A supply system, a supply method, and a coating apparatus

Abstract

The present application relates to the coating technical field, especially to a feeding system, a feeding method and a coating equipment.The feeding system comprises a dispersion tank, a feeding main pipeline, a feeding pump and a backflow pipeline, wherein: the dispersion tank is used for storing and dispersing slurry; the feeding main pipeline is connected between the discharge port of the dispersion tank and the inlet port of the coating head; the feeding pump is arranged on the feeding main pipeline and is used for providing power for slurry conveying in the pipeline; one end of the backflow pipeline is communicated with the feeding main pipeline and is located between the coating head and the feeding pump, and the other end of the backflow pipeline is connected to the dispersion tank.The feeding system and the method can effectively improve the problem of slurry aggregation and sedimentation and ensure the uniformity of slurry components.The coating equipment equipped with the feeding system can avoid the adverse effects of slurry aggregation and sedimentation and realize the double improvement of coating quality and operation stability.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of coating technology, and in particular to a material feeding system, a material feeding method, and a coating equipment. Background Technology

[0002] In the manufacturing process of sulfide solid-state batteries, mixing solid electrolytes, active materials, conductive agents and binders to form a uniform slurry and coating it onto a current collector to form an electrode is one of the core steps.

[0003] Existing coating production lines' material supply systems only have basic storage and conveying functions, and cannot adapt to the characteristics of sulfide slurries: First, nano / submicron solid electrolyte particles in the slurry are prone to secondary agglomeration during standing or conveying; second, the density differences of various components easily lead to slurry stratification and sedimentation. These phenomena not only increase the difficulty of process development, but also negatively affect electrode quality and battery electrical performance. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The first objective of this invention is to provide a feeding system to solve the technical problem that the prior art cannot effectively suppress slurry agglomeration and sedimentation, which leads to negative impacts on electrode quality and battery electrical performance.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention adopts the following technical solution: A feeding system, comprising: Dispersion tanks are used to store and disperse slurries; The main feed pipeline connects the discharge port of the dispersion tank and the inlet of the coating head; A feed pump is installed on the main feed pipe; The return pipeline has one end connected to the main feed pipeline and located between the coating head and the feed pump, and the other end connected to the dispersion tank.

[0006] In some embodiments, the dispersion tank includes a tank body and a dispersion device mounted on the tank body, the dispersion device including one or more stirrers and / or one or more ultrasonic dispersers; When the dispersing device includes multiple agitators, the rotational speeds of the multiple agitators are not set to be exactly the same.

[0007] In some embodiments, the feeding system further includes a filter and / or an iron remover disposed on the main feeding pipeline; And / or, it also includes a static mixer disposed on the return line.

[0008] In some embodiments, the dispersion tank is provided with a jacket and / or a heat exchange coil, and the feeding system further includes a mold temperature controller, wherein the heat transfer medium inlet and outlet of the mold temperature controller are connected to the jacket and / or the heat exchange coil. And / or, the dispersion tank is equipped with one or more of a temperature sensor, a heater, and a cooler; And / or, the dispersion tank is placed in a constant temperature space.

[0009] In some embodiments, a first valve is provided at the inlet of the coating head, and a second valve is provided on the return pipeline. The first valve, the second valve, the dispersion tank, and the feed pump are all electrically connected to the central control unit.

[0010] In some embodiments, the feeding system further includes a bypass branch connecting the main feeding line and the return line; The main feed line is equipped with a third valve located downstream of the bypass branch, and a fourth valve is installed on the bypass branch. The third valve, the fourth valve, the dispersion tank, and the feed pump are all electrically connected to the central control unit.

[0011] In some embodiments, a plurality of detection elements are provided on the main feed pipeline, the plurality of detection elements including one or more of a flow meter, a pressure sensor, a particle sensor, and a temperature sensor; The dispersion tank includes a tank body and a stirrer disposed on the tank body, and a temperature sensor is disposed inside the tank body; The central control unit is configured to control the opening and closing of each valve according to the real-time operating current of the agitator, and / or the slurry temperature in the dispersion tank, and / or the detection value fed back by the detection element.

[0012] A second objective of the present invention is to provide a feeding method for use in any of the above-described feeding systems, the feeding method comprising: When the equipment is operating normally, the slurry in the dispersion tank is transported to the coating head via the main feed pipeline; When the coating head stops working, and / or the operating parameters of the dispersion tank deviate from the set range, and / or the slurry operating parameters in the main feed pipeline deviate from the set range, the slurry in the dispersion tank flows back to the dispersion tank through the main feed pipeline and the return pipeline.

[0013] In some embodiments, the feeding system further includes a bypass branch connecting the main feeding pipeline and the return pipeline, a first valve is provided at the inlet of the coating head, a second valve is provided on the return pipeline, a third valve is provided on the main feeding pipeline downstream of the bypass branch, and a fourth valve is provided on the bypass branch. The feeding method specifically includes: When the equipment is running normally, the first and third valves are open and the remaining valves are closed, and the slurry in the dispersion tank is transported to the coating head through the main feed pipeline; When the coating head stops working and / or the slurry condition parameters at the discharge end of the main feed pipeline deviate from the set range, the second and third valves open and the remaining valves close, and the slurry in the dispersion tank flows back to the dispersion tank through the main feed pipeline and the return pipeline. When the operating parameters of the dispersion tank deviate from the set range and / or the slurry condition parameters at the feed inlet of the main feed line deviate from the set range, the fourth valve opens and the other valves close, and the slurry in the dispersion tank flows back to the dispersion tank through the main feed line, the bypass branch, and the return pipeline.

[0014] A third object of the present invention is to provide a coating apparatus comprising the feeding system described in any of the preceding claims.

[0015] The beneficial effects of this invention are: This invention provides a feeding system and a coating device having the feeding system. The feeding system includes a dispersion tank, a main feeding pipeline, a feed pump, and a return pipeline, wherein: the dispersion tank is used to store and disperse the slurry; the main feeding pipeline is connected between the outlet of the dispersion tank and the inlet of the coating head; the feed pump is disposed on the main feeding pipeline to provide power for conveying the slurry in the pipeline; one end of the return pipeline is connected to the main feeding pipeline and located between the coating head and the feed pump, and the other end is connected to the dispersion tank.

[0016] The feeding method applied to the above-mentioned feeding system includes: when the equipment is running normally, the slurry in the dispersion tank is transported to the coating head through the main feeding pipeline; when the coating head stops working, and / or the operating parameters of the dispersion tank deviate from the set range, and / or the slurry operating parameters in the main feeding pipeline deviate from the set range, the slurry in the dispersion tank is returned to the dispersion tank through the main feeding pipeline and the return pipeline.

[0017] Compared with existing technologies, the feeding system and method provided in this application can effectively improve the problems of slurry agglomeration and sedimentation, ensuring uniform slurry composition. Coating equipment equipped with this feeding system can avoid the adverse effects of slurry agglomeration and sedimentation, continuously deliver slurry of consistent quality, significantly improve coating effect and finished product quality, and ensure continuous and stable equipment operation. No additional debugging is required during equipment start-up and shutdown, and operational continuity and production efficiency are improved simultaneously. Attached Figure Description

[0018] To more clearly illustrate the specific embodiments of the present invention or the technical solutions in the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the specific embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.

[0019] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the feeding system provided in Embodiment 1 of this application; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the filter provided in Embodiment 1 of this application; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the feeding system provided in Embodiment 2 of this application; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the feeding system provided in Embodiment 3 of this application; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the operation of the feeding system provided in Embodiment 3 of this application in the feeding mode; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the operation of the feeding system provided in Embodiment 3 of this application in the cyclic standby mode; Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the feeding system provided in Embodiment 3 of this application in pure stirring mode; Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a dispersion tank with multiple stirrers provided in Embodiment 4 of this application; Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a dispersion tank with multiple stirrers provided in Embodiment 5 of this application; Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a dispersion tank provided in Embodiment Six of this application; Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of another dispersion tank provided in Embodiment Six of this application; Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the coating equipment provided in Embodiment 7 of this application; Figure 13 A comparison diagram of the coating effect of the coating equipment provided in this application and traditional coating equipment.

[0020] icon: 1-Dispersion tank; 11-Tank body; 12-Agitator; 121-First motor; 122-Hollow main shaft; 123-Second motor; 124-Mandrel; 125-External connecting frame; 13-Jacket; 21-Main feed pipeline; 22-Return pipeline; 23-Bypass branch; 3-Feed pump; 4-Filter; 41-First shell component; 42-Second shell component; 43-Filter element; 44-Snap ring; 45-Gasket; 5-Iron separator; 6-Mold temperature controller; 7-Static mixer; 81-First valve; 82-Second valve; 83-Third valve; 84-Fourth valve; 91-Flow meter; 92-Pressure sensor; 93-Particle sensor; 100-Coating head; 200-Machine body. Detailed Implementation

[0021] The technical solution of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the embodiments. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0022] It should be noted that in the description of this invention, the terms "center," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the convenience of describing the invention and for simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the invention. Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0023] It should be noted that in the description of this invention, the terms "connection" and "installation" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a direct connection or a connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0024] Example 1 The feeding systems of existing coating equipment generally have the following defects: (1) Inability to effectively suppress slurry agglomeration and sedimentation: The existing feeding system only stores and transports slurry, and lacks continuous and effective dispersion and anti-settling treatment of slurry; when slurry is left to stand or stirred at low speed in the feeding tank, agglomeration and sedimentation are difficult to avoid.

[0025] (2) During the operation of the coating equipment, it is often necessary to pause the operation of the coating head (for example, when the feeding pressure needs to be adjusted or the material needs to be replaced). When the existing feeding system encounters the situation where the coating head stops working, it immediately stops the delivery of the slurry, which causes the slurry to stagnate in the pipeline for a long time and result in sedimentation or agglomeration.

[0026] (3) Causes coating quality defects: When slurry containing agglomerated particles or uneven sedimentation is transported to the coating head, it will directly cause surface defects such as scratches, particle bumps, dark marks, and uneven surface density of the coated electrode. These defects will seriously affect the consistency of the electrochemical performance, cycle stability and safety of the electrode, and may even lead to the scrapping of the battery cell.

[0027] To address the aforementioned problems, this application provides a material feeding system, referring to... Figure 1 The feeding system includes a dispersion tank 1, a main feeding pipeline 21, a feed pump 3, and a return pipeline 22. The dispersion tank 1 is used to store and disperse the slurry. The main feeding pipeline 21 is connected between the outlet of the dispersion tank 1 and the inlet of the coating head 100. The feed pump 3 is installed on the main feeding pipeline 21 to provide power for the slurry transportation in the pipeline. One end of the return pipeline 22 is connected to the main feeding pipeline 21 and is located between the coating head 100 and the feed pump 3, and the other end is connected to the dispersion tank 1.

[0028] The feeding method applied to the above-mentioned feeding system includes: when the equipment is running normally, the slurry in the dispersion tank 1 is transported to the coating head 100 through the main feeding pipeline 21; when the coating head 100 stops working, and / or the operating parameters of the dispersion tank 1 deviate from the set range, and / or the operating parameters of the slurry in the main feeding pipeline 21 deviate from the set range, the slurry in the dispersion tank 1 is returned to the dispersion tank 1 through the main feeding pipeline 21 and the return pipeline 22.

[0029] Compared with the prior art, the feeding system and method provided in this application have the following advantages: (1) The design of the circulating return pipeline 22 avoids the slurry from stagnating or agglomerating in the pipeline for a long time in the temporary state of the equipment, reducing the waste and deterioration of the slurry and reducing the production cost. In addition, when the coating head 100 stops working, the slurry is still in the state of circulating conveying. When the operation is restarted, there is no need to readjust the slurry state, and it can be put into operation quickly, effectively improving the overall work efficiency.

[0030] (2) When the operating parameters of the dispersion tank 1 deviate from the set range and / or the slurry operating parameters in the main feed pipeline 21 deviate from the set range, the slurry at the bottom of the dispersion tank 1 can be transported to the upper part of the tank through the closed-loop system of "dispersion-quantitative conveying-circulation", forming an overall convection in the tank, forcibly disturbing the slurry, effectively preventing solid particles in the slurry from accumulating and stratifying at the bottom of the tank, and maintaining the overall uniformity of the slurry composition.

[0031] (3) Due to the significant improvement in the problems of slurry agglomeration and sedimentation, the quality of the electrode sheet and the performance of the battery cell can be significantly improved.

[0032] The operating parameters of the dispersion tank 1 include the temperature of the slurry inside the tank and / or the real-time operating current of the agitator 12, and the slurry operating parameters in the main feed pipeline 21 include one or more of the following: slurry flow rate, slurry pressure, particle content, and slurry temperature.

[0033] The rheological properties of sulfide solid-state battery slurries are temperature-sensitive; fluctuations in slurry temperature directly affect their viscosity and flowability, thereby impacting coating accuracy and consistency. Therefore, controlling the slurry temperature within the dispersion tank 1 is crucial for maintaining the stability of the rheological properties of the sulfide electrolyte slurry.

[0034] When sedimentation occurs in the tank, the concentration of material at the bottom increases, the flow resistance increases, and the load on the agitator 12 increases accordingly, causing the operating current to rise synchronously. By collecting the current value of the agitator motor in real time and comparing it with the normal operating threshold, the degree of sedimentation of the slurry can be indirectly determined. Specifically, a slight increase in current indicates that the slurry has begun to settle slightly; a significant increase in current beyond the set range indicates that the sedimentation problem is quite serious. Therefore, by collecting and judging current fluctuations, using the agitator motor current as the monitoring basis, the sedimentation trend and severity of the slurry can be quantitatively identified, and the sedimentation status of the slurry in the tank can be judged in real time.

[0035] The slurry flow rate, slurry pressure, particle content, and slurry temperature within the main supply pipeline 21 all affect the coating effect. Real-time monitoring and precise control of these process parameters can ensure stable slurry conditions and balanced conveying, thereby effectively improving overall coating quality and finished product consistency. Specifically, the slurry flow rate directly determines the output of the coating head 100; the slurry pressure within the pipeline indirectly reflects the particle content of the material. A higher particle content results in poorer slurry flowability, and the pipeline pressure will change accordingly.

[0036] Optionally, the feed pump 3 can be one of a screw pump, gear pump, or plunger pump, as long as it can provide a stable, pulsation-free, and accurately metered delivery capability. For applications requiring extremely low flow rates or extremely high precision, a precision metering pump can be used. The feed pump 3 is preferably a screw pump; the screw pump utilizes its positive displacement delivery characteristics to accurately deliver the slurry to the coating head at a stable, pulsation-free flow rate, ensuring precise control of the coating amount.

[0037] Optionally, the interface of the return line 22 is connected to the front end of the inlet of the coating head 100, that is, the return line 22 is connected between the front end of the inlet of the coating head 100 and the dispersion tank 1; or, the return line 22 can also be connected between the outlet of the feed pump 3 and the dispersion tank 1 to form a smaller local circulation. The interface position of the return line 22 and the main feed line 21 can be adjusted between the coating head 100 and the feed pump 3.

[0038] Furthermore, the dispersion tank 1 includes a tank body 11 and a dispersion device mounted on the tank body 11. The tank body 11 has a discharge port at the bottom and a feed port at the top. The dispersion device includes one or more agitators 12 and / or one or more ultrasonic dispersers. The tank body 11 of the dispersion tank 1 is generally equipped with a high-shear dispersion agitator 12. The agitator 12 continuously applies high shear force to the slurry during the feeding process, effectively breaking up secondary agglomerates generated during settling or transportation and inhibiting particle sedimentation. The ultrasonic disperser works by using the cavitation effect of ultrasound to generate microjets and shock waves to break up agglomerates. The dispersion tank 1 can be configured with one or both of the agitator 12 and the ultrasonic disperser. The number of agitators 12 and ultrasonic dispersers can be adjusted adaptively according to requirements.

[0039] In this embodiment, the rotational speed of the agitator 12 can be adjusted according to the state of the slurry, with a maximum linear velocity of 23 m / s. At this speed, the strong shear force generated by the agitator 12 is sufficient to break down secondary agglomerates formed in the slurry by van der Waals forces and other forces. At the same time, it suppresses the settling of large particles caused by density differences through macroscopic flow, ensuring that the slurry maintains a highly uniform suspension state at both the microscopic and macroscopic levels.

[0040] When the dispersion device includes multiple stirrers 12, the rotational speeds of the multiple stirrers 12 are not completely identical. This setting includes two cases: case one, the rotational speeds of each stirrer 12 are not equal; case two, some stirrers 12 have equal rotational speeds, while others have unequal rotational speeds. By using multiple stirrers with different rotational speeds, a synergistic effect of macroscopic mixing and microscopic dispersion is achieved.

[0041] Furthermore, the feeding system also includes a filter 4 installed on the main feeding pipeline 21. The filter 4 is used to filter out any large, undispersed agglomerates or impurities that may be present in the slurry, preventing them from entering the coating head 100 and causing blockages or scratches. The working process of the feeding system is as follows: the slurry is subjected to high-shear stirring and constant temperature treatment in the dispersion tank 1 → quantitatively pumped out by the feed pump 3 → large particles are removed by the filter 4 → it is conveyed to the coating head 100 for coating → unused slurry is returned to the dispersion tank 1 through the return pipeline 22, forming a closed loop.

[0042] Filter 4 is generally installed upstream of feed pump 3, or filters 4 are installed upstream and downstream of feed pump 3 respectively. The slurry is filtered by filter 4 before entering feed pump 3, which can effectively intercept hard impurities, large agglomerates and dry material lumps in the slurry, avoid foreign objects entering the pump body and causing rotor and stator wear or jamming failure, extend the service life of feed pump, and ensure the stable operation of the entire feeding system.

[0043] The filtration precision and number of filters 4 can be selected according to the characteristics of the slurry. For example, there can be two filters 4, one as a coarse filter and the other as a high-precision filter. This two-stage filtration (coarse and fine) reduces the load on the subsequent high-precision filter and extends the filter element's lifespan.

[0044] Reference Figure 2 In this embodiment, the filter 4 includes a first housing component 41, a second housing component 42, a filter element 43, a retaining ring 44, and a gasket 45, wherein: the first housing component 41 and the second housing component 42 are fastened together, the retaining ring 44 is sleeved on the fastening connection between the two, and the fastening edge is limited and locked; the gasket 45 is clamped between the two housing components for sealing the connection; the filter element 43 is disposed in the space formed by the two housing components; the ends of the first housing component 41 and the second housing component 42 that are opposite to each other are respectively provided with an inlet and an outlet.

[0045] This embodiment uses a direct-flow filter 4. The filter element of this filter 4 has a straight fluid channel, allowing the slurry to flow in a straight line within the filter 4 without multiple turns. Compared to complex structures with tortuous flow channels and fluids that need to repeatedly bend, it has lower flow resistance, lower conveying pressure loss, and lower energy consumption. At the same time, the flow channel is less prone to material accumulation and blockage, making cleaning and maintenance more convenient. It also reduces the probability of slurry retention, deterioration, and sedimentation, ensuring continuous and stable material conveying.

[0046] Continue to refer to Figure 1 The dispersion tank 1 has a jacket 13 and / or a heat exchange coil (e.g., a coiled heat exchanger) on its tank body 11. The feeding system also includes a mold temperature controller 6, whose heat transfer medium inlet and outlet are connected to the jacket 13 and / or the heat exchange coil. The mold temperature controller 6 is equipped with a heater, a cooler, and a high-precision temperature sensor (e.g., PT100), and a heat transfer medium circulates inside it. The mold temperature controller 6 precisely controls the temperature of the heat transfer medium through its heater and cooler to maintain a constant temperature for heating or cooling the slurry in the dispersion tank 1, ensuring that the slurry maintains the preset optimal process temperature throughout the feeding process and ensuring stable rheological properties.

[0047] In one alternative implementation, for certain temperature-sensitive slurries, a heater and a cooler can be installed on the dispersion tank 1. For example, an infrared heater and a cooling fan can be installed on the dispersion tank 1, wherein: the infrared heater transfers heat based on the infrared radiation effect to heat and control the material, with high heat transfer efficiency; the cooling fan can use flowing cold air to remove heat from the tank. Rapid and precise temperature regulation is achieved through a combination of infrared heating and air cooling.

[0048] In one optional embodiment, the dispersion tank 1 is placed in a constant temperature space (such as a constant temperature chamber). The constant temperature chamber can create a stable temperature environment, control the internal slurry at a constant temperature, avoid temperature fluctuations that cause changes in slurry viscosity, particle sedimentation or agglomeration, ensure that the physicochemical state of the material remains consistent, provide stable materials for subsequent coating processes, and improve the quality of the finished product.

[0049] Furthermore, the feeding system also includes detection elements and control valves (such as electric regulating valves, proportional valves, and ball valves). The detection elements are various sensors used to collect real-time operating signals from the pipelines and the tank interior. Valves are installed on each pipeline to control the opening and closing of the pipelines. Through the coordinated action of different valves, the system can switch between various operating modes. The control valves are preferably electrically regulating valves with adjustable openings to precisely control the slurry flow rate.

[0050] Specifically, in this embodiment, a temperature sensor is installed inside the dispersion tank 1, and one or more of the following are installed on the main feed pipeline 21: a flow meter 91, a pressure sensor 92, a particle sensor 93, and a temperature sensor. A first valve 81 is installed at the inlet of the coating head 100, and a second valve 82 is installed on the return pipeline 22. Each detection element, each valve, the dispersion tank 1, and the feed pump 3 are electrically connected to a central control unit (such as a PLC). The central control unit is configured to control the opening and closing of each valve according to the real-time operating current of the agitator 12, and / or the slurry temperature in the dispersion tank 1, and / or the detection values ​​fed back by the detection elements, thereby achieving switching between different operating modes.

[0051] The feeding system monitors key parameters such as temperature, pressure, flow rate, motor current, and motor speed in real time through various sensors, and achieves fully automatic operation based on the preset process formula, further reducing the uncertainty caused by human intervention.

[0052] The working principle of the feeding system provided in this embodiment is as follows: In continuous coating production mode, the valve opens according to preset logic; the slurry in the dispersion tank 1 is continuously processed by the high-shear dispersing agitator 12 under constant temperature of 40℃; the feed pump 3 draws the uniform slurry from the outlet at the bottom of the dispersion tank 1 at a constant speed; the slurry flows through the filter 4, where a small number of large particles that may be present are intercepted; the clean and uniform slurry enters the coating head 100 through the main feed pipeline 21 and is uniformly coated on the collector. When the coating head 100 experiences a short-term shutdown and / or parameter abnormalities, the control system automatically switches the valve, and the slurry no longer flows to the coating head 100, but returns to the dispersion tank 1 through the circulation return pipeline 22, mixes with the slurry in the tank, and continues to undergo dispersion and constant temperature treatment, thus always preparing for the next precise coating.

[0053] Through the synergistic effect of the above structures, this system provides a closed-loop material supply solution that integrates "dynamic dispersion, constant temperature control, precision conveying, high-efficiency filtration, and cyclic reflux," completely solving the process challenges of sulfide solid-state battery slurry from the source of material supply.

[0054] Continue to refer to Figure 1 The feeding method applied to the feeding system provided in this embodiment specifically includes: When the equipment is running normally, the first valve 81 is open and the second valve 82 is closed, and the slurry in the dispersion tank 1 is transported to the coating head 100 through the main feed pipeline 21; When one or more of the following situations occur: the coating head 100 stops working, the operating parameters of the dispersion tank 1 deviate from the set range, or the slurry operating parameters of the main feed pipe 21 deviate from the set range, the first valve 81 closes and the second valve 82 opens, and the slurry in the dispersion tank 1 flows back to the dispersion tank 1 through the main feed pipe 21 and the return pipe 22.

[0055] The operating parameters of dispersion tank 1 deviate from the set range in the following ways: Scenario 1: The temperature of the slurry in the tank deviates from the set range (for example, the preset temperature range is 40±0.5℃). In this case, the mold temperature controller 6 will precisely control the heating or cooling action, so that the circulating heat transfer medium (such as water or heat transfer oil) enters the jacket 13 of the dispersion tank 1 at a constant temperature to exchange heat with the slurry, thereby achieving precise closed-loop control of the slurry temperature.

[0056] Scenario 2: If the real-time operating current of the stirring motor exceeds the set threshold, it indicates that the slurry in the tank is settling. In this case, the slurry at the bottom of the dispersion tank 1 can be transported to the upper part of the tank through the return pipe 22, forcibly agitating the slurry and effectively preventing solid particles in the slurry from accumulating and stratifying at the bottom of the tank. In addition, the stirring motor speed can be appropriately increased to enhance the agitation effect and alleviate settling.

[0057] The slurry operating parameters of the main feed pipe 21 deviated from the set range, including abnormalities in parameters such as temperature, pressure, flow rate, and particle content. The system can monitor a single parameter or perform joint monitoring of multiple parameters simultaneously.

[0058] In summary, during the process of conveying slurry from the main feed line 21 to the coating head 100, if any abnormal parameters are detected, the system immediately stops conveying slurry to the coating head 100 and returns the slurry to the dispersion tank 1 through the return line 22. When all parameters are within the normal range, the conveying operation continues.

[0059] Example 2 This embodiment is an extension of Embodiment 1.

[0060] Reference Figure 3 In this embodiment, the feeding system further includes an iron separator 5 installed on the main feeding pipeline 21 and a static mixer 7 installed on the return pipeline 22.

[0061] The iron remover 5 is generally located upstream of the filter 4. It is used to adsorb ferromagnetic metals in the slurry, prevent metal particles from abrading the pump body, filter element, coating head and other parts, and prevent impurities from affecting the coating quality.

[0062] The static mixer 7 relies on its internal fixed turbulence structure to continuously shear, convection, and mix the slurry without moving parts, so that the material concentration, particle distribution, and temperature tend to be uniform, eliminating local agglomeration and stratification, and stabilizing the material state.

[0063] Example 3 This embodiment is an extension based on any of the above embodiments.

[0064] Reference Figure 4 In this embodiment, the feeding system further includes a bypass branch 23 connected between the main feeding pipeline 21 and the return pipeline 22. A third valve 83 is installed on the main feeding pipeline 21 downstream of the bypass branch 23, and a fourth valve 84 is installed on the bypass branch 23. The above structure can form a smaller local circulation loop.

[0065] Based on the above structure, the feed pump 3 is located at the interface between the bypass branch 23 and the main feed line 21 and between the dispersion tank 1; a coarse filter can be installed upstream of the feed pump 3 to protect it. A filter 4 and an iron remover 5 are installed between the first valve 81 and the third valve 83. The purpose of the above structure is to allow all pipelines to share a single pump.

[0066] The feeding system provided in this embodiment has a feeding mode, a circulating standby mode, and a pure stirring mode. (Refer to...) Figure 5In the feeding mode, valves one and three are open while the remaining valves are closed. The slurry in dispersion tank 1 is transported to coating head 100 via main feeding pipeline 21, and the equipment begins normal coating operation. (Refer to...) Figure 6 In the cyclic standby mode, the second and third valves are open and the remaining valves are closed. In this mode, the operating parameters of the dispersion tank 1 are normal. However, there may be instances where the coating head 100 stops working or the slurry flow rate, pressure, or other parameters at the feed inlet of the main feed pipe 21 deviate from the set range. The slurry then flows back to the dispersion tank 1 via the return pipe 22. (Refer to...) Figure 7 In pure stirring mode, the fourth valve 84 is open and the other valves are closed. In this mode, there may be abnormal operating parameters of the dispersion tank 1, or the slurry flow rate, pressure, particle content and other parameters at the feed inlet of the main feed pipeline 21 may deviate from the set range. The slurry does not pass through the filter 4 and the iron remover 5, but flows back directly to the dispersion tank 1 to form a local circulation loop and enhance the slurry flow in the dispersion tank 1.

[0067] The feeding method applied to the feeding system provided in this embodiment specifically includes: When the equipment is running normally, the first and third valves are open and the remaining valves are closed, and the slurry in the dispersion tank 1 is transported to the coating head 100 through the main feed pipeline 21; When the coating head 100 stops working and / or the slurry condition parameters at the discharge end of the main feed pipe 21 deviate from the set range, the second and third valves open and the remaining valves close, and the slurry in the dispersion tank 1 flows back to the dispersion tank 1 through the main feed pipe 21 and the return pipe 22. When the operating parameters of the dispersion tank 1 deviate from the set range and / or the slurry condition parameters at the feed inlet of the main feed line 21 deviate from the set range, the fourth valve opens and the other valves close, and the slurry in the dispersion tank 1 flows back to the dispersion tank 1 through the main feed line 21 (partial section), the bypass branch 23 and the return line 22 (partial section).

[0068] Example 4 This embodiment is an extension based on any of the above embodiments.

[0069] Reference Figure 8 In this embodiment, the dispersing device includes two agitators 12. For ease of description, the two agitators 12 are referred to as the first agitator and the second agitator. The first agitator includes a first motor 121 and a hollow main shaft 122 driven by the first motor 121. The second agitator includes a second motor 123 and a spindle 124 driven by the second motor 123. Both the first motor 121 and the second motor 123 are mounted on the tank body 11. The spindle 124 passes through the hollow main shaft 122, with both ends extending out of the hollow main shaft 122. The periphery of the hollow main shaft 122 is provided with several blades, and the lower end of the spindle 124 extending out of the hollow main shaft 122 is also provided with several blades.

[0070] During the mixing process, the hollow main shaft 122 and the mandrel 124 rotate at different speeds. Generally, the mandrel 124 rotates at a higher speed than the hollow main shaft 122; the impellers at the bottom of the tank rotate at a higher speed to enhance local disturbance and suppress particle settling; the impellers at the top of the tank rotate at a lower speed to drive the overall circulation of the slurry and ensure that the slurry in the whole tank is uniform.

[0071] Example 5 The main difference between this embodiment and embodiment four is that the arrangement of the blades is different.

[0072] Reference Figure 9 In this embodiment, the first stirrer further includes an outer connecting frame 125; the outer connecting frame 125 is arranged around the periphery of the spindle 124, and a plurality of blades are arranged on its inner side. In this embodiment, the hollow main shaft 122 is shorter and does not have blades.

[0073] During the mixing process, the spindle 124 typically rotates at a higher speed than the hollow main shaft 122. The high-speed blades in the central area enhance turbulence and break up settled particles. The outer blades rotate at a low speed, driving the overall material circulation, ensuring flow throughout the entire area, and minimizing the generation of bubbles.

[0074] Example 6 Reference Figure 10 and Figure 11 When the dispersing device includes multiple agitators 12, the rotating shafts of the multiple agitators 12 can be arranged side by side or in a central ring arrangement (i.e., a rotating shaft is set in the center, and the other rotating shafts are arranged around the central rotating shaft). Each rotating shaft can be configured with an independent motor for individual drive, or they can be linked to rotate by means of a transmission structure (e.g., a reduction gear set).

[0075] Example 7 This embodiment provides a coating device, referring to... Figure 12 The coating equipment includes the feeding system provided in any of the above embodiments. The coating equipment possesses at least all the technical features and effects of the above-described feeding system, which will not be elaborated further here.

[0076] Furthermore, the coating equipment also includes a body 200, which serves as the load-bearing mounting base for the entire machine. All core working components are integrated and mounted on the body, including the coating head 100, dispersion tank 1, feed pump 3, filter 4, iron remover 5, detection elements (various sensors), and various pipelines and valves. Compared to the traditional method of dispersing and splicing components, this equipment adopts an integrated layout design, significantly improving the integration and overall integrity of the machine structure. In addition, the precise installation positions and orderly layout of each component effectively avoid the assembly deviations and component misalignments of separate equipment, ensuring the coordination accuracy of each process, such as slurry delivery, mixing and filtration, temperature control, and coating discharge. This hardware structure guarantees the stability and consistency of the coating operation.

[0077] Reference Figure 13 , Figure 13 The image on the left shows an electrode photograph produced using a traditional feeding system. Figure 13 The image on the right shows an electrode sheet manufactured using the feeding system and method provided in this application. Practical results show that coating using the feeding system and method provided in this application produces electrode sheets with a smooth surface, free from scratches, dark marks, particles, and other defects, exhibiting good areal density consistency.

[0078] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention, and not to limit them; although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features; and these modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention.

Claims

1. A feeding system, characterized in that, include: Dispersion tank (1) is used to store and disperse slurry; The main feed line (21) is connected between the outlet of the dispersion tank (1) and the inlet of the coating head (100); A feed pump (3) is installed on the main feed pipeline (21); The return pipeline (22) has one end connected to the main feed pipeline (21) and located between the coating head (100) and the feed pump (3), and the other end connected to the dispersion tank (1).

2. The feeding system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The dispersion tank (1) includes a tank body (11) and a dispersion device mounted on the tank body (11), the dispersion device including one or more stirrers (12) and / or one or more ultrasonic dispersers; When the dispersing device includes multiple stirrers (12), the rotational speeds of the multiple stirrers (12) are not exactly the same.

3. The feeding system according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a filter (4) and / or a magnetic separator (5) installed on the main feed pipeline (21); And / or, also includes a static mixer (7) disposed on the return line (22).

4. The feeding system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The dispersion tank (1) is provided with a jacket (13) and / or a heat exchange coil on the tank body (11). The feeding system also includes a mold temperature controller (6). The heat transfer medium inlet and outlet of the mold temperature controller (6) are connected to the jacket (13) and / or the heat exchange coil. And / or, the dispersion tank (1) is provided with one or more of the following: a temperature sensor, a heater, and a cooler; And / or, the dispersion tank (1) is placed in a constant temperature space.

5. The feeding system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The coating head (100) is provided with a first valve (81) at the inlet and a second valve (82) is provided on the return pipeline (22). The first valve (81), the second valve (82), the dispersion tank (1) and the feed pump (3) are all electrically connected to the central control unit.

6. The feeding system according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a bypass branch (23) connecting the main supply pipeline (21) and the return pipeline (22); The main feed line (21) is provided with a third valve (83) located downstream of the bypass branch (23), and a fourth valve (84) is provided on the bypass branch (23). The third valve (83), the fourth valve (84), the dispersion tank (1) and the feed pump (3) are all electrically connected to the central control unit.

7. The feeding system according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that, The main feed pipeline (21) is provided with a plurality of detection elements, including one or more of a flow meter (91), a pressure sensor (92), a particle sensor (93), and a temperature sensor. The dispersion tank (1) includes a tank body (11) and a stirrer (12) disposed on the tank body (11), and a temperature sensor is disposed inside the tank body (11); The central control unit is configured to control the opening and closing of each valve according to the real-time operating current of the agitator (12), and / or the slurry temperature in the dispersion tank (1), and / or the detection value fed back by the detection element.

8. A feeding method applied to the feeding system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, include: When the equipment is running normally, the slurry in the dispersion tank (1) is transported to the coating head (100) through the main feed pipeline (21). When the coating head (100) stops working, and / or the operating parameters of the dispersion tank (1) deviate from the set range, and / or the slurry operating parameters in the main feed pipeline (21) deviate from the set range, the slurry in the dispersion tank (1) flows back to the dispersion tank (1) through the main feed pipeline (21) and the return pipeline (22).

9. The feeding method according to claim 8, characterized in that, The feeding system also includes a bypass branch (23) connecting the main feeding pipeline (21) and the return pipeline (22). A first valve (81) is provided at the inlet of the coating head (100), a second valve (82) is provided on the return pipeline (22), a third valve (83) is provided downstream of the bypass branch (23) on the main feeding pipeline (21), and a fourth valve (84) is provided on the bypass branch (23). The feeding method specifically includes: When the equipment is running normally, the first and third valves are open and the remaining valves are closed, and the slurry in the dispersion tank (1) is transported to the coating head (100) through the main feed pipeline (21). When the coating head (100) stops working and / or the slurry condition parameters at the discharge end of the main feed pipeline (21) deviate from the set range, the second and third valves open and the remaining valves close, and the slurry in the dispersion tank (1) flows back to the dispersion tank (1) through the main feed pipeline (21) and the return pipeline (22); When the operating parameters of the dispersion tank (1) deviate from the set range and / or the slurry condition parameters at the feed inlet of the main feed line (21) deviate from the set range, the fourth valve (84) opens and the other valves close, and the slurry in the dispersion tank (1) flows back to the dispersion tank (1) through the main feed line (21), the bypass branch (23) and the return pipeline (22).

10. A coating apparatus, characterized in that, Includes the feeding system as described in any one of claims 1 to 7.

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