Winding machine and electrode material connection method

Abstract

To provide a winding machine and an electrode material connection method that allows for easy replacement of electrode materials.SOLUTION: A winding machine 30 includes a negative electrode material supply device 31, an outer separator supply device 33, and a winding device 35. The negative electrode material supply device 31 includes a first storage portion 31b that stores the sheet-shaped negative electrode material 1, a second storage portion 31c that stores the sheet-shaped negative electrode material 1, and a pull-out portion 31d. The pull-out portion 31d includes a second pull-out roller m2 that grips the front end portion 1U of the negative electrode material 1 stored in the second storage portion 31c and pulls it out of the second storage portion 31c.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 27

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a winding machine and a method for connecting electrode materials. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, a method for forming an electrode assembly by winding an electrode material wound around a bobbin and a separator wound around a bobbin is known (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2009-252467 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, when a new bobbin is used, the electrode material wound around the bobbin must be manually pulled out by the worker, which is troublesome.

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a winding machine that allows electrode materials to be easily replaced and a method for connecting electrode materials. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A winding machine according to the present disclosure includes an electrode material supply device, a separator supply device, and a winding device. The electrode material supply device has a second storage section that stores a sheet-like second electrode material and a pull-out section that pulls the second electrode material from the second storage section. The separator supply device supplies a sheet-like separator. The winding device winds the second electrode material and the separator. The pull-out section includes a pull-out roller that pulls out the second electrode material from the second storage section while gripping a leading end of the second electrode material. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a winding machine that allows electrode materials to be easily replaced and a method for connecting electrode materials. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of an electrode body manufacturing system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a side view schematically illustrating a configuration of a transport device according to an embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a side view schematically illustrating a configuration of a transport device according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a front view schematically illustrating a configuration of a transport device according to an embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 1 is a front view schematically illustrating a configuration of a transport device according to an embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a side view illustrating a configuration of a bobbin according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] 5A and 5B are schematic diagrams for explaining the operation of a shutter according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] 5A and 5B are schematic diagrams for explaining the operation of a shutter according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] 1A and 1B are schematic diagrams for explaining the configuration and operation of a clamping device according to an embodiment. [Figure 10] 1A and 1B are schematic diagrams for explaining the configuration and operation of a clamping device according to an embodiment. [Figure 11] 1A and 1B are schematic diagrams for explaining the configuration and operation of a clamping device according to an embodiment. [Figure 12] 1A and 1B are schematic diagrams for explaining the configuration and operation of a clamping device according to an embodiment. [Figure 13] 5A to 5C are schematic diagrams for explaining the configuration and operation of a retraction unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 14] 5A to 5C are schematic diagrams for explaining the configuration and operation of a retraction unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 15] 5A to 5C are schematic diagrams for explaining the configuration and operation of a retraction unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 16]5A to 5C are schematic diagrams for explaining the configuration and operation of a retraction unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 17] 5A to 5C are schematic diagrams for explaining the configuration and operation of a retraction unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 18] 5A to 5C are schematic diagrams for explaining the configuration and operation of a retraction unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 19] 5A to 5C are schematic diagrams for explaining the configuration and operation of a retraction unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 20] 5A to 5C are schematic diagrams for explaining the configuration and operation of a retraction unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 21] 5A to 5C are schematic diagrams for explaining the configuration and operation of a retraction unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 22] 5A to 5C are schematic diagrams for explaining the configuration and operation of a retraction unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 23] 5A to 5C are schematic diagrams for explaining the configuration and operation of a retraction unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 24] 5A to 5C are schematic diagrams for explaining the configuration and operation of a retraction unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 25] 5A to 5C are schematic diagrams for explaining the configuration and operation of a retraction unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 26] 5A to 5C are schematic diagrams for explaining the configuration and operation of a retraction unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 27] 5A to 5C are schematic diagrams for explaining the configuration and operation of a drawer unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 28] 5A to 5C are schematic diagrams for explaining the configuration and operation of a drawer unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 29] 5A to 5C are schematic diagrams for explaining the configuration and operation of a drawer unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 30] 5A to 5C are schematic diagrams for explaining the configuration and operation of a drawer unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 31] 5A to 5C are schematic diagrams for explaining the configuration and operation of a drawer unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 32] 5A to 5C are schematic diagrams for explaining the configuration and operation of a drawer unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 33] 5A to 5C are schematic diagrams for explaining the configuration and operation of a drawer unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 34] 5A to 5C are schematic diagrams for explaining the configuration and operation of a drawer unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 35] 5A to 5C are schematic diagrams for explaining the configuration and operation of a drawer unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 36] 5A to 5C are schematic diagrams for explaining the configuration and operation of a drawer unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 37] 5A to 5C are schematic diagrams for explaining the configuration and operation of a drawer unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 38] 5A to 5C are schematic diagrams for explaining the configuration and operation of a drawer unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 39] 5A to 5C are schematic diagrams for explaining the configuration and operation of a drawer unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 40] 5A to 5C are schematic diagrams for explaining the configuration and operation of a drawer unit according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] (Electrode body manufacturing system 100) 1 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of an electrode assembly manufacturing system 100 according to an embodiment. The electrode assembly manufacturing system 100 is used to manufacture an electrode assembly 5. The electrode assembly 5 is used in electronic components such as lithium secondary batteries, lithium capacitors, and electric double layer capacitors. In this embodiment, the electrode assembly 5 has a pair of positive and negative tab terminals.

[0010] As shown in FIG. 1, the electrode assembly manufacturing system 100 includes a negative electrode tab molding machine 10, a positive electrode tab molding machine 20, a winding machine 30, and a plurality of conveying devices 40.

[0011] [Negative electrode tab molding machine 10] The negative electrode tab molding machine 10 includes a negative electrode double-width raw sheet supply device 11, a tab molding device 12, and a negative electrode material recovery device 13. The negative electrode double-width raw sheet supply device 11 is an example of an "raw sheet supply device" according to the present disclosure. The negative electrode material recovery device 13 is an example of an "electrode material recovery device" according to the present disclosure.

[0012] The negative electrode double-width raw web supply device 11 is disposed on the opposite side of the tab molding device 12 from the negative electrode material recovery device 13. The negative electrode double-width raw web supply device 11 has a housing 11a, a hanging shaft 11b, and an unwinding section 11c. The housing 11a is a box that houses the hanging shaft 11b and the unwinding section 11c. The hanging shaft 11b is driven to rotate by a servo motor (not shown). A sheet-like negative electrode double-width raw web 1a is wound around the hanging shaft 11b. The negative electrode double-width raw web 1a is a wide web composed of a sheet-like negative electrode foil (e.g., copper foil) and a negative electrode active material (e.g., carbon material) applied to the surface of the negative electrode foil. The unwinding section 11c sends the negative electrode double-width raw web 1a unwound from the hanging shaft 11b toward the tab molding device 12. The unwinding section 11c is composed of a plurality of rollers.

[0013] The tab molding device 12 is disposed between the negative electrode double-width raw sheet supply device 11 and the negative electrode material recovery device 13. The tab molding device 12 has a housing 12a, a support roller 12b, a tab molding unit 12c, a slitter 12d, and a pair of feed rollers 12e. The housing 12a is a box that houses the support roller 12b, the tab molding unit 12c, the slitter 12d, and the pair of feed rollers 12e. The support roller 12b supports the negative electrode double-width raw sheet 1a fed from the negative electrode double-width raw sheet supply device 11 from below. The tab molding unit 12c faces the surface of the negative electrode double-width raw sheet 1a. The tab molding unit 12c molds tabs on both widthwise sides of the negative electrode double-width raw sheet 1a. The tabs are molded into a desired shape (such as a broken line or a curved shape). A laser beam emitting device or the like can be used as the tab molding unit 12c. The slitter 12d cuts the negative electrode double-width raw web 1a with the tabs formed therein along the center in the width direction. This divides one negative electrode double-width raw web 1a into two negative electrode material sheets 1 along the longitudinal direction. A pair of feed rollers 12e is arranged to sandwich the two negative electrode material sheets 1 from above and below. The pair of feed rollers 12e is driven to rotate by a servo motor (not shown). The pair of feed rollers 12e feeds the two negative electrode material sheets 1 to the negative electrode material recovery device 13.

[0014] The negative electrode material recovery device 13 is disposed on the opposite side of the negative electrode double-width raw sheet supply device 11 across the tab molding device 12. The negative electrode material recovery device 13 includes a first recovery device 14 and a second recovery device 15.

[0015] The first recovery device 14 recovers one of the two sheets of negative electrode material 1 sent from the tab molding device 12. The first recovery device 14 is disposed between the tab molding device 12 and the second recovery device 15. The first recovery device 14 has a housing 14a, a first storage section 14b, a second storage section 14c, and a lead-in section 14d. The housing 14a is a box that houses the first storage section 14b, the second storage section 14c, and the lead-in section 14d. The first storage section 14b and the second storage section 14c face each other with the lead-in section 14d in between. The first storage section 14b and the second storage section 14c are each spaces for storing the negative electrode material 1. In this embodiment, a conveying device 40 for recovering the negative electrode material 1 is disposed in each of the first storage section 14b and the second storage section 14c. The lead-in section 14d is disposed between the first storage section 14b and the second storage section 14c. The drawing unit 14d draws the negative electrode material 1 sent from the tab molding device 12 into the first storage unit 14b or the second storage unit 14c. In this embodiment, drawing the negative electrode material 1 into the first storage unit 14b or the second storage unit 14c is synonymous with drawing the negative electrode material 1 into the conveying device 40 and winding it. The drawing unit 14d alternates between drawing the negative electrode material 1 into the first storage unit 14b and the second storage unit 14c. Specifically, when the drawing unit 14d has completed drawing the negative electrode material 1 into the conveying device 40 arranged in the first storage unit 14b, it starts drawing the negative electrode material 1 into the conveying device 40 arranged in the second storage unit 14c. The transport device 40 filled with the negative electrode material 1 (hereinafter referred to as the "filled transport device") is removed from the first storage section 14b, and a transport device 40 without the negative electrode material 1 wound thereon (hereinafter referred to as the "empty transport device") is attached to the first storage section 14b instead. The filled transport device 40 is stored in a predetermined location as needed, and then transported to the negative electrode material supply device 31 of the winding machine 30, which will be described later. When the drawing of the negative electrode material 1 into the transport device 40 arranged in the second storage section 14c is completed, the filled transport device 40 is replaced with an empty transport device 40 in a similar procedure. The configuration of the transport device 40 will be described later.

[0016] The second recovery device 15 recovers the other of the two sheets of negative electrode material 1 sent from the tab molding device 12. The second recovery device 15 has the same function and configuration as the first recovery device 14. The second recovery device 15 has a housing 15a, a first storage section 15b, a second storage section 15c, and a lead-in section 15d. The housing 15a is a box that houses the first storage section 15b, the second storage section 15c, and the lead-in section 15d. The first storage section 15b and the second storage section 15c face each other across the lead-in section 15d. The first storage section 15b and the second storage section 15c are each spaces for storing the negative electrode material 1. In this embodiment, a conveying device 40 for recovering the negative electrode material 1 is disposed in each of the first storage section 15b and the second storage section 15c. The lead-in section 15d is disposed between the first storage section 15b and the second storage section 15c. The drawing unit 15d draws the negative electrode material 1 sent from the tab molding device 12 into the first storage unit 15b or the second storage unit 15c. The drawing unit 15d alternates between drawing the negative electrode material 1 into the first storage unit 15b and the second storage unit 15c. Specifically, when the drawing unit 15d completes drawing the negative electrode material 1 into the conveying device 40 arranged in the first storage unit 15b, it starts drawing the negative electrode material 1 into the conveying device 40 arranged in the second storage unit 15c. The filled conveying device 40 is removed from the first storage unit 15b, and an empty conveying device 40 is attached to the first storage unit 15b instead. The filled conveying device 40 is stored in a predetermined location as needed and then conveyed to the negative electrode material supply device 31 of the winding machine 30, which will be described later. When the negative electrode material 1 has been completely drawn into the transport device 40 disposed in the second container 15c, the filled transport device 40 is replaced with an empty transport device 40 in the same manner.

[0017] The configurations and operations of the retraction portions 14d and 15d will be described later.

[0018] [Positive electrode tab molding machine 20] The positive electrode tab molding machine 20 has the same functions and configuration as the negative electrode tab molding machine 20. The positive electrode tab molding machine 20 includes a positive electrode double-width raw sheet supply device 21, a tab molding device 22, and a positive electrode material recovery device 23. The positive electrode double-width raw sheet supply device 21 is an example of a "raw sheet supply device" according to the present disclosure. The positive electrode material recovery device 23 is an example of an "electrode material recovery device" according to the present disclosure.

[0019] The double-width positive electrode raw web supply device 21 is disposed on the opposite side of the tab molding device 22 from the positive electrode material recovery device 23. The double-width positive electrode raw web supply device 21 has a housing 21a, a hanging shaft 21b, and an unwinding section 21c. The housing 21a is a box that houses the hanging shaft 21b and the unwinding section 21c. The hanging shaft 21b is driven to rotate by a servo motor (not shown). A sheet-like double-width positive electrode raw web 2a is wound around the hanging shaft 21b. The double-width positive electrode raw web 2a is a wide web composed of a sheet-like positive electrode foil (e.g., aluminum foil) and a positive electrode active material (e.g., lithium metal oxide) applied to the surface of the positive electrode foil. The unwinding section 21c sends the double-width positive electrode raw web 2a unwound from the hanging shaft 21b toward the tab molding device 22. The unwinding section 21c is composed of a plurality of rollers.

[0020] The tab molding device 22 is disposed between the double-width positive electrode raw sheet supply device 21 and the positive electrode material recovery device 23. The tab molding device 22 has a housing 22a, a support roller 22b, a tab molding unit 22c, a slitter 22d, and a pair of feed rollers 22e. The housing 22a is a box that houses the support roller 22b, the tab molding unit 22c, the slitter 22d, and the pair of feed rollers 22e. The support roller 22b supports the double-width positive electrode raw sheet 2a fed from the double-width positive electrode raw sheet supply device 21 from below. The tab molding unit 22c faces the surface of the double-width positive electrode raw sheet 2a. The tab molding unit 22c molds tabs on both widthwise sides of the double-width positive electrode raw sheet 2a. The tabs are molded into a desired shape (such as a broken line or a curved shape). A laser emitting device that emits laser light can be used as the tab molding unit 22c. The slitter 22d cuts the double-width positive electrode raw material 2a with the tabs formed therein along the center in the width direction. As a result, one double-width positive electrode raw material 2a is divided into two sheets of positive electrode material 2 along the longitudinal direction. A pair of feed rollers 22e is disposed to sandwich the two sheets of positive electrode material 2 from above and below. The pair of feed rollers 22e is driven to rotate by a servo motor (not shown). The pair of feed rollers 22e feeds the two sheets of positive electrode material 2 to the positive electrode material recovery device 23.

[0021] The positive electrode material recovery device 23 is disposed on the opposite side of the positive electrode double-width raw sheet supply device 21 across the tab molding device 22. The positive electrode material recovery device 23 includes a first recovery device 24 and a second recovery device 25.

[0022] The first recovery device 24 recovers one of the two sheets of positive electrode material 2 sent from the tab molding device 22. The first recovery device 24 is disposed between the tab molding device 22 and the second recovery device 25. The first recovery device 24 has a housing 24a, a first storage section 24b, a second storage section 24c, and a lead-in section 24d. The housing 24a is a box that accommodates the first storage section 24b, the second storage section 24c, and the lead-in section 24d. The first storage section 24b and the second storage section 24c face each other across the lead-in section 24d. The first storage section 24b and the second storage section 24c are spaces for accommodating the positive electrode material 2, respectively. In this embodiment, a conveying device 40 for recovering the positive electrode material 2 is disposed in each of the first storage section 24b and the second storage section 24c. The conveying device 40 has the same function and configuration as the conveying device 40 used in the negative electrode tab molding machine 10 described above. The retraction unit 24d is disposed between the first storage unit 24b and the second storage unit 24c. The retraction unit 24d retracts the positive electrode material 2 sent from the tab molding device 22 into the first storage unit 24b or the second storage unit 24c. In this embodiment, retracting the positive electrode material 2 into the first storage unit 24b or the second storage unit 24c is equivalent to retracting the positive electrode material 2 into the conveying device 40 and winding it. The retraction unit 24d alternates between retracting the positive electrode material 2 into the first storage unit 24b and the second storage unit 24c. Specifically, when the retraction unit 24d completes retracting the positive electrode material 2 into the conveying device 40 disposed in the first storage unit 24b, it starts retracting the positive electrode material 2 into the conveying device 40 disposed in the second storage unit 24c. The filled conveying device 40 is removed from the first storage unit 24b, and an empty conveying device 40 is attached to the first storage unit 24b instead. The filled conveying device 40 is stored in a predetermined location as needed, and then conveyed to the cathode material supply device 32 of the winding machine 30, which will be described later. When the drawing of the cathode material 2 into the conveying device 40 arranged in the second storage section 24c is completed, the filled conveying device 40 is replaced with an empty conveying device 40 in the same procedure.

[0023] The second recovery device 25 recovers the other of the two sheets of positive electrode material 2 sent from the tab molding device 22. The second recovery device 25 has the same function and configuration as the first recovery device 24. The second recovery device 25 has a housing 25a, a first storage section 25b, a second storage section 25c, and a lead-in section 25d. The housing 25a is a box that contains the first storage section 25b, the second storage section 25c, and the lead-in section 25d. The first storage section 25b and the second storage section 25c face each other with the lead-in section 25d in between. The first storage section 25b and the second storage section 25c are each spaces for storing the positive electrode material 2. In this embodiment, a conveying device 40 for recovering the positive electrode material 2 is disposed in each of the first storage section 25b and the second storage section 25c. The lead-in section 25d is disposed between the first storage section 25b and the second storage section 25c. The drawing unit 25d draws the positive electrode material 2 sent from the tab molding device 22 into the first storage unit 25b or the second storage unit 25c. The drawing unit 25d alternates between drawing the positive electrode material 2 into the first storage unit 25b and the second storage unit 25c. Specifically, when the drawing unit 25d completes drawing the positive electrode material 2 into the conveying device 40 arranged in the first storage unit 25b, it starts drawing the positive electrode material 2 into the conveying device 40 arranged in the second storage unit 25c. The filled conveying device 40 is removed from the first storage unit 25b, and an empty conveying device 40 is attached to the first storage unit 25b instead. The filled conveying device 40 is stored in a predetermined location as needed and then conveyed to the positive electrode material supply device 32 of the winding machine 30, which will be described later. When the drawing of the positive electrode material 2 into the transport device 40 arranged in the second storage section 25c is completed, the loaded transport device 40 is replaced with an empty transport device 40 in the same procedure.

[0024] The configurations and operations of the retraction portions 24d and 25d will be described later.

[0025] [Winding machine 30] The winding machine 30 includes a negative electrode material supply device 31, a positive electrode material supply device 32, an outer separator supply device 33, an inner separator supply device 34, and a winding device 35. The negative electrode material supply device 31 and the positive electrode material supply device 32 are each an example of an "electrode material supply device" according to the present disclosure. The outer separator supply device 33 and the inner separator supply device 34 are each an example of a "separator supply device" according to the present disclosure.

[0026] The negative electrode material supply device 31 withdraws the negative electrode material 1 from the conveying device 40 and supplies it to the winding device 35. The negative electrode material supply device 31 has a housing 31a, a first storage section 31b, a second storage section 31c, and a withdrawal section 31d. The housing 31a is a box that accommodates the first storage section 31b, the second storage section 31c, and the withdrawal section 31d. The first storage section 31b and the second storage section 31c face each other with the withdrawal section 31d in between. The first storage section 31b and the second storage section 31c are each spaces for accommodating the negative electrode material 1. In this embodiment, a conveying device 40 for supplying the negative electrode material 1 is disposed in each of the first storage section 31b and the second storage section 31c. The withdrawal section 31d is disposed between the first storage section 31b and the second storage section 31c. The draw-out unit 31d draws out the negative electrode material 1 from the first storage unit 31b or the second storage unit 31c. In this embodiment, drawing out the negative electrode material 1 from the first storage unit 31b or the second storage unit 31c is synonymous with drawing the wound negative electrode material 1 from the conveying device 40. The negative electrode material 1 drawn out by the draw-out unit 31d is supplied to the winding device 35. The draw-out unit 31d alternates between drawing out the negative electrode material 1 from the first storage unit 31b and the second storage unit 31c. Specifically, when the draw-out unit 31d completes drawing out the negative electrode material 1 from the conveying device 40 arranged in the first storage unit 31b, it starts drawing out the negative electrode material 1 from the conveying device 40 arranged in the second storage unit 31c. The empty conveying device 40 is removed from the first storage unit 31b, and a filled conveying device 40 is attached to the first storage unit 31b instead. The empty transport device 40 is stored in a predetermined location as needed, and then transported to the first recovery device 14 or the second recovery device 15 of the above-mentioned negative electrode material recovery device 13. When the extraction of the negative electrode material 1 from the transport device 40 arranged in the second storage section 31c is completed, the empty transport device 40 is replaced with a loaded transport device 40 in the same procedure. The configuration and operation of the extraction section 31d will be described later.

[0027] The positive electrode material supply device 32 draws out the positive electrode material 2 from the conveying device 40 and supplies it to the winding device 35. The positive electrode material supply device 32 has a housing 32a, a first storage section 32b, a second storage section 32c, and a drawing section 32d. The housing 32a is a box that houses the first storage section 32b, the second storage section 32c, and the drawing section 32d. The first storage section 32b and the second storage section 32c face each other with the drawing section 32d in between. The first storage section 32b and the second storage section 32c are each spaces for storing the positive electrode material 2. In this embodiment, a conveying device 40 for supplying the positive electrode material 2 is disposed in each of the first storage section 32b and the second storage section 32c. The drawing section 32d is disposed between the first storage section 32b and the second storage section 32c. The draw-out unit 32d draws the positive electrode material 2 from the first storage unit 32b or the second storage unit 32c. In this embodiment, drawing the positive electrode material 2 from the first storage unit 32b or the second storage unit 32c is synonymous with drawing the wound positive electrode material 2 from the conveying device 40. The positive electrode material 2 drawn by the draw-out unit 32d is supplied to the winding device 35. The draw-out unit 32d alternates between drawing the positive electrode material 2 from the first storage unit 32b and the second storage unit 32c. Specifically, when the draw-out unit 32d completes drawing the positive electrode material 2 from the conveying device 40 arranged in the first storage unit 32b, it starts drawing the positive electrode material 2 from the conveying device 40 arranged in the second storage unit 32c. The empty conveying device 40 is removed from the first storage unit 32b, and a filled conveying device 40 is attached to the first storage unit 32b instead. The empty transport device 40 is stored in a predetermined location as needed, and then transported to the first recovery device 24 or the second recovery device 25 of the above-mentioned cathode material recovery device 23. When the extraction of the cathode material 2 from the transport device 40 arranged in the second storage unit 32c is completed, the empty transport device 40 is replaced with a loaded transport device 40 in the same procedure. The configuration and operation of the extraction unit 32d will be described later.

[0028] The outer separator supply device 33 is disposed between the negative electrode material supply device 31 and the winding device 35. The outer separator supply device 33 supplies insulating outer separators 3 to the winding device 35. The outer separator supply device 33 has a housing 33a, a first storage section 33b, a second storage section 33c, a switching section 33d, and an extracting section 33e. The housing 33a is a box that houses the first storage section 33b, the second storage section 33c, the switching section 33d, and the extracting section 33e. The first storage section 33b and the second storage section 33c store wound outer separators 3. Removable cassettes can be used as the first storage section 33b and the second storage section 33c, respectively. The switching section 33d switches the supply source of the outer separator 3 between the first storage section 33b and the second storage section 33c. The pull-out section 33e feeds the outer separator 3 toward the winding device 35. The pull-out section 33e is made up of a plurality of rollers.

[0029] The inner separator supply device 34 is disposed between the positive electrode material supply device 32 and the winding device 35. The inner separator supply device 34 supplies an insulating inner separator 4 to the winding device 35. The inner separator supply device 34 has a housing 34a, a first storage section 34b, a second storage section 34c, a switching section 34d, and a drawing section 34e. The housing 34a is a box that houses the first storage section 34b, the second storage section 34c, the switching section 34d, and the drawing section 34e. The first storage section 34b and the second storage section 34c house wound inner separators 4. Removable cassettes can be used as the first storage section 34b and the second storage section 34c, respectively. The switching section 34d switches the supply source of the inner separator 4 between the first storage section 34b and the second storage section 34c. The pull-out section 34e feeds the inner separator 4 toward the winding device 35. The pull-out section 34e is made up of a plurality of rollers.

[0030] The winding device 35 forms an electrode assembly 5 by stacking and winding the outer separator 3, the negative electrode material 1, the inner separator 4, and the positive electrode material 2 in this order. The winding device 35 has a housing 35a, a negative electrode material feed section 35b, a positive electrode material feed section 35c, an outer separator feed section 35d, an inner separator feed section 35e, and a winding spindle 35f. The housing 35a is a box that houses the negative electrode material feed section 35b, the positive electrode material feed section 35c, the outer separator feed section 35d, the inner separator feed section 35e, and the winding spindle 35f. The negative electrode material feed section 35b feeds the negative electrode material 1, which is supplied from the negative electrode material supply device 31 via the outer separator supply device 33, to the winding spindle 35f. The positive electrode material feed unit 35c feeds the positive electrode material 2 supplied from the positive electrode material feed device 32 via the inner separator feed device 34 to the winding spindle 35f. The outer separator feed unit 35d feeds the outer separator 3 supplied from the outer separator feed device 33 to the winding spindle 35f. The inner separator feed unit 35e feeds the inner separator 4 supplied from the inner separator feed device 34 to the winding spindle 35f. The winding spindle 35f is driven to rotate by a servo motor (not shown). As the winding spindle 35f is driven to rotate, an electrode body 5 is formed in which the outer separator 3, negative electrode material 1, inner separator 4, and positive electrode material 2 are stacked in this order.

[0031] (Transportation device 40) 2 and 3 are side views schematically showing the configuration of the transport device 40. Figures 4 and 5 are front views schematically showing the configuration of the transport device 40. In Figures 2 and 4, a braking device 46, which will be described later, is in a braking state, and in Figures 3 and 5, the braking device 46 is in an open state.

[0032] As described above, the conveying device 40 is used in common to convey the negative electrode material 1 between the negative electrode tab forming machine 10 and the winding machine 30, and to convey the positive electrode material 2 between the positive electrode tab forming machine 20 and the winding machine 30. In the following description, the negative electrode material 1 and the positive electrode material 2 will be collectively referred to as "electrode material 6."

[0033] The transport device 40 is a so-called cassette (cartridge) for easily transporting the electrode material 6. The transport device 40 according to this embodiment has a simplified configuration by not being equipped with any electrical components that require power supply. In this specification, the term "transport" means movement from one place to another, and is a concept that also includes temporary storage at a predetermined location during movement.

[0034] The conveying device 40 includes a box 41, a bobbin 42, a support shaft 43, first and second power couplings 44a and 44b, first and second sealing portions 45a and 45b, a brake device 46, a shutter device 47, a traveling device 48, and a clamp device 49. The first and second power couplings 44a and 44b are each an example of a "power coupling" according to the present disclosure. The first and second sealing portions 45a and 45b are each an example of a "sealing portion" according to the present disclosure.

[0035] The box body 41 houses various components such as a bobbin 42. The box body 41 is composed of a cover 41a and a bottom plate 41b. The cover 41a is placed on the bottom plate 41b. The cover 41a is an exterior member that covers the components housed inside. The bottom plate 41b is a support member that supports the cover 41a and the components housed in the cover 41a. The bottom plate 41b is supported by a traveling device 48. The shapes of the cover 41a and the bottom plate 41b can be changed as appropriate.

[0036] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 , the box 41 has an insertion opening 41c and a sensing opening 41d. The insertion opening 41c is a through-hole formed in the front surface F1 of the box 41. The insertion opening 41c is used to insert the electrode material 6 or a leader 42b (described later). A clamp device 49 is installed in the insertion opening 41c. The sensing opening 41d is a through-hole formed in the rear surface F2 of the box 41. The sensing opening 41d faces the bobbin 42 in a radial direction perpendicular to the axis of the support shaft 43 (described later). The sensing opening 41d is used to transmit light emitted from an outer diameter detection sensor S. Although not shown in FIG. 1 , the outer diameter detection sensor S is installed in each storage compartment of the negative electrode tab molding machine 10, the positive electrode tab molding machine 20, and the winding machine 30. The outer diameter detection sensor S detects the outer diameter of the electrode material 6. The outer diameter of the electrode material 6 is used to estimate the remaining amount of the electrode material 6 wound around the bobbin 42. A shutter device 47, which will be described later, is installed inside the sensing opening 41d. The shutter device 47 switches between opening and closing the sensing opening 41d.

[0037] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the box 41 has a first edge sensor insertion hole 41e and a second edge sensor insertion hole 41f. The first edge sensor insertion hole 41e and the second edge sensor insertion hole 41f each penetrate the box 41 in an axial direction parallel to the axis of a support shaft 43 (described later). The first edge sensor insertion hole 41e and the second edge sensor insertion hole 41f each define an inner space of a rectangular tubular member made of a translucent material. Both ends of the rectangular tubular member are joined to the box 41. The first edge sensor insertion hole 41e and the second edge sensor insertion hole 41f are not connected to the inner space of the box 41. Therefore, the inner space of the box 41 is kept airtight. An edge sensor light-emitting unit T1 is inserted into the first edge sensor insertion hole 41e. An edge sensor light-receiving unit T2 is inserted into the second edge sensor insertion hole 41f. The edge sensor light-emitting unit T1 emits laser light toward the edge sensor light-receiving unit T2. The edge sensor light-receiving unit T2 receives the laser light emitted by the edge sensor light-emitting unit T1. The edge sensor light-receiving unit T2 detects the edge position of the electrode material 6 based on the position at which the laser light is received. Note that the rectangular tube member is translucent and does not impede light reception at the edge sensor light-receiving unit T2. The edge sensor light-emitting unit T1 and the edge sensor light-receiving unit T2 are not components of the conveying device 40, but are components of the negative electrode tab forming machine 10, the positive electrode tab forming machine 20, and the winding machine 30, respectively. Specifically, the edge sensor light-emitting unit T1 and the edge sensor light-receiving unit T2 are installed in the respective accommodation units of the negative electrode tab forming machine 10, the positive electrode tab forming machine 20, and the winding machine 30. The edge sensor light-emitting unit T1 and the edge sensor light-receiving unit T2 are configured to enter the first and second edge sensor insertion holes 41e, 41f when the conveying device 40 is installed in the storage section, and to retract from the first and second edge sensor insertion holes 41e, 41f when the conveying device 40 is removed from the storage section.

[0038] As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the box body 41 has a first recess 41g and a second recess 41h. The first recess 41g is a recess with a bottom formed in the first side surface F3 of the box body 41. A through hole is formed in the bottom surface of the first recess 41g, through which one end of the support shaft 43 is inserted. The first power coupling 44a is housed inside the first recess 41g. The second recess 41h is a recess with a bottom formed in the second side surface F4 of the box body 41. A through hole is formed in the bottom surface of the second recess 41h, through which the other end of the support shaft 43 is inserted. The second power coupling 44b is housed inside the second recess 41h.

[0039] The bobbin 42 is a member for winding the electrode material 6. FIGS. 2 and 3 show the bobbin 42 with the electrode material 6 wound thereon, while FIGS. 4 and 5 show the bobbin 42 without the electrode material 6 wound thereon. FIG. 6 is a side view showing the configuration of the bobbin 42. The bobbin 42 has a bobbin body 42a and a leader 42b. The bobbin body 42a is formed in a cylindrical shape. The leader 42b is a line for connecting the bobbin body 42a and the electrode material 6. In this embodiment, the leader 42b is formed in a sheet shape. A base end of the leader 42b is fixed to a side surface 42c of the bobbin body 42a. The electrode material 6 is connected to a tip end of the leader 42b via an adhesive member 42d. The electrode material 6 can be wound around the side surface 42c of the bobbin body 42a, following the leader 42b.

[0040] As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the support shaft 43 is inserted through the center of the bobbin 42. The support shaft 43 supports the bobbin 42. The support shaft 43 is fixed to the bobbin 42 and rotates together with the bobbin 42. One end of the support shaft 43 penetrates the bottom surface of the first recess 41g and protrudes inside the first recess 41g. The other end of the support shaft 43 penetrates the bottom surface of the second recess 41h and protrudes inside the second recess 41h. A pair of bearings 43a, 43a is attached to the support shaft 43. The pair of bearings 43a, 43a is arranged on both sides of the bobbin 42. The pair of bearings 43a, 43a rotatably support the support shaft 43. Each bearing 43a is arranged on an LM (Linear Motion) guide 43b. Each LM guide 43b is installed on a support base 43c. Each support base 43c is disposed on the bottom plate 41b.

[0041] As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the first power coupling 44a is fixed to one end of the support shaft 43, and the second power coupling 44b is fixed to the other end of the support shaft 43. The first power coupling 44a is housed inside the first recess 41g. It is preferable that the first power coupling 44a does not protrude outside the first recess 41g. This prevents the first power coupling 44a from hitting surrounding objects when the transport device 40 is transported. The second power coupling 44b is housed inside the second recess 41h. It is preferable that the second power coupling 44b does not protrude outside the second recess 41h. This prevents the second power coupling 44b from hitting surrounding objects when the transport device 40 is transported.

[0042] 4 and 5, the first power coupling 44a is connected to a drive coupling 100a. The drive coupling 100a is fixed to the tip of a drive shaft 100b. When the drive shaft 100b is driven to rotate by a servo motor (not shown), the support shaft 43 connected via the drive coupling 100a and the first power coupling 44a rotates. As a result, the bobbin 42 rotates in a desired direction, whereby the electrode material 6 is wound around the bobbin 42 or the electrode material 6 is pulled out from the bobbin 42.

[0043] The drive joint 100a and the drive shaft 100b are not components of the conveying device 40, but are components of the negative electrode tab forming machine 10, the positive electrode tab forming machine 20, and the winding machine 30. Specifically, the drive joint 100a and the drive shaft 100b are installed in the respective housing sections of the negative electrode tab forming machine 10, the positive electrode tab forming machine 20, and the winding machine 30.

[0044] In this embodiment, a plurality of teeth formed on the tip of the first power coupling 44a mesh with a plurality of teeth formed on the tip of the drive coupling 100a, thereby connecting the first power coupling 44a to the drive coupling 100a. However, the connecting structure between the first power coupling 44a and the drive coupling 100a is not limited to this.

[0045] 4 and 5, the first power coupling 44a is connected to the drive coupling 100a, but the first power coupling 44a may be connected to the drive coupling 100a or the second power coupling 44b may be connected to the drive coupling 100a depending on the orientation of the transport device 40. In this way, by arranging the power couplings at both ends of the support shaft 43, the support shaft 43 can be driven to rotate regardless of the orientation of the transport device 40.

[0046] The first sealing portion 45a seals the gap between the cover 41a of the box body 41 and the support shaft 43. The second sealing portion 45b seals the gap between the cover 41a of the box body 41 and the support shaft 43. This makes it possible to suppress fluctuations in the environment (e.g., humidity) inside the box body 41, thereby suppressing deterioration of the electrode material 6. Well-known mechanical seals can be used as the first and second sealing portions 45a, 45b.

[0047] The brake device 46 brakes the rotation of the bobbin 42. The brake device 46 can be switched between a braked state in which the rotation of the bobbin 42 is braked and an open state in which the rotation of the bobbin 42 is not braked. When the electrode material 6 is drawn out from the bobbin 42 or when the electrode material 6 is wound around the bobbin 42, the brake device 46 is switched to the open state so as not to hinder the movement of the electrode material 6. When the conveying device 40 is conveyed, the brake device 46 is switched to the braked state so as to prevent the electrode material 6 wound around the bobbin 42 from sagging and becoming tangled. The brake device 46 is manually switched by an operator.

[0048] As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the brake device 46 includes a brake pad 46a, a brake operation unit 46b, and a first link mechanism 46c. The brake pad 46a is disposed inside the box body 41 and faces the side surface of the bobbin 42. The brake operation unit 46b is disposed outside the box body 41 and is rotatable about a predetermined axis 46d. The first link mechanism 46c connects the brake pad 46a and the brake operation unit 46b. The first link mechanism 46c moves the brake pad 46a toward and away from the bobbin 42 in response to the rotation of the brake operation unit 46b. Specifically, when the operator rotates the brake operation unit 46b so that it stands upright, the first link mechanism 46c operates to bring the brake pad 46a into contact with the bobbin 42 (FIG. 4). On the other hand, when the operator rotates the brake operating portion 46b so that it lies horizontally, the first link mechanism 46c operates to move the brake pad 46a away from the bobbin 42 (FIG. 5).

[0049] In this way, the brake device 46 can be easily switched between the braking state and the released state by rotating the brake operating portion 46b.

[0050] In this embodiment, the brake pads 46a are provided on both sides of the bobbin 42, but the brake pads 46a may be provided on only one side of the bobbin 42.

[0051] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the shutter device 47 has a shutter 47a and a second link mechanism 47b. The shutter 47a is disposed inside the box body 41. For example, a plate-shaped member can be used as the shutter 47a. The shutter 47a opens and closes the sensing opening 41d. The second link mechanism 47b connects the shutter 47a to the first link mechanism 46c of the brake device 46. The second link mechanism 47b moves the shutter 47a in response to rotation of the brake operating portion 46b of the brake device 46, thereby opening and closing the sensing opening 41d.

[0052] 7 and 8 are schematic diagrams for explaining the operation of the shutter 47a. Figures 7 and 8 show the shutter 47a as viewed from the inside of the box body 41. An opening 47c is formed in the shutter 47a.

[0053] When the operator rotates the brake operating unit 46b so that it stands upright, the second link mechanism 47b operates via the first link mechanism 46c to move the shutter 47a downward (FIG. 7). As a result, the opening 47c of the shutter 47a is displaced from the sensing opening 41d, and the sensing opening 41d is closed by the shutter 47a. Therefore, when the conveying device 40 is conveyed, fluctuations in the environment (e.g., humidity) inside the box 41 can be suppressed, and deterioration of the electrode material 6 can be suppressed.

[0054] On the other hand, when the operator rotates the brake operating part 46b so that it lies horizontally, the second link mechanism 47b operates via the first link mechanism 46c to move the shutter 47a upward (FIG. 8). As a result, the opening 47c of the shutter 47a coincides with the sensing opening 41d, and the sensing opening 41d is opened. Therefore, when the electrode material 6 is drawn out from the bobbin 42 or wound around the bobbin 42, the outer diameter of the electrode material 6 can be detected by the outer diameter detection sensor S.

[0055] In this way, the sensing opening 41d can be automatically opened and closed in conjunction with the switching of the brake device 46, so there is no need to perform the cumbersome operation of the shutter 47a.

[0056] The traveling device 48 supports the box body 41 so that the box body 41 can travel. The traveling device 48 is disposed below the box body 41. The traveling device 48 has wheels.

[0057] The clamp device 49 is attached to the box body 41. In this embodiment, the clamp device 49 is disposed outside the box body 41 and attached to the front surface F1 of the box body 41. The clamp device 49 grips the tip of the leader 42b or the tip of the electrode material 6 exposed to the outside of the box body 41 through the insertion opening 41c. This eliminates the need for an operator to remove the leader 42b or the tip of the electrode material 6 from inside the box body 41 when pulling out the electrode material 6 from the bobbin 42 or winding the electrode material 6 around the bobbin 42. This allows the conveying device 40 to be quickly set in each of the accommodation sections of the negative electrode tab forming machine 10, the positive electrode tab forming machine 20, and the winding machine 30.

[0058] 2 and 3, the clamp device 49 is covered by a protective cover 50. The protective cover 50 is a box made of metal, plastic, or the like. The protective cover 50 is attached to the box body 41 so as to be openable and closable. The protective cover 50 is opened when the electrode material 6 is drawn out from the bobbin 42 or when the electrode material 6 is wound around the bobbin 42. The protective cover 50 is closed when the transport device 40 is transported. This prevents the clamp device 49 from hitting surrounding objects when the transport device 40 is transported.

[0059] 9 to 12 are schematic diagrams for explaining the configuration and operation of the clamp device 49. Figs. 9 and 11 are side views of the clamp device 49, and Figs. 10 and 12 are plan views of the clamp device 49. Figs. 9 and 10 show a state in which the electrode material 6 is gripped by the clamp device 49, while Figs. 11 and 12 show a state in which the electrode material 6 is not gripped by the clamp device 49. The protective cover 50 is not shown in Figs. 9 to 12.

[0060] The clamp device 49 has a clamp operating portion 49a, a link mechanism 49b, a first support portion 49c, a second support portion 49d, an LM guide 49e, a first grip portion 49f, a second grip portion 49g, and a guide 49h. The link mechanism 49b, the first support portion 49c, the second support portion 49d, and the LM guide 49e are provided in pairs on the left and right sides.

[0061] The clamp operation unit 49a is rotatable around a predetermined axis 49j. The link mechanism 49b connects the first and second support units 49c and 49d to the predetermined axis 49j. The first support unit 49c supports the first grip unit 49f. The second support unit 49d supports the first grip unit 49g. The first grip unit 49f is located below the second grip unit 49g. The link mechanism 49b moves the first and second support units 49c and 49d closer to and away from each other along the LM guide 49e in response to the rotation of the clamp operation unit 49a.

[0062] When the operator rotates the clamp operation unit 49a so that it stands upright, the link mechanism 49b operates to bring the first and second support units 49c, 49d closer to each other (FIGS. 9 and 10). This brings the first and second gripping units 49f, 49g closer to each other and grips the tip of the electrode material 6. When the first and second gripping units 49f, 49g grip the tip of the electrode material 6, the first and second gripping units 49f, 49g close the insertion opening 41c. This makes it possible to suppress fluctuations in the environment (e.g., humidity) inside the box 41, thereby suppressing deterioration of the electrode material 6.

[0063] On the other hand, when the operator rotates the clamp operation part 49a so that it lies horizontally, the link mechanism 49b operates to move the first and second support parts 49c, 49d apart (FIGS. 11 and 12). This causes the first and second gripping parts 49f, 49g to move away from each other, releasing the tip of the electrode material 6. In this way, when the first and second gripping parts 49f, 49g are not gripping the tip of the electrode material 6, the first and second gripping parts 49f, 49g open the insertion opening 41c. This prevents the movement of the electrode material 6 from being hindered when the electrode material 6 is pulled out from the bobbin 42 or wound around the bobbin 42.

[0064] The guide 49h is attached to the first gripping portion 49f located below the second gripping portion 49g. The guide 49h supports the tip of the electrode material 6 from below. This prevents the tip of the electrode material 6 protruding from the first and second gripping portions 49f, 49g from drooping, improving the ease of handling of the tip of the electrode material 6.

[0065] 9 to 12, the case where the tip of the electrode material 6 is gripped by the clamp device 49 has been described, but the clamp device 49 may grip the tip of the leader 42b.

[0066] (Configuration and Operation of Retraction Section 14d) The retraction portion 14d of the negative electrode tab molding machine 10, the retraction portion 15d of the negative electrode tab molding machine 10, the retraction portion 24d of the positive electrode tab molding machine 20, and the retraction portion 25d of the positive electrode tab molding machine 20 are each an example of a "retraction portion" according to the present disclosure.

[0067] Retraction sections 14d, 15d, 24d, and 25d each have the same configuration and operate in the same manner. Therefore, the configuration and operation of retraction section 14d will be described below as a representative example of a "retraction section" with reference to the drawings. Figures 13 to 26 are schematic diagrams for explaining the configuration and operation of retraction section 14d.

[0068] As shown in FIG. 13, the retraction section 14d has a fixed guide roller a, a first movable guide roller b1, a second movable guide roller b2, a first pull-out roller c1, a second pull-out roller c2, a fixed gripping section d, a first movable gripping section e1, a second movable gripping section e2, a cutter f, a first position sensor g1, a second position sensor g2, and an adhesive pad h.

[0069] The fixed guide roller a is disposed upstream of the cutter f. The position of the fixed guide roller a is fixed. The first movable guide roller b1 is disposed downstream of the cutter f. The first movable guide roller b1 is movable between a guide position where it guides the negative electrode material 1 and a retracted position where it does not interfere with the transport of the first movable gripper e1. The second movable guide roller b2 is disposed downstream of the cutter f. The second movable guide roller b2 is movable between a guide position where it guides the negative electrode material 1 and a retracted position where it does not interfere with the transport of the second movable gripper e2. In this embodiment, the terms upstream and downstream are used with reference to the flow direction of the negative electrode material 1.

[0070] The first draw-out roller c1 is disposed in a position facing the clamp device 49 of the conveying device 40 disposed in the first storage section 14b. The first draw-out roller c1 is composed of a pair of drive rollers that can be moved toward and away from each other. The pair of drive rollers that constitute the first draw-out roller c1 can be rotated by a servo motor (not shown). The second draw-out roller c2 is disposed in a position facing the clamp device 49 of the conveying device 40 disposed in the second storage section 14c. The second draw-out roller c2 is composed of a pair of drive rollers that can be moved toward and away from each other. The pair of drive rollers that constitute the second draw-out roller c2 can be rotated by a servo motor (not shown). The fixed gripper d is disposed between the fixed guide roller a and the cutter f. The fixed gripper d is composed of a pair of pads that can be moved toward and away from each other. The first movable gripper e1 is configured to be movable between the first draw-out roller c1 and the cutter f. The first movable gripper e1 is composed of a pair of pads that can be moved toward and away from each other. The second movable gripping part e2 is configured to be movable between the second pull-out roller c2 and the cutter f. The second movable gripping part e2 is configured by a pair of pads that can come into contact with and separate from each other.

[0071] The cutter f is positioned downstream of the fixed gripping portion d. The cutter f is configured to be able to retreat to a position where it does not interfere with the movement of the application pad h. The first position sensor g1 is positioned upstream of the first pull-out roller c1. The first position sensor g1 detects the position of the rear end of the negative electrode material 1 or the front end of the leader 42b. The second position sensor g2 is positioned upstream of the second pull-out roller c2. The second position sensor g2 detects the position of the rear end of the negative electrode material 1 or the front end of the leader 42b. The application pad h is positioned in the same position as the cutter f. The application pad h is configured to be able to apply an adhesive member (not shown) to a starting end 1P of the negative electrode material 1 and a front end 1R of the leader 42b, which will be described later.

[0072] First, as shown in FIG. 13, a conveying device 40 currently winding a negative electrode material 1 is disposed in the first storage section 14b, and an empty conveying device 40 without a negative electrode material 1 wound thereon is disposed in the second storage section 14c. The negative electrode material 1 is drawn into the conveying device 40 disposed in the first storage section 14b via the drawing section 14d. Specifically, the negative electrode material 1 is guided sequentially by the fixed guide roller a and the first movable guide roller b1, passes between the first drawing roller c1, and is drawn into the conveying device 40 disposed in the first storage section 14b. The clamping device 49 of the conveying device 40 disposed in the first storage section 14b does not grip the negative electrode material 1. The first stopper 14e fixes the conveying device 40 disposed in the first storage section 14b. The clamping device 49 of the conveying device 40 disposed in the second storage section 14c grips the leader 42b. The tip 1R of the leader 42b is inserted between the second pull-out rollers c2.

[0073] Next, as shown in FIG. 14, the first stopper 14f fixes the empty transport device 40 placed in the second storage section 14c.

[0074] Next, as shown in FIG. 15, the second pull-out roller c2 grips the tip 1R of the leader 42b.

[0075] Next, although not shown, when the desired amount of negative electrode material 1 is filled into the conveying device 40 arranged in the first storage section 14b, the rotation of the drive shaft 100b (see Figure 4) is stopped, thereby interrupting the winding of the negative electrode material 1.

[0076] Next, as shown in Fig. 16, the fixed gripping unit d grips the negative electrode material 1, and the first movable gripping unit e1 grips the negative electrode material 1. At this time, the first movable gripping unit e1 is located on the opposite side of the fixed gripping unit d with respect to the cutter f. Also, as shown in Fig. 16, the first pull-out roller c1 grips the negative electrode material 1, and the clamp device 49 of the transport device 40 arranged in the second storage unit 14c releases the leader 42b.

[0077] Next, as shown in FIG. 17, the cutter f cuts the negative electrode material 1. This separates the negative electrode material 1 between the starting end 1P and the ending end 1Q. Also, as shown in FIG. 17, the second pull-out roller c2 rotates while gripping the leading end 1R of the leader 42b, thereby pulling out the leading end 1R of the leader 42b. This eliminates the need for an operator to manually pull out the leader 42b, making it easy to recover the electrode material. The leading end 1R of the leader 42b is inserted between the second movable gripping members e2. At this time, the second position sensor g2 detects the position of the leading end of the leader 42b, and the rotation of the second pull-out roller c2 stops when the leading end of the leader 42b protrudes a predetermined amount from the second movable gripping members e2.

[0078] Next, as shown in Fig. 18, the first movable gripping unit e1 grips the terminal end 1Q of the negative electrode material 1 and starts transporting it toward the first storage unit 14b, and the first movable guide roller b1 starts moving from the guide position where it guides the negative electrode material 1 toward a retracted position where it does not interfere with the transport of the first movable gripping unit e1. At this time, the bobbin 42 rotates by the amount of movement of the first movable gripping unit e1, and the negative electrode material 1 is wound onto the bobbin 42. Also, as shown in Fig. 18, the second movable gripping unit e2 grips the front end 1R of the leader 42b, and the cutter f retracts to a position where it does not interfere with the movement of the application pad h.

[0079] Next, as shown in Fig. 19, the first movable gripping unit e1 continues to transport the terminal end 1Q of the negative electrode material 1, while the first movable guide roller b1 completes its movement to the retracted position. Also, as shown in Fig. 19, the second movable gripping unit e2, while holding the terminal end 1R of the leader 42b, begins to transport the terminal end 1R of the leader 42b toward the starting end 1P of the negative electrode material 1 that was cut by the cutter f. At this time, the bobbin 42 rotates by the amount of movement of the second movable gripping unit e2, thereby feeding out the leader 42b.

[0080] 20, the first movable gripping part e1 continues to transport the terminal end 1Q of the negative electrode material 1, while the second movable gripping part e2 continues to transport the leading end 1R of the leader 42b. At this time, the second movable guide roller b2 is located in a retracted position where it does not interfere with the transport of the second movable gripping part e2.

[0081] 21, the second movable gripper e2 completes transporting the leading end 1R of the leader 42b while the first movable gripper e1 continues transporting the trailing end 1Q of the negative electrode material 1. Also, as shown in FIG. 21, the second movable guide roller b2 starts moving toward a guide position for guiding the leader 42b and the negative electrode material 1.

[0082] Next, as shown in FIG. 22, the first movable gripping part e1 completes transporting the terminal end 1Q of the negative electrode material 1, and the second movable guide roller b2 completes moving to the guide position.

[0083] Next, as shown in Fig. 23, the attachment pad h uses an adhesive member to connect the tip portion 1R of the leader 42b to the starting end portion 1P of the negative electrode material 1. Also, as shown in Fig. 23, the first movable gripping portion e1 releases the terminal end portion 1Q of the negative electrode material 1.

[0084] Next, as shown in FIG. 24, the first draw-out roller c1 rotates while gripping the terminal end 1Q of the negative electrode material 1, thereby drawing in the terminal end 1Q of the negative electrode material 1. This draws the terminal end 1Q of the negative electrode material 1 up to the front of the first draw-out roller c1. At this time, the bobbin 42 rotates by the amount of the draw-in of the terminal end 1Q by the first draw-out roller c1, and the negative electrode material 1 is wound onto the bobbin 42. The first position sensor g1 detects the position of the rear end of the negative electrode material 1, and the rotation of the first draw-out roller c1 stops when the rear end of the terminal end 1Q moves a predetermined distance away from the first movable gripper e1. Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 24, the clamp device 49 of the transport device 40 arranged in the first storage section 14b grips the negative electrode material 1.

[0085] Next, as shown in Fig. 25, the fixed gripper d releases the starting end 1P of the negative electrode material 1, and the second movable gripper e2 releases the leading end 1R of the leader 42b. Also, as shown in Fig. 25, the first pull-out roller c1 releases the terminal end 1Q of the negative electrode material 1, and the second pull-out roller c2 releases the leader 42b.

[0086] 26, the drive shaft 100b (see FIG. 4) connected to the transport device 40 disposed in the second storage section 14c is rotated to rotate the bobbin 42. As a result, the leader 42b and the negative electrode material 1 are wound around the bobbin 42 in sequence.

[0087] (Configuration and Operation of the Lead-Out Portion 31d) The draw-out section 31d and the draw-out section 32d of the winding machine 30 are each an example of the "draw-out section" according to the present disclosure.

[0088] The drawers 31d and 32d have the same configuration and operate in the same manner. Therefore, the configuration and operation of the drawer 31d will be described below as a representative example of the "drawer" with reference to the drawings. Figures 27 to 40 are schematic diagrams for explaining the configuration and operation of the drawer 31d.

[0089] As shown in Figure 27, the drawer section 31d has a fixed guide roller j, a first movable guide roller k1, a second movable guide roller k2, a first drawer roller m1, a second drawer roller m2, a fixed gripping section n, a first movable gripping section p1, a second movable gripping section p2, a cutter q, a first position sensor r1, a second position sensor r2, and an adhesive pad s.

[0090] The fixed guide roller j is positioned downstream of the cutter q. The position of the fixed guide roller j is fixed. The first movable guide roller k1 is positioned upstream of the cutter q. The first movable guide roller k1 is movable between a guide position where it guides the negative electrode material 1 and a retracted position where it does not interfere with the transport of the first movable gripper p1. The second movable guide roller k2 is positioned upstream of the cutter q. The second movable guide roller k2 is movable between a guide position where it guides the negative electrode material 1 and a retracted position where it does not interfere with the transport of the second movable gripper p2. In this embodiment, the terms upstream and downstream are used with reference to the flow direction of the negative electrode material 1.

[0091] The first draw-out roller m1 is disposed in a position facing the clamp device 49 of the transport device 40 disposed in the first storage section 31b. The first draw-out roller m1 is composed of a pair of drive rollers that can be moved toward and away from each other. The pair of drive rollers that constitute the first draw-out roller m1 can be rotated by a servo motor (not shown). The second draw-out roller m2 is disposed in a position facing the clamp device 49 of the transport device 40 disposed in the second storage section 31c. The second draw-out roller m2 is composed of a pair of drive rollers that can be moved toward and away from each other. The pair of drive rollers that constitute the second draw-out roller m2 can be rotated by a servo motor (not shown). The fixed gripping unit n is disposed between the fixed guide roller j and the cutter q. The fixed gripping unit n is composed of a pair of pads that can be moved toward and away from each other. The first movable gripping unit p1 is configured to be movable between the first draw-out roller m1 and the cutter q. The first movable gripping unit p1 is composed of a pair of pads that can be moved toward and away from each other. The second movable gripping part p2 is configured to be movable between the second pull-out roller m2 and the cutter q. The second movable gripping part p2 is configured by a pair of pads that can come into contact with and separate from each other.

[0092] The cutter q is arranged upstream of the fixed gripping portion n. The cutter q is configured to be able to retreat to a position where it does not interfere with the movement of the applying pad s. The first position sensor r1 is arranged downstream of the first pull-out roller m1. The first position sensor r1 detects the position of the leading or trailing end of the negative electrode material 1. The second position sensor r2 is arranged downstream of the second pull-out roller m2. The second position sensor r2 detects the position of the leading or trailing end of the negative electrode material 1. The applying pad s is arranged in the same position as the cutter q. The applying pad s is configured to be able to apply an adhesive member (not shown) to a starting end 1S of the negative electrode material 1 and a leading end 1U of the negative electrode material 1, which will be described later.

[0093] First, as shown in FIG. 27, a conveying device 40 drawing out the negative electrode material 1 is placed in the first storage section 31b, and a conveying device 40 filled with the negative electrode material 1 is placed in the second storage section 31c. The negative electrode material 1 is drawn out from the conveying device 40 placed in the first storage section 31b via the drawing section 31d. Specifically, the negative electrode material 1 is drawn out from the conveying device 40 placed in the first storage section 31b, passes between the first drawing rollers m1, and is then guided sequentially by the first movable guide roller k1 and the fixed guide roller j. The clamping device 49 of the conveying device 40 placed in the first storage section 31b does not grip the negative electrode material 1. The first stopper 14g fixes the conveying device 40 placed in the first storage section 31b. The clamping device 49 of the conveying device 40 placed in the second storage section 31c grips the negative electrode material 1. The leading end 1U of the negative electrode material 1 is inserted between the second drawing rollers m2. The negative electrode material 1 drawn out from the conveying device 40 arranged in the first storage section 31b is an example of the "first electrode material" according to the present disclosure, and the negative electrode material 1 filled in the conveying device 40 arranged in the second storage section 31c is an example of the "second electrode material" according to the present disclosure.

[0094] Next, as shown in FIG. 28, the first stopper 14h fixes the transport device 40 placed in the second accommodating portion 31c.

[0095] Next, as shown in FIG. 29, the second pull-out roller m2 grips the tip portion 1U of the negative electrode material 1.

[0096] Next, although not shown, when the amount of negative electrode material 1 remaining in the conveying device 40 arranged in the first storage section 31b falls below a predetermined amount, the rotational drive of the drive shaft 100b (see Figure 4) stops, thereby suspending the extraction of the negative electrode material 1.

[0097] Next, as shown in Fig. 30, the fixed gripping unit n grips the negative electrode material 1, and the first movable gripping unit p1 grips the negative electrode material 1. At this time, the first movable gripping unit p1 is located on the opposite side of the fixed gripping unit n with respect to the cutter q. Also, as shown in Fig. 30, the first pull-out roller m1 grips the negative electrode material 1, and the clamp device 49 of the transport device 40 arranged in the second storage unit 31c releases the negative electrode material 1.

[0098] Next, as shown in FIG. 31, the cutter q cuts the negative electrode material 1. This separates the negative electrode material 1 between the starting end 1S and the ending end 1T. Also, as shown in FIG. 31, the second pull-out roller m2 rotates while gripping the leading end 1U of the negative electrode material 1, thereby pulling out the leading end 1U of the negative electrode material 1. This eliminates the need for an operator to manually pull out the leading end 1U of the negative electrode material 1, making it easy to replace the electrode material. The leading end 1U of the negative electrode material 1 is inserted between the second movable gripping members p2. At this time, the second position sensor r2 detects the position of the leading end of the negative electrode material 1, and the rotation of the second pull-out roller m2 stops when the leading end of the negative electrode material 1 protrudes a predetermined amount from the second movable gripping member p2.

[0099] Next, as shown in Fig. 32, the first movable gripping member p1 grips the terminal end 1T of the negative electrode material 1 and starts transporting it toward the first storage section 31b, and the first movable guide roller k1 starts moving from a guide position where it guides the negative electrode material 1 toward a retracted position where it does not interfere with the transport of the first movable gripping member p1. At this time, the bobbin 42 rotates by the amount of movement of the first movable gripping member p1, and the negative electrode material 1 is wound onto the bobbin 42. Also, as shown in Fig. 32, the second movable gripping member p2 grips the leading end 1U of the negative electrode material 1, and the cutter q retracts to a position where it does not interfere with the movement of the application pad s.

[0100] Next, as shown in Fig. 33, the first movable gripping unit p1 continues to transport the terminal end 1T of the negative electrode material 1, while the first movable guide roller k1 completes its movement to the retracted position. Also, as shown in Fig. 33, the second movable gripping unit p2, while holding the terminal end 1U of the negative electrode material 1, begins to transport the terminal end 1U of the negative electrode material 1 toward the starting end 1S of the negative electrode material 1 that was cut by the cutter q. At this time, the bobbin 42 rotates by the amount of movement of the second movable gripping unit p2, thereby feeding out the negative electrode material 1.

[0101] 34, the first movable gripping part p1 continues to transport the terminal end portion 1T of the negative electrode material 1, while the second movable gripping part p2 continues to transport the leading end portion 1U of the negative electrode material 1. At this time, the second movable guide roller k2 is located in a retracted position where it does not interfere with the transport of the second movable gripping part p2.

[0102] 35, while the first movable gripping unit p1 continues to transport the terminal end 1T of the negative electrode material 1, the second movable gripping unit p2 completes transport of the leading end 1U of the negative electrode material 1. Also, as shown in FIG. 35, the second movable guide roller k2 starts to move toward the guide position for guiding the negative electrode material 1 and the negative electrode material 1.

[0103] Next, as shown in FIG. 36, the first movable gripping part p1 completes transporting the terminal end 1T of the negative electrode material 1, and the second movable guide roller k2 completes moving to the guide position.

[0104] Next, as shown in Fig. 37, the attachment pad s uses an adhesive member to connect the leading end 1U of the negative electrode material 1 to the starting end 1S of the negative electrode material 1. Also, as shown in Fig. 37, the first movable gripping part p1 releases the terminal end 1T of the negative electrode material 1.

[0105] Next, as shown in FIG. 38, the first pull-out roller m1 rotates while gripping the terminal end 1T of the negative electrode material 1, thereby drawing in the terminal end 1T of the negative electrode material 1. As a result, the terminal end 1T of the negative electrode material 1 is drawn in just before the first pull-out roller m1. At this time, the bobbin 42 rotates by the amount of the drawing of the terminal end 1T by the first pull-out roller m1, and the negative electrode material 1 is wound onto the bobbin 42. The first position sensor r1 detects the position of the rear end of the negative electrode material 1, and the rotation of the first pull-out roller m1 stops when the rear end of the negative electrode material 1 moves a predetermined distance away from the first movable gripping part p1. Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 38, the clamp device 49 of the transport device 40 arranged in the first storage section 31b grips the negative electrode material 1.

[0106] 39, the fixed gripping unit n releases the starting end 1S of the negative electrode material 1, and the second movable gripping unit p2 releases the leading end 1U of the negative electrode material 1. Also, as shown in FIG. 39, the first pull-out roller m1 releases the terminal end 1T of the negative electrode material 1, and the second pull-out roller m2 releases the negative electrode material 1.

[0107] 40, the drive shaft 100b (see FIG. 4) connected to the transport device 40 disposed in the second storage section 31c is rotated to rotate the bobbin 42. As a result, the negative electrode material 1 wound around the bobbin 42 is pulled out.

[0108] (Method of manufacturing electrode material 6 and electrode body 5) As described above, in the electrode assembly manufacturing system 1, a method for manufacturing the electrode material 6 (at least one of the negative electrode material 1 and the positive electrode material 2) and a method for manufacturing the electrode assembly 5 are carried out.

[0109] [Method of manufacturing electrode material 6] First, in the negative electrode tab molding machine 10, a tab is molded on a sheet-like negative electrode double-width raw sheet 1a to form a sheet-like negative electrode material 1. Next, the negative electrode material 1 is wound around a bobbin 42 of a conveying device 40 arranged in the negative electrode tab molding machine 10. Next, the conveying device 40 is removed from the negative electrode tab molding machine 10. In this manner, the negative electrode material 1, which is one of the electrode materials 6, is produced.

[0110] Furthermore, in the positive electrode tab molding machine 20, a tab is molded on the sheet-like positive electrode double-width raw material 2a, thereby forming a sheet-like positive electrode material 2. Next, the positive electrode material 2 is wound around a bobbin 42 of a conveying device 40 arranged in the positive electrode tab molding machine 20. Next, the conveying device 40 is removed from the positive electrode tab molding machine 20. In this manner, the positive electrode material 2, which is one of the electrode materials 6, is produced.

[0111] [Method of manufacturing electrode body 5] First, the conveying device 40 having the bobbin 42 around which the negative electrode material 1 is wound is conveyed. Next, the conveying device 40 is attached to the negative electrode material supply device 31 of the winding machine 30. Next, the negative electrode material 1 wound around the bobbin 42 is pulled out from the conveying device 40.

[0112] Also, the conveying device 40 having the bobbin 42 around which the positive electrode material 2 is wound is conveyed. Next, the conveying device 40 is attached to the positive electrode material supply device 32 of the winding machine 30. Next, the positive electrode material 2 wound around the bobbin 42 is pulled out from the conveying device 40.

[0113] Then, the negative electrode material 1, the positive electrode material 2, the sheet-like outer separator 3, and the sheet-like inner separator 4 are stacked and wound together to form an electrode body 5.

[0114] (Modification of the embodiment) Although one embodiment of the present disclosure has been described above, the present disclosure is not limited to the above embodiment, and various modifications are possible without departing from the gist of the disclosure.

[0115] (A) In the above embodiment, the first and second power couplings 44a, 44b are fixed to the support shaft 43, but only one of the first and second power couplings 44a, 44b may be fixed to the support shaft 43. In this case, only one end of the support shaft 43 protrudes outside the box body 41.

[0116] (B) The box body 41 does not have to have the first and second recesses 41g and 41h.

[0117] (C) The conveying device 40 does not have to include at least one of the brake device 46, the shutter device 47, the traveling device 48, and the clamp device 49.

[0118] (D) Traveling device 48 may be an AGV (Automatic Guided Vehicle) capable of automatic travel while supporting box 41. AGVs that use an image recognition system, an electromagnetic induction system, a magnetic induction system, a laser induction system, or a non-guided travel system may be used. When traveling device 48 is an AGV, brake operating unit 46b of brake device 46 and clamp operating unit 49a of clamp device 49 may be manually operated by an operator, or may be automatically operated by mechanisms installed in anode material recovery device 13, cathode material recovery device 23, anode material supply device 31, and cathode material supply device 32.

[0119] (E) In the above embodiment, the tab molding device 12 of the negative electrode tab molding machine 10 has the slitter 12d, but the slitter 12d may be disposed upstream of the negative electrode tab molding machine 10. In this case, a conveying device 40 may be used to convey the negative electrode half-width raw sheet formed by the slitter 12d.

[0120] (F) In the above embodiment, the tab molding device 22 of the positive electrode tab molding machine 20 has the slitter 22d, but the slitter 22d may be disposed upstream of the positive electrode tab molding machine 20. In this case, a conveying device 40 may be used to convey the positive electrode half-width raw sheet formed by the slitter 22d.

[0121] (Appendix 1) The winding machine according to the present disclosure comprises an electrode material supplying device having a second storage section that stores a sheet-like second electrode material and an extracting section that extracts the second electrode material from the second storage section, a separator supplying device that supplies a sheet-like separator, and a winding device that winds the second electrode material and the separator, and the extracting section includes a extracting roller that extracts the second electrode material from the second storage section while gripping a leading end thereof.

[0122] (Appendix 2) the electrode material supply device has a first storage section that stores a sheet-shaped first electrode material, the pull-out section pulls out the first electrode material from the first storage section and then pulls out the second electrode material from the second storage section, and the winding device winds the first electrode material and the separator and then winds the second electrode material and the separator.

[0123] (Appendix 3) 3. The winding machine according to claim 1, wherein the unwinding section includes a cutter that cuts the first electrode material, and a movable gripping section that grips the leading end of the second electrode material unwound by the roller and transports the leading end of the second electrode material unwound by the roller to the starting end of the first electrode material cut by the cutter.

[0124] (Appendix 4) 4. The winding machine according to claim 3, wherein the pull-out section includes a fixed guide roller arranged downstream of the cutter and a movable guide roller arranged upstream of the cutter, and the movable guide roller is movable between a guide position where it guides the second electrode material and a retracted position where it does not interfere with the conveyance of the movable gripping section.

[0125] (Appendix 5) 5. The winding machine according to claim 1, wherein the drawing section includes a position sensor that detects the position of a leading end of the second electrode material.

[0126] (Appendix 6) The method for connecting electrode materials according to the present disclosure includes cutting a sheet-like first electrode material, pulling out a sheet-like second electrode material while holding the tip end of the sheet-like second electrode material, transporting the cut first electrode material to the starting end of the second electrode material while holding the tip end of the second electrode material, and connecting the tip end of the second electrode material to the starting end of the first electrode material. [Explanation of symbols]

[0127] 100...electrode body manufacturing system, 10...negative electrode tab molding machine, 20...positive electrode tab molding machine, 30...winding machine, 40...conveyor device, 41...box body, 42...bobbin, 43...support shaft, 44a...first power coupling, 44b...second power coupling, 45a...first sealing portion, 45b...second sealing portion, 46...brake device, 47...shutter device, 48...traveling device, 49...clamp device

Claims

1. an electrode material supply device having a second storage section that stores a sheet-like second electrode material and a drawer that draws out the second electrode material from the second storage section; a separator supplying device that supplies a sheet-shaped separator; a winding device that winds the second electrode material and the separator; Equipped with the pull-out unit includes a pull-out roller that grips a tip end of the second electrode material and pulls it out of the second storage unit. Winding machine.

2. the electrode material supply device has a first storage unit that stores a sheet-shaped first electrode material, the drawing section draws the first electrode material from the first housing section and then draws the second electrode material from the second housing section; the winding device winds the first electrode material and the separator, and then winds the second electrode material and the separator; The winding machine according to claim 1 .

3. The drawer portion is a cutter for cutting the first electrode material; a movable gripping unit that grips the leading end of the second electrode material drawn by the roller and transports the leading end of the second electrode material to the starting end of the first electrode material cut by the cutter; Including, The winding machine according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The drawer portion is a fixed guide roller disposed downstream of the cutter; a movable guide roller disposed upstream of the cutter; Including, the movable guide roller is movable between a guide position where it guides the second electrode material and a retracted position where it does not interfere with the conveyance of the movable gripper. The winding machine according to claim 3.

5. the lead-out section includes a position sensor that detects the position of the tip of the second electrode material. The winding machine according to claim 1 .

6. Cutting a sheet of first electrode material; Pulling out the sheet-like second electrode material while holding a tip end portion of the sheet-like second electrode material; conveying the second electrode material to a starting end of the cut first electrode material while holding the leading end of the second electrode material; connecting a leading end of the second electrode material to a starting end of the first electrode material; A method for connecting electrode materials comprising:

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