Stacking facility and method for manufacturing an electrode assembly

Abstract

The present invention relates to a stacking facility and a method for manufacturing an electrode assembly, and more particularly, to a stacking facility and a method for stacking an electrode assembly capable of detecting a collision between a configuration for transporting a unit cell and a configuration for fixing an electrode assembly to a tray in a process of manufacturing an electrode assembly by stacking a plurality of unit cells. According to an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a stacking facility and a control method thereof capable of detecting a collision between a jig and a suction plate when a correction amount of the suction plate is large enough to cause interference with the jig in a process in which the suction plate stacks a second semi-finished cell on a first semi-finished cell.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a stacking facility and a method for manufacturing an electrode assembly, and more specifically, to a stacking facility and a method for laminating an electrode assembly capable of sensing collisions between a structure for conveying a cell and a structure for securing the electrode assembly to a tray during a process of manufacturing an electrode assembly by laminating multiple cell cells.

[0002] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0078121, filed on June 17, 2024, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Background Technology

[0003] Based on the composition of the electrode assembly 30 and the electrolyte, secondary batteries can be classified into lithium-ion batteries, lithium-ion polymer batteries, etc., and based on the shape of the battery casing, secondary batteries can be classified into square batteries, pouch batteries, cylindrical batteries, etc.

[0004] The electrode assembly 30 has a structure consisting of a negative electrode 2, a positive electrode 3, and a separator 1 inserted between the negative electrode 2 and the positive electrode 3. The electrode assembly 30 can be referred to as a rechargeable power generation element. The electrode assembly 30 is manufactured using a negative electrode, a positive electrode, and a separator, and various manufacturing methods exist.

[0005] The electrode assembly 30 can be classified as either a rolled core type or a laminated type. In the rolled core type, a separator 1 is inserted between a positive electrode 3 and a negative electrode 2, which are coated with active material and are in the shape of an elongated sheet. In the laminated type, multiple positive electrodes 3 and negative electrodes 2 are sequentially laminated with the separator 1 inserted between them. As an example, the electrode assembly 30 can be manufactured by sequentially laminating a negative electrode, a separator, and a positive electrode. Of course, various lamination methods are also possible.

[0006] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the electrode assembly configuration is shown. Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the manufacturing process of the electrode assembly is shown, which specifically illustrates the sequence of manufacturing the electrode assembly by lamination.

[0007] The electrode assembly 30 is formed by laminating multiple unit cells 10a to 10n and a second semi-finished cell 20. In this document, the state in which multiple unit cells 10a to 10n are stacked is referred to as "first semi-finished cell 10". Unit cells 10a to 10n can be single cells. First semi-finished cell 10 can be a stack of cells in which single cells are laminated. Second semi-finished cell 20 can be a half-cell.

[0008] Reference Figure 2The stacked electrode assembly 30 can be manufactured through a lamination step (S1), a stacking step (S2), and a tape-applying step (S3). The tape-applying step (S3) can be performed to maintain the appearance of the electrode assembly 30 and keep it in a stacked state by applying tape to the outer surface of the electrode assembly 30.

[0009] The lamination step (S1) is used to manufacture cell 10a to 10n and second semi-finished cell 20.

[0010] In the lamination step (S1), unit cells 10a to 10n can be formed by laminating separator 1, negative electrode 2, separator 1, and positive electrode 3. A second semi-finished cell 20 can be formed by laminating separator 1, negative electrode 2, and separator 1. That is, the lamination step (S1) can be a step for sequentially laminating separators, negative electrodes, and positive electrodes, each formed as a single sheet, to manufacture single cells and semi-finished cells. In other words, the lamination step (S1) can be a step for manufacturing semi-finished products, which are components used to manufacture the final electrode assembly.

[0011] The stacking step (S2) is used to laminate multiple cell units 10a to 10n, and then a second semi-finished cell 20 is laminated on top of the laminated cell units.

[0012] In the stacking step (S2), multiple cell cells 10a to 10n are sequentially laminated to form a first semi-finished cell 10. Then, a second semi-finished cell 20 is laminated onto the upper surface of the first semi-finished cell 10, which can be manufactured as an electrode assembly 30.

[0013] As an example, the first semi-finished battery cell 10 is moved to the final lamination position while being fixed by a clamp, and then the adsorption plate adsorbs the second semi-finished battery cell 20, thereby allowing the second semi-finished battery cell 20 to be laminated on top of the first semi-finished battery cell. At this time, interference may occur between the clamp and the adsorption plate for various reasons.

[0014] Figure 3 The interference problem that occurs between the adsorption plate and the fixture is shown.

[0015] First, the clamp 70 secures the first semi-finished battery cell 10 and transports it together with the first semi-finished battery cell 10 to the lamination position. At the lamination position, the clamp 70 is released, and the second semi-finished battery cell 20 is laminated onto the upper part of the first semi-finished battery cell 10 via the suction plate 80. Subsequently, the clamp holds the laminated electrode assembly 30 and moves it together with the electrode assembly to a subsequent position. The clamp repeats the clamping and releasing process through a swinging motion.

[0016] In the adsorption plate 80, a clearance groove can be formed to avoid interference during the swinging motion of the clamp. However, when the adsorption plate 80 is misaligned, interference may occur between the adsorption plate 80 and the clamp.

[0017] The clamping interference position can be such that the adsorption plate 80 is placed on the upper surface of the first semi-finished cell 10, such that the virtual center line L3 of the adsorption plate 80 is offset by a predetermined angle θ relative to the virtual center line L1 of the tray 50, for example, 6° or greater. As an example, clamping interference may not occur when the positional misalignment of the adsorption plate is less than 6°.

[0018] The first semi-finished battery cell 10 is loaded onto the tray 50 and transported to the lamination position X1 while being fixed to the clamp 70 mounted on the tray 50.

[0019] As an example, the second semi-finished battery cell 20 can be transported to the lamination position X1 while being adsorbed onto the adsorption plate 80 of the SCARA robot. The SCARA robot is operated such that the position of the adsorption plate 80 on the upper part of the first semi-finished battery cell 10 is adjusted to align the second semi-finished battery cell 20 with the first semi-finished battery cell 10, and then the adsorption plate 80 is lowered to laminate the second semi-finished battery cell 20 onto the upper surface of the first semi-finished battery cell 10.

[0020] If the first semi-finished cell 10 is tilted at a predetermined angle θ and is not in its normal position on the XY plane of the tray 50, the adsorption plate 80 is corrected in position to tilt at a predetermined angle θ relative to the normal position of the tray 50.

[0021] However, if the adsorption plate 80 is placed at a predetermined angle θ relative to the normal position of the tray 50 and is in a clamping interference position, the clamp 70 may collide with the adsorption plate 80 during the clamping operation for fixing the second semi-finished cell 20 to the upper surface of the first semi-finished cell 10.

[0022] This collision or interference occurs because the clamping position and clamping path of the clamp 70 on the XY plane of the tray 50 are fixed, while the position of the adsorption plate 80 is adjusted according to the loading position of the first semi-finished battery cell 10.

[0023] The position correction of the adsorption plate 80 according to the loading position of the first semi-finished cell 10 is intended to laminate the second semi-finished cell 20 in a state aligned with the first semi-finished cell 10 when the first semi-finished cell 10 is misaligned with its normal position on the XY plane of the tray 50 during the loading process on the tray 50.

[0024] If the adsorption plate 80 is placed at a clamping interference position on the upper surface of the first semi-finished cell 10 due to position correction, the clamp 70 may collide with the adsorption plate 80 during the clamping operation of the clamp 70 after the second semi-finished cell 20 is loaded on the upper surface of the first semi-finished cell 10.

[0025] The misalignment of the first semi-finished cell 10 relative to the XY plane of the tray 50 mainly occurs during the process of laminating multiple unit cells 10a to 10n to manufacture the first semi-finished cell 10. Such a problem may repeatedly occur during clamping after the loading of the second semi-finished cell 20 from each tray 50 moving along the conveyor 60, when the positional correction of the adsorption plate 80 is sufficiently large to cause interference with the clamp 70.

[0026] Furthermore, during the collision between the clamp 70 and the adsorption plate 80, damage may occur to the second semi-finished battery cell 20. Damage to the second semi-finished battery cell 20 may lead to a deterioration in the quality of the secondary battery.

[0027] Furthermore, during the collision between the clamp 70 and the adsorption plate 80, the second semi-finished cell 20 and the first semi-finished cell 10 may become misaligned, potentially causing positional deviations in the lamination direction. This leads to tape application failure of the electrode assembly 30 during the tape application step (S3). Consequently, this results in an increase in the defect rate of the secondary battery. Summary of the Invention

[0028] Technical issues

[0029] The purpose of this invention is to solve the problems in conventional stacking facilities and stacking methods using such facilities, and to solve the problems in the manufacturing method of secondary batteries.

[0030] According to one example of the present invention, during the process of laminating a second semi-finished battery cell onto a first semi-finished battery cell by an adsorption plate, when the correction amount of the adsorption plate is large enough to interfere with the fixture, a stacking facility and its control method can be provided that can sense the collision between the fixture and the adsorption plate.

[0031] According to one example of the invention, a stacking facility and its control method can be provided, which can prevent stacking failures in advance by automatically stopping the operation of the stacking facility upon sensing a collision between the clamp and the adsorption plate.

[0032] According to one example of the invention, a stacking facility and its control method can be provided, which can provide a warning alarm upon sensing a collision between the clamp and the adsorption plate.

[0033] According to one example of the invention, when the calibration amount of the adsorption plate is large, by installing the sensor in the interference area where a collision with the clamp may occur, a method can be provided for a stacking facility and a laminated electrode assembly capable of sensing whether the clamp has entered the interference area while the adsorption plate is positioned on the upper surface of the first semi-finished cell.

[0034] According to one example of the invention, a stacking facility and a method for laminating electrode assemblies can be provided, which can prevent the production of defective electrode assemblies in advance by stopping the production of the electrode assemblies upon sensing a collision between the jig and the adsorption plate.

[0035] Technical solution

[0036] According to one example of the invention, a stacking apparatus or stacking facility may be provided, comprising: an adsorption plate for laminating a second semi-finished battery cell onto a first semi-finished battery cell; a clamp configured to press the laminated battery cell by pressing the upper portion of the second semi-finished battery cell after the second semi-finished battery cell has been laminated; and a sensor for sensing a collision between the clamp and the adsorption plate during clamping operations of the clamp, or for pre-sensing a collision.

[0037] The adsorption plate can be configured such that the second semi-finished battery cell is adsorbed and conveyed, and then the second semi-finished battery cell is placed on top of the first semi-finished battery cell at the lamination position. That is, the adsorption plate and the second semi-finished battery cell can be separated by releasing the adsorption. In this case, it is preferable to perform the adsorption release after the clamping operation to hold the second semi-finished battery cell by pressing it from top to bottom.

[0038] The adsorption plate can be configured to adsorb only a portion of the upper surface of the second semi-finished battery cell, and the clamp can hold a portion of the remaining unadsorbed portion. That is, an opening can be formed in the adsorption plate, thereby allowing clamping to be performed as the clamp moves into and out of the opening.

[0039] The opening area is a fixed area on the adsorption plate, and the clamping operation area is also fixed. However, due to the left-right position and misalignment deviation of the adsorption plate, the opening area can vary relative to the clamping operation area. In particular, if these deviations increase, the opening area and the clamping operation area will overlap, resulting in a collision between the two areas.

[0040] If a collision occurs between the adsorption plate and the fixture during the stacking process, the lamination position of the second semi-finished cell may become misaligned, and the lamination position of the first semi-finished cell may also become misaligned. Therefore, by preventing such collisions in advance, production efficiency can be improved.

[0041] According to one example of the invention, a stacking facility may include: a conveyor including a tray loaded with a first semi-finished battery cell and a clamping device arranged to secure the first semi-finished battery cell to the tray, and the conveyor being arranged to convey the tray to a lamination position; and a pickup device including an opening and an adsorption plate, the opening being arranged to allow the clamp of the clamping device to approach, the adsorption plate having an adsorption surface for adsorbing a second semi-finished battery cell, and the pickup device being configured to laminate the second semi-finished battery cell onto the upper surface of the first semi-finished battery cell, wherein the pickup device may include a sensor arranged to sense the clamp in an interference region of the opening.

[0042] If the sensor detects the gripper, the picking device can be stopped.

[0043] If the sensor detects the clamp, the clamping device can be stopped.

[0044] If the sensor detects the gripper, the pickup device can be configured to provide a warning alarm.

[0045] The sensor can be mounted on an adsorption plate to form a linear sensing line in the interference region of the opening, and can be arranged to sense the clamp when the sensing line is broken.

[0046] The interference region may include the first opening surface facing the entrance side of the opening and the periphery of the first opening surface, and is the area that can collide with the clamp when the clamp enters the opening, based on the misalignment angle of the virtual center line of the adsorption plate relative to the virtual center line of the tray.

[0047] The opening can be arranged such that a portion of the second semi-finished cell that is not adsorbed onto the adsorption surface is exposed to the outside, and the sensor can be mounted on the adsorption plate such that a sensing line is formed on the upper part of the second semi-finished cell exposed through the opening.

[0048] A sensor may include a light emitter that emits light and a light receiver that receives light, and may form a sensing line that is a light ray emitted from the light emitter and reaching the light receiver.

[0049] The light emitter and the light receiver can be mounted on the adsorption plate such that they face each other in the opening and are spaced apart from the first opening surface and the adsorption surface of the opening, respectively.

[0050] The sensing line can be parallel to the virtual center line of the adsorption plate.

[0051] The sensing line can be formed along the boundary between the adsorption surface of the adsorption plate and the first opening surface, spaced apart from the first opening surface at a predetermined interval.

[0052] Sensors may include through-beam sensors.

[0053] The clamping device may include a clamping drive unit mounted on one side of the tray and arranged to move the clamp up and down along a height direction perpendicular to the tray.

[0054] The clamping drive unit can be arranged to rotate the clamp at a predetermined angle, such that the clamp is parallel or orthogonal to the virtual center line of the tray.

[0055] The clamp can be arranged to contact a portion of the upper surface of the first semi-finished cell loaded on the tray, and can be mounted to the clamping drive unit parallel to the tray.

[0056] The stacking facility may include a visual inspection device coaxial with the lamination location, which inspects the misalignment of the first semi-finished cell relative to the tray by taking pictures and analyzing images of the first semi-finished cell loaded on the tray, based on the XY plane of the tray.

[0057] A method for laminating an electrode assembly according to an example of the present invention may include: a second semi-finished cell lamination step, wherein, with the adsorption plate of the pickup device having adsorbed the second semi-finished cell, a tray loaded with a first semi-finished cell is moved to a stopped lamination position, and then the second semi-finished cell is laminated onto the upper surface of the first semi-finished cell; a second semi-finished cell clamping step, wherein, with the adsorption plate positioned on the upper surface of the first semi-finished cell, a clamp of a clamping device mounted on the tray enters an opening in the adsorption plate to secure the second semi-finished cell to the upper surface of the first semi-finished cell; and a collision sensing step, wherein a sensor mounted on the adsorption plate senses a collision between the clamp and the adsorption plate.

[0058] The collision sensing step can be performed during the second semi-finished cell clamping step.

[0059] The collision sensing step can be a step of sensing whether the clamp enters the interference area of ​​the opening when the clamp enters the opening, with the adsorption plate on the upper surface of the first semi-finished cell.

[0060] During the collision sensing step, if the sensor detects the gripper, the pickup device can provide a warning alarm.

[0061] In the collision sensing step, if the sensor detects the clamp, the stacking facility can be stopped.

[0062] The sensor may include a light emitter that emits light and a light receiver that receives light, and may form a sensing line that is emitted from the light emitter and reaches the light receiver, and the sensor may sense the clamp if the sensing line is disconnected by the clamp during the half-cell clamping step.

[0063] Prior to the second semi-finished cell lamination step, the method for laminating electrode assemblies may include a visual inspection step, wherein a visual inspection device, coaxially mounted with the lamination location, photographs the tray containing the first semi-finished cell and inspects for misalignment of the first semi-finished cell relative to the tray based on the XY plane of the tray.

[0064] In the second semi-finished cell lamination step, the position of the adsorption plate can be adjusted based on the misalignment angle of the first semi-finished cell relative to the XY plane of the tray obtained through the visual inspection step, so that the virtual center line of the adsorption plate is parallel to the virtual center line of the first semi-finished cell, and the center of the adsorption plate is coaxially positioned with the center of the first semi-finished cell.

[0065] Beneficial effects

[0066] According to one example of the invention, during the process of laminating a second semi-finished battery cell onto a first semi-finished battery cell using an adsorption plate, when the correction amount of the adsorption plate is large enough to interfere with the fixture, the stacking facility can sense the collision between the fixture and the adsorption plate.

[0067] Specifically, when the calibration amount of the adsorption plate is large, by installing the sensor in the interference area where a collision with the fixture may occur, the stacking facility according to an example of the invention can detect whether the fixture has entered the interference area while the adsorption plate is positioned on the upper surface of the first semi-finished cell.

[0068] The interference zone of the adsorption plate is the area where a collision is expected to occur during the clamping operation of the fixture when the adsorption plate is positioned on the upper surface of the first semi-finished cell and twisted at a predetermined angle relative to the normal position of the tray.

[0069] If a clamp is sensed in the interference area of ​​the adsorption plate, the first semi-finished cell is loaded in a state of being twisted at a predetermined angle relative to the normal position of the tray. This may cause tape application defects in the electrode assembly in the subsequent tape application step.

[0070] In a stacking facility according to an example of the invention, the stacking facility can automatically stop if a collision between the clamp and the adsorption plate is sensed. Therefore, electrode assembly lamination defects can be prevented in advance.

[0071] In other words, if a clamp is sensed in the sensing line of the adsorption plate during the process of loading and fixing the second semi-finished cell onto the upper surface of the first semi-finished cell, the present invention can reduce the defect rate of the electrode assembly by automatically stopping the stacking facility.

[0072] Furthermore, if a collision between the clamp and the adsorption plate is detected, the stacking facility according to an example of the invention can provide a warning alarm. With the warning alarm, workers can identify facility shutdowns and lamination defects in the first semi-finished battery cell, and quickly perform subsequent processing. Attached Figure Description

[0073] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the electrode assembly configuration is shown.

[0074] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the manufacturing process of the electrode assembly is shown.

[0075] Figure 3 This diagram is used to explain the problems that occur during the clamping operation, in which the clamp fixes the second semi-finished cell to the first semi-finished cell when the conventional adsorption plate has already laminated the second semi-finished cell onto the first semi-finished cell at the clamping interference position.

[0076] Figure 4 This is a plan view of the layout of each component of a stacked facility according to an example of the present invention.

[0077] Figure 5 The diagram schematically illustrates the arrangement of a tray, suction plate, and visual inspection device mounted on a conveyor according to an example of the invention.

[0078] Figure 6 This is an operational state diagram of a clamping device according to an example of the present invention, wherein, Figure 6 (a) is an operational diagram showing the fixture fixing the first semi-finished battery cell to the tray, and Figure 6 (b) is an operational state diagram of the clamp releasing the fixation of the first semi-finished battery cell.

[0079] Figure 7 A schematic plan view of an adsorption plate with a sensor mounted according to an example of the present invention is shown.

[0080] Figure 8 A cross-sectional side view of an adsorption plate with a sensor mounted according to an example of the present invention is shown schematically.

[0081] Figure 9 This is a diagram used to explain the operating state of the adsorption plate and clamping device of the pickup device during the second semi-finished cell lamination step according to an example of the present invention.

[0082] Figure 10 This is a diagram showing the operational state between the clamp and the adsorption plate when the clamp holds the second semi-finished battery cell, with the adsorption plate placed in its normal position on the tray according to this example.

[0083] Figure 11 This is an operational state diagram between the clamp and the adsorption plate when the clamp holds the second semi-finished battery cell, with the adsorption plate placed in the clamping interference position according to this example.

[0084] Figure 12 This is a flowchart for explaining a method of laminating an electrode assembly according to an example of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0085] In the following description, a preferred embodiment of the stacking facility and method for laminating electrode assemblies according to the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0086] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the electrode assembly configuration is shown. Figure 4 This is a plan view of the layout of each component of a stacking facility according to an example of the present invention, and Figure 5 The diagram schematically illustrates the arrangement of a tray, suction plate, and visual inspection device mounted on a conveyor according to an example of the invention.

[0087] The stacking facility 1000 may include a conveyor 100 and a pickup device 200. The conveyor 100 includes a tray 150 loaded with a first semi-finished battery cell 10 and a clamping device 170. The clamping device 170 is arranged to secure the first semi-finished battery cell 10 to the tray 150, and the conveyor 100 is arranged to convey the tray 150 to a lamination position X1. The pickup device 200 includes an opening 226 and an adsorption plate 220. The opening 226 is arranged to allow the clamp 173 of the clamping device 170 to approach. The adsorption plate 220 has an adsorption surface 221 for adsorbing a second semi-finished battery cell 20, and the pickup device 200 is configured to laminate the second semi-finished battery cell 20 onto the upper surface of the first semi-finished battery cell 10. The pickup device 200 may include a sensor 250, which is arranged to sense the clamp 173 in the interference region of the opening 226.

[0088] Reference Figure 4 and Figure 5 The stacking facility 1000 includes a conveyor 100, a pickup device 200, a visual inspection device 300, a cell laminating device 500, a tape applicator 900, and a controller 800.

[0089] The conveyor 100 includes a tray 150 loaded with a first semi-finished battery cell 10 and a clamping device 170 arranged to secure the first semi-finished battery cell 10 to the tray 150, and the conveyor 100 is arranged to convey the tray 150 to the lamination position X1. The conveyor 100 may be a linear motion system (LMS).

[0090] The pickup device 200 includes an adsorption plate 220 and a sensor 250, and is arranged such that the second semi-finished battery cell 20 is adsorbed and transported to the tray 150. The pickup device 200 can laminate the second semi-finished battery cell 20 onto the upper surface of the first semi-finished battery cell 10 via the adsorption plate 220. The pickup device 200 may be a SCARA robot.

[0091] The stacking facility 1000 is an apparatus for manufacturing electrode assembly 30 by means of the following steps: loading a first semi-finished cell 10 onto a tray 150 by means of a cell laminating device 500, laminating a second semi-finished cell 20 onto the upper surface of the first semi-finished cell 10 by means of a pick-up device 200 at lamination position X1, and then applying tape to the first semi-finished cell 10 and the second semi-finished cell 20 by means of a tape application device 900.

[0092] Reference Figure 1 The electrode assembly 30 includes multiple unit cells (10a to 10n, see...) Figure 1 The electrode assembly 30 is obtained by sequentially laminating a negative electrode 2 and a positive electrode 3 via a diaphragm 1.

[0093] Cell unit (10a to 10n, see Figure 1 The first semi-finished product, cell 10, is a semi-finished product consisting of separator 1, negative electrode 2, separator 1, and positive electrode 3 laminated sequentially. The first semi-finished product cell 10 is produced by laminating multiple unit cells (10a to 10n, see...) Figure 1 The second semi-finished product, cell 20, is a semi-finished product formed by sequentially laminating the separator 1, the negative electrode 2, and the separator 1.

[0094] In the following text, reference will be made to Figures 4 to 6 To describe the conveyor.

[0095] Figure 6 This is an operational state diagram of a clamping device 170 according to an example of the present invention, wherein, Figure 6 (a) is an operational diagram showing the fixture 173 fixing the first semi-finished battery cell 10 to the tray 150, and Figure 6 (b) is an operational state diagram of the clamp 173 releasing the fixation of the first semi-finished battery cell 10.

[0096] The conveyor 100 includes a tray 150 on which a clamping device 170 is mounted, a track 130 on which the tray 150 is movably mounted, and a conveyor drive unit 110 that provides driving force to the tray 150. The conveyor drive unit 110 may be an electric motor.

[0097] Reference Figure 4 The conveyor 100 is in-line connected to the cell laminating unit 500 and the tape applicator 900. The conveyor 100 can transport the tray 150 from the cell laminating unit 500 to the lamination position X1, and from the lamination position X1 to the tape applicator 900.

[0098] The lamination position X1 is a point on track 130 located between the cell lamination device 500 and the tape application device 900. Lamination position X1 is the position where the second semi-finished cell 20 is laminated onto the upper surface of the first semi-finished cell 10 mounted on tray 150. Track 130 is arranged parallel to the X-axis.

[0099] Reference Figure 6 The tray 150 has a plate-like structure arranged to accommodate the first semi-finished battery cell 10. (Refer to...) Figure 4 The tray 150 can be moved sequentially along the track 130 to the cell laminating device 500, the laminating position X1 and the tape applicator 900.

[0100] Reference Figure 6 The clamping device 170 is mounted on the tray 150. The clamping device 170 can be mounted individually on each tray 150.

[0101] The clamping device 170 is a device for securing the first semi-finished battery cell 10 to the tray 150. The clamping device 170 is movable together with the tray 150. The clamping device 170 includes a clamping drive unit 172 and a clamp 173.

[0102] In this document, refer to Figure 6 (a) The position where the clamp 173 is orthogonal to the virtual center line L1 of the tray 150 and can contact the upper surface of the first semi-finished cell 10 is called the "clamping position".

[0103] Then, refer to Figure 6 (b) The position where the clamp 173 is higher than the upper surface of the first semi-finished cell 10 in the height direction z of the tray and is spaced apart from the virtual center line L1 of the tray 150 is called the "release position".

[0104] The clamping drive unit 172 can be mounted on one side of the tray 150 and can be arranged to move the clamp 173 up and down along the height direction z perpendicular to the tray 150. The clamping drive unit 172 can be arranged in a cylindrical form.

[0105] Then, the clamping drive unit 172 can be arranged to rotate the clamp 173 at a predetermined angle, such that the clamp 173 is parallel or orthogonal to the virtual center line L1 of the tray 150. In the following text, for ease of explanation, the operation of fixing the first semi-finished cell 10 or electrode assembly 30 to the tray 150 is referred to as the "clamping operation".

[0106] The clamp 173 can be arranged to have surface contact with a portion of the first semi-finished battery cell 10. The clamp 173 can be arranged in a strip shape. In the clamp 173, the portion in contact with the first semi-finished battery cell 10 can be formed of a rubber material. The clamp 173 can be mounted parallel to the tray 150 on the drive shaft of the clamping drive unit 172.

[0107] In addition, the tray 150 may be equipped with a pair of clamping devices 170, 170a.

[0108] The pair of clamping devices 170, 170a can be operated such that the clamping position where the pair of clamps 173 is orthogonal to the virtual center line L1 of the tray 150 and applies pressure to the upper surface of the first semi-finished cell 10 (see [reference]). Figure 6 At (a)), the pair of clamps are rotated 90° away from the first semi-finished cell to be positioned in a straight line parallel to the virtual center line L1 of the tray 150 (see [reference]). Figure 6 (b)).

[0109] In the following text, reference will be made to Figure 4 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 Describe the pickup device 200.

[0110] Figure 7 A schematic plan view of an adsorption plate with a sensor mounted according to an example of the present invention is shown, and Figure 8 A cross-sectional side view of an adsorption plate with a sensor mounted according to an example of the present invention is shown schematically.

[0111] The pickup device 200 includes an adsorption plate 220 and a sensor 250.

[0112] The pickup device 200 moves the adsorption plate 220 up and down along a height direction z perpendicular to the floor surface, and is arranged to reciprocate between the second semi-finished cell cassette 600 and the track 130. The height direction z is parallel to the lamination direction of the first semi-finished cell.

[0113] The pickup device 200 is arranged to move the adsorption plate 220 in a direction different from the travel direction (MD) of the tray 150. The pickup device 200 is arranged to move the adsorption plate 220 in the Y-axis and Z-axis directions. Then, the pickup device 200 is arranged such that the adsorption plate 220 is adjustable to a predetermined angle in the XY plane.

[0114] The second semi-finished cell box 600 and the buffer platform 700 can be set to be spaced apart in the Y-axis direction.

[0115] The second semi-finished cell cassette 600 is a cassette in which the second semi-finished cell 20 is loaded. A buffer platform 700 is disposed between the second semi-finished cell cassette 600 and the track 130. The buffer platform 700 is a platform for placing the second semi-finished cell 20 transported from the second semi-finished cell cassette 600. The buffer platform 700 is arranged to prevent the second semi-finished cell 20 in a double-layer state from being laminated onto the upper surface of the first semi-finished cell 10.

[0116] The adsorption plate 220 adsorbs the second semi-finished battery cell 20 loaded on top of the second semi-finished battery cell box 600 to transport it to the buffer table 700, where it releases the adsorption on the second semi-finished battery cell 20. Then, the adsorption plate 220 can adsorb one of the second semi-finished battery cells 20 placed on the buffer table 700 to move it to the upper part of the lamination position X1.

[0117] Reference Figure 7 and Figure 8 The adsorption plate 220 has an adsorption surface 221 with a plurality of holes 222 arranged therein, a vacuum line 230 for providing vacuum pressure to the plurality of holes 222, and an opening 226.

[0118] The opening 226 is arranged to allow the clamp 173 to approach. The opening 226 has a first opening surface 225, a second opening surface 223, and a third opening surface 224. The first opening surface 225 faces the entrance side through which the clamp 173 enters. The second and third opening surfaces 223 and 224 are connected to the first opening surface 225 and face each other. The first and third opening surfaces 225 are connected in the circumferential direction of the suction plate 220. The opening 226 is the space surrounded by the first and third opening surfaces 225 and 224.

[0119] The adsorption plate 220 is arranged such that a portion of the second semi-finished cell 20 is adsorbed onto the adsorption surface 221, and the remaining portion of the second semi-finished cell 20 that is not adsorbed onto the adsorption surface 221 is exposed to the outside through the opening 226.

[0120] The adsorption plate 220 is arranged to be angle-adjustable in a state parallel to the XY plane of the tray 150. When the first semi-finished cell 10 is loaded outside its normal position on the XY plane of the tray 150 during the process of loading it onto the tray 150, the position correction of the adsorption plate 220 is intended to laminate the second semi-finished cell 20 in a state aligned with the first semi-finished cell 10.

[0121] However, as Figure 10 As shown, if the adsorption plate 220 is placed at the clamping interference position on the upper surface of the first semi-finished cell 10 due to position correction, the clamp 173 may collide with the adsorption plate 220 during the clamping operation of the clamp 173 after the second semi-finished cell 20 is loaded on the upper surface of the first semi-finished cell 10.

[0122] The clamping interference position is such that the adsorption plate 220 is placed on the upper surface of the first semi-finished cell 10, such that the virtual center line L3 of the adsorption plate 220 is tilted at a predetermined angle relative to the virtual center line L1 of the tray 150.

[0123] When the correction amount of the adsorption plate 220 is large enough to cause interference with the fixture 173, the misalignment of the first semi-finished cell 10 mainly occurs when multiple unit cells (10a to 10n, see Figure 1 (During the process of laminating onto tray 150.)

[0124] Such a problem may occur repeatedly during clamping after loading a second semi-finished cell 20 onto each tray 150 moving along the track 130 of the conveyor 100 when the correction amount of the adsorption plate 220 is large enough to cause interference with the clamp 173.

[0125] To address this issue, a sensor 250 is installed in the interference region of the opening 226 of the adsorption plate 220, thereby enabling the sensing of the collision between the clamp 173 and the adsorption plate 220.

[0126] The sensor 250 is mounted on the adsorption plate 220 to form a linear sensing line 253 in the interference region of the opening 226.

[0127] The sensor 250 can be mounted on the adsorption plate 220, such that the sensing line 253 is formed on the upper part of the second semi-finished cell 20 exposed through the opening 226.

[0128] The sensor 250 can be arranged to sense the clamp 173 when the sensing line 253 is disconnected.

[0129] The sensor 250 includes a light emitter 251 that emits light and a light receiver 252 that receives light.

[0130] The light emitter 251 can be mounted on the second opening surface 223 to be spaced apart from the first opening surface 225 and the adsorption surface 221 by a predetermined interval.

[0131] The light receiver 252 can be mounted on the third opening surface 224 to face the light emitter 251. The light receiver 252 can be mounted on the third opening surface 224 to be spaced apart from the first opening surface 225 and the adsorption surface 221 by a predetermined interval.

[0132] The sensing line 253 can be a ray of light formed when light is emitted from the light emitter 251 and reaches the light receiver 252. The sensing line 253 can be parallel to the virtual center line L3 of the adsorption plate 220.

[0133] also, Figure 10 The diagram illustrates the shape of interference between the sensing line 253 and the clamp 173 when the error correction amount of the adsorption plate is small. This can be interpreted as the sensing line 253 and sensors 251, 252 being shown in an exaggerated manner, and the parallel spacing between the first opening surface 225 or the first opening surface line and the sensing line being shown in an exaggerated manner. In reality, the sensing line 253 can be formed very close to the first opening surface 225 or the first opening surface line, such that when the error correction amount of the adsorption plate is small, the clamp 173 and the sensing line 253 do not interfere. Of course, when the error correction amount of the adsorption plate, especially the torsional correction amount, increases, interference between the clamp and the sensing line may occur. By pre-sensing such interference, stacking failures can be prevented in advance.

[0134] The sensing line 253 may be spaced apart from the first opening surface 225 at a predetermined interval (specific value) along the boundary between the adsorption surface 221 and the first opening surface 225 of the opening 226. The sensing line 253 may be formed on the upper part of the second semi-finished cell 20 exposed through the opening 226.

[0135] Sensor 250 can sense clamp 173 when sensing line 253 is disconnected. Sensor 250 may include a through-beam sensor 250.

[0136] The interference region includes the first opening surface 225 facing the entrance side of the opening 226 and the periphery of the first opening surface 225.

[0137] The interference region can be the area where the clamp 173 can collide with the clamp 173 when it enters the opening 226, based on the misalignment angle of the virtual center line L3 of the adsorption plate 220 relative to the virtual center line of the tray 150.

[0138] When the virtual center line L3 of the adsorption plate 220 is coaxial and parallel to the virtual center line L1 of the tray 150, the interference region can be located between the clamp 173, which is positioned in the opening 226 orthogonal to the virtual center line L1 of the tray 150, and the first opening surface 225.

[0139] Sensor 250 can be mounted on suction plate 220 to sense clamp 173 during the second semi-finished cell clamping operation of clamp 173, with the virtual center line L3 of suction plate 220 twisted relative to the virtual center line L1 of tray 150 by a predetermined interval. The predetermined angle can be approximately 6° or greater.

[0140] The controller 800 can operate the clamping device 170 and the picking device 200 so that the adsorption plate 220 adsorbs the second semi-finished battery cell 20 in the buffer stage 700 to laminate it onto the upper surface of the first semi-finished battery cell 10 loaded on the tray 150, and the second semi-finished battery cell 20 is fixed to the upper surface of the first semi-finished battery cell 10 by the clamp 173.

[0141] The controller 800 can operate the pickup device 200 based on the misalignment angle of the first semi-finished battery cell 10 relative to the tray 150 XY plane obtained from the vision inspection device 300, such that the virtual center line L3 of the adsorption plate 220 is parallel to the virtual center line L2 of the first semi-finished battery cell 10, and the center of the adsorption plate 220 is coaxially positioned with the center of the first semi-finished battery cell 10.

[0142] The visual inspection device 300 is a device that visually inspects the misalignment of the first semi-finished battery cell 10 relative to the virtual center line L1 of the tray 150 in the XY plane of the tray 150 by taking pictures of and analyzing the images of the first semi-finished battery cell 10 loaded on the tray 150. The visual inspection device 300 can be coaxially mounted on the upper part of the track 130 of the conveyor 100 with the lamination position X1.

[0143] The controller 800 can operate the clamping device 170 and the picking device 200 so that when the clamp 173 releases its fixation on the first semi-finished battery cell 10, the adsorption plate 220 moves to the upper surface of the first semi-finished battery cell 10, thereby pressing the second semi-finished battery cell 20 onto the upper surface of the first semi-finished battery cell 10.

[0144] Furthermore, the controller 800 can operate the clamping device 170 and the picking device 200 such that, with the adsorption plate 220 located on the upper surface of the first semi-finished cell 10, the clamp 173 of the clamping device 170 mounted on the tray 150 enters the opening 226 of the adsorption plate 220 to fix the second semi-finished cell 20 to the upper surface of the first semi-finished cell 10.

[0145] If sensor 250 detects clamp 173, controller 800 can stop stacking facility 1000. Pickup device 200 can be arranged to provide a warning alarm if sensor 250 detects clamp 173.

[0146] In the following text, reference will be made to Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figures 9 to 12 A method for describing laminated electrode assemblies.

[0147] Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating the operational state of the adsorption plate and clamping device of the pickup apparatus during the second semi-finished cell lamination step according to an example of the present invention. Figure 10 This diagram illustrates the operational state between the clamp and the adsorption plate when the clamp holds the second semi-finished battery cell, with the adsorption plate placed in its normal position on the tray according to this example. Figure 11 This is a diagram showing the operational state between the clamp and the adsorption plate when the clamp holds the second semi-finished battery cell, with the adsorption plate positioned in the clamping interference position according to this example. Next, Figure 12 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for producing a laminated electrode assembly according to an example of the present invention.

[0148] The method for laminating electrode assemblies may include the following steps: a second semi-finished cell lamination step (S25), wherein, with the adsorption plate 220 of the pickup device 200 having adsorbed the second semi-finished cell 20, the tray 150 loaded with the first semi-finished cell 10 is moved to a stopped lamination position X1, and the second semi-finished cell 20 is laminated onto the upper surface of the first semi-finished cell 10; a second semi-finished cell clamping step (S26), wherein, with the adsorption plate 220 positioned on the upper surface of the first semi-finished cell 10, the clamp 173 of the clamping device 170 mounted on the tray 150 enters the opening 226 of the adsorption plate 220 to fix the second semi-finished cell 20 to the upper surface of the first semi-finished cell 10; and a collision sensing step (S27), wherein the collision sensing step senses the collision between the clamp 173 and the adsorption plate 220 by means of a sensor 250 mounted on the adsorption plate 220.

[0149] The method for laminating electrode assemblies may include a transfer step (S21), a visual inspection step (S22), a position correction step for the adsorption plate 200 (S23), a clamp release step (S24), a second semi-finished cell lamination step (S25), a second semi-finished cell clamping step (S26), a collision sensing step (S27), and a facility stop step (S28).

[0150] Reference Figure 4 and Figure 5In the transfer step (S21), the tray 150 is transferred from the cell laminating device 500 to the lamination position X1 along the track 130. Then, the first semi-finished cell 10 can be transferred while it is fixed to the tray 150 by the clamp 173.

[0151] The tray 150 is stopped at the lamination position X1 for a preset period of time. The tray 150 may be stopped at the lamination position X1 during the execution of the visual inspection step (S22), the position correction step of the adsorption plate 200 (S23), the clamp release step (S24), the second semi-finished cell lamination step (S25), and the second semi-finished cell clamping step (S26).

[0152] Reference Figure 5 If the tray 150 on which the first semi-finished battery cell 10 is loaded stops at the lamination position X1, a visual inspection step (S22) is performed, wherein the visual inspection device 300, which is coaxially mounted with the lamination position X1, takes a picture of the tray 150 on which the first semi-finished battery cell 10 is loaded, and checks the misalignment of the first semi-finished battery cell 10 relative to the tray 150 based on the XY plane of the tray 150.

[0153] A visual inspection step (42) is performed before the second semi-finished cell lamination step (S25). The visual inspection device 300 can obtain the misalignment angle and misalignment direction of the virtual center line of the first semi-finished cell 10 relative to the virtual center line L1 of the tray 150.

[0154] Reference Figure 9 The pickup device 200 can be operated so that the adsorption plate 220 adsorbs one of the second semi-finished cells 20 from the buffer stage 700 to move it to the lamination position X1.

[0155] Based on the misalignment angle of the first semi-finished cell 10 relative to the XY plane of the tray 150 obtained through the visual inspection step (S22), the position of the adsorption plate 220 can be adjusted (S23) so that the virtual center line L3 of the adsorption plate 220 is parallel to the virtual center line L2 of the first semi-finished cell 10, and the center of the adsorption plate 220 is coaxially positioned with the center of the first semi-finished cell 10.

[0156] The clamp release step (S24) is performed before the adsorption plate 220 moves downward toward the first semi-finished cell 10. The clamp release step (S24) is performed while the tray 150 is stopped.

[0157] In the release clamp step (S24), the clamp 173 can be moved from the clamping position to the release position by lifting and rotating to release the fixation on the first semi-finished cell 10.

[0158] In the released state, clamp 173 is positioned in the released position of tray 150 (see...). Figure 6 (b)). Release position (see Figure 6 (b) is a position parallel to the virtual center line L1 of tray 150 and spaced apart from the first semi-finished cell 10.

[0159] Reference Figure 9 With the clamp 173 released, the adsorption plate 220 can move downward toward the first semi-finished cell 10 and be positioned on the upper surface of the first semi-finished cell 10.

[0160] When the clamp 173 performs a clamping operation to fix the second semi-finished cell 20 to the upper surface of the first semi-finished cell 10, the adsorption plate 200 can be positioned on the upper surface of the first semi-finished cell 10.

[0161] In the second semi-finished cell clamping step (S26), when the clamp 173 enters the opening 226 of the adsorption plate 220 by rotating 90° in the direction approaching the first semi-finished cell 10 from the release position, and descends toward the second semi-finished cell 20 that is adsorbed onto the adsorption plate 220, the clamping device 170 can fix the second semi-finished cell 20 and the first semi-finished cell 10 to the tray 150.

[0162] When the clamp 173 enters the opening 226 with the adsorption plate 220 on the upper surface of the first semi-finished cell 10, a collision sensing step (S27) can be performed when the clamp 173 is sensed in the interference area of ​​the opening 226.

[0163] If the sensor 250 mounted on the adsorption plate 220 detects the clamp 173 during the second semi-finished cell clamping step (S26), the controller 800 can stop the stacking facility 1000 (S28). Furthermore, it can provide a warning alarm when the stacking facility 1000 stops.

[0164] By automatically stopping the stacking facility 1000 upon collision detection by sensor 250, damage to the adsorption plate 220 due to repeated collisions with the clamp 173 can be prevented. Furthermore, by preventing tape defects in the electrode assembly 30 caused by lamination defects, electrode assembly 30 with uniform quality can be manufactured.

[0165] If the sensor 250 mounted on the adsorption plate 220 does not detect the clamp 173 during the second semi-finished cell clamping step (S26), the stacking facility 1000 operates normally, thereby allowing the tray 150 to be conveyed to the tape applicator 900 (S29) while the second semi-finished cell 20 is fixed to the upper surface of the first semi-finished cell 10. Furthermore, after completing the second semi-finished cell clamping step, the adsorption plate 220 can release its grip on the second semi-finished cell 20 and return to its original position (S29).

[0166] For illustrative purposes, preferred embodiments of the invention as described above have been disclosed, and those skilled in the art with ordinary knowledge of the invention will be able to make various modifications, alterations and additions within the spirit and scope of the invention, and such modifications, alterations and additions should be considered to fall within the scope of the appended claims.

[0167] Industrial applicability

[0168] It is described in the detailed description of the invention.

Claims

1. A stacking facility, characterized in that, The stacking facility includes: A conveyor comprising a tray and a clamping device, the tray being loaded with a first semi-finished battery cell, the clamping device being arranged to secure the first semi-finished battery cell to the tray, and the conveyor being arranged to convey the tray to a lamination position; and A pickup device includes an opening and an adsorption plate. The opening is arranged to allow access by the clamping device's gripper. The adsorption plate has an adsorption surface for adsorbing a second semi-finished battery cell. The pickup device is configured to laminate the second semi-finished battery cell onto the upper surface of a first semi-finished battery cell. The pickup device includes a sensor arranged to sense the clamp in the interference region of the opening.

2. The stacking facility according to claim 1, characterized in that, If the sensor detects the gripper, the operation of the picking device is stopped.

3. The stacking facility according to claim 1, characterized in that, If the sensor detects the clamp, the operation of the clamping device is stopped.

4. The stacking facility according to claim 1, characterized in that, If the sensor detects the clamp, the pickup device is configured to provide a warning alarm.

5. The stacking facility according to claim 1, characterized in that, The sensor is mounted on the adsorption plate to form a linear sensing line in the interference region of the opening, and the sensor is arranged to sense the clamp when the sensing line is broken.

6. The stacking facility according to claim 1, characterized in that, The interference region includes the first opening surface facing the entrance side of the opening and the periphery of the first opening surface, and is the area that can collide with the clamp when the clamp enters the opening, based on the misalignment angle of the virtual center line of the adsorption plate relative to the virtual center line of the tray.

7. The stacking facility according to claim 1, characterized in that, The opening is arranged such that a portion of the second semi-finished battery cell that is not adsorbed onto the adsorption surface is exposed to the outside, and The sensor is mounted on the adsorption plate such that a sensing line is formed on the upper part of the second semi-finished cell exposed through the opening.

8. The stacking facility according to claim 1, characterized in that, The sensor includes a light emitter that emits light and a light receiver that receives light, and forms a sensing line that receives light emitted from the light emitter and reaching the light receiver.

9. The stacking facility according to claim 8, characterized in that, The opening is a region surrounded by a first opening surface that is recessed from the outside of the adsorption plate inward, and a second and a third opening surface that are arranged so that their ends face each other. The light emitter and the light receiver are respectively mounted on the second opening surface and the third opening surface, so that they are arranged to face each other.

10. The stacking facility according to claim 8, characterized in that, The sensing line is configured to be parallel to the virtual center line of the adsorption plate, and The sensing line is formed to be spaced apart from the first opening surface in the opening.

11. The stacking facility according to claim 1, characterized in that, The clamping device further includes a clamping drive unit mounted on one side of the tray and arranged to move the clamp up and down along a height direction perpendicular to the tray.

12. The stacking facility according to claim 11, characterized in that, The clamping drive is arranged to rotate the clamp at a predetermined angle, such that the clamp is parallel or orthogonal to the virtual center line of the tray.

13. The stacking facility according to claim 11, characterized in that, The clamp is arranged to contact a portion of the upper surface of the first semi-finished battery cell loaded on the tray, and is mounted to the clamping drive to be parallel to the tray.

14. The stacking facility of claim 1, further comprising: A visual inspection device coaxial with the lamination position, which inspects the misalignment of the first semi-finished battery cell relative to the tray by taking pictures and analyzing images of the first semi-finished battery cell loaded on the tray, based on the XY plane of the tray.

15. A method for laminating an electrode assembly, the method comprising: In the second semi-finished cell lamination step, while the adsorption plate of the pickup device has adsorbed the second semi-finished cell, the tray loaded with the first semi-finished cell is moved to the lamination position, and then the second semi-finished cell is laminated on the upper surface of the first semi-finished cell. In the second semi-finished cell clamping step, with the adsorption plate positioned on the upper surface of the first semi-finished cell, the clamps of the clamping device mounted on the tray enter the opening of the adsorption plate to fix the second semi-finished cell to the upper surface of the first semi-finished cell; and The collision sensing step involves sensing the collision between the clamp and the adsorption plate using a sensor mounted on the adsorption plate.

16. The method for laminating an electrode assembly according to claim 15, characterized in that, The collision sensing step is performed during the second semi-finished cell clamping step.

17. The method for laminating an electrode assembly according to claim 16, characterized in that, The collision sensing step is a step of sensing whether the clamp enters the interference region of the opening when the clamp enters the opening while the adsorption plate is positioned on the upper surface of the first semi-finished cell.

18. The method for laminating an electrode assembly according to claim 15, characterized in that, If the sensor detects the clamp during the collision sensing step, the operation of the stacking facility is stopped.

19. The method for laminating an electrode assembly according to claim 17, characterized in that, The method for assembling the laminated electrode assembly includes: A visual inspection step is performed before the second semi-finished cell lamination step, and the visual inspection step checks for misalignment of the first semi-finished cell.

20. The method for laminating an electrode assembly according to claim 19, characterized in that, In the second semi-finished cell lamination step, the adsorption plate corrects the lamination position of the second semi-finished cell based on the misalignment angle of the first semi-finished cell obtained through the visual inspection step.

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