Meandering correction device and meandering correction method

Abstract

To provide a meandering correction device and a meandering correction method capable of suppressing the occurrence of damage to a sheet.SOLUTION: A meandering correction device 3 includes a first conveyor roller 10, a second conveyor roller 20, and a first correction roller 30. The first correction roller 30 is disposed between the first conveyor roller 10 and the second conveyor roller 20 in a conveying direction D1. The first correction roller 30 has a plurality of first small rollers 32 that is rotatable around a first pivot axis T1. The first correction roller 30 is rotatable around a first pivot center C1.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a meandering correction device and a meandering correction method.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a meandering correction device for correcting meandering in the width direction of a sheet conveyed in the conveyance direction is known.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a method of correcting meandering of a sheet using a correction roller unit disposed between a pair of conveyance rollers in the conveyance direction. The correction roller unit includes a first roller and a second roller located downstream of the first roller in the conveyance direction. The first and second rollers are integrally rotatable about a rotation center set between them. When the first and second rollers rotate integrally, the sheet twists, causing the sheet to move in the width direction. As a result, the meandering of the sheet can be corrected.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] However, in the method disclosed in Patent Document 1, since the sheet twists, damage (such as wrinkles) is likely to occur on the sheet.

[0006] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a meandering correction device and a meandering correction method capable of suppressing damage to a sheet.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] The meandering correction device according to the present disclosure is a meandering correction device that corrects meandering in the width direction of a sheet conveyed in the conveyance direction, and includes a first conveyance roller, a second conveyance roller, and a first correction roller. The first conveyance roller is rotatable around an axis extending in the width direction. The second conveyance roller is rotatable around an axis extending in the width direction and is disposed upstream of the first conveyance roller in the conveyance direction. The first correction roller is disposed between the first conveyance roller and the second conveyance roller in the conveyance direction. The first correction roller has a plurality of first small rollers rotatable around a first turning axis. The first correction roller is turnable around a first turning center.

Effect of the Invention

[0008] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a meandering correction device and a meandering correction method capable of suppressing damage to the sheet.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0009]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0010] (Conveyor device 1) FIG. 1 is a side view showing the configuration of the conveyor device 1 according to the embodiment. FIG. 2 is a plan view showing the configuration of the conveyor device 1 according to the embodiment.

[0011] The conveyor device 1 conveys the sheet 2. The sheet 2 is conveyed from a supply roll (not shown) toward a take-up roll. In FIGS. 1 and 2, the sheet 2 is conveyed from left to right.

[0012] The sheet 2 is a flat continuous flexible body. In this embodiment, as the sheet 2, an electrode sheet for a non-aqueous electrolyte secondary battery (for example, a lithium-ion secondary battery) is assumed. As shown in FIG. 2, the sheet 2 has a first edge 2a and a second edge 2b provided on the side opposite to the first edge 2a. When the sheet 2 is an electrode sheet, a so-called tab may be intermittently formed on the second edge 2b of the sheet 2.

[0013] (Meandering correction device 3) The conveyor device 1 includes a meandering correction device 3. The meandering correction device 3 corrects the meandering of the sheet 2 in the width direction D2 in the conveyance direction D1. The conveyance direction D1 is the direction in which the sheet 2 is conveyed in the meandering correction device 3. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 1, the conveyance direction D1 is a direction parallel to a straight line connecting a first turning axis T1 of a first correction roller 30 and a second turning axis T2 of a second correction roller 40 in a side view of the sheet 2. The width direction D2 is a direction perpendicular to the conveyance direction D1 in a plan view of the sheet 2 as shown in FIG. 2. Note that in this specification, the axis means a virtual axis center and is a term regardless of the presence or absence of a physical axle rod.

[0014] The serpentine correction device 3 includes a first conveying roller 10, a second conveying roller 20, a first correction roller 30, a second correction roller 40, a link mechanism 50, a serpentine detection sensor 60, and a controller 70.

[0015] [First conveying roller 10] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the first conveying roller 10 is disposed on the downstream side (the right side in FIGS. 1 and 2) of the second conveying roller 20 in the conveying direction D1. The first conveying roller 10 is rotatable around a first fixed shaft S1 extending in the width direction D2. The first fixed shaft S1 is fixed substantially parallel to the width direction D2.

[0016] The first conveying roller 10 is a single cylindrical body or cylinder. The sheet 2 is wound around the first conveying roller 10. The first conveying roller 10 is in contact with the sheet 2 and rotates passively.

[0017] [Second conveying roller 20] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the second conveying roller 20 is disposed on the upstream side (the left side in FIGS. 1 and 2) of the first conveying roller 10 in the conveying direction D1. The second conveying roller 20 is separated from the first conveying roller 10 in the conveying direction D1. The second conveying roller 20 is rotatable around a second fixed shaft S2 extending in the width direction D2. The second fixed shaft S2 is fixed substantially parallel to the width direction D2.

[0018] The second conveying roller 20 is a single cylindrical body or cylinder. The sheet 2 is wound around the second conveying roller 20. The second conveying roller 20 is in contact with the sheet 2 and rotates passively. The sheet 2 is conveyed in the conveying direction D1 from the second conveying roller 20 toward the first conveying roller 10.

[0019] [First correction roller 30] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the first correction roller 30 is disposed between the first conveying roller 10 and the second conveying roller 20 in the conveying direction D1. That is, the first correction roller 30 is disposed on the upstream side of the first conveying roller 10 and the downstream side of the second conveying roller 20 in the conveying direction D1.

[0020] The sheet 2 is wound around the first correction roller 30. The first correction roller 30 is in contact with the sheet 2 and rotates passively.

[0021] Here, FIG. 3 is a plan view showing the configuration of the first correction roller 30. The first correction roller 30 has a first shaft portion 31 and a plurality of first small rollers 32.

[0022] The first shaft portion 31 rotatably supports the plurality of first small rollers 32 around the first turning axis T1. In the present embodiment, the first shaft portion 31 is a rod-shaped member extending along the first turning axis T1. The first shaft portion 31 passes through the plurality of first small rollers 32. Both end portions of the first shaft portion 31 are fixed to the first bracket 51 of the link mechanism 50 described later. The first shaft portion 31 is non-rotatable around the first turning axis T1.

[0023] The plurality of first small rollers 32 are supported by the first shaft portion 31 so as to be rotatable around the first turning axis T1. The plurality of first small rollers 32 are arranged at intervals from each other. In the present embodiment, the intervals between the first small rollers 32 are constant, but the intervals between the first small rollers 32 do not have to be constant. The intervals between the first small rollers 32 can be set as appropriate.

[0024] The first turning axis T1 is linear. The first turning axis T1 can be specified by connecting the rotation centers on the end faces of a pair of first small rollers 32 located at both ends among the plurality of first small rollers 32. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, the first turning axis T1 is located on the straight line connecting the first fixed axis S1 of the first conveying roller 10 and the second fixed axis S2 of the second conveying roller 20, but it may be separated from the straight line. The position of the first turning axis T1 can be changed as appropriate as long as the holding angle of the sheet 2 in the first correction roller 30 can be ensured.

[0025] The first correction roller 30 is rotatable about a first turning center C1. The first turning center C1 is substantially perpendicular to each of the conveying direction D1 and the width direction D2. The rotation of the first correction roller 30 about the first turning center C1 is synonymous with the rotation of the first turning axis T1 about the first turning center C1. The turning angle of the first correction roller 30 is adjusted by a link mechanism 50 described later.

[0026] As shown in FIG. 3, the first turning center C1 is preferably located at the center of the first turning axis T1 in the first axial direction D3. The first axial direction D3 is a direction parallel to the first turning axis T1 in a plan view of the first correction roller 30. Note that the first turning center C1 may be slightly separated from the center of the first turning axis T1 in the first axial direction D3.

[0027] As shown in FIG. 2, in a plan view of the sheet 2, the first turning center C1 is preferably located on the center line L1 of the sheet 2 in the width direction D2. However, when the sheet 2 meanders in the width direction D2, the first turning center C1 may deviate from the center line L1. Also, as described later, when correcting the meandering of the sheet 2 in the width direction D2, the first turning center C1 may deviate from the center line L1.

[0028] As shown in FIG. 3, the plurality of first small rollers 32 includes one or more first small rollers 32 arranged on one side and one or more first small rollers 32 arranged on the other side with respect to the first turning center C1. In the present embodiment, four first small rollers 32 are arranged on one side of the first turning center C1, and four first small rollers 32 are arranged on the other side of the first turning center C1. However, the number of first small rollers 32 arranged on one side of the first turning center C1 can be appropriately changed, and the number of first small rollers 32 arranged on the other side of the first turning center C1 can also be appropriately changed. The number of first small rollers 32 arranged on one side of the first turning center C1 may be different from the number of first small rollers 32 arranged on the other side of the first turning center C1.

[0029] [Second Correction Roller 40] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the second correction roller 40 is disposed between the second conveying roller 20 and the first correction roller 30 in the conveying direction D1. That is, the second correction roller 40 is disposed on the downstream side of the second conveying roller 20 and on the upstream side of the first correction roller 30 in the conveying direction D1.

[0030] The sheet 2 is wound around the second correction roller 40. The second correction roller 40 is in contact with the sheet 2 and rotates in a driven manner.

[0031] In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, the second correction roller 40 is disposed on the opposite side of the first correction roller 30 with respect to the sheet 2 in a side view of the sheet 2. However, if the holding angle of the sheet 2 on the second correction roller 40 can be ensured, the second correction roller 40 may be disposed on the same side as the first correction roller 30 with respect to the sheet 2.

[0032] Here, FIG. 4 is a plan view showing the configuration of the second correction roller 40. The second correction roller 40 has a second shaft portion 41 and a plurality of second small rollers 42.

[0033] The second shaft portion 41 rotatably supports the plurality of second small rollers 42 around the second turning axis T2. In the present embodiment, the second shaft portion 41 is a rod-shaped member extending along the second turning axis T2. The second shaft portion 41 penetrates through the plurality of second small rollers 42. Both ends of the second shaft portion 41 are fixed to the second bracket 52 of the link mechanism 50 described later. The second shaft portion 41 is non-rotatable around the second turning axis T2.

[0034] The plurality of second small rollers 42 are supported by the second shaft portion 41 so as to be rotatable around the second turning axis T2. The plurality of second small rollers 42 are arranged at intervals from each other. In the present embodiment, the intervals between the second small rollers 42 are constant, but the intervals between the second small rollers 42 do not have to be constant. The intervals between the second small rollers 42 can be set as appropriate.

[0035] The second turning axis T2 is linear. The second turning axis T2 can be specified by connecting the rotation centers on the end faces of a pair of second small rollers 42 located at both ends among the plurality of second small rollers 42. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, the second turning axis T2 is located on the straight line connecting the first fixed axis S1 of the first conveying roller 10 and the second fixed axis S2 of the second conveying roller 20, but it may be separated from the straight line. The position of the second turning axis T2 can be appropriately changed as long as the holding angle of the sheet 2 in the second correction roller 40 can be ensured.

[0036] The second correction roller 40 is rotatable about the second turning center C2. The second turning center C2 is substantially perpendicular to each of the conveying direction D1 and the width direction D2. The rotation of the second correction roller 40 about the second turning center C2 is synonymous with the rotation of the second turning axis T2 about the second turning center C2. The turning angle of the second correction roller 40 is adjusted by a link mechanism 50 described later.

[0037] The position of the second turning center C2 in the width direction D2 is substantially the same as the position of the first turning center C1 in the width direction D2.

[0038] As shown in FIG. 4, the second turning center C2 is preferably located at the center of the second turning axis T2 in the second axial direction D4. The second axial direction D4 is a direction parallel to the second turning axis T2 in the plan view of the second correction roller 40. Note that the second turning center C2 may be slightly separated from the center of the second turning axis T2 in the second axial direction D4.

[0039] As shown in FIG. 2, the second turning center C2 is preferably located on the center line L1 indicating the center of the sheet 2 in the width direction D2 in the plan view of the sheet 2. However, when the sheet 2 meanders in the width direction D2, the second turning center C2 may deviate from the center line L1. Also, as described later, when correcting the meandering of the sheet 2 in the width direction D2, the second turning center C2 may deviate from the center line L1.

[0040] In this embodiment, the second turning axis T2 is always substantially parallel to the first turning axis T1. That is, the turning angle of the second turning axis T2 is synchronized with the turning angle of the first turning axis T1. In this embodiment, the turning angle of the second turning axis T2 is adjusted by the link mechanism 50 so as to be the same as the turning angle of the first turning axis T1.

[0041] As shown in FIG. 4, the plurality of second small rollers 42 include one or more second small rollers 42 arranged on one side and one or more second small rollers 42 arranged on the other side with respect to the second turning center C2. In this embodiment, four second small rollers 42 are arranged on one side of the second turning center C2, and four second small rollers 42 are arranged on the other side of the second turning center C2. However, the number of the second small rollers 42 arranged on one side of the second turning center C2 can be appropriately changed, and the number of the second small rollers 42 arranged on the other side of the second turning center C2 can also be appropriately changed. The number of the second small rollers 42 arranged on one side of the second turning center C2 may be different from the number of the second small rollers 42 arranged on the other side of the second turning center C2.

[0042] [Link mechanism 50] The link mechanism 50 turns the second turning axis T2 of the second correction roller 40 around the second turning center C2 so as to be synchronized with the first turning axis T1 of the first correction roller 30.

[0043] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the link mechanism 50 includes a first bracket 51, a second bracket 52, a first connecting portion 53, a second connecting portion 54, a bearing portion 55, and a servo motor 56.

[0044] The first bracket 51 is a rod-shaped member arranged along the first shaft portion 31. Both ends of the first bracket 51 are bent in an L shape respectively. Both ends of the first bracket 51 are fixed to both ends of the first shaft portion 31.

[0045] The second bracket 52 is a rod-shaped member arranged along the second shaft portion 41. Both ends of the second bracket 52 are bent in an L shape respectively. Both ends of the second bracket 52 are fixed to both ends of the second shaft portion 41.

[0046] The first connecting portion 53 connects one end of the first bracket 51 and one end of the second bracket 52. The first connecting portion 53 is rotatably attached to one end of the first bracket 51 and one end of the second bracket 52. The second connecting portion 54 connects the other end of the first bracket 51 and the other end of the second bracket 52. The second connecting portion 54 is rotatably attached to the other end of the first bracket 51 and the other end of the second bracket 52.

[0047] The bearing portion 55 has a support portion 55a and a shaft portion 55b. The support portion 55a is fixed to a member (not shown). The support portion 55a supports the shaft portion 55b so as to be rotatable about the first rotation center C1 of the first rotation shaft T1. The shaft portion 55b is arranged along the first rotation center C1 of the first rotation shaft T1. The tip of the shaft portion 55b is fixed to the first bracket 51.

[0048] The servo motor 56 has a motor portion 56a and a shaft portion 56b. The motor portion 56a is fixed to a member (not shown). The motor portion 56a rotates the shaft portion 56b about the second rotation center C2 of the second rotation shaft T2. The motor portion 56a is controlled by the controller 70. The shaft portion 56b is arranged along the second rotation center C2 of the second rotation shaft T2. The tip of the shaft portion 56b is fixed to the second bracket 52.

[0049] When the motor unit 56a rotates the shaft portion 56b about the second turning center C2, the second correction roller 40 attached to the second bracket 52 rotates about the second turning center C2. Accordingly, the first correction roller 30 attached to the first bracket 51 connected to the second bracket 52 via the first and second connecting portions 53, 54 rotates about the first turning center C1. By operating the link mechanism 50 in this way, the first correction roller 30 and the second correction roller 40 rotate synchronously (FIG. 5).

[0050] [Wandering detection sensor 60] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the wandering detection sensor 60 is disposed between the first conveying roller 10 and the first correction roller 30 in the conveying direction D1. That is, the wandering detection sensor 60 is disposed on the upstream side of the first conveying roller 10 and on the downstream side of the first correction roller 30 in the conveying direction D1. The wandering detection sensor 60 is fixed to a member (not shown).

[0051] The wandering detection sensor 60 faces the first edge 2a of the sheet 2. The wandering detection sensor 60 detects the position of the first edge 2a in the width direction D2. The wandering detection sensor 60 generates a detection signal indicating the position of the first edge 2a in the width direction D2, or a detection signal indicating that the first edge 2a has deviated from a desired position by a threshold value or more in the width direction D2. The wandering detection sensor 60 transmits the generated detection signal to the controller 70.

[0052] As the wandering detection sensor 60, for example, a CCD image sensor, a photoelectric sensor, an air-electric converter, a limit switch, or the like can be used.

[0053] [Controller 70] The controller 70 receives a detection signal from the wandering detection sensor 60. Based on the received detection signal, the controller 70 determines whether or not the first edge 2a of the sheet 2 has deviated from a desired position by a threshold value or more in the width direction D2. The desired position can be set to the position of the first edge 2a when no wandering occurs in the sheet 2. The threshold value can be set to a value of 0 or more.

[0054] When it is determined that the first edge 2a is deviated from the desired position by a threshold value or more in the width direction D2, the controller 70 turns the first correction roller 30 and the second correction roller 40 so that the first edge 2a approaches the desired position in the width direction D2.

[0055] Specifically, the controller 70 drives the servo motor 56 to turn the first and second correction rollers 30 and 40 synchronously so that the end portions of the first and second correction rollers 30 and 40 on the side where the sheet 2 is displaced move upstream.

[0056] For example, as shown in FIG. 5, when the sheet 2 is displaced to the first edge 2a side from the desired line L2 indicating the desired position in the width direction D2, the controller 70 rotates the shaft portion 56b of the servo motor 56 counterclockwise in a plan view of the sheet 2. As a result, the second bracket 52 rotates counterclockwise about the second rotation center C2, and the first bracket 51 connected to the second bracket 52 via the first and second connecting portions 53 and 54 also rotates counterclockwise about the first rotation center C1. As a result, the second correction roller 40 rotates counterclockwise about the second rotation center C2 so that the end portion of the second correction roller 40 on the first edge 2a side moves upstream. In synchronization with this, the first correction roller 30 rotates counterclockwise about the first rotation center C1 so that the end portion of the first correction roller 30 on the first edge 2a side moves upstream.

[0057] Then, as shown in FIGS. 6(a) and 6(b), after the sheet 2 is bent toward the second edge 2b between the first and second turning axes T1 and T2, it is bent toward the first edge 2a when being fed out from the first turning axis T1. As a result, since the sheet 2 as a whole moves toward the second edge 2b side, the meandering of the sheet 2 is corrected. Note that FIG. 6(a) is a plan view of the sheet 2, and FIG. 6(b) is a side view of the sheet 2. In FIGS. 6(a) and 6(b), for easy visual understanding, the movement of the sheet 2 in the width direction D2 is illustrated in an enlarged manner. The actual correction amount of the position of the first edge 2a in the width direction D2 is about 0.1 mm to 1.0 mm.

[0058] As shown in FIGS. 6(a) and 6(b), the correction amount of the first edge 2a in the width direction D2 is determined by the distance P between the first and second turning axes T1 and T2 in the side view of the sheet 2, the turning angles A1 of the first and second turning axes T1 and T2, and the bending angle A2 of the first edge 2a at the first and second turning axes T1 and T2. Therefore, since the correction amount of the first edge 2a in the width direction D2 can be geometrically calculated, the meandering of the sheet 2 can be corrected simply and accurately.

[0059] In addition, since the turning of the first turning axis T1 centered on the first turning center C1 and the turning of the second turning axis T2 centered on the second turning center C2 are synchronized, the meandering of the sheet 2 can be efficiently corrected according to the principle shown in FIGS. 6(a) and 6(b). Therefore, as shown in FIG. 2, the distance Q1 between the first fixed axis S1 of the first conveying roller 10 and the first turning axis T1 of the first correction roller 30 in the conveying direction D1 can be shortened. Similarly, as shown in FIG. 2, the distance Q2 between the second fixed axis S2 of the second conveying roller 20 and the second turning axis T2 of the second correction roller 40 in the conveying direction D1 can be shortened. Thus, the meandering correction device 3 can be made compact.

[0060] Here, as shown in FIG. 5, when the first turning axis T1 is turned counterclockwise about the first turning center C1, reverse rotational forces F1 and F2 are generated in the first correction roller 30 about the first turning center C1. The rotational forces F1 and F2 increase as they move away from the first turning center C1. On the other hand, as described above, since the first correction roller 30 has a plurality of first small rollers 32 that are rotatable about the first turning axis T1, a rotational speed difference corresponding to the rotational forces F1 and F2 occurs in each first small roller 32. Specifically, the rotational speed of each first small roller 32 disposed on one side (the first edge 2a side in FIG. 5) with respect to the first turning center C1 increases so as to absorb the rotational force F1. Also, the rotational speed of each first small roller 32 disposed on the other side (the second edge 2b side in FIG. 5) with respect to the first turning center C1 decreases so as to absorb the rotational force F2. Therefore, since the turning of the first turning axis T1 is not inhibited by the rotational forces F1 and F2, the first turning axis T1 can be turned smoothly. As a result, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of twisting in the sheet 2 due to friction with the first correction roller 30, and thus it is possible to suppress the occurrence of damage (such as wrinkles) in the sheet 2.

[0061] Similarly, as shown in FIG. 5, when the second turning axis T2 is turned counterclockwise about the second turning center C2, reverse rotational forces F3 and F4 are generated on the second correction roller 40 about the second turning center C2. The rotational forces F3 and F4 increase as they move away from the second turning center C2. On the other hand, as described above, since the second correction roller 40 has a plurality of second small rollers 42 that are rotatable about the second turning axis T2, a rotational speed difference corresponding to the rotational forces F3 and F4 occurs in each second small roller 42. Specifically, the rotational speed of each second small roller 42 disposed on one side (the first edge 2a side in FIG. 5) with respect to the second turning center C2 increases so as to absorb the rotational force F3. Also, the rotational speed of each second small roller 42 disposed on the other side (the second edge 2b side in FIG. 5) with respect to the second turning center C2 decreases so as to absorb the rotational force F4. Therefore, since the turning of the second turning axis T2 is not inhibited by the rotational forces F3 and F4, the second turning axis T2 can be turned smoothly. As a result, since it is possible to suppress the occurrence of twisting in the sheet 2 due to friction with the second correction roller 40, it is possible to suppress damage to the sheet 2.

[0062] As described above, with reference to FIGS. 5, 6(a), and 6(b), the case where the sheet 2 is displaced toward the first edge 2a has been described. However, when the sheet 2 is displaced toward the second edge 2b, the controller 70 rotates the shaft portion 56b of the servomotor 56 clockwise in a plan view of the sheet 2. Even in this case, the above-described actions and effects can be obtained in the same manner.

[0063] (Feature)

[0064] (1) The meandering correction device 3 according to the present embodiment includes a first conveying roller 10, a second conveying roller 20, and a first correction roller 30. The first correction roller 30 is disposed between the first conveying roller 10 and the second conveying roller 20 in the conveying direction D1. The first correction roller 30 has a plurality of first small rollers 32 that are rotatable about the first turning axis T1. The first correction roller 30 is rotatable about the first turning center C1.

[0065] Thus, since the first correction roller 30 has a plurality of first small rollers 32, the first turning shaft T1 can be smoothly turned about the first turning center C1. Therefore, it is possible to correct the meandering of the sheet 2 while suppressing the occurrence of twisting in the sheet 2 due to the friction with the first correction roller 30, so that damage to the sheet 2 can be suppressed.

[0066] (2) The first turning center C1 is located on the first turning shaft T1, and in the width direction D2, the first turning center C1 substantially coincides with the center line L1 of the sheet 2. Therefore, the meandering of the sheet 2 can be corrected well-balanced by the first correction roller 30.

[0067] (3) The plurality of first small rollers 32 include one or more first small rollers 32 arranged on one side and one or more first small rollers 32 arranged on the other side with respect to the first turning center C1. Therefore, in each of the first small rollers 32 arranged on both sides of the first turning center C1, the reverse rotational forces F1 and F2 generated by the turning of the first turning shaft T1 can be absorbed, so that the first turning shaft T1 can be turned more smoothly.

[0068] (4) The meandering correction device 3 includes a second correction roller 40 arranged between the second conveying roller 20 and the first correction roller 30 in the conveying direction D1. Therefore, the meandering of the sheet 2 can be corrected more efficiently.

[0069] (5) The second correction roller 40 has a plurality of second small rollers 42 rotatable around the second turning shaft T2. The second correction roller 40 is rotatable about the second turning center C2.

[0070] Thus, since the second correction roller 40 has a plurality of second small rollers 42, the second turning shaft T2 can be smoothly turned about the second turning center C2. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of twisting in the sheet 2 due to the friction with the second correction roller 40, so that damage to the sheet 2 can be further suppressed.

[0071] (6) The second turning center C2 is located on the second turning axis T2, and in the width direction D2, the second turning center C2 substantially coincides with the center line L1 of the sheet 2. Therefore, the second correction roller 40 can correct the meandering of the sheet 2 in a well-balanced manner.

[0072] (7) The plurality of second small rollers 42 includes one or more second small rollers 42 arranged on one side and one or more second small rollers 42 arranged on the other side with respect to the second turning center C2. Therefore, in each of the second small rollers 42 arranged on both sides of the second turning center C2, the reverse rotational forces F3 and F4 generated by the turning of the second turning axis T2 can be absorbed, so that the second turning axis T2 can be turned more smoothly.

[0073] (8) The second turning axis T2 is always substantially parallel to the first turning axis T1. Therefore, since the meandering of the sheet 2 can be efficiently corrected by the principle shown in FIGS. 6(a) and 6(b), the meandering correction device 3 can be made compact.

[0074] (9) The meandering correction method using the meandering correction device 3 according to the present embodiment includes detecting that the first edge 2a (an example of an edge) of the sheet 2 deviates from a desired position by a threshold value or more in the width direction D2, and turning the first turning axis T1 so that the first edge 2a of the sheet 2 approaches the desired position in the width direction D2. Thereby, since the meandering of the sheet 2 can be corrected while suppressing the occurrence of twisting in the sheet 2 due to the friction with the first correction roller 30, the occurrence of damage to the sheet 2 can be suppressed.

[0075] (10) The meandering correction method using the meandering correction device 3 according to this embodiment includes detecting that the first edge 2a (an example of an edge) of the sheet 2 has deviated from a desired position by a threshold value or more in the width direction D2, and pivoting the first pivot axis T1 and the second pivot axis T2 so that the first edge 2a of the sheet 2 approaches the desired position in the width direction D2. Thereby, it is possible to efficiently correct the meandering of the sheet 2 while suppressing the occurrence of twisting in the sheet 2 due to friction with the first and second correction rollers 30 and 40, so that it is possible to suppress the occurrence of damage to the sheet 2.

[0076] (Modification of the embodiment) As described above, one embodiment of the present disclosure has been described. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the above embodiment, and various modifications are possible without departing from the gist of the disclosure.

[0077] (A) In the above embodiment, the meandering correction device 3 is provided with the second correction roller 40. However, as shown in FIG. 7, the second correction roller 40 may not be provided. Even if the meandering correction device 3 does not include the second correction roller 40, the meandering of the sheet 2 can be corrected by the first correction roller 30. In this case, as shown in FIG. 7, the first pivot axis T1 can be pivoted by directly pivoting the first bracket 51 attached to the first correction roller 30 by the servo motor 56.

[0078] (B) In the above embodiment, the second correction roller 40 has a plurality of second small rollers 42. However, as shown in FIG. 8, it may be a single roller. A single roller is a roller formed entirely in a single cylindrical or cylindrical shape.

[0079] (C) In the above embodiment, the first pivot axis T1 of the first correction roller 30 pivots about the first pivot center C1 located on the first pivot axis T1. However, as shown in FIG. 9, it may pivot about a pivot center C3 set at a position away from the first pivot axis T1.

[0080] Further, the second turning axis T2 of the second correction roller 40 is set to turn about the second turning center C2 located on the second turning axis T2. However, as shown in FIG. 9, it may turn about a turning center C3 set at a position away from the second turning axis T2.

[0081] In addition, in FIG. 9, a form in which the turning centers of the first and second turning axes T1 and T2 coincide with each other is illustrated. However, the turning centers of the first and second turning axes T1 and T2 may be separated from each other. Further, at least one of the turning centers of the first and second turning axes T1 and T2 may be away from the center line L1 of the sheet 2.

[0082] (D) In the above embodiment, the first turning center C1 of the first correction roller 30 in the width direction D2 substantially coincides with the center line L1 of the sheet 2. However, as shown in FIG. 10, it may turn about a turning center C4 set at a position away from the center line L1 of the sheet 2.

[0083] Also, the second turning center C2 of the second correction roller 40 in the width direction D2 substantially coincides with the center line L1 of the sheet 2. However, as shown in FIG. 10, it may turn about a turning center C5 set at a position away from the center line L1 of the sheet 2.

[0084] In addition, in FIG. 10, a form in which the turning centers C4 and C5 coincide with each other in the width direction D2 is illustrated. However, the turning centers C4 and C5 may not coincide with each other in the width direction D2.

[0085] (E) In the above embodiment, the first correction roller 30 includes one or more first small rollers 32 arranged on one side and one or more first small rollers 32 arranged on the other side with respect to the first turning center C1. However, it is not limited to this. For example, the first correction roller 30 includes two first small rollers 32, and one of the first small rollers 32 may overlap with the first turning center C1.

[0086] Further, in the above embodiment, the second correction roller 40 includes one or more second small rollers 42 arranged on one side and one or more second small rollers 42 arranged on the other side with reference to the second turning center C2, but it is not limited thereto. For example, the second correction roller 40 may include two second small rollers 42, and one of the second small rollers 42 may overlap with the second turning center C2.

[0087] (F) In the above embodiment, the configuration of the link mechanism 50 has been described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2. However, as long as the first and second turning shafts T1 and T2 are turned synchronously, the configuration of the link mechanism 50 can be changed as appropriate. Further, as long as the first and second turning shafts T1 and T2 can be turned synchronously, the first and second turning shafts T1 and T2 may be turned independently without using the link mechanism 50.

[0088] (G) In the above embodiment, the meandering detection sensor 60 is configured to detect the position of the first edge 2a in the width direction D2, but it may detect the position of the second edge 2b in the width direction D2.

[0089] (H) In the above embodiment, the second correction roller 40 is arranged between the second conveying roller 20 and the first correction roller 30, but it may be arranged between the first conveying roller 10 and the first correction roller 30. In this case, the meandering detection sensor 60 is arranged between the second correction roller 40 and the first conveying roller 10.

[0090] (I) In the above embodiment, the plurality of first small rollers 32 included in the first correction roller 30 are supported by a single first shaft portion 31, but it is not limited thereto. The first shaft portion 31 may be divided into two or more members. In this case, the divided shaft portions may be arranged between the plurality of first small rollers 32.

[0091] Further, although the plurality of second small rollers 42 of the second correction roller 40 are supported by a single second shaft portion 41, the present invention is not limited to this. The second shaft portion 41 may be divided into two or more members. In this case, the divided shaft portions may be arranged between the plurality of second small rollers 42.

[0092] (J) In the above embodiment, the sheet 2 is an electrode sheet for a non-aqueous electrolyte secondary battery, but it may be paper, a metal thin film, a separator for a non-aqueous electrolyte secondary battery, or the like. Further, the sheet 2 may be a belt conveyor for transporting a product.

[0093] (Appendix 1) The meandering correction device according to the present disclosure is a meandering correction device that corrects meandering in the width direction of a sheet conveyed in the conveyance direction, and includes a first conveyance roller rotatable around an axis extending in the width direction, a second conveyance roller rotatable around an axis extending in the width direction and disposed upstream of the first conveyance roller in the conveyance direction, and a first correction roller disposed between the first conveyance roller and the second conveyance roller in the conveyance direction. The first correction roller has a plurality of first small rollers rotatable around a first turning axis, and the first correction roller is rotatable around a first turning center.

[0094] (Appendix 2) The first turning center is located on the first turning axis, and in the width direction, the first turning center substantially coincides with the center line of the sheet. The meandering correction device according to Appendix 1.

[0095] (Appendix 3) The plurality of first small rollers include one or more first small rollers arranged on one side and one or more first small rollers arranged on the other side with respect to the first turning center. The meandering correction device according to Appendix 1 or 2.

[0096] (Appendix 4) The snaking correction device according to any one of Appendices 1 to 3, comprising a second correction roller disposed between the first conveying roller and the first correction roller or between the second conveying roller and the first correction roller in the conveying direction.

[0097] (Appendix 5) The snaking correction device according to Appendix 4, wherein the second correction roller has a plurality of second small rollers rotatable around a second turning axis, and the second correction roller is rotatable around a second turning center.

[0098] (Appendix 6) The snaking correction device according to Appendix 5, wherein the second turning center is located on the second turning axis, and in the width direction, the second turning center substantially coincides with the center of the sheet.

[0099] (Appendix 7) The snaking correction device according to Appendix 5 or 6, wherein the plurality of second small rollers include one or more second small rollers disposed on one side and one or more second small rollers disposed on the other side with respect to the second turning center.

[0100] (Appendix 8) The snaking correction device according to any one of Appendices 5 to 7, wherein the second turning axis is always substantially parallel to the first turning axis.

[0101] (Appendix 9) The serpentine correction device according to the present disclosure is a serpentine correction device that corrects serpentine in the width direction of a sheet conveyed in the conveyance direction, and includes a first conveyance roller rotatable about an axis extending in the width direction, a second conveyance roller rotatable about an axis extending in the width direction, a first correction roller disposed between the first conveyance roller and the second conveyance roller in the conveyance direction, and a second correction roller disposed between the second conveyance roller and the first correction roller in the conveyance direction. The first correction roller has a plurality of first small rollers rotatable about a first turning axis located on the first turning axis. The second correction roller has a plurality of second small rollers rotatable about a second turning axis located on the second turning axis. The first correction roller is rotatable about a first turning center that substantially coincides with the center of the sheet in the width direction. The second correction roller is rotatable about a second turning center that substantially coincides with the center of the sheet in the width direction. The second turning axis is always parallel to the first turning axis.

[0102] (Appendix 10) A serpentine correction method for correcting serpentine in the width direction of a sheet conveyed in the conveyance direction by using the serpentine correction device according to Appendix 1, the method comprising detecting that an edge of the sheet in the width direction has deviated from a desired position by a threshold value or more, and turning the first turning axis so that the edge of the sheet in the width direction approaches the desired position.

[0103] (Appendix 11) A serpentine correction method for correcting serpentine in the width direction of a sheet conveyed in the conveyance direction by using the serpentine correction device according to Appendix 9, the method comprising detecting that an edge of the sheet in the width direction has deviated from a desired position by a threshold value or more, and turning the first turning axis and the second turning axis so that the edge of the sheet in the width direction approaches the desired position.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0104] 1... Conveyor device, 2... Sheet, 2a... First edge, 2b... Second edge, 3... Snakelike correction device, 10... First conveyor roller, S1... First fixed shaft, 20... Second conveyor roller, S2... Second fixed shaft, 30... First correction roller, 31... First shaft portion, 32... First small roller, T1... First turning shaft, C1... First turning center, 40... Second correction roller, 41... Second shaft portion, 42... Second small roller, T2... Second turning shaft, C2... Second turning center, 50... Link mechanism, 60... Snakelike detection sensor, 70... Controller

Claims

1. A meandering correction device for correcting meandering in the width direction of a sheet conveyed in the conveyance direction, comprising: a first conveyance roller rotatable about an axis extending in the width direction; a second conveyance roller rotatable about an axis extending in the width direction and disposed upstream of the first conveyance roller in the conveyance direction; a first correction roller disposed between the first conveyance roller and the second conveyance roller in the conveyance direction; wherein the first correction roller has a plurality of first small rollers rotatable about a first turning axis; the first correction roller is turnable about a first turning center; a meandering correction device.

2. The first turning center is located on the first turning axis; in the width direction, the first turning center substantially coincides with the center line of the sheet; the meandering correction device according to Claim 1.

3. The plurality of first small rollers include one or more first small rollers disposed on one side and one or more first small rollers disposed on the other side with respect to the first turning center; the meandering correction device according to Claim 1 or 2.

4. Comprising a second correction roller disposed between the first conveyance roller and the first correction roller or between the second conveyance roller and the first correction roller in the conveyance direction; the meandering correction device according to Claim 1 or 2.

5. The second correction roller has a plurality of second small rollers rotatable about a second turning axis; the second correction roller is turnable about a second turning center; the meandering correction device according to Claim 4.

6. The second turning center is located on the second turning axis; in the width direction, the second turning center substantially coincides with the center of the sheet; the meandering correction device according to Claim 5.

7. The plurality of second small rollers include one or more second small rollers disposed on one side and one or more second small rollers disposed on the other side with respect to the second turning center; the meandering correction device according to Claim 6.

8. The second turning axis is always substantially parallel to the first turning axis; the meandering correction device according to Claim 5.

9. A meandering correction device for correcting meandering in the width direction of a sheet conveyed in the conveyance direction, comprising: a first conveyance roller rotatable about an axis extending in the width direction; a second conveyance roller rotatable about an axis extending in the width direction; a first correction roller disposed between the first conveyance roller and the second conveyance roller in the conveyance direction; A second correction roller disposed between the second conveying roller and the first correction roller in the conveying direction; comprising; The first correction roller has a plurality of first small rollers rotatable around a first turning axis located on the first turning axis; The second correction roller has a plurality of second small rollers rotatable around a second turning axis located on the second turning axis; The first correction roller is rotatable about a first turning center that substantially coincides with the center of the sheet in the width direction; The second correction roller is rotatable about a second turning center that substantially coincides with the center of the sheet in the width direction; The second turning axis is always parallel to the first turning axis; Wavy correction device.

10. A wavy correction method for correcting the waviness of a sheet conveyed in the conveying direction in the width direction by using the wavy correction device according to Claim 1, comprising: detecting that an edge of the sheet in the width direction has deviated from a desired position by a threshold value or more; turning the first turning axis so that the edge of the sheet in the width direction approaches the desired position; A wavy correction method comprising.

11. A wavy correction method for correcting the waviness of a sheet conveyed in the conveying direction in the width direction by using the wavy correction device according to Claim 9, comprising: detecting that an edge of the sheet in the width direction has deviated from a desired position by a threshold value or more; turning the first turning axis and the second turning axis so that the edge of the sheet in the width direction approaches the desired position; A wavy correction method comprising.

Images