Sorting of planar objects for manufacturing of primary cells

Abstract

The invention relates to sorting of planar objects for the production of primary cells, in particular electrochemical energy stores or electrochemical energy converters. Here, the planar objects are conveyed along a conveying path to at least two intermediate stations, the conveying path branching at at least one branching device, such that the planar objects can be selectively conveyed to a first or a second intermediate station. For sorting of the planar objects, the following steps are carried out for each planar object: - providing at least one object property of the respective planar object, and - selecting one of the intermediate stations for the respective planar object in dependence on one or more object properties of the respective planar object in order to associate the respective planar object with the selected intermediate station, and - conveying the respective planar object along the conveying path to the selected intermediate station, wherein the respective planar object is guided to the selected intermediate station by the branching device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for sorting planar objects used in the manufacture of galvanic cells, such as electrochemical energy storage devices or electrochemical energy converters. Background Technology

[0002] To manufacture electrochemical energy storage devices, such as batteries, or electrochemical energy converters, such as fuel cells, planar objects such as electrodes or individual cells are used.

[0003] In production lines for manufacturing lithium-ion or sodium-ion batteries, such as pouch cells, for electrically driven motor vehicles, anodes and cathodes are typically stacked alternately and separated from each other by a separator. The stacking of electrodes can be achieved through Z-folding, or by stacking electrodes or creating single cells from electrodes. At the end of the production line, multiple stacked electrodes are introduced into a housing, which is then filled with an ion-conducting electrolyte and sealed.

[0004] In the pretreatment process for manufacturing electrochemical energy storage devices or electrochemical energy converters, planar objects, such as electrodes, are typically fabricated by separating individual planar objects from strips of material. These planar objects are then further processed in the production line for the electrochemical energy storage device or electrochemical energy converter.

[0005] It is known that defective planar objects are picked out from the production line so that they are not further processed into electrochemical energy storage devices or electrochemical energy converters in the production process.

[0006] However, it has been demonstrated that planar objects undergoing further processing on the production line, despite nominally identical manufacturing conditions, still possess different mechanical and electrical properties. These differences lead to significant fluctuations in the quality of the finished electrochemical energy storage devices or converters. Because a final product with the tightest possible tolerance is desired, the significantly different mechanical or electrical properties between multiple planar objects installed in electrochemical energy storage devices or converters can cause the finished devices to fail to meet requirements during final monitoring of production and thus have to be discarded. This results in scrap in production. Furthermore, as the requirements for quality and tolerance in electrochemical energy storage devices or converters continue to increase, the proportion of scrap—that is, finished electrochemical energy storage devices or converters that must be discarded to meet the desired minimum quality—is also increasing.

[0007] To avoid severe quality fluctuations in planar objects, attempts were made to improve the preprocessing used in their manufacture. However, tolerances exist in both raw materials and processing, and reducing these tolerances is nearly impossible, or can only be achieved through complex processing optimizations.

[0008] For example, the requirements for geometric tolerances in the external dimensions of battery stacks, as well as the relative positions of electrodes or separators contained within the battery stacks, are increasing. Depending on the processing steps in manufacturing the battery stacks, these requirements are either achievable only through significant overhead, practically impossible to achieve in principle, or require the availability of raw materials that correspond to the increasingly stringent requirements of the respective process steps. If this cannot be achieved, the number of scrapped batteries increases during manufacturing because they cannot meet the ever-increasing demands. Summary of the Invention

[0009] Therefore, the technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a method and an apparatus that enable the reduction of waste and / or quality fluctuations in the manufacture of primary batteries, particularly electrochemical energy storage devices or electrochemical energy converters.

[0010] According to the present invention, the above-mentioned technical problems are solved by the method and apparatus according to the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments of the present invention are the subject of the dependent claims.

[0011] A first aspect of the invention relates to a method for sorting planar objects used in the manufacture of galvanic cells, particularly electrochemical energy storage devices or electrochemical energy converters. In the method, multiple planar objects are individually and sequentially conveyed along a conveying path to at least two intermediate stations by means of at least one conveying device. At least one branching device is arranged along the conveying path, at which the conveying path branches, allowing the planar objects to be selectively conveyed to a first intermediate station or at least one other intermediate station. To sort the planar objects, the following steps are performed for each planar object: - Provide at least one object property of the corresponding planar object, and associate the object property with the corresponding planar object, and - Based on one or more object characteristics of the corresponding planar object, select one of the intermediate stations for the corresponding planar object in order to associate the corresponding planar object with the selected intermediate station. - The corresponding planar object is transported along the transport path to the intermediate station selected for the corresponding planar object, wherein the corresponding planar object is guided to the intermediate station selected for the corresponding planar object by a branching device.

[0012] In other words, the sorting of planar objects is performed based on one or more object characteristics of the corresponding planar object.

[0013] By sorting planar objects into different intermediate stations based on their object characteristics, planar objects that match those already located there can be selectively transported to the intermediate stations, or planar objects whose object characteristics supplement or compensate for those already located there. In the first ("matching") case, for example, sorting can be performed to control the object characteristics of the planar objects transported to the corresponding intermediate station with less intensity compared to the object characteristics of the planar objects before sorting. For example, this can achieve a more uniform quality of planar objects transported to or collected at the corresponding intermediate station. In the second ("supplementing / compensating") case, sorting can be performed to specifically comply with requirements for specific stacking characteristics of the stacks formed by the planar objects in the stacking device at the intermediate station, or tolerances for those stacking characteristics.

[0014] Because at the start of the production line or within the production line, the corresponding (e.g., unsuitable) planar objects (e.g., electrodes, individual cells) can be sorted or picked out to the appropriate intermediate station, and it is not necessary to pick out products (primary cells, such as batteries or fuel cells) consisting of multiple planar objects due to individual (e.g., unsuitable) planar objects at the end of the production line, thus reducing the waste of manufactured primary cells.

[0015] For example, during sorting, optimized, branch-associated stacking can be achieved using the relevant characteristics of the input materials (coils, isolation coils) determined by pretreatment or product input measurements, as well as data of the planar objects identified during ongoing processing of the planar objects. To this end, the collected data is assigned to and associated with the corresponding planar objects (e.g., electrodes, individual cells) and used to determine which stack to feed the planar object to accordingly. This selection and division of materials into different material flows, taking into account previous parameters and the requirements and knowledge of anticipated subsequent processing steps, makes it possible to ultimately associate each planar object with a stacking device or planar objects previously stored in the stacking device. If, for example, the cathode of the last placed individual cell is eccentric / rotated, it is advantageous to place a new individual cell with its anode facing the same direction or towards the eccentricity / rotation.

[0016] Furthermore, due to the collected data on the corresponding planar objects and the knowledge of the requirements derived from further processing of each material stream (including the preceding objects) and the allowed values, the corresponding planar objects can be picked out as early as possible. For example, if the material fails to meet the requirements of one of the different material streams during further processing or the object does not correspond to these requirements, it can be picked out from the production line at the earliest possible point in time.

[0017] A second aspect of the invention relates to an apparatus for sorting planar objects used in the manufacture of galvanic cells, particularly electrochemical energy storage devices or electrochemical energy converters. The apparatus includes: - At least two, especially two or more intermediate stations, - One or more conveying devices configured to transport multiple planar objects individually and sequentially along a conveying path to an intermediate station. - At least one branching device arranged on the conveying path, at which the conveying path branches, such that planar objects can be selectively conveyed along the conveying path to a first intermediate station or at least one other intermediate station. - A selection device having at least one object characteristic of a corresponding plane object, and configured to select one of intermediate stations for a corresponding plane object based on one or more object characteristics of the corresponding plane object, so as to associate the corresponding plane object with the selected intermediate station. - Wherein, the selection device or the control device connected to the selection device for sorting planar objects is configured to control at least one branch device such that the corresponding planar object is guided through the branch device to the intermediate station selected for the corresponding planar object, so as to transport the corresponding planar object to the selected intermediate station along the transport path.

[0018] The association between the corresponding object characteristics and the corresponding objects can be stored in the selection device, for example, in tabular form. Specifically, the selection device can be configured to obtain (e.g., transmit from a sensor device or a preprocessing device) at least one object characteristic of a corresponding planar object provided externally, and associate it with the corresponding planar object. However, if the object characteristics are already known from preprocessing, the information obtained externally may also already contain associations of which one or more of the transmitted object characteristics apply to which planar objects. The selection device, and possibly the control device, may also have a processor that executes a corresponding computer program to perform the aforementioned steps.

[0019] planar objects

[0020] The apparatus / method according to the invention is for sorting planar objects used in the manufacture of galvanic cells. This may relate to planar objects used in the manufacture of galvanic cells, particularly electrochemical energy storage devices, particularly batteries or electrochemical energy converters, particularly tertiary batteries, such as fuel cells.

[0021] The term "battery" is generally used as a superordinate term for primary and secondary single cells. A planar object can be a battery element used to manufacture a primary or secondary single cell. For example, a battery element is a single cell, a dual single cell, a single electrode, such as an anode or cathode, or an anode-separator assembly, a cathode-separator assembly, or an anode-separator-cathode-separator assembly.

[0022] However, a planar object can also be a fuel cell element, such as a fuel cell electrode (fuel cell anode or fuel cell cathode) or a combination of a fuel cell anode and / or fuel cell cathode with other objects (such as membranes or plates) or a single fuel cell unit (multiple fuel cell units connected together to form a fuel cell).

[0023] Planar objects can also be battery elements or fuel cell elements, especially coated and / or arranged electrodes on a carrier.

[0024] The planar objects to be sorted preferably originate from one of several preprocessing steps performed to manufacture these planar objects. The multiple planar objects to be sorted can originate from a common preprocessing step used to manufacture these planar objects, and thus can correspondingly be multiple elements of the same type, such as single cells or electrodes. However, this sorting method can also be used to sort different types of planar objects, such as cathodes and anodes, from which single cells can be manufactured during or after sorting.

[0025] intermediate station

[0026] In particular, planar objects can be collected in intermediate stations for further processing into galvanic cells, such as electrochemical energy storage devices or electrochemical energy converters. For example, intermediate stations may have stacking devices for planar objects, such as stacking wheels, Z-folding devices, or lamination devices with storage areas for planar objects, or intermediate stations may be connected to one of these devices.

[0027] Intermediate stations are not rejection stations or waste stations. They are components of production lines for primary cells, particularly electrochemical energy storage devices or electrochemical energy converters, such as batteries or fuel cells. Specifically, each of the intermediate stations / first and second intermediate stations is correspondingly integrated into the production line for primary cells, such that (in the intermediate station or in a further processing station after the intermediate station, for example in a further processing station after the intermediate station on the production line) the planar objects delivered to the intermediate station are processed into primary cells, particularly electrochemical energy storage devices or electrochemical energy converters, such as batteries or fuel cells.

[0028] In a preferred embodiment, at least two intermediate stations each have a stacking device for planar objects, configured to store planar objects transported along a corresponding conveyor path onto a stacking receiving portion (e.g., a storage bottom) of the corresponding stacking device, so as to stack them on a stack containing multiple planar objects. The stacking device may have a pick-and-place robot or stacking wheels. In the stacking device, planar objects may be stacked alternately with other planar stacked objects (e.g., electrodes and mating electrodes, electrodes and separators). However, multiple objects of the same type, such as single cells or electrodes of the same type (anode or cathode), may also be stacked.

[0029] However, an intermediate station can also be used as a further processing station for individual planar objects, without collecting or stacking them there, for example, where the planar objects are further processed or treated in other ways. For example, an intermediate station can be configured to apply a coating to individual planar objects (e.g., electrodes) delivered to the intermediate station.

[0030] Branching device

[0031] The branching device is configured to switch the transport path of planar objects between two or more intermediate stations, such that planar objects transported along the transport path to the branching device can be selectively guided by the branching device to one intermediate station or another. For example, the branching device has at least two positions, between which it can switch, wherein in a first position, the branching device guides the planar objects transported along the transport path to a first intermediate station, and in a second position, it guides these planar objects to one or more other intermediate stations.

[0032] If different intermediate stations are selected for two consecutive planar objects along the conveying path, the branching device switches between the relevant planar objects to guide the corresponding planar object being conveyed along the conveying path to the intermediate station selected for that planar object. If the same intermediate station is selected for two planar objects, the branching device can remain in its position between the two planar objects. The branching device may, for example, include one or more conveying switches.

[0033] Pick out

[0034] Alternatively, in addition to the sorting described, planar objects that do not meet certain minimum requirements can also be picked out, for example, by a pre-picking device arranged along the conveyor path before the branching unit. This pre-picking device, for example, has a conveyor switch through which unsuitable planar objects can be picked out of the conveyor path and placed into a waste container. In production, only the planar objects remaining on the conveyor path after pre-picking are further used, particularly by further conveying them to one or more branching units and / or intermediate stations. Picking is preferably performed by a pre-picking device arranged before at least one branching unit. However, picking can also be performed by a picking device arranged at the end of the conveyor path, after one or more branching units.

[0035] The decision of which planar objects to pick out can be based on information from preprocessing or known material properties.

[0036] The pre-picking device can be arranged after the sensor device (described in more detail below). Then, based on the measurement data from the sensor device, and if necessary, additionally considering information from pre-processing or previously known material properties, it can be determined which planar objects to pre-pick. However, it is preferable that the pre-picking device be arranged along the conveyor path before the aforementioned sensor device. This is because unnecessary measurements of the pre-picked planar objects using the sensor device are not required.

[0037] In the device according to the invention, the selection device (and possibly the control device) of the device can be configured to perform the steps described with respect to picking, and the selection device of the device may, for example, have a processor that executes a corresponding computer program.

[0038] Characteristics of objects used for sorting

[0039] The object characteristics of the planar objects used for sorting can be determined by the measurement results of sensor devices arranged on the transport path of the planar objects, and these object characteristics can be provided for sorting, or these object characteristics can be transmitted by external devices and provided for sorting, such as the prior known material properties of the planar objects or the object characteristics determined by pre-processed measurement results.

[0040] Examples of object characteristics used for sorting are: - Geometric properties of a planar object, such as one or more geometric dimensions of the planar object, such as length, width, and thickness; angular deviation; parallelism of edges; straightness of cut edges; surface area of ​​the planar object; relative positions of two component parts of the planar object (e.g., the position of an electrode on a carrier). - Position tolerances and positional deviations of planar objects, such as the displacement and rotation of electrodes on the separator, or the position of electrodes within a single cell. - Quality information (Q sorting), such as the quality of the cut edges. - Material properties of the planar object, such as uniformity, porosity, and the number, type, or characteristics of defects or flaws in the planar object. - Electrical properties of a planar object (e.g., voltage, resistance, conductivity, or capacitance).

[0041] One or more object characteristics used for sorting can be known in advance before sorting begins. Specifically, prior known material properties of the corresponding planar objects and / or object characteristics of the corresponding planar objects determined during the preprocessing of the sorting method can be provided and associated with the corresponding planar objects. Material properties or object characteristics determined from the preprocessing can be individually applied to the corresponding planar objects or a group of planar objects, and such material properties or object characteristics determined from the preprocessing can be provided. For example, information about the material quality or one or more dimensions of the corresponding planar object or a batch of planar objects in a manufacturing process can be provided and associated with each planar object.

[0042] Alternatively or additionally, sensor devices can be used to determine one or more characteristics of (individual) objects for sorting. The sensor devices are configured to perform one or more measurements, based on which corresponding object characteristics can be individually determined for the respective planar object, and thus provide the corresponding object characteristics for sorting.

[0043] In particular, planar objects can be individually and sequentially conveyed along a conveying path by a conveying device, which is arranged along the conveying path before at least one branch device. To determine at least one individual object characteristic, the sensor device, for example, acquires at least one measurement signal for the corresponding planar object as it is conveyed past. The sensor device then determines at least one individual object characteristic of the planar object based on the measurement signal acquired for that planar object.

[0044] The sensor device can be configured to, for example, acquire at least one measurement signal of a corresponding planar object as it is conveyed past the sensor device, determine at least one object characteristic of the planar object based on the measurement signal acquired for the corresponding planar object, and provide it to a selection device of the device. Preferably, the sensor device is configured to perform one or more measurements, based on which one or more of the aforementioned individual object characteristics can be determined. The sensor device can associate individual object characteristics with corresponding planar objects and use this association to transmit these individual object characteristics to the selection device.

[0045] Alternatively or additionally, information about the object characteristics of a single or multiple planar objects can be provided to the selection device via an external device (relative to the device), and if necessary, information about the individual object characteristics of the respective planar objects can also be provided.

[0046] Sorting standards and sorting categories

[0047] When selecting an intermediate station / stacking device, at least one object characteristic can be individually checked for the corresponding planar object based on at least one sorting criterion. Depending on whether the planar object meets at least one sorting criterion, it is associated with different sorting categories. For example, in a first step, the planar object can be associated with one of the sorting categories (predefined sorting categories or sorting categories defined solely by the object characteristics themselves) based on at least one object characteristic determined for the corresponding planar object, and in a second step, the planar object can be associated with one of the intermediate station / stacking devices by sorting category.

[0048] When an inspection is performed according to at least one sorting criterion, an inspection result can be generated indicating whether one or more object characteristics of a corresponding planar object meet the corresponding sorting criterion. Then, an intermediate station is selected for that corresponding planar object based on the inspection result. For example, for a given planar object, if the inspection result indicates that one or more object characteristics meet the corresponding sorting criterion, a first intermediate station / stacking device can be selected; and if the inspection result indicates that one or more object characteristics do not meet the corresponding sorting criterion, a second intermediate station / stacking device can be selected.

[0049] Sorting criteria and / or sorting categories can be predefined. For example, predefined sorting criteria may include comparing a corresponding object characteristic (such as one of the object characteristics mentioned above) with one or more predefined thresholds corresponding to a minimum or maximum value. Alternatively, sorting criteria and / or sorting categories can be dynamically determined or adjusted, as will be explained in more detail below. Alternatively, some sorting criteria and / or sorting categories may be predefined, while others may be dynamically determined or adjusted.

[0050] It can involve checking a single object characteristic according to one or more sorting criteria. Alternatively, it can involve checking multiple object characteristics according to multiple sorting criteria to determine an overall inspection result for multiple object characteristics of a planar object. This overall inspection result is determined based on which sorting criteria are met and which are not met in the planar object. The overall inspection result then correspondingly includes information about the multiple sorting criteria, i.e., which sorting criteria the corresponding planar object's object characteristics meet and which are not met. The advantage of an overall inspection result for multiple object characteristics and multiple sorting criteria is that it enables a comprehensive evaluation of the planar object.

[0051] For example, the suitability of a planar object for manufacturing a galvanic cell can therefore be evaluated from multiple perspectives. For a positive overall inspection result of the planar object, the corresponding sorting criteria must be met. For example, this might require that the dimensions be within a pre-defined range and the resistance within pre-defined limits. Otherwise, if any sorting criterion is not met, a negative overall inspection result is generated for the planar object, and it will be sorted or removed accordingly.

[0052] Intermediate stations / stacking units can be associated with different sorting categories, or they can be associated with different sorting categories while sorting is in progress. However, it is preferable that each intermediate station / stacking unit is uniquely associated with one of these sorting categories. However, multiple intermediate stations / stacking units can also be associated with the same sorting category to provide sufficient capacity for planar objects with the most frequently occurring object characteristics.

[0053] If, during inspection of a corresponding planar object according to at least one sorting criterion, it is determined that multiple intermediate stations / stacking devices can be selected for that planar object, then the sorting decision, i.e., the selection of the stacking device for the corresponding planar element, can be controlled based on the processing, for example, to optimize production line throughput or prevent downtime. Here, the stacking device for the corresponding planar object can be selected based on, for example, the following aspects: - Based on the knowledge of the properties of the last stored planar object and the knowledge of the properties of the planar objects of the subsequently arriving material flow, - Complete multiple stacks as evenly as possible over time so that these stacks can be served simultaneously for further processing. - Stack the items sequentially as much as possible so that they can be removed sequentially in time for further processing. - Correlation with other characteristics (besides location tolerance) - Considering the tolerance-based storage accuracy of stacked processing - Achieve (other) target characteristics of stacking (e.g., a defined maximum height of the stack given a pre-defined number of objects). In other words, as new planar objects are added to achieve the target characteristics, tolerance tightening is progressively applied to further planar objects, and this tolerance tightening can be taken into account during sorting.

[0054] Quality sorting categories

[0055] Multiple quality sorting categories are preferably used for planar objects. In particular, there are at least two different acceptable sorting categories under these sorting categories and associated intermediate stations / stacking devices for planar objects that are conveyed to the intermediate stations / stacking devices for further processing into galvanic cells.

[0056] By sorting planar objects into multiple quality sorting categories, it becomes possible to manufacture final products or primary cells with smaller quality fluctuations even when the characteristics of input materials or planar objects (such as electrodes and individual cells) vary drastically. Furthermore, multiple quality sorting categories not only enable the production of high-quality planar objects but also allow the manufacture of (less demanding) primary cells using lower-quality planar objects, eliminating the need for waste. This results in an overall reduction in production waste.

[0057] For example, there exists a first acceptable sorting category for planar objects of very good quality, associated with one or more first intermediate stations / stacking devices, and a second acceptable sorting category for planar objects of sufficient quality, associated with one or more second intermediate stations / stacking devices. Different sorting categories for different qualities of planar objects or stacks may, for example, be related to mechanical deviations of the planar objects that are very close to the nominal value in the case of the first acceptable sorting category, or slightly far from the nominal value in the case of the second acceptable sorting category, but still acceptable. Preferably, under the sorting category, there is also at least one waste sorting category for planar objects that are picked out so that they are not used for further processing into primary batteries.

[0058] In the device according to the invention, the selection device (and possibly the control device) of the device can be configured to perform steps described with respect to sorting criteria / sorting categories, and the selection device may, for example, have a processor that executes a corresponding computer program.

[0059] Sorting based on best fit method

[0060] To determine which intermediate station / stacking device to send a given planar object to, a so-called best-fit method can be applied. Here, for at least one object characteristic, the intermediate station / stacking device is associated with at least one (dynamic or predetermined) target value and / or at least one (dynamic or predetermined) value range, or during sorting, the intermediate station / stacking device is associated with at least one (dynamic or predetermined) target value and / or at least one (dynamic or predetermined) value range. To determine which intermediate station / stacking device to select for a given planar object, the corresponding object characteristic is compared with at least one (dynamic or predetermined) target value or at least one (dynamic or predetermined) value range from multiple intermediate stations / stacking devices. Then, based on the comparison result, the given planar object is associated with one of the intermediate stations / stacking devices, and the given planar object is sent there (in the case of a stacking device, the given planar object is stacked there).

[0061] For example, for a given planar object, an intermediate station / stacking device is selected, wherein one or more (dynamic or predetermined) target values ​​of the intermediate station / stacking device, and / or one or more (dynamic or predetermined) value ranges of the intermediate station / stacking device, are closest to the value of the corresponding object characteristic of the planar object, and the corresponding planar object is associated with the selected intermediate station / stacking device and transported there (in the case of a stacking device, the corresponding planar object is stacked there).

[0062] In the device according to the invention, the device selection device (and possibly the device control device) may be configured to perform the steps described with respect to the optimal adaptation method, the device selection device may, for example, have a processor that executes a corresponding computer program.

[0063] Sorting considering stacking characteristics

[0064] If the intermediate stations each have stacking devices for stacking planar objects, then in these stacking devices, - The target stacking value / range for the stacking characteristics (e.g., generally for stacking thickness or for stacking voltage / resistance) of the stack of planar objects to be formed in the corresponding stacking device can be determined, or the target stacking value / range for the stacking characteristics (e.g., generally for stacking thickness or for stacking voltage / resistance) of the stack of planar objects to be formed in the corresponding stacking device can be determined, and - For planar objects already stacked in their respective stacking devices, the actual values ​​of relevant stacking characteristics can be determined during sorting, for example, based on measurements or preliminary information about these planar objects (dynamically, for example, regularly after one or more planar objects). - Based on the stack target value / stack target range predetermined for stack characteristics and the actual value determined for stack characteristics, check whether the stack with the actual value is expected to reach the stack target value / stack target range after additional planar objects (with expected, such as average object characteristic values) are placed on the stack.

[0065] If the actual value is not expected to reach the stacking target value / stacking target range of the relevant stacking characteristics, then the following planar objects can be selected for the relevant stacking device and stacked there. The object characteristics of these planar objects change the actual value so that the actual value is close to the stacking target value / stacking target range.

[0066] For other planar objects whose properties cause their actual values ​​to be close to the stack target value / stack target range, select another stacking device and stack these planar objects there (e.g., start a new stack), or pick out these other planar objects.

[0067] The stacking properties of a corresponding stack are generated by the object properties of the planar objects in that stack. For example, the value of a stacking property corresponds to a (mathematical) combination (e.g., summation, averaging, weighting) of the object property values ​​of all the planar objects in the corresponding stack. Stacking properties may involve, for example, stack height, stack voltage, or resistance / conductivity.

[0068] After placing additional planar objects on the stack, it is checked whether the stack with actual values ​​is expected to reach the stack target value / stack target range. This can be done, for example, by statistical methods considering the probability distribution of the values ​​of the corresponding object characteristics. Alternatively, the actual value of the stack already stored in the stacking device can be extrapolated based on the number of further planar objects to be placed on the stack and based on the expected object characteristics (e.g., expected / average thickness or voltage), and the extrapolated value can be compared with the stack target value / stack target range of the stack characteristics. If the extrapolated value exceeds or falls below the stack target value / stack target range (actual value too large / too small), it is preferable to place planar objects with smaller / larger values ​​of the relevant object characteristics (thickness, voltage) on the relevant stack to compensate for the excessively large / small actual value.

[0069] For example, one or more matching planar objects can be selected as one or more final objects of the stack to achieve specific stacking characteristics of the stack in general, such as a specific total height or specific electrical characteristics of the stack in general.

[0070] In the device according to the invention, the selection device (and possibly the control device) of the device can be configured to perform the steps described (with regard to sorting considering stacking characteristics), and the selection device may, for example, have a processor that executes a corresponding computer program.

[0071] Sorting based on the top plane of the stack

[0072] Alternatively or additionally, for one or more planar objects, based on the object characteristics of one or more topmost planar objects, it can be determined which planar object in the stacking device to select, the one or more topmost planar objects currently stored at the top of the stack in the stacking device.

[0073] For example, at least one stacking device may be associated with a dynamic target value / range of at least one stacking characteristic, which is selected based on the value of the corresponding object characteristic of the topmost planar object in the stack stored in the stacking device. A subsequent planar object is associated with the corresponding stacking device and stacked on top of the top planar object only if the value of the object characteristic of a subsequent planar object at least approximately corresponds to the dynamic target value, or the value of the object characteristic of the subsequent planar object is within the dynamic value range. Otherwise, when the value of the object characteristic does not correspond to the dynamic target value / range, the subsequent planar object is associated with another stacking device, transported there, or picked up.

[0074] The object characteristics of the planar object stored at the top of the corresponding stack, which are used to make sorting decisions, can be provided by the preprocessing device mentioned above or by the sensor device mentioned above, or by another sensor device arranged on the stacking device, which collects the planar object currently located at the top of the stack in the stacking device, such as its position on the stack (e.g., displacement or rotation).

[0075] In the device according to the invention, the selection device (and possibly the control device) of the device can be configured to perform the steps described (regarding sorting based on the topmost planar object of the stack), and the selection device of the device may, for example, have a processor that executes a corresponding computer program.

[0076] Dynamic sorting categories

[0077] In the sorting process, one or more sorting categories can be dynamically determined. That is, at least one sorting criterion for a sorting category is not determined before the sorting of planar objects begins, but rather after the sorting of these planar objects has started, particularly after one or more first planar objects have been conveyed to the corresponding intermediate station / stacking device. This intermediate station / stacking device is then associated with a dynamic sorting category, i.e., a sorting category defined / selected based on one or more object characteristics of the first planar object. At least some of the planar objects, particularly one or more planar objects following the first planar object, can then be associated with this dynamic sorting category and conveyed to the intermediate station / stacking device associated with it. For sorting criteria not determined before the start of sorting, a standard value or standard range can be taken before sorting begins if necessary, and then overridden or more precisely defined based on one or more object characteristics of the first planar object to determine the sorting criteria.

[0078] For example, sorting criteria for dynamic sorting categories can be determined only after multiple first planar objects have been conveyed to their respective intermediate stations / stacking devices. For instance, due to the unexpected appearance of many planar objects that do not meet the sorting criteria, the boundaries of the relevant sorting criteria can be expanded to allow for a larger tolerance than originally set for partially formed stacks. This has the advantage that the relevant planar objects do not need to be subsequently picked out but are used to create (lower quality) stacks. Similarly, in the case of planar objects unexpectedly exceeding the relevant sorting criteria, the boundaries of the relevant sorting criteria can be set narrower (i.e., restricted) to create higher quality stacks from the relevant planar objects.

[0079] In the device according to the invention, the selection device (and possibly the control device) of the device can be configured to perform the steps described (with respect to dynamic sorting categories), and the selection device of the device may, for example, have a processor that executes a corresponding computer program.

[0080] Dynamically selected stacking device

[0081] In the case of an intermediate station having a stacking device for stacking planar objects, after the stacking device has placed a stack of multiple planar objects onto the stack and completed the stacking, the completed stack is removed from the corresponding stack receiving section of the stacking device to be transported to a further processing station after the stacking device, and the stack receiving section of the corresponding stacking device is provided to accommodate new stacks. At least one of these stacking devices can be a dynamically selected stacking device, in which, after the corresponding stacking device is provided to accommodate new stacks (when there are currently no planar objects on the stack receiving section of the stacking device), one or more first planar objects are associated with the dynamically provided stack receiving section respectively, so that one or more first planar objects are stacked there. For example, when the sorting category of the first planar object does not match that of other stacking devices, the association of the first planar object with the dynamic stacking device can be randomized or can be based on one or more object characteristics of the first planar object.

[0082] After associating the first planar object with the dynamic stacking device, for one or more subsequent planar objects following the first planar object along the transport path, the selection of which stacking device to use for the corresponding subsequent planar object can be determined based on the object characteristics of the one or more first planar objects that have already occupied the stacking receptacle of the dynamic stacking device (the one or more first planar objects are currently located on the stacking receptacle of the dynamic stacking device (the stack is not yet fully formed)). For example, if the object characteristic is the position or rotation of the electrode relative to the carrier, it is preferable to subsequently store a subsequent planar object with similar rotation onto a first planar object with such rotation on the same stack.

[0083] In a stack, the requirements between two adjacent planar objects can have stricter tolerances than the overall requirements for the stack, such as when a cathode located on the stack overlaps with an anode that arrives next.

[0084] When storing the first object in a new stack, to reduce the number of planar objects that need to be picked out, it may be meaningful to determine additional requirements at the start of the new stack, as this first object defines, influences, or also limits the target characteristics of the corresponding stacking device. Example: - Different stacks should cover the entire spectrum of all possible deviations as much as possible. - Atypical, more restrictive first-plane objects are best used at the end of a stack rather than as the starting object for a new stack; or it is better to pick out the related plane objects.

[0085] Processing requirements during material output can also influence whether it is better to continue filling the stack, end the stack, or start a new stack. If, for example, subsequent processing requires the stack to be completed in as even a time interval as possible, it may be preferable to end the stack, or alternatively to fill (another) stack, or alternatively to start a new stack.

[0086] In the device according to the invention, the selection device (and possibly the control device) of the device can be configured to perform the steps described (with regard to dynamically selected stacking devices), and the selection device may, for example, have a processor that executes a corresponding computer program.

[0087] Dynamically selected target value or range of values

[0088] A dynamically selected stacking device associated with one or more first planar objects can be associated with at least one dynamic target value / range of at least one object characteristic, the at least one dynamic target value / range being selected based on the values ​​of the corresponding object characteristics of the one or more first planar objects. The dynamic target value can be selected as the value of the object characteristic of the first planar object or the value of a representative object characteristic of multiple first planar objects, such as its average. The dynamic value range can be selected such that it includes the values ​​of the object characteristics of one or more first planar objects. 10%. Alternatively, one or more subsequent planar objects can be associated with the dynamically selected stacking device, wherein the values ​​of the object characteristics of the one or more subsequent planar objects at least approximately correspond to the dynamic target value, or the values ​​of the object characteristics of the one or more subsequent planar objects are within the dynamic value range, and the one or more subsequent planar objects are stacked on top of the uppermost planar object or the first planar object. Otherwise, if the values ​​of the object characteristics do not correspond to the dynamic target value or the value range, the corresponding subsequent planar object can be associated with another stacking device, or the corresponding subsequent planar object can be picked out.

[0089] In the case of dynamically selected stacking devices, comparisons can also be made with other stacking devices in the sense of the optimal fit method described above. Therefore, to determine which stacking device to select for a given subsequent planar object, the corresponding object characteristics of the given subsequent object can be compared with the dynamic target value or dynamic value range of the dynamic stacking device, and with the (dynamic or predetermined) target value or (dynamic or predetermined) value range of other stacking devices. Based on the comparison result, the given subsequent object is associated with one of the stacking devices and stacked there. For example, for a given subsequent planar object, a stacking device is selected whose (dynamic or predetermined) target value or (dynamic or predetermined) value range is closest to the value of the object characteristics of the given subsequent object. The given subsequent object is then associated with the selected stacking device, transported there, and stacked there.

[0090] For example, a dynamically selected stacking device associated with a first planar object can be associated with a range of size values ​​for the dimensions of the planar object, the range of size values ​​being selected based on the dimensions of the first planar object (e.g., selecting the range of size values ​​around the dimensions of the first planar object, and the range of size values ​​including the dimensions of the first planar object, such as the average value). 10%). In the case of multiple first-plane objects, their average value can be used. Use 10% as the range of values.

[0091] For example, for the rotation of the electrode relative to the electrode carrier, the stacking device can be associated with a dynamic angle target value, which is selected based on the rotation of the first electrode.

[0092] For the positional offset of the electrode relative to the electrode carrier, the stacking device can be associated with a dynamic value range that is selected based on the positional offset of the first electrode.

[0093] If a corresponding planar object can be associated with multiple stacking devices due to one or more of its object characteristics, it can be decided to distribute the planar objects as evenly as possible on the stacking devices.

[0094] In the device according to the invention, the selection device (and possibly the control device) of the device can be configured to perform the steps described (with regard to the dynamically selected target value or range of values), and the selection device may, for example, have a processor that executes a corresponding computer program.

[0095] Conveyor branch

[0096] In some embodiments, the transport path branches into at least two transport branches at a branching device, each leading to one of the intermediate stations. Planar objects are transported to the respective intermediate station via these transport branches (either by means of a transport device or by means of a separate transport device for the corresponding transport branch). Specifically, planar objects are transported to the respective intermediate station, particularly a stacking device, via these transport branches, either by means of a transport device or by means of a separate transport device for the corresponding transport branch. For example, each transport branch leads to another intermediate station / stacking device.

[0097] The corresponding planar object being transported along the transport path can be sorted into a selected transport branch via at least one branching device. The selected transport branch leads to a selected intermediate station for the corresponding planar object, so that the corresponding planar object is transported to the selected intermediate station along the selected transport branch. Attached Figure Description

[0098] The advantages shown by the method according to the invention are correspondingly applicable to the device according to the invention. Other features of the invention become apparent from the claims, drawings, and description of the drawings. Embodiments of the invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the illustrative drawings. Herein, in the drawings: Figure 1 A first embodiment of a device for sorting planar objects is shown. Figure 2 A second embodiment of a device for sorting planar objects is shown. Figure 3 An embodiment is shown that sorts electrodes onto multiple stacks based on their position on the carrier. Figure 4 This schematically illustrates how planar objects are sorted onto multiple stacks based on different possible sorting criteria. Figure 5 An overview of the processing steps in single-cell manufacturing, up to the sorting of individual cells, is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0099] exist Figure 1 The illustration shows a first embodiment of a segment of a production line for primary batteries, such as fuel cells or single cells, having a device 10 for sorting planar objects for manufacturing primary batteries. Upstream of the sorting device 10 in the production line, a pre-processing unit 40 is provided, which provides multiple individual planar objects i for manufacturing primary batteries. In the illustrated embodiment, the planar objects are conveyed from the pre-processing unit 40 to the sorting device 10. These planar objects are components of fuel cells or single cells.

[0100] In the sorting equipment 10, a planar object i is conveyed to a branch device 6 along a conveying path 5 (arrows in the conveying direction) by means of a conveying device 2. This branch device can be a conveying switch 6, which can switch between a lower position and an upper position to selectively convey the planar object i to either intermediate station 4a or intermediate station 4b. Between the branch device 6 and intermediate stations 4a, 4b, the planar object i is conveyed to the upper intermediate station 4a in conveying branch 5a by means of another conveying device 2a, and to the lower intermediate station 4b in conveying branch 5b by means of another conveying device 2b. The conveying devices 2, 2a, 2b, for example, have conveying rollers and / or conveyor belts that circulate the planar object in a flat manner around the rollers or conveyor belts. Opposite pairs of conveying rollers or opposite conveyor belts can be used, between which the planar object is conveyed in a clamped manner. However, suction cups, suction cup belts, or suction cup rollers can also be used as conveying devices for the planar object.

[0101] Intermediate stations 4a and 4b are respectively configured to stack planar objects i onto stack 7a or 7b. For example, for this purpose, intermediate stations 4a and 4b have stacking devices, such as pick-and-place robots or stacking wheels, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 2 The stacks 7a or 7b of planar objects i formed in intermediate stations 4a or 4b are then, for example, conveyed in stack form to further processing stations 20a or 20b in the production line, where the stacks 7a or 7b are further processed to manufacture single cells or fuel cells. For example, planar objects of a first acceptable sorting category A1, corresponding to high quality, are conveyed to intermediate station 4a and then to further processing station 20a, and their planar objects are used to manufacture high-quality primary cells. Planar objects of a second acceptable sorting category A2, not corresponding to high quality, are conveyed to intermediate station 4b and then to further processing station 20b, and their planar objects are used to manufacture ordinary primary cells.

[0102] Based on the object characteristics of planar object i, sorting is performed from planar object i to the intermediate station 4a or 4b above or below. The object characteristics of planar object i are provided to the selection device 8a for sorting. For example, the selection device 8a has a data memory 81, which contains one or more values ​​of one or more object characteristics for each planar object i (e.g., in the form of a table). The selection device 8a selects one of the intermediate stations 4a or 4b for a given planar object based on one or more object characteristics, thereby associating the planar object with the selected intermediate station 4a or 4b. To select an intermediate station that matches the planar object, the evaluation device 82 of the selection device 8a evaluates information about one or more object characteristics. For example, the evaluation device 82 checks at least one object characteristic determined for the given planar object according to at least one sorting criterion, and associates the planar object with different sorting categories (e.g., acceptable sorting categories A1 and A2 mentioned above) based on whether the planar object meets the at least one sorting criterion.

[0103] The control device 8b, connected to the selection device, obtains information about the selected intermediate station from the selection device and sets up the branching device 6 accordingly. This allows the corresponding planar object to be guided via the branching device 6 to the intermediate station selected for that planar object, so that it can be transported along the transport path 5a or 5b to the selected intermediate station 4a or 4b. If consecutive planar objects i need to be guided to different intermediate stations 4a or 4b, the control device 8b switches the branching device 6 between the two planar objects accordingly.

[0104] To additionally provide individual object characteristics of planar object i, the device 10 has a sensor device 9 arranged along the conveying path before the branch device 6. The sensor device 9 acquires at least one measurement signal of the corresponding planar object as it passes by, determines at least one individual object characteristic of the planar object based on the acquired measurement signal, and provides it to the selection device 8a.

[0105] Alternatively or additionally, external device 30 may transmit information about the object characteristics of multiple individual planar objects, or information about the individual object characteristics of a particular planar object i, to selection device 8a. These object characteristics may include, for example, prior known material characteristics of the corresponding planar objects in a particular manufacturing batch, or object characteristics already associated with the corresponding planar objects, determined during the pre-processing of sorting.

[0106] exist Figure 1 In the first embodiment, the planar object is transported to the selected intermediate station, particularly the stacking device, by means of at least one additional conveying device (from the branch device) of the selected conveying branch.

[0107] Figure 2A second embodiment of a device 10 for sorting planar objects used in the manufacture of primary batteries is shown. Similar to the first embodiment, a pre-processing unit 40 is also provided upstream of the sorting device 10. This pre-processing unit 40 generates multiple individual planar objects i and provides them to the production line for manufacturing primary batteries, which are then conveyed to the sorting device 10. Figure 2 In the second embodiment, the branch device 6a guides the planar object (without any other conveying device in between) directly to the intermediate station 4a at one location, and to another conveying device at another location, which conveys the planar object toward either the branch device 6b, c or the intermediate station 4b, c.

[0108] In the sorting equipment 10, a planar object i is conveyed along a conveying path 5 by means of a conveying device 2. The equipment 10 has multiple sensors 9, 19 along the conveying path 5 (arrows in the conveying direction) of the planar object i. Similar to the sensor device 9 described above, these sensors 9, 19 provide the selection device 8 with individual object characteristics of the planar object i. For example, sensor device 9 can be configured to measure the electrical characteristics of the planar object, such as its voltage or its resistance. For example, sensor device 19 can be configured to acquire the geometric position of the edges of the planar object in order to acquire the geometric dimensions and / or shape and / or conveying displacement and / or tilt position of the planar object. For this purpose, sensor device 19 can have a camera or a grating array.

[0109] In the sorting equipment 10, planar objects i are first conveyed along the conveyor path 5 to the conveyor switch 16 of a pre-sorting device, which is arranged along the conveyor path before the branch devices 6a-c and sensors 9, 19. The pre-sorting device 16 picks out planar objects that do not meet certain minimum requirements. For this purpose, the pre-sorting device has a conveyor switch 16 through which unsuitable planar objects can be picked out from the conveyor path and placed into the waste container 17. In manufacturing, only planar objects i that continue to be conveyed along the conveyor path 5 after pre-sorting undergo further processing.

[0110] Along the conveyor path, a conveyor switch 61 for an additional pre-sorting device can be arranged after sensors 9 and 19. With the aid of this additional pre-sorting device 61, planar objects can be sorted into an additional waste container 20. For these planar objects, based on the measurement signals from sensor devices 9 and / or 19, it is determined that these planar objects do not meet specific sorting criteria necessary or desired for manufacturing, and therefore they are associated with waste sorting categories.

[0111] The selection device 8 uses the individual object characteristics of the planar object i provided to it by the sensor devices 9 and 19 to select an intermediate station that matches the planar object. For example, the evaluation device 82 checks at least one object characteristic determined for a corresponding planar object according to at least one sorting criterion, and associates the planar object with different sorting categories based on whether the corresponding planar object meets the at least one sorting criterion. Further examples will be described in more detail below.

[0112] The selection device 8 sets up branching devices 6a, 6b, and 6c based on the selection made, so that the corresponding planar object is guided through the branching device to the intermediate station selected for that planar object, so as to transport it to the selected intermediate station 4a, 4b, or 4c. If consecutive planar objects i need to be guided to different intermediate stations 4a, 4b, and 4c, the selection device 8 correspondingly switches branching devices 6a and / or 6b and / or 6c between the two planar objects. These branching devices can be constructed in a manner similar to that of the transport turnout 6.

[0113] With the aid of branching device 6a, planar object i can be selectively guided to intermediate station 4a or conveyed towards intermediate stations 4b and 4c. Correspondingly, planar object i can be selectively guided to intermediate station 4b or conveyed towards intermediate station 4c with the aid of branching device 6b, and planar object i can be selectively guided to intermediate station 4c or further conveyed along conveying path 5, for example, conveyed to another intermediate station.

[0114] Intermediate stations 4a, 4b, and 4c are respectively configured to stack planar objects i onto stacks 7a, 7b, or 7c, and for this purpose each has a stacking wheel 41, see below. Figure 2 The stacking wheel 41 is rotatable about its axis and has multiple stacking wheel compartments configured to accommodate planar objects. These compartments are formed between the stacking fingers of the stacking wheel, which are distributed around its circumference. The stacking wheel is rotated about its axis by a motor, allowing the planar object i to be fed into the corresponding stacking wheel compartment of the stacking wheel 41 via a conveyor. This is done by a scraper (see...). Figure 2 The planar object i contained in the corresponding bin is scraped from the stacking wheel 41 so that it is placed on the tray 42, where a stack 7a, 7b, or 7c of planar objects is formed. Here, the stacking wheel and bins extend spirally about the axis of rotation, but they can also be straight, for example, constructed radially, and have a bin width that is larger than shown if necessary.

[0115] Stacks 7a-c of planar objects formed in intermediate stations 4a-c are then further conveyed to further processing stations 20a, 20b, or 20c of the production line, where stacks 7a, 7b, or 7c are further processed to manufacture single cells or fuel cells. For example, planar objects of a first acceptable sorting category A1, corresponding to high quality, are conveyed to intermediate station 4a and then to further processing station 20a, and their planar objects are used to manufacture high-quality primary cells. Planar objects of a second acceptable sorting category A2, not corresponding to high quality, are conveyed to intermediate stations 4b and 4c and then to further processing stations 20b and 20c, and their planar objects are used to manufacture ordinary primary cells.

[0116] The third embodiment is similar to the second embodiment, except that the device 10 in the third embodiment does not have pre-sorting devices 16 and 61.

[0117] The fourth embodiment is similar to the second embodiment, except that the device 10 in the fourth embodiment does not have a pre-picking device 16, and the picking device 61 is not arranged before intermediate stations 4a-4c along the conveying path, but after intermediate stations 4a-4c. Figure 2 (The dotted line on the right).

[0118] The fifth embodiment is similar to the first embodiment, except that the device in the fifth embodiment does not have a sensor device 9, but uses information from the preprocessing device 40 for sorting.

[0119] Examples of possible sorting variation schemes A)-D)

[0120] A) In the first sorting variation scheme, planar objects are sorted into different intermediate stations (e.g., stacking devices) based solely on object characteristics known from preprocessing.

[0121] For example, due to the current manufacturing process and different manufacturing batches, the pre-processing equipment 40 may notify before sorting that it will feed smaller electrodes / cells to the sorting process at a specific time point than before. Therefore, when sorting for the smaller electrode / cell, a new stack will be started, and only the smaller electrode / cell will be stacked onto that stack. All the larger electrode / cells will be guided to another stacking device and stacked there onto the stack of larger electrode / cells.

[0122] B) In the second sorting variation scheme, planar objects are sorted into different intermediate stations (e.g., stacking devices) based on object characteristics determined by one or more sensors located before the branching device of the sorting equipment.

[0123] For example, planar objects are sorted into different intermediate stations (e.g., stacking devices) based on their geometric dimensions measured by such sensors, and / or based on the relative positions of two component parts of the planar object (e.g., the positions of electrodes on a carrier) measured by such sensors, and / or based on the material properties measured by one of the sensors, and / or based on the electrical quality of the object measured by one of the sensors. Here, if necessary, planar objects can be additionally sorted based on object characteristics known from preprocessing.

[0124] In the first and second sorting variations, predefined sorting categories and / or predefined sorting criteria (i.e., which object characteristics are assigned to different intermediate stations / stacking devices) can be used. In this case, the sorting criteria or sorting categories are determined before sorting / stacking begins. For example, for intermediate stations 4a, 4b, and 4c, it may be predefined that electrodes / cells with different material qualities (e.g., in terms of defects) will be collected there.

[0125] C) In the third sorting variation scheme, at least one sorting criterion or sorting category is not predefined, but is determined after sorting begins (e.g., after stacking begins). This is called dynamic sorting criterion / dynamic sorting category.

[0126] Dynamic sorting criteria / categories for planar objects to be sorted can be determined or at least influenced by sorting one or more preceding planar objects before sorting / stacking the relevant planar objects. Specifically, dynamic sorting criteria / categories for planar objects to be sorted can be determined or at least influenced by object characteristics of planar objects stored in one or more already started stacks, for example, by the object characteristics of multiple / all planar objects, or solely by the object characteristics of the topmost planar object in one or more already started stacks.

[0127] The object characteristics that determine / influence dynamic sorting criteria / dynamic sorting categories are, for example, not known through preprocessing or not yet determined before sorting begins, but rather determined, for example, solely by the object characteristics of one or more planar objects determined by sensors located before the branching device of the sorting equipment. For example, dynamic sorting criteria / dynamic sorting categories can be determined by the position (e.g., displacement or rotation) of a planar object in the transport path as measured by such sensors, or by the relative position of two component parts of a planar object (e.g., the position of electrodes on a carrier) as measured by such sensors, or by the electrical quality or material properties of one or more planar objects, for example, related to material defects, as measured by such sensors.

[0128] For example, firstly, an "idle" intermediate station / stacking device is selected for the first preceding planar object, where no planar object is currently stored, or where a new stacking of planar objects is to be started. The planar object can be arbitrarily selected or chosen based on its object characteristics known from preprocessing or measured by sensors as the first planar object for the currently idle intermediate station or new stack. Then, the selected intermediate station / stacking device is dynamically associated with a sorting category characterized by target object characteristics selected based on the object characteristics of the preceding object, such as a specific material quality. Then, (during or after sorting the preceding object) the sorting criteria are dynamically changed such that subsequent planar objects to be sorted after the preceding object and also (at least approximately) possess the target object characteristics (e.g., material quality) are also sorted into the intermediate station / stacking device selected for the preceding object.

[0129] Here, the characteristics of the target object may correspond to or be similar to the characteristics of multiple previous objects that have been guided to the corresponding intermediate station / stack device, or to the characteristics of the previous object that was last guided to the corresponding intermediate station / stack device.

[0130] If, for example, a stacking device begins with planar objects that are laterally displaced, then the following can be determined as a sorting criterion: subsequently, planar objects with similar lateral displacement on the transport path will be stacked on that stack. Alternatively, if, for example, the cathode of the last cell placed is eccentric / rotating, it is advantageous to place a new cell with its anode facing the same direction or toward the eccentric / rotating direction.

[0131] However, the characteristics of the target object can alternatively be the opposite of the characteristics of the multiple preceding objects that have been guided to the corresponding intermediate station / stack assembly, or the opposite of the characteristics of the planar objects located / stacked there. If, for example, the planar objects stacked on a stack in the stack assembly have lower electrical quality, the following can be determined as the sorting criterion: that is, in order to compensate, planar objects with higher electrical quality are specifically sorted to that intermediate station / stack.

[0132] Specific target characteristics of the stack can also be predefined before sorting begins or before the stack is formed, and the target object characteristics of the stacking device are adjusted to achieve the target stack characteristics while planar objects are being stacked in the selected stacking device. For example, a target characteristic of the stack can be given in advance that the total height of the stack does not exceed a maximum height. For example, if thicker individual cells are typically stacked on top of each other at the beginning of the stacking process, thinner individual cells are selectively stacked onto the stack as sorting progresses, so as not to exceed the maximum height of the stack. The thicker individual cells that may be sorted are guided to another stacking device during this period.

[0133] D) In ​​the fourth sorting variation scheme, at least one predefined sorting standard / sorting category is used, as well as at least one dynamic sorting standard or sorting category.

[0134] This is thanks to Figure 3 The example in the example illustrates this, where the positional tolerance of electrode 14 on carrier 11 is used as an object characteristic, and sorting is performed based on this according to the best fit method.

[0135] The planar objects 15 are sorted, for which the position of the electrodes 14 on the carrier 11 has been determined by the sensors 9 of the sorting equipment 10. Four stacking devices can be used for sorting; the electrodes are guided into these four stacking devices via conveyor switches to form four stacks AD consisting of the planar objects 15. The sorting function of the conveyor switches is used... Figure 3 The arrows in the diagram indicate this.

[0136] Predefined sorting criteria: Due to the initial pre-given conditions (determined before storing the first planar object) and the planar objects placed on the stack so far, the four stacked ADs each have their own overall tolerance domain 12 for the position of the electrode 14 on the carrier 11, which defines whether a newly arriving planar object can be stored on the stack.

[0137] Dynamic sorting standards: Due to the characteristics of the top planar object 15 in each stack (A, B, C, D), a dynamic tolerance domain 13 exists on each stack (different from the overall tolerance domain 12). This dynamic tolerance domain 13 additionally defines whether a newly arriving planar object is allowed to be placed on that individual stack. In this example, the dynamic tolerance domain 13 depends on the position of the electrode 14 of the top planar object 15 on the carrier 11 and changes accordingly during stacking. This dynamic tolerance domain 13 can also have different sizes to allow for sorting based on different qualities.

[0138] For example, for the storage of another planar object 15, the following conditions are used: - "Required" condition: Both tolerance domains 12 and 13 must be observed. If electrode 14 is located outside one of the tolerance domains 12 and 13 of all four stacked ADs in the planar object 15 to be stored, the relevant planar object will not be stored there, but will be picked out, for example.

[0139] - "Can" condition: When there are multiple storage possibilities, decide which stack AD to store the planar object 15 on based on the best fit method, so as to store it on the best matching stack.

[0140] Stack A collects all planar objects 15 with electrodes 14 shifted to the left, stack D collects all planar objects 15 with electrodes 14 shifted to the right, while stacks B and C collect all planar objects 15 with electrodes 14 located in the middle. The difference between stacks B and C is that in stack B, the dynamic tolerance domain 13 lies within the overall tolerance domain 12 of the stack in all directions. Therefore, for stack B, attention is solely focused on the dynamic tolerance domain 13, i.e., the positional tolerance relative to adjacent planar objects 15. Conversely, for stack C, the overall tolerance domain 12 limits the range of the tolerance domains of adjacent planar objects 15, and therefore, the overall tolerance domain 12 must be considered accordingly.

[0141] exist Figure 4 The diagram schematically illustrates the sorting of planar objects onto multiple stacks according to different possible sorting criteria. A material flow consisting of multiple planar objects branches onto multiple stacks 1, 2, ... n. For objects to be stacked, object-specific data is provided, for example, via sensor device 9 or preprocessing device 40. This object-specific data is then checked according to different sorting criteria, such as relating it to the stacking requirements of each stack 1, 2, ... n. Here, a check result is generated indicating whether the object-specific data of the corresponding planar object meets the corresponding sorting criteria or stacking requirements, and stacking is selected based on the check result. Figure 4 The planar objects to be sorted can be, for example, individual cells used to form a stack of individual cells, or they can be electrodes stacked in a tray.

[0142] Stacking requirements can be predefined stacking requirements and / or dynamic stacking requirements defined by objects already in the corresponding stack. Dynamic stacking requirements can be defined, for example, by object-specific data of the first object in the bottommost stack, or by object-specific data of the topmost object in the stack, or by stacking characteristics generated by object-specific data of all objects in the stack.

[0143] For example, for a given planar object, multiple object characteristics are checked based on several stacking requirements (sorting criteria). For instance, a sorting criterion or stacking requirement might be that the positional deviation of stacked objects is below a specific threshold, and that fluctuations in the electrical or geometric object characteristics of the entire stack are within a specific tolerance. Based on which sorting criteria / stacking requirements are met and which are not, an overall check result for multiple object characteristics of the given planar object is generated.

[0144] If, as a result of the inspection, the corresponding object meets the corresponding stacking requirements, it can be stacked on the appropriate stack. If, as a result of the inspection, the corresponding planar object can be associated with multiple stacking devices, a sorting decision can be made based on the best fit method, i.e., stacking the object on the stack that best matches or is most similar to the object due to its object-specific data. However, a sorting decision can also be made to distribute the planar objects as evenly as possible across these stacks, or to complete one of these stacks as quickly as possible. If the corresponding object does not meet the stacking requirements of any stack, it is picked out (rejected).

[0145] Figure 5 An example illustrates an overview of possible processing steps in single-cell manufacturing, from the sorting of raw materials (electrodes and separator films) to the individual cell. Figure 5 The right side illustrates how single-cell manufacturing proceeds and how object-related data is formed at each processing step. Here, for each individual single-cell, a data set Q is created, and this data set Q is then used as the basis for deciding on which stack X' (A', B', ..., N') the corresponding object should be stacked on. Here, the data set Q-1 of the previous objects on stack X, i.e., the object characteristics of the object placed on top of the partial stack X, is referred to as Q-1(X). This can be explained as follows... Figure 4 The method of description is used to make sorting decisions.

[0146] With Figure 5 The sorting of individual cells shown in the diagram can also be performed during the manufacturing of battery element stacks by Z-folding or by stacking the individual electrodes. Correspondingly, there will be other processing steps before determining which stack to place the cells on.

Claims

1. A method for sorting planar objects (i) used in the manufacture of galvanic cells, particularly electrochemical energy storage devices or electrochemical energy converters, wherein, by means of at least one conveying device, multiple planar objects are individually and sequentially conveyed along a conveying path (5) to at least two intermediate stations (4a-c), wherein, At least one branching device (6, 6a-c) is arranged along the conveying path, at which the conveying path branches, allowing the planar object to be selectively conveyed to either a first intermediate station or at least one other intermediate station. To sort the planar object, the following steps are performed for each planar object: - Provide at least one object characteristic of the corresponding planar object (i), and associate the object characteristic with the corresponding planar object, and - Based on one or more object characteristics of the corresponding planar object, select one of the intermediate stations (4a-c) for the corresponding planar object so as to associate the corresponding planar object with the selected intermediate station, and - The corresponding planar object (i) is transported along the transport path (5) to the intermediate station selected for the corresponding planar object, wherein the corresponding planar object is guided to the intermediate station (4a-c) selected for the corresponding planar object by the branching device (6, 6a-c).

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The intermediate stations (4a-c) are components of a production line for primary cells, particularly electrochemical energy storage devices or electrochemical energy converters, wherein the intermediate stations are specifically configured to collect multiple planar objects for further processing into primary cells, particularly electrochemical energy storage devices or electrochemical energy converters.

3. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, At least one object property of the corresponding planar object (i) involves one or more of the following object properties: - One or more geometric properties of a planar object, such as one or more geometric dimensions of the planar object, such as length, width, and thickness; angular deviation; parallelism of edges; straightness of cut edges; surface area of ​​the planar object; - The position of a planar object on the transport path, such as displacement or rotation, or the relative position of two component parts of the planar object; - Information regarding the quality of planar objects - One or more material properties of a planar object, such as uniformity or porosity, or the number, type, or characteristics of defects or flaws in the planar object; - One or more electrical properties of a planar object.

4. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The at least one of the one or more object characteristics provided relates to the prior known material properties of the corresponding planar object (i) and / or the object characteristics of the corresponding planar object (i) determined in the preprocessing of the sorting method.

5. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The planar object (i) is individually and sequentially transported along the transport path (5) past the sensor device (9), which is arranged before the at least one branch device (6, 6a-c), wherein the sensor device acquires at least one measurement signal of the corresponding planar object and determines at least one of the object characteristics / object features of the corresponding planar object based on the measurement signal acquired for the corresponding planar object.

6. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, Planar objects that do not meet specific minimum requirements are pre-picked by pre-picking devices (16, 17; 61, 20) arranged before the branching device, and only planar objects that remain on the transport path (5) after pre-picking are further transported to the at least one branching device (6, 6a-c), and / or used to manufacture galvanic cells, particularly electrochemical energy storage devices or electrochemical energy converters.

7. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, At least two of the intermediate stations (4a-b) each have a stacking device (41) for planar objects, the stacking device being configured to store planar objects transported along the respective transport path to the stacking device onto the stacking receiving portion (42) of the respective stacking device, so as to stack these planar objects on a stack having multiple planar objects.

8. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, When selecting the intermediate station (4a-c), particularly the stacking device (41), at least one object characteristic determined for the corresponding planar object (i) is checked according to at least one sorting criterion, and an inspection result is generated thereon indicating whether one or more object characteristics of the corresponding planar object meet the corresponding sorting criterion. An intermediate station for the corresponding planar object is selected based on the inspection result, wherein, for the corresponding planar object, it is preferable to check multiple object characteristics according to multiple sorting criters in order to determine an overall inspection result for the multiple object characteristics of the corresponding planar object, the overall inspection result being determined based on which sorting criteria are met and which are not met for the planar object.

9. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, When selecting the intermediate station (4a-c), particularly the stacking device (41), at least one object characteristic provided for the corresponding planar object is checked according to at least one sorting criterion, and the planar object is associated with different sorting categories based on whether the corresponding planar object meets the at least one sorting criterion, wherein the intermediate station, particularly the stacking device, is associated with the different sorting categories, or the intermediate station, particularly the stacking device, is associated with the different sorting categories while sorting is in progress.

10. The method according to claim 9, wherein, The sorting categories include at least two different acceptable sorting categories (A1, A2), which are associated with at least one of the intermediate stations, particularly at least one of the stacking devices, for planar objects that are conveyed to the intermediate stations, particularly the stacking devices, to provide these planar objects for further processing into primary batteries. Preferably, the sorting categories additionally include at least one waste sorting category for planar objects that are picked out so as not to be used in the manufacture of primary batteries.

11. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, For at least one object characteristic, the intermediate stations (4a-c), particularly the stacking devices (41), are associated with at least one target value and / or at least one value range, or, during sorting, the intermediate stations, particularly the stacking devices, are associated with at least one target value and / or at least one value range, and in order to determine which of the intermediate stations (4a-c), particularly the stacking devices, to select for the corresponding planar object, the corresponding object characteristic of the corresponding planar object (i) is compared with the target values ​​and / or value ranges of a plurality of the intermediate stations (4a-c), particularly the stacking devices, and based on the comparison result, the corresponding planar object is associated with one of the intermediate stations, particularly the stacking devices, and the corresponding planar object is transported there, and in particular, the corresponding planar object is stacked there.

12. The method according to claim 11, wherein, For the corresponding planar object (i), an intermediate station (4a-c), in particular a stacking device (41), is selected such that one or more target values ​​of the intermediate station, in particular the stacking device, are closest to one or more values ​​of the corresponding object characteristic of the planar object, and / or are included in the range of one or more values ​​of the corresponding object characteristic of the planar object, and the corresponding planar object is associated with the selected intermediate station, in particular the stacking device, and the corresponding planar object is transported there, and in particular the corresponding planar object is stacked there.

13. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The intermediate stations (4a-c) each have stacking devices (41) for stacking planar objects, and wherein, in these stacking devices, - Determine the target stacking values ​​and / or target stacking ranges for the stacking characteristics of the planar objects to be formed in the corresponding stacking apparatus, and - For planar objects already stacked in the corresponding stacking device, the actual values ​​of the relevant stacking characteristics are determined during sorting, and Based on the predetermined stacking target value / stacking target range for the stacking characteristics and the actual value of the relevant stacking device determined for the stacking characteristics, it is checked whether the stack with the actual value formed in the relevant stacking device is expected to reach the stacking target value / stacking target range after another planar object is placed on the stack. If the stack with the actual value formed in the relevant stacking device is not expected to reach the stacking target value / stacking target range, then planar objects are specifically or preferably selected for stacking in the relevant stacking device, whose object characteristics change the actual value so that the actual value is close to the target value / stacking target range.

14. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The intermediate stations (4a-c) each have a stacking device (41) for stacking planar objects, and wherein, for one or more planar objects, a decision is made based on the object characteristics of one or more topmost planar objects to select which of the stacking devices is currently stored at the top of a stack in the stacking device, wherein at least one of the stacking devices is associated with a dynamic target value / dynamic value range, particularly with at least one stacking characteristic, which is selected based on the value of the corresponding object characteristic of the topmost planar object stored in the stacking device.

15. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, At least one sorting category is dynamically determined and associated with at least some of the planar objects. For dynamically determined sorting categories, at least one sorting criterion for the sorting category is not determined before the sorting of the planar objects begins, but is determined after the sorting of these planar objects begins. Preferably, at least one sorting criterion for the sorting category is determined by at least one object characteristic of at least one first planar object, especially after the at least one first planar object has been first transported to the corresponding intermediate station, particularly the stacking device, after a corresponding stacking device has been provided to accommodate the new stack.

16. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The intermediate stations (4a-c) each have a stacking device (41) for stacking planar objects, and wherein at least one of the stacking devices is a dynamically selected stacking device, in which, after a corresponding stacking device is provided for accommodating a new stack, one or more first planar objects are associated with the thus-provided, dynamically selected stacking accommodating portion so as to stack the one or more first planar objects there. Furthermore, after associating the one or more first planar objects with a dynamic stacking device, for one or more subsequent planar objects, the selection of which one of the stacking devices to use for the corresponding subsequent planar object is determined based on the object characteristics of the one or more first planar objects already stacked in the stacking device.

17. The method according to claim 16, wherein, The dynamically selected stacking device, already associated with the one or more first planar objects, is associated with at least one dynamic target value / range of at least one object characteristic, the at least one dynamic target value / range being selected based on the value of the corresponding object characteristic of the one or more first planar objects. Furthermore, one or more of the following subsequent planar objects are also associated with the dynamically selected stacking device and stacked on the one or more first planar objects, wherein the values ​​of the object properties of these subsequent planar objects at least approximately correspond to the dynamic target value, or the values ​​of the object properties of these subsequent planar objects are within the range of the dynamic value.

18. An apparatus (5) for sorting planar objects (i) for manufacturing galvanic cells, particularly electrochemical energy storage devices or electrochemical energy converters, the apparatus comprising: - At least two intermediate stations (4a-c). - One or more conveying devices (2, 2a-b) are configured to convey, individually and sequentially, multiple planar objects along the conveying path (5) to the intermediate station. - At least one branching device (6) arranged on the conveying path (5), at which the conveying path (5) branches, such that the planar object can be selectively conveyed along the conveying path to a first intermediate station or at least one other intermediate station. - A selection device (8, 8a) having at least one object characteristic of the corresponding planar object, and the selection device being configured to select one of the intermediate stations for the corresponding planar object based on one or more object characteristics of the corresponding planar object, so as to associate the corresponding planar object with the selected intermediate station, wherein the selection device (8) or a control device (8b) connected to the selection device for sorting the planar object is configured to control the at least one branching device to guide the corresponding planar object through the branching device (6, 6a-c) to the intermediate station selected for the corresponding planar object, so as to transport the corresponding planar object to the selected intermediate station along the transport path.

19. The device according to claim 18, wherein, The device has sensor devices (9, 19) arranged along the transport path (5) such that the planar object is transported past the sensor devices (9, 19), wherein the sensor devices are arranged before the at least one branch device (6, 6a-c) and are configured to acquire at least one measurement signal of the corresponding planar object, and determine at least one of the object characteristics / object features of the corresponding planar object based on the measurement signal acquired for the corresponding planar object and provide it to the selection device (8, 8a).

20. The device according to any one of claims 18 to 19, wherein, At least two of the intermediate stations (4a-c) each have a stacking device (41) for planar objects, the stacking device being configured to store planar objects transported along the respective transport path to the stacking device onto the stacking receiving portion (42) of the respective stacking device, so as to stack these planar objects on a stack having multiple planar objects.

21. The device according to any one of claims 18 to 20, wherein, The selection device (8, 8a) of the equipment is configured to, when selecting the intermediate station (4a-c), particularly the stacking device, check at least one object characteristic determined for the corresponding planar object according to at least one sorting criterion, and associate the planar object with different sorting categories based on whether the corresponding planar object meets the at least one sorting criterion.

22. The device according to any one of claims 18 to 21, wherein, The selection device (8, 8a) is configured to, - For at least one object characteristic, the intermediate stations (4a-c), particularly the stacking devices, are associated with at least one target value and / or at least one value range, respectively. - In order to determine which intermediate station, particularly in the stacking device, to select for the corresponding planar object, the corresponding object characteristics of the corresponding planar object are compared with a plurality of target values ​​and / or value ranges in the intermediate station, particularly in the stacking device, and based on the comparison result, the corresponding planar object is associated with one of the intermediate station, particularly in the stacking device, and the corresponding planar object is transported there and particularly stacked there.

23. The device according to any one of claims 18 to 22, wherein, The intermediate stations each have stacking devices (41) for stacking planar objects, and wherein the selection devices (8, 8a) of the devices are configured to, in these stacking devices (41), - For the stacking characteristics of the planar objects to be formed in the corresponding stacking device, determine the stacking target value and / or stacking target range, and - And for planar objects already stacked in the corresponding stacking device, the actual values ​​of the relevant stacking characteristics are determined during sorting, and Based on the predetermined stacking target value / stacking target range for the stacking characteristics and the actual values ​​of the relevant stacking devices determined for the stacking characteristics, examine whether a stack with the actual values ​​formed in the relevant stacking devices is expected to reach the stacking target value / stacking target range after placing another planar object on the stack. The selection device (8, 8a) is configured to, when a stack with the actual value formed in the relevant stacking device is expected to fail to reach the stacking target value / stacking target range, selectively or preferably select planar objects for stacking in the relevant stacking device, the object characteristics of which change the actual value so that the actual value is close to the target value / stacking target range.

24. The device according to any one of claims 18 to 23, wherein, The intermediate stations (4a-c) each have a stacking device (41) for stacking planar objects, and wherein the selection device (8, 8a) of the device is configured to, for one or more planar objects, determine which of the stacking devices to select for a given planar object based on the object characteristics of one or more topmost planar objects currently stored at the top of a stack in the stacking device, wherein the selection device is configured to associate at least one of the stacking devices with a dynamic target value / dynamic value range of at least one stacking characteristic, the dynamic target value / dynamic value range being selected based on the value of the corresponding object characteristic of the topmost planar object stored in the stacking device. Furthermore, the selection device is configured to associate the corresponding planar object with the corresponding stacking device and stack the corresponding planar object on top of the planar object only when the value of the object characteristic of the corresponding planar object at least approximately corresponds to the dynamic target value, or the value of the object characteristic of the corresponding planar object is within the range of the dynamic value; otherwise, when the value of the object characteristic does not correspond to the dynamic target value / value range, associate the subsequent planar object with another stacking device or pick it out.

25. The device according to any one of claims 18 to 24, wherein, The selection device (8, 8a) of the equipment is configured to dynamically determine at least one sorting category and associate the at least one sorting category with at least some of the planar objects. The selection device is configured to determine at least one sorting criterion for the dynamically determined sorting category before the sorting of the planar objects begins, but after the sorting of these planar objects begins. Preferably, the at least one sorting criterion for the sorting category is determined based on at least one object characteristic of at least one first planar object, especially after the at least one first planar object has been first conveyed to the corresponding intermediate station, particularly the stacking device, after a corresponding stacking device has been provided to accommodate the new stack.

26. The device according to any one of claims 18 to 25, wherein, The intermediate stations (4a-c) each have a stacking device (41) for stacking planar objects, and wherein the device selection device is configured to dynamically select at least one of the stacking devices, and wherein the device selection device (8, 8a) is configured to, after providing the dynamically selected stacking device for accommodating a new stack, associate one or more first planar objects with the thus-provided, dynamically selected stacking accommodating portion, so as to stack the one or more first planar objects there. Furthermore, the selection device is configured to, after associating the one or more first planar objects with a dynamic stacking device, determine, based on the object characteristics of the one or more first planar objects already stacked in the stacking device, which of the stacking devices to select for the corresponding subsequent planar object following the one or more first planar objects along the transport path.

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