction. The lower guide rail portion 122a may have an embedding space into which a portion of the lower main attachment device 122 can be inserted. That is, the lower attachment device 112 can move up and down along the lower guide rail portion 122a.

[0108] Furthermore, the protective tape attachment device 1000 may further include a control unit 140. The control unit 140 can control the operation of each of the first linear drive unit 131, the second linear drive unit 132, the third linear drive unit 133, and the fourth linear drive unit 134.

[0109] Reference Figure 7 , Figure 9 and Figure 10 The operation and appearance of a protective tape attachment device 1000 according to an example of the present invention will be described in detail.

[0110] like Figure 7 As shown, with the protective tape ready for attachment, the main attachment device moves to the protective tape attachment position. That is, in... Figure 9 The appearance of the protective strip attached to the electrode tabs is shown. The end attachment devices 111 and 112 can then be additionally driven to engage the two ends of the protective strip.

[0111] like Figure 10 As shown, after the upper main attachment device 121 applies pressure to the upper surface protective strip 71, the upper attachment device 111 can move further downward than the upper main attachment device 121 via the third linear drive unit 133. In this case, when the upper attachment device 111 moves further downward than the upper main attachment device 121, the upper attachment device 111 applies downward pressure to the upper surface of the upper protective strip 71.

[0112] Furthermore, after the lower main attachment device 122 applies pressure to the lower protective strip 72, the lower attachment device 112 can move further upward than the lower main attachment device 122 via the fourth linear drive unit 134. In this case, when the lower attachment device 112 moves further upward than the lower main attachment device 122, the lower attachment device 112 applies upward pressure to the lower surface of the lower protective strip 72.

[0113] Therefore, according to an example of the protective tape attachment device 1000, after the attachment process of the protective tapes 71, 72 of the upper main attachment device 121 and the lower main attachment device 122 is completed, the two ends 71a of the upper protective tape 71 and the two ends 72a of the lower protective tape 72 can be fully engaged with each other using the upper attachment device 111 and the lower attachment device 112. Thus, it is possible to prevent the protective tapes 71, 72 attached to the electrode tab 25 from detaching, and it is possible to prevent the protective tapes 71, 72 from engaging with other components and causing defects, or from being inserted into the sealing area and interfering with the sealing process.

[0114] Additionally, according to an example of the invention, the upper attachment device 111 and the lower attachment device 112 may include a pressure block 114, which is configured to apply pressure to the end of the upper protective strip 71 or the lower protective strip 72. For example, the pressure block 114 may be formed with a triangular cross-section.

[0115] Figure 11 It is magnification Figure 9 A partial enlarged view of a portion of the protective tape attachment device 1000.

[0116] The pressure block 114 may have a rounded edge R that contacts the upper protective strip 71 or the lower protective strip 72. For example, as Figure 11 As shown, in the pressure block 114 of the upper attachment device 111, the lower edge R that contacts the upper protective strip 71 may have a rounded shape. Similarly, for example, in the pressure block 114 of the lower attachment device 112, the upper edge R that contacts the lower protective strip 72 may have a rounded shape.

[0117] The edge R can be configured to bend more stably where the protective strip leaves the electrode tab. In particular, it can be configured to perform engagement both upwards and downwards from the initial position where the protective strip leaves the electrode tab.

[0118] Therefore, the pressure block 114 includes a rounded edge R, which can effectively prevent damage to the protective strips 71, 72 that may occur when the pressure block 114 with the upper attachment device 111 and the lower attachment device 112 applies pressure to the surfaces of the protective strips 71, 72, and can further increase the engagement area.

[0119] Furthermore, the upper attachment device 111 and the lower attachment device 112 may include a moving member 113 that moves the pressure block 114 in the vertical direction. For example, as Figure 7 As shown, the movable member 113 can move up and down while the pressure block 114 is mounted on the movable member 113. That is, the movable member 113 can have a vertical movement along... Figure 8 The movable structure of the guide rail section.

[0120] Furthermore, the movable member 113 may be provided with multiple wheels. The multiple wheels may be configured to be movable when the pressure block 114 is mounted on the multiple wheels. The multiple wheels may be configured to be movable in the vertical direction along the guide rail portion 121a of the upper main attachment device 121 or the guide rail portion 122a formed on one side of the lower main attachment device 122.

[0121] Furthermore, the moving member 113 may have a wheel connecting portion 113a that connects multiple wheels to each other. A pressure block 114 may be mounted on the side surface of the wheel connecting portion 113a. For example, the wheel connecting portion 113a may be connected to a third linear drive unit 133. That is, the wheel connecting portion 113a can move up and down according to the movement of the drive shaft of the third linear drive unit 133. At this time, the pressure block 114 may be mounted to be movable up and down a predetermined distance from the side surface of the wheel connecting portion 113a. That is, the pressure block 114 may have a connection structure K movably connected to the wheel connecting portion 113a. For example, a linear groove (not shown) may be formed on the wheel connecting portion 113a, and the pressure block 114 may move up and down in the linear groove with a portion inserted into it. The wheel connecting portion 113a may be rotatably connected to multiple wheels.

[0122] Furthermore, when the downward movement of the moving member 113 is completed, the pressure block 114 of the upper attachment device 111 can be further moved downward on the moving member 113 by the third linear drive unit 133. At this time, the pressure block 114 can be pressed downward by the third linear drive unit 133, and the pressure block 114 can be lowered along the linear groove (not shown) of the moving member 113 to press against the surface of the upper protective strip 71. At this time, the spring member (not shown) can be embedded in the linear groove, so that the pressure block 114 can be positioned in its normal position on the moving member 113 while it is not pressed by the third linear drive unit 133. That is, the spring member can be configured to elastically press the pressure block 114 in a direction opposite to the pressing direction of the third linear drive unit 133.

[0123] Furthermore, when the upward movement of the moving member 113 is completed, the pressure block 114 of the lower attachment device 112 can move further upward on the moving member 113 via the fourth linear drive unit 134. At this time, the pressure block 114 can be pressurized upward by the fourth linear drive unit 134, and the pressure block 114 can be lowered along the linear groove of the moving member 113 to pressurize the surface of the upper protective strip 71. At this time, the spring member (not visible) can be embedded in the linear groove, so that the pressure block 114 can be positioned in its normal position on the moving member 113 while it is not being pressurized by the fourth linear drive unit 134. That is, the spring member can be configured to elastically press the pressure block 114 in a direction opposite to the pressing direction of the fourth linear drive unit 134.

[0124] Therefore, when the downward or upward movement of the moving member 113 is completed, the pressure block 114 is configured to move further downward or upward on the moving member 113, thereby pressurizing both ends 71a of the upper protective belt 71 and both ends 72a of the lower protective belt 72, so that the belts can be joined without damage.

[0125] Figure 12 and Figure 13 This is a front view schematically illustrating the operational appearance of a protective strap attachment device 1000 according to another example of the invention.

[0126] Reference Figure 12 and Figure 13 According to another example of the invention, the protective tape attachment device 1000 may include a roller member 115, which is provided with a plurality of rollers 115a, 115b as an upper attachment device and a lower attachment device, instead of Figure 7 The protective belt attachment device 1000 includes a pressure block 114 and multiple wheels. The remaining components can be combined with... Figure 7 The protective tape attachment device 1000 has the same or similar composition.

[0127] Specifically, the roller member 115 can be configured to apply pressure to both ends 71a, 72a of the upper protective belt 71 or the lower protective belt 72. For example, among the multiple rollers 115a, 115b of the roller member 115, one roller can be a pressure roller 115a, and another roller can be a moving roller 115b. That is, as in Figure 13 In the upper attachment device 111, the pressure roller 115a of the roller member 115 can be configured to apply pressure to the upper surface of the upper protective belt 71. The pressure roller 115a of the roller member 115 of the lower attachment device 112 can be configured to apply pressure to the lower surface of the lower protective belt 72. The movable roller 115b can be configured to move up and down along one side of the upper main attachment device 121 or the lower main attachment device 122.

[0128] Furthermore, the plurality of rollers 115a, 115b of the roller member 115 can be configured to be movable up and down along one side of the upper main attachment device 121 or the lower main attachment device 122. That is, as Figure 8 As shown, the multiple rollers 115a and 115b can be configured to be movable along the guide rail portion 121a of the upper main attachment device 121 or the guide rail portion 122a of the lower main attachment device 122.

[0129] The roller component 115 may be provided with a roller connecting portion 115c for connecting multiple rollers 115a, 115b. For example, Figure 12As shown, the roller member 115 may be provided with a roller connecting portion 115c that connects the pressure roller 115a and the moving roller 115b. For example, the roller connecting portion 115c may be connected to the third linear drive unit 133. That is, the roller connecting portion 115c can move up and down according to the movement of the drive shaft of the third linear drive unit 133. The roller connecting portion 115c may be rotatably connected to multiple rollers 115a and 115b.

[0130] Multiple rollers 115a, 115b can be configured to apply pressure to the surfaces of both ends 71a of the upper protective belt 71 or both ends 71a of the lower protective belt 72 while moving from the inside (where the electrode tab 25 is engaged) of the upper protective belt 71 or the lower protective belt 72 to the outer end. For example, as Figure 13 As shown, among the multiple rollers 115a, 115b of the upper attachment device 111, the pressure roller 115a can be configured to apply pressure to the surface of the upper protective belt 71 or the lower protective belt 72 while moving from the inside side (to the inside side of the electrode contact 25) of the protective belt 71 to the outer end.

[0131] For example, the movable roller 115b can be configured to move up and down. The pressure roller 115a located on the upper main attachment device 121 and the pressure roller 115a located on the lower main attachment device 122 move in the lateral direction to pressurize the protective belts 71 and 72, so that the two ends 71a of the upper protective belt 71 and the two ends 72a of the lower protective belt 72 can engage with each other.

[0132] Meanwhile, in the above example, end attachment devices 111, 112, and 115 have been described as being disposed on main attachment devices 121 and 122. Alternatively, end attachment devices 111, 112, and 115 may be disposed independently of main attachment devices 121 and 122. That is, they are disposed on both sides of main attachment devices 121 and 122, thereby allowing them to be moved independently of the movement of the main attachment devices.

[0133] Figure 14 This is a flowchart of a battery cell manufacturing method according to an example of the present invention.

[0134] Specifically, in an example of a battery cell manufacturing method according to the present invention, welding step M01 is the step of welding the electrode tab 25 and the electrode lead 51 to the electrode assembly 50. At this time, a rough surface weld trace 25a can be produced on the electrode tab 25 by resistance welding, ultrasonic welding, or laser welding (see...). Figure 3 The welding step can be performed after the process of guiding the electrode contacts and the process of pre-welding the guided electrode contacts.

[0135] Furthermore, a battery cell manufacturing method according to an example of the present invention includes a wrapping step M02. The wrapping step M02 may be a step of attaching an upper protective tape 71 and a lower protective tape 72 to the electrode tab 25. That is, in the wrapping step M02, the upper protective tape 71 and the lower protective tape 72 may be attached to a welding portion 25a formed on the electrode tab 25, such that the welding portion 25a does not damage other components (e.g., the pouch film).

[0136] Furthermore, in the wrapping step M02, it is permissible for the two ends of the upper protective tape 71 to engage with each other to the two ends of the lower protective tape 72.

[0137] An example of a battery cell manufacturing method according to the present invention includes a casing step M03. The casing step M03 may be a heat-melting process in which a bag containing an electrode assembly 50 with an attached upper protective strip 71 and a lower protective strip 72 is formed to create a bag 21 (see [link to product description]). Figure 1 The step M03 involves sealing the bag housing 21. At this point, the side of the electrode contacts 25 facing the bag 21 (battery cell housing) can be heat-fused. In other words, the shelling step M03 may include a partial sealing step that seals the left, right, and bottom sides of the bag housing 21, excluding the top side where the electrolyte is injected into the bag.

[0138] An example of a battery cell manufacturing method according to the present invention includes an injection step M04. The injection step M04 is the step of injecting electrolyte into the interior of a bag housing. For example, the injection step M04 can be performed by injecting the electrolyte through the upper side of an unsealed bag housing 21.

[0139] A battery cell manufacturing method according to an example of the present invention includes a sealing step M05. Sealing step M05 is a step of sealing the bag housing 21. Sealing step M05 is a step of heat-sealing the upper side of the bag housing 21 to prevent external substances from entering the interior of the bag housing 21.

[0140] In the wrapping step M02, the upper protective tape 71 and the lower protective tape 72 can be attached to the upper and lower surfaces of the electrode contact 25 respectively by applying pressure to the upper main attachment device 121 and the lower main attachment device 122.

[0141] Independent of the pressurization of the upper main attachment device 121 and the lower main attachment device 122, the two ends 71a, 72a of each of the upper protective strip 71 and the lower protective strip 72 extending outward on both sides of the electrode contact 25 are attached to each other by the pressurization of the upper attachment device 111 and the lower attachment device 112.

[0142] Therefore, in a battery cell manufacturing method according to an example of the present invention, independently of the pressurization of the upper main attachment device 121 and the lower main attachment device 122, the two ends 71a of the upper protective strip 71 and the lower protective strip 72 extending outward on both sides of the electrode contact 25 are attached to each other by the pressurization of the upper attachment device 111 and the lower attachment device 112. This solves the problem that the two ends 71a of the upper protective strip 71 and the two ends 72a of the lower protective strip 72 are not in complete contact with each other and therefore do not attach to each other or are easily separated from each other by external impact.

[0143] Industrial application

[0144] Industrial applicability has been described in the specific implementation details.

Claims

1. A protective tape attachment device, characterized in that, The protective strip attachment device includes: Upper main attachment device, the upper main attachment device being used to attach the upper protective strip to the upper surface of the electrode contacts disposed in the electrode assembly; A lower main attachment device is used to attach a lower protective strip to the lower surface of the electrode tab; An upper attachment device, wherein the upper attachment device is disposed on both sides of the upper main attachment device and pressurizes both ends of the upper protective strip extending outward from both sides of the upper main attachment device; and A lower attachment device, wherein the lower attachment device is disposed on both sides of the lower main attachment device and pressurizes both ends of the lower protective strip extending outward from both sides of the lower main attachment device, and The upper attachment device and the lower attachment device are configured to simultaneously apply pressure to both ends of the upper protective strip and both ends of the lower protective strip, respectively, so that the two ends of the upper protective strip and the two ends of the lower protective strip engage with each other.

2. The protective tape attachment device according to claim 1, Its features are, After the upper main attachment device is pressurized, the upper attachment device moves downward from the upper main attachment device, and after the lower main attachment device is pressurized, the lower attachment device moves upward from the lower main attachment device.

3. The protective tape attachment device according to claim 2, Its features are, The upper attachment device and the lower attachment device are configured to be raised and lowered integrally with the upper main attachment device and the lower main attachment device, respectively.

4. The protective tape attachment device according to claim 3, Its features are, The upper attachment device and the lower attachment device are configured to be raised and lowered independently relative to the upper main attachment device and the lower main attachment device, respectively.

5. The protective tape attachment device according to claim 4, Its features are, The upper attachment device has an adsorption surface for adsorbing the upper protective strip, and the lower attachment device has an adsorption surface for adsorbing the lower protective strip.

6. The protective tape attachment device according to claim 5, Its features are, The adsorption surface adsorbs the non-adhesive surface of the protective tape, so that the adhesive surface of the protective tape faces the electrode tab.

7. The protective tape attachment device according to claim 6, Its features are, After the upper protective tape is adsorbed onto the adsorption surface of the upper main attachment device with the upper attachment device positioned above it, the attachment of the upper protective tape is performed. After the lower protective tape is adsorbed onto the adsorption surface of the lower main attachment device with the lower attachment device positioned below the adsorption surface of the lower main attachment device, the attachment of the lower protective tape is performed.

8. The protective tape attachment device according to any one of claims 1-7, Its features are, The upper attachment device and the lower attachment device each include: A pressure block, configured to apply pressure to the end of the upper protective strip or the lower protective strip; and A movable component that moves the pressure block in the vertical direction.

9. The protective tape attachment device according to claim 7, Its features are, The pressure block has Rounded edges that contact the beginning of the extension at both ends of the upper or lower protective strip.

10. The protective tape attachment device according to claim 8, Its features are, The movable component includes wheels that guide the movement of the pressure block relative to the upper main attachment or the lower main attachment.

11. The protective tape attachment device according to any one of claims 1-7, Its features are, The upper attachment device and the lower attachment device include A roller assembly having a plurality of rollers configured to be movable up and down along one side of the upper main attachment or the lower main attachment to apply pressure to one side of the upper protective belt or the lower protective belt.

12. The protective tape attachment device according to claim 11, Its features are, The roller member is configured to apply pressure to the upper or lower protective belt while moving from the inside of the upper or lower protective belt to which the electrode tab is attached toward the outer terminal.

13. The protective tape attachment device according to claim 11, Its features are, The plurality of rollers includes: A movable roller, configured to be vertically movable along one side of the upper main attachment device or the lower main attachment device; and A pressure roller is configured to apply pressure to the upper surface of the upper protective belt or the lower surface of the lower protective belt.

14. The protective tape attachment device according to claim 13, Its features are, The roller assembly includes a transmission component that transmits the vertical movement of the moving roller to the vertical and horizontal movement of the pressure roller.

15. A method for manufacturing a battery cell, characterized in that, The method includes: The welding step of soldering electrode contacts and electrode leads to the electrode assembly; The wrapping step of attaching the upper and lower protective tapes to the electrode contacts; The step of heat-melting a bag containing the electrode assembly with the upper and lower protective strips attached thereto to form a bag shell; The injection step of injecting electrolytes into the bag housing; and The sealing steps for sealing the bag housing, and In the described wrapping step, By applying pressure to the upper and lower main attachment devices, the upper protective strip and the lower protective strip are respectively attached to the upper and lower surfaces of the electrode contacts. Independent of the pressurization of the upper main attachment device and the lower main attachment device, the two ends of the upper protective strip and the two ends of the lower protective strip, which extend outward from both sides of the electrode contact, are attached to each other vertically by the pressurization of the upper and lower attachment devices.

16. The battery cell manufacturing method according to claim 15, Its features are, The upper main attachment device and the upper end attachment device are configured to be symmetrical with respect to the electrode contacts and the lower main attachment device and the lower end attachment device, and to move in the opposite direction to the moving direction of the lower main attachment device and the lower end attachment device, so as to attach the protective strip and the two ends.

17. The battery cell manufacturing method according to claim 16, Its features are, After pressurization of the upper main attachment device, the upper attachment device moves downward from the upper main attachment device, and After the lower main attachment device is pressurized, the lower attachment device moves upward relative to the lower main attachment device.

18. The battery cell manufacturing method according to claim 17, Its features are, Pressurization is performed by the upper and lower attachment devices while maintaining the pressurization of the upper and lower main attachment devices.

19. The battery cell manufacturing method according to claim 16, Its features are, The upper attachment device and the lower attachment device include pressure blocks that apply pressure to both ends of the upper protective strip or the lower protective strip by raising and lowering them.

20. The battery cell manufacturing method according to claim 16, Its features are, The upper attachment device and the lower attachment device include pressure rollers, which apply pressure to both ends of the upper protective belt or the lower protective belt by raising and lowering the rollers and applying roller pressure.

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