Apparatus and method for manufacturing a coil for an electrochemical cell, preferably for manufacturing a battery

Abstract

The apparatus (100) for manufacturing the coil (B) comprises a supply unit (2) configured to supply at least one strip-shaped article (N) and a winding unit (1). The supply unit (2) comprises a coupling device (23) configured to couple the strips (N1, N2, N3, N4) of the strip-shaped article (N). The winding unit includes at least one winding head (10). Each winding head (10) is configured to wind the strip-shaped article (N) so as to produce the coil (B) during the displacement executed by the moving device (3) of the winding head (10) along the operating segment (P1) of the working path (P). The coupling device (23) is configured to couple the strips (N1, N2, N3, N4) of the strip-shaped article (N) during each displacement along the operating path between a first position and a second position that are different from each other.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an apparatus for manufacturing a type of coil formed by winding a strip-shaped article including, for example, a strip or a plurality of overlapping strips. The present invention further relates to a method for manufacturing the same coil as described above. The present invention finds a preferred application in the field of manufacturing electrochemical cells in which winding wires of strip-shaped articles are used, although not limited thereto.

Background Art

[0002] In particular, in the related technical field, it is known to combine a conductor strip and a separator strip as layers to form an anode and a cathode structure. An article produced by laminating the aforementioned layers is then wound into a coil and used to produce the electrochemical cell itself.

[0003] An example of an apparatus and method for manufacturing a battery by winding a conductor strip and a separator strip is described in International Publication WO2010023525A1.

Prior Art Document

Patent Document

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

[0005] In this specification and the appended claims, specific terms and expressions are considered to have the meanings set forth in the following definitions unless otherwise specified.

[0006] The term "strip-shaped article" is intended to mean any solid product presented in the form of an elongated strip or ribbon within an industrial production line, i.e., an element whose longitudinal extension is significantly greater than its transverse extension. The strip-shaped article can be formed by a single strip or ribbon of material or by stacking several strips arranged in layers. The strip-shaped article also has features that allow for specific bending while advancing along the relative production line.

[0007] The strip-shaped article can be produced, for example, by alternately stacking a conductor layer and an insulating layer and is intended to form a sandwich that is wound in order to produce a coil for the purpose of manufacturing an electrochemical cell.

[0008] The term "winding" is intended to mean producing a helical structure by the rotation of a strip-shaped article around an axis, a flat surface, or another structure, more generally, a strip, a ribbon. By winding, the strip-shaped article forms one or more turns around the axis or structure. The term "coil" is intended to mean any spiral structure formed by winding a strip-shaped article around an axis, a flat surface, or another winding structure, more generally, a strip, a ribbon. Depending on the structure around which the strip-shaped article is wound, the overall shape of the coil may be substantially cylindrical rather than fragmented or of another shape.

[0009] As described above, the coil can find uses not only in sectors of electrochemical cells but also in other sectors such as conductor sectors that can equally use a coil-shaped structure.

[0010] The term "closed path" is intended to mean a path along which a winding head or other element moves and whose starting and ending points substantially coincide.

[0011] The term "continuous" refers to the expression of an operation, which means an operation that is performed without interruption or halt in the operation in question. In particular, with respect to the movement of a strip or other element, the term "continuous" indicates that the strip is never stopped during its movement.

[0012] The term "substantially constant" means a measured value or quantity, such as the displacement speed of an object, and such a measured value or quantity means maintaining a value that changes over time, preferably by a maximum of ±10%, preferably by a maximum of ±5%, preferably by a maximum of ±2%.

[0013] The term "integrally", which refers to the movement of two or more elements, means that these elements perform substantially the same movement and are executed substantially simultaneously. In other words, two integrally moving elements are not necessarily joined or coupled to each other, but move together as a single body. In practice, it can be provided that the respective movement systems of the two elements are adjusted to move the two elements together as needed. Further, for example, it may be provided for using temporary constraints between two elements that couple them together in several steps, move them together, separate them again, and make them movable independently of each other.

[0014] It should also be noted that the expression "displacing an object between a first position and a second position" means both the displacement from the first position to the second position and the displacement from the second position to the first position.

[0015] This definition is applied in a similar way to expressions of similar movements, such as transferring or moving a general object, for example, between two positions, between two regions, or even between two different operating configurations.

[0016] In the context of the ever - present need to increase the performance and efficiency of manufacturing processes, the Applicant has preliminarily observed that in a manufacturing line for producing coils, the supply speed of the strip - shaped article to the unit that winds it can be an important factor limiting the manufacturing capacity of the line itself.

[0017] Furthermore, this limitation is even more important when high precision is required in the formation of the coil. In particular, the Applicant has noted that in many applications, such as in the manufacture of electrochemical cells, high precision in the winding geometry must be guaranteed in order to ensure the required performance of the final product.

[0018] This requirement involves a slowdown of the entire manufacturing line because it is necessary to interrupt the advancement of the strip - shaped article in order to guarantee the required winding precision.

[0019] However, the Applicant has observed that this solution causes the formation of a state of tension in the strip - shaped article for its stop and / or restart, and the occurrence thereof may damage the production quality of the final product obtained through the coil formed by winding the article.

[0020] The Applicant has actually observed that the occurrence of a tension state that is not properly controlled on the strip - shaped article can cause slippage between the individual strips forming the strip - shaped article in the case of a multi - layer type.

Means for Solving the Problem

[0021] Therefore, in order to increase the running speed of the coil using the strip - shaped article, the Applicant has found that this can be achieved by moving, in addition to the strip - shaped article, the winding head involved in winding it.

[0022] The applicant also noted that it is possible to limit the mutual sliding phenomenon between different strips forming the strip-shaped article by forming the strip-shaped article before winding up the strip.

[0023] Accordingly, the applicant further perceived how it is possible to increase the winding speed of the strip-shaped article with respect to known solutions when the movement of the strip is not interrupted during the formation of the coil.

[0024] The applicant finally found that, while the strip is being wound up, by moving both the coupling device and the winding head by means of which the strip-shaped article is formed, it is possible to increase the winding operation speed without impairing the dimensional accuracy of the coil and without creating an unnecessary tension state in the strip.

[0025] Thanks to these features, the strip can also advance during the winding step, minimizing the state of tension on the strip and at the same time making it possible to increase the winding speed of the strip, and also eliminating the need to stop the strip during this operation.

[0026] Accordingly, in its first aspect, the present invention relates to an apparatus for manufacturing a coil, preferably an apparatus for an electrochemical cell intended for the manufacture of a battery. The apparatus preferably includes a supply unit configured to supply a strip-shaped article including a plurality of strips including a conductor strip and a separator strip.

[0027] Preferably, the supply unit comprises a coupling device configured to couple the strips within the strip-shaped article.

[0028] Preferably, the coupling device is configured such that the strips are grouped downstream of the coupling device to form the strip-shaped article.

[0029] Preferably, the apparatus further comprises a winding unit preferably including the at least one winding head.

[0030] Preferably, the apparatus comprises a moving device for moving the at least one winding head, preferably configured to displace the winding head along the working path.

[0031] The at least one winding head is preferably configured to wind the strip so as to produce the coil during displacement of the winding head along an operating segment of the working path.

[0032] Preferably, the coupling device is configured to couple the strip as the strip-shaped article during each displacement along the operating path between a first position and a second position.

[0033] Preferably, the first position and the second position are different from each other.

[0034] Preferably, the movement is carried out by the moving device.

[0035] Thanks to these features, the apparatus for manufacturing a coil can wind the strip-shaped article without the need to interrupt the same supply while the winding head can move while the strip-shaped article is being wound.

[0036] At the same time, the strip-shaped article can be formed before winding it.

[0037] In this way, thanks to the possibility of controlling the tension acting on the strip-shaped article by acting on the winding speed and the movement of the winding head, it is possible to operate faster than known solutions while simultaneously guaranteeing the required quality in the structure of the coil.

[0038] In its second aspect, the present invention relates to a method for manufacturing a coil, preferably for an electrochemical cell intended for the manufacture of a battery, said coil being manufactured by winding up a strip-shaped article.

[0039] The method preferably includes providing a plurality of strips.

[0040] Preferably, the method includes providing a bonding device for the strip.

[0041] Preferably, the method includes displacing the bonding device along each operating path between a first position and a second position.

[0042] Preferably, the first position and the second position are different from each other.

[0043] The method preferably includes bonding the strip to the strip-shaped article by the bonding device while the bonding device is displaced along each operating path.

[0044] The method preferably includes providing at least one take-up head movable along a working path.

[0045] The method preferably includes winding up the strip-shaped article by the take-up head during displacement of the take-up head along an operating segment of the working path.

[0046] The method according to this aspect also forms a strip-shaped article before relative winding, and thanks to the winding head itself being able to perform winding while traveling along a working path, in particular along a specific segment thereof, it is possible to produce coils faster than known solutions and without interruption of the path of the strip-shaped article. The displacement of the winding head can actually be coordinated with the supply of the strip-shaped article to the winding head, so that during the process of manufacturing the coil, there is no need to interrupt the forward movement of the strip-shaped article or the relative strip-shaped article that could form it.

[0047] In its third aspect, the present invention relates to an apparatus for manufacturing coils, preferably to an electrochemical cell intended for the manufacture of batteries.

[0048] Preferably, the apparatus comprises a supply unit configured to supply at least one strip-shaped element, the at least one strip-shaped element preferably comprising one or more strips comprising a conductor strip and a separator strip, and the strip-shaped article is displaced along the supply direction.

[0049] The apparatus preferably comprises a winding unit.

[0050] Preferably, the winding unit comprises a plurality of winding heads.

[0051] Preferably, the winding unit comprises a moving device for moving the winding head, configured to displace the winding head along a working path.

[0052] Preferably, each winding head supports a gripping device configured to grip a portion of the strip and preferably configured to wind the strip to produce the coil.

[0053] Preferably, when the moving device holds the portion of the strip, each take-up head is further configured to be displaced along an operating segment of the working path, preferably in a direction non-coincident with the supply direction.

[0054] The term "along an operating segment" is to be understood in the context of the present invention as meaning both being displaced over the entire operating segment and over one or more parts thereof.

[0055] Thanks to these features, it is possible to shorten the length of the strip-shaped article during winding of the strip, or, in any case, to minimize it. In this way, the situations that can create a tension state in the strip are limited, and generally it is possible to achieve a high winding speed.

[0056] In its fourth aspect, the present invention relates to a method for manufacturing a coil, preferably a coil for an electrochemical cell intended for the manufacture of a battery, said coil being manufactured by winding at least one strip-shaped article.

[0057] The method preferably includes providing a plurality of take-up heads movable along a working path.

[0058] Preferably, it is envisaged that the strip-shaped article is moved in a supply direction so as to supply the strip-shaped article to one of the take-up heads.

[0059] Preferably, the method includes gripping a portion of the strip-shaped article by a gripping device of the take-up head.

[0060] Preferably, the method includes displacing the take-up head while gripping the portion of the strip-shaped article along an operating segment of the working path in a direction non-coincident with the supply direction.

[0061] Moreover, based on this aspect, it is possible to achieve the same advantages as those described in relation to the previous aspect.

[0062] In its fifth aspect, the present invention relates to an apparatus for manufacturing a coil, preferably an electrochemical cell intended for the manufacture of a battery. Preferably, the apparatus comprises a supply unit configured to supply at least one strip-shaped article, preferably a plurality of strips including a conductor strip and a separator strip.

[0063] The apparatus preferably includes a winding unit.

[0064] Preferably, the winding unit includes a plurality of winding heads, each winding head being configured to wind the strip-shaped article around a respective winding axis so as to produce the coil.

[0065] The winding unit preferably comprises a moving device for moving the winding heads configured to displace the winding heads along a working path.

[0066] Preferably, the winding head is displaced along an orbit including at least one rotation around the axis of rotation of the moving device, the axis of rotation preferably being different from the winding axis, preferably a translation and / or rotation around a further axis different from the axis of rotation and the winding axis.

[0067] Thanks to these features, a periodic movement of the rotating head that can be obtained by rotation around the axis of rotation of the moving device can be achieved by a further movement of the head obtained by a translational movement and / or a further rotational movement.

[0068] In this way, using a structurally simple solution, it is possible to rapidly achieve the necessary trajectories for the take-up head itself, which makes it possible to carry out the winding of the strip during the movement of the head itself, without involving the difficult tension or movement states for controlling the strip.

[0069] It will be understood that the trajectories executed by the take-up head may include rotational and translational / rotational movements in sequence, or combined rotational-translational movements including such rotations / translations.

[0070] In its sixth aspect, the invention relates to a method for manufacturing a coil, preferably for an electrochemical cell intended for the manufacture of a battery, said coil being manufactured by winding at least one strip-shaped article.

[0071] Said method preferably includes providing a plurality of take-up heads. Preferably, it is envisaged that the strip-shaped article is wound around a winding axis by one of the take-up heads.

[0072] Preferably, the method includes moving the take-up head along a trajectory formed by at least one rotation around the rotation axis of the moving device, said rotation axis preferably being different from the winding axis, preferably being a translation and / or rotation around a further axis different from the rotation axis and the winding axis.

[0073] Also, based on this aspect, it is possible to achieve the same advantages as those described in connection with the previous aspect.

[0074] In its seventh aspect, the invention relates to an apparatus for manufacturing a coil, preferably for an electrochemical cell intended for the manufacture of a battery.

[0075] Preferably, the apparatus includes a supply unit configured to supply at least one strip-shaped article preferably including one or more strips including a conductor strip and a separator strip.

[0076] Preferably, the supply unit includes a movable part including an outlet through which the strip-shaped article passes when it exits the supply unit.

[0077] The apparatus also preferably includes a winding unit configured to receive the strip-shaped article from the outlet.

[0078] The winding unit preferably includes a plurality of winding heads.

[0079] Preferably, the winding unit includes a moving device for moving the winding heads.

[0080] Preferably, each winding head is configured to wind the strip-shaped article to form the coil.

[0081] The winding head and the movable part are preferably both movable.

[0082] Preferably, the moving device is configured to move the winding heads along a working path so as to keep each winding head at a predetermined distance from the movable part while the winding head is moving and the strip-shaped article is being wound.

[0083] Thanks to these features, in various steps of making the coil, the distance between the supply unit and the winding heads can be controlled, an appropriate distance can be provided for performing winding, the tension state can be minimized, and the cutting of the strip-shaped article can be enabled if necessary.

[0084] In its eighth aspect, the present invention relates to a method for manufacturing a coil, preferably a coil for an electrochemical cell intended for the manufacture of a battery, said coil being manufactured by winding at least one strip-shaped article.

[0085] The method preferably includes providing a plurality of winding heads movable along a working path.

[0086] Preferably, the method assumes that the strip-shaped article is supplied to one of the winding heads through an outlet of a supply unit.

[0087] Preferably, the method includes winding the strip-shaped article by the winding head to which the strip-shaped article is supplied.

[0088] Preferably, it is assumed that the outlet and the winding head to which the strip-shaped article is supplied are moved simultaneously and kept at a predetermined distance.

[0089] Also, based on this aspect, it is possible to achieve the same advantages as those described in relation to the previous aspect.

[0090] In its ninth aspect, the present invention relates to an apparatus for manufacturing a coil, preferably an apparatus for an electrochemical cell intended for the manufacture of a battery.

[0091] Preferably, the apparatus comprises a supply unit configured to supply at least one strip-shaped article, preferably comprising one or more strips including a conductor strip and a separator strip.

[0092] The apparatus preferably comprises a winding unit.

[0093] The winding unit preferably includes a plurality of winding heads, and each winding head is preferably configured to wind the strip-shaped article so as to produce the coil.

[0094] Preferably, the winding unit comprises a moving device for moving the winding head configured to displace the winding head along a working path.

[0095] Preferably, the plurality of winding heads includes at least a first winding head and a second winding head.

[0096] The moving device is preferably configured to change the distance between the first winding head and the second winding head along the working path.

[0097] Thanks to these features, in particular, thanks to the possibility of changing the distance between the two winding heads, in particular by changing the distance between the two heads between the step of winding and the step of cutting the strip-shaped article, it is possible to efficiently manage the step of producing the coil.

[0098] In its tenth aspect, the present invention relates to a method for manufacturing a coil, preferably for an electrochemical cell intended for the manufacture of a battery, produced by winding at least one strip-shaped article.

[0099] Preferably, the method includes providing a plurality of winding heads movable along a working path.

[0100] Preferably, the plurality of winding heads includes at least a first winding head and a second winding head.

[0101] The method preferably includes winding the strip-shaped article by the first winding head and / or the second winding head.

[0102] Preferably, it is also assumed that the distance between the first take-up head and the second take-up head is changed along the working path.

[0103] Also, based on this aspect, it is possible to achieve the same advantages as described in relation to the previous aspect.

[0104] In its eleventh aspect, the invention relates to an apparatus for manufacturing coils, preferably for an electrochemical cell intended for manufacturing batteries.

[0105] Preferably, the apparatus includes a supply unit configured to supply at least one strip-shaped article, preferably including one or more strips including a conductor strip and a separator strip.

[0106] Preferably, the apparatus comprises a take-up unit.

[0107] The take-up unit preferably includes a plurality of take-up heads.

[0108] Preferably, the take-up unit comprises a moving device for moving the take-up heads configured to displace the take-up heads along a working path.

[0109] Preferably, each take-up head is configured to wind the strip-shaped article so as to produce the coil.

[0110] Preferably, the take-up heads are movable along the working path, and by each take-up head and as a result of the movement of the take-up heads, preferably in at least a portion included between the supply unit and the take-up heads, the at least one strip-shaped article is subjected to a substantially constant tension during winding of the strip-shaped article.

[0111] The term "substantially constant tension" means that the tension remains constant, preferably with a variation of ±10% or less, more preferably ±5% or less, during the operating steps of the device. Further, in the context of the present invention, a constant or substantially constant tension state preferably appears at a constant or substantially constant speed of the strip-shaped article during the steps of feeding and winding up the strip.

[0112] Thanks to these features, it is possible to apply a substantially constant tension to the strip-shaped article, especially thanks to the fact that winding is carried out while the winding head is being displaced, especially while making a coil.

[0113] Thereby, the productivity of the device can be improved with respect to the coil wound per unit time, the characteristics of winding can be improved, and it can be manufactured in a more accurate and regular manner.

[0114] According to its 12th aspect, the present invention relates to a method for manufacturing a coil, preferably a coil for an electrochemical cell intended for the manufacture of a battery, said coil being manufactured by winding at least one strip-shaped article.

[0115] Said method preferably comprises providing a plurality of winding heads movable along a working path.

[0116] Preferably, the method envisages winding the strip-shaped article by means of said plurality of winding heads.

[0117] Preferably, the method comprises moving the winding head around which the strip-shaped article is wound so that the strip-shaped article is subjected to a substantially constant tension.

[0118] Also, based on this aspect, it is possible to achieve the same advantages as those described in connection with the previous aspect.

[0119] In its 13th aspect, the present invention relates to an apparatus for manufacturing a coil, preferably an apparatus for an electrochemical cell intended for the manufacture of a battery.

[0120] Preferably, the apparatus includes a supply unit configured to supply at least one strip-shaped article formed by a plurality of strips, preferably a conductor strip and a separator strip.

[0121] The apparatus preferably comprises a winding unit.

[0122] The winding unit preferably includes a plurality of winding heads.

[0123] Preferably, the winding unit includes a moving device for moving the winding heads, configured to displace the winding heads along a working path.

[0124] Preferably, each winding head is configured to wind the strip-shaped article so as to produce the coil.

[0125] Preferably, at least one of the strips is continuously supplied by the supply unit to the winding heads.

[0126] Thanks to these features, it is possible to produce a coil without interrupting the supply of the strip, thus avoiding an interruption in the movement of the strip that can generate an unwanted tension state for the productivity and quality benefits of the manufactured product, or an interruption in the movement of the strip that can reduce the productivity of the apparatus in any case.

[0127] In its 14th aspect, the present invention relates to a method for manufacturing a coil, preferably a coil for an electrochemical cell intended for the manufacture of a battery, the coil being manufactured by winding at least one strip-shaped article.

[0128] Preferably, the method preferably includes combining a plurality of layers including a conductor strip and a separator strip to form the strip-like article.

[0129] Preferably, at least one of the strips is supplied continuously.

[0130] The method preferably includes providing a plurality of take-up heads movable along a working path.

[0131] Preferably, taking up the strip-like article by the take-up head is provided. Also, based on this aspect, it is possible to achieve the same advantages as those described in relation to the previous aspect.

[0132] In its 15th aspect, the present invention relates to an apparatus for manufacturing a coil, preferably an electrochemical cell intended for the manufacture of a battery.

[0133] Preferably, the apparatus preferably includes a supply unit configured to supply at least one strip-like article preferably including one or more strips including a conductor strip and a separator strip.

[0134] The supply unit preferably includes an outlet through which the strip-like article is supplied to the take-up unit and preferably an inlet.

[0135] The inlet is preferably adapted to receive the at least one strip from respective supply devices.

[0136] The apparatus preferably comprises a take-up unit.

[0137] The take-up unit preferably includes at least one take-up head configured to take up the strip-like article so as to produce the coil.

[0138] Preferably, the take-up unit includes a moving device for moving the take-up head configured to displace the take-up head along a working path.

[0139] The apparatus preferably includes a storage device configured to store a variable amount of at least one of the one or more strips between the inlet portion and the outlet portion.

[0140] Preferably, the apparatus includes a device for operating the storage device, and the storage device is preferably operated by changing the amount of the stored strip by displacing the storage device.

[0141] Thanks to these features, it is possible to assume that this is not provided while continuing to advance at least one of the strips, especially the step of being wound around the take-up head. In this way, the cutting process can be better managed, and / or in the case of a strip-shaped article formed by a plurality of overlapping layers, it is possible to provide strips of different lengths.

[0142] Also, for example, when the moving device, and thus the movable part, moves along the operating segment, it is possible to simultaneously store all the strips forming the strip-shaped article, quickly wind up the strips stored in this way, and / or optimally adjust the tension of the strips using the stored amount of strips.

[0143] In its 16th aspect, the present invention relates to a method for manufacturing a coil, preferably a coil for an electrochemical cell intended for the manufacture of a battery, the coil being manufactured by winding at least one strip-shaped article.

[0144] Preferably, the strip-shaped article preferably includes one or more strips including a conductor strip and a separator strip.

[0145] Preferably, the method includes providing at least one take-up head movable along the working path.

[0146] The method preferably contemplates winding the strip-like article by the take-up head.

[0147] Preferably, the method includes storing a variable amount of at least one of the one or more strips in an upstream position relative to the take-up head, and the storage amount is preferably variable during the displacement of the take-up head.

[0148] Also based on this aspect, it is possible to achieve the same advantages as those described in connection with the previous aspect.

[0149] In its seventeenth aspect, the present invention relates to an apparatus for manufacturing coils, preferably an apparatus for an electrochemical cell intended for the manufacture of batteries.

[0150] Preferably, the apparatus includes a supply unit configured to supply at least one strip-like article including one or more strips preferably including a conductor strip and a separator strip.

[0151] Preferably, the apparatus comprises a take-up unit including a plurality of take-up heads.

[0152] Preferably, each take-up head supports a gripping device configured to grip a portion of the strip-like article.

[0153] The take-up unit preferably comprises a moving device for moving the take-up head configured to displace the take-up head along the working path.

[0154] Preferably, each take-up head is configured to wind the strip-like article to produce the coil.

[0155] Preferably, each gripping device comprises a pair of pins configured to hold the strip-shaped article therebetween.

[0156] Preferably, at least one of the pins is movable to join the other pin that holds the strip-shaped article therebetween.

[0157] Thanks to these features, it is possible to grip and block the strip-shaped article in a simple way, in a way that winds it up, and as part of a continuous and automated process.

[0158] In its 18th aspect, the invention relates to a method for manufacturing a coil, preferably a coil for an electrochemical cell intended for the manufacture of a battery, said coil being manufactured by winding a strip-shaped article.

[0159] Preferably, the method includes providing a plurality of winding heads movable along a working path.

[0160] The method preferably includes gripping a portion of the strip-shaped article by the winding head.

[0161] Preferably, it is envisaged that the strip-shaped article is wound up by the winding head.

[0162] Preferably, gripping the portion of the strip-shaped article includes placing the portion between a pair of pins, at least one of the pins being movable to join the other pin that holds the strip-shaped article therebetween.

[0163] Also, based on this aspect, it is possible to achieve the same advantages as those described in relation to the previous aspect.

[0164] Based on that 19th aspect, the present invention also relates to an apparatus for manufacturing a coil, preferably an apparatus for an electrochemical cell intended for the manufacture of a battery.

[0165] Preferably, the apparatus includes a supply unit configured to supply at least one multi - layer strip formed by a plurality of strips including a conductor strip and a separator strip.

[0166] Preferably, the supply unit comprises a movable part.

[0167] Preferably, each supply path is defined for each of the strips.

[0168] Preferably, the supply path comprises respective storage segments, and the storage segments are substantially parallel to each other.

[0169] Preferably, the apparatus comprises a winding unit including at least one winding head configured to wind up the strip - like article so as to produce the coil.

[0170] Preferably, the supply unit is configured to change the respective longitudinal extensions of each of the storage segments, preferably by moving the movable part. The longitudinal extension of the storage segments is preferably simultaneously changed by the same amount and preferably such that the storage segments are kept substantially parallel to each other.

[0171] It should be noted that in the context of the present invention, in the term "storage segment" referring to the strip forming the strip - like article, the strip where there is sliding of the strip related to relative advancement is shown as having a variable length of the path it moves along. Thus, the storage segment can form one or more buffers of the strip forming the strip - like article.

[0172] Thanks to these features, it is possible to simultaneously store the same amount of strip for each of the strips that form the strip-shaped article using the displacement of the movable part. In this way, it is possible to use a continuous supply of strips and, nevertheless, provide a step in which the strip-shaped article is not wound up.

[0173] Based on the 20th aspect, the present invention also relates to a method for manufacturing a coil, preferably a coil for an electrochemical cell intended for the manufacture of a battery. Preferably, the coil is produced by winding at least one strip-shaped article.

[0174] The method preferably includes advancing a plurality of strips along respective supply paths, and the plurality of strips preferably include conductor strips and separator strips.

[0175] Preferably, it is envisaged that the strips are combined in layers at the ends of the supply paths so as to form the strip-shaped article.

[0176] The method preferably includes providing at least one winding head, and preferably winding the multilayer strip by the winding head.

[0177] Preferably, each of the respective supply paths comprises a respective storage segment having a variable length, and the storage segments are preferably substantially parallel to each other.

[0178] Preferably, the method preferably includes simultaneously changing the length of each of the storage segments by the same amount, and preferably keeping the storage segments substantially parallel to each other during the changing lengths.

[0179] Also, based on this aspect, it is possible to achieve the same advantages as those described in connection with the previous aspect.

[0180] In at least one of the foregoing aspects, the present invention may have at least one of the following further preferred features described below.

[0181] Preferably, the supply unit includes a movable part, and the coupling device is connected to the movable part.

[0182] Thanks to this feature, it is possible to displace the coupling device in a simple and accurate manner and, in some cases, to cooperate with the movement of other components such as the take-up head.

[0183] Preferably, both the coupling device and the at least one take-up head are supported by the movable part.

[0184] Preferably, the coupling device includes a coupling roller.

[0185] In this way, the connection can be carried out by the continuous movement of the strip, minimizing the possibility of damaging the strip during this operation.

[0186] Preferably, the coupling device includes a single coupling roller.

[0187] Thanks to this feature, since it is implemented by the combination between the coupling roller and the take-up head, the risk of damaging the strip during connection can be contained.

[0188] Preferably, the coupling device compresses the strip, and the strip includes a pair of coupling rollers through which the strip passes to connect them within the strip-shaped article.

[0189] In this way, it is possible to facilitate the connection of the strips in a single structure through the compression action obtained from the rollers.

[0190] Preferably, the strip is partially wound on the bonding roller downstream of the bonding roller such that the strip is grouped to form the strip-shaped article.

[0191] Preferably, the strip is arranged to converge towards the bonding device.

[0192] Preferably, the movable part includes an exit through which the strip-shaped article passes when it exits the supply unit and is supplied to the winding unit.

[0193] Preferably, the exit is defined in the bonding device.

[0194] Preferably, the bonding device is configured to bond the strip into a single multi-layer structure forming the strip-shaped article.

[0195] Preferably, the operating paths between the first position and the second position are distinct from each other and are substantially parallel to the operating segment when the bonding device moves along them.

[0196] Preferably, the at least one winding head supports a gripping device configured to grip a portion of the strip-shaped article, and the gripping device is further preferably configured to rotate itself around a winding shaft so as to wind up the strip-shaped article.

[0197] Thanks to this feature, the strip-shaped article can be easily gripped, and as a result, the strip-shaped article can be wound up by the rotation of the same device that grips the strip-shaped article. In this way, the rotation speed as well as the trajectory and speed of the winding head while winding up the strip-shaped article can be easily controlled.

[0198] Preferably, the supply unit defines the supply direction of the strip-shaped article.

[0199] Preferably, the movement path between the first position and the second position is distinct from each other and is substantially parallel to the supply direction when the coupling device moves along it.

[0200] In this way, the supply unit itself defines the direction in which the strip-shaped article is supplied, i.e., the direction in which the strip-shaped article reaches the winding head and is then gripped and wound.

[0201] When the strip-shaped article is formed by several strips, after the strips are combined between them, the supply direction coincides with that of the article.

[0202] Preferably, the moving device is configured to wind the strip-shaped article during the displacement of the winding head. Preferably, the displacement during winding of each winding head is in a direction non-coincident with the supply direction.

[0203] Thanks to this feature, it is possible to shorten or minimize the length of the strip-shaped article during winding of the strip. In this way, the situations that can cause a tension state in the strip are limited and generally it is possible to achieve a high winding speed.

[0204] The terms "non-coincident" and its opposite term "coincident", when referring to two directions, should be understood such that these directions run in the same direction, in the opposite direction with respect to coincidence, or in the same direction, in the opposite direction.

[0205] The directions do not necessarily have to be parallel. In this case, the two directions are considered non-coincident when a component of one direction parallel to the second direction defines a path along which an object is displaced in the opposite direction with respect to the other direction.

[0206] This concept is schematically shown in FIG. 11, where two directions are shown by solid lines, indicated by the letters a and b respectively, and the component parallel to the second direction is shown by a dotted line and indicated by the letter c. In the example shown in the figure, it is represented as a mismatch, as can be seen from the arrows existing in two lines for the two directions.

[0207] Preferably, the displacement of each take-up head along the operating segment is substantially parallel to the supply direction.

[0208] The term "substantially parallel" indicates, in the context of the present invention, a possible deviation of ±10°, preferably ±5°, with respect to perfect parallelism.

[0209] Thanks to this feature, the take-up head can follow the forward movement of the strip and / or can move in a direction opposite to the forward movement of the strip so as to take up the strip under such conditions. Each of these features further contributes to making the take-up of the strip, and thus the formation of the coil, faster and more efficient.

[0210] Preferably, the supply unit comprises an outlet through which the strip-shaped article passes when it exits the supply unit and is supplied to the take-up unit, and preferably an inlet adapted to receive the at least one strip from each supply device, and the supply path of the strip is included between the inlet and the outlet.

[0211] Preferably, the supply unit comprises a movable part where the outlet is preferably formed.

[0212] The presence of a movable part within the supply unit makes it possible to change the position of the section where the strip-shaped article is discharged and supplied to the take-up head. In this way, the take-up head can more easily grip the strip-shaped article, and similarly, it is possible to adjust the distance between the head and the supply unit and thus the length of the strip between the head and the supply unit that is being wound.

[0213] Preferably, the apparatus includes a cutting device configured to cut the strip-shaped article at a position downstream of the supply unit.

[0214] The presence of the cutting device downstream of the supply unit eliminates the need to stop the strip at the moment it is cut, and enables adjustment of the movement of the head and the cutting operation performed via the relative movement device.

[0215] Preferably, the supply unit and the moving device are configured to prepare such that each winding head is disposed at a predetermined distance from the supply unit when the cutting device cuts the strip-shaped article, and the predetermined distance is preferably substantially equal to the minimum distance from the supply head.

[0216] In the context of the present invention, the term "substantially equal" referring to the minimum distance between two components means that during different operating steps of the device, the two components may be slightly shorter in distance overall, and there is compatibility between the kinematic mechanisms that set the two components in the operating state and their overall dimensions, and this distance can be regarded as the minimum value that can be obtained.

[0217] In other words, the winding head may be at a shorter distance than the distance at which it is disposed in the aforementioned cutting step while moving along the working path, but in the context of this operation, the distance at which the winding head is disposed is the minimum distance that enables the approach and use of the device used for cutting and can be arranged to be compatible with the kinematic mechanisms used for movement.

[0218] Thanks to this feature, it is possible to minimize the length of the portion of the strip-shaped article exiting the supply unit at the moment of cutting, and thus simplify the management, especially the winding operation of the two portions of the strip-shaped article generated as a result of cutting.

[0219] Preferably, the supply unit and the moving device are configured such that when the cutting device cuts the strip-shaped article, each of the take-up heads is positioned at the minimum distance from the movable part.

[0220] Based on this feature, the movement of the movable part can advantageously be utilized to achieve the positioning of the take-up head described above at the minimum distance.

[0221] Preferably, the cutting device is movable integrally with the take-up head and / or the strip-shaped article.

[0222] Preferably, the at least one take-up head is arranged downstream of the coupling device along the supply direction.

[0223] Preferably, the moving device is configured to displace the at least one take-up head along the working path according to a trajectory including at least the following: · A rotation about a rotation axis of the moving device, the rotation axis being different from the take-up axis. · A translation and / or a rotation about a further axis different from the rotation axis and the take-up axis.

[0224] This feature can be achieved by a further movement of the head obtained by a translational movement and / or a further rotational movement, for the periodic movement of the rotating head that can be obtained by rotation about the rotation axis of the moving device, by means of a special movement mechanism.

[0225] In this way, it is possible to achieve, using a structurally simple solution and in itself, the trajectory required for the take-up head at high speed, which makes it possible to perform the winding of the strip during the movement of the head itself without involving a state of tension or movement that is difficult to control the strip.

[0226] Preferably, the moving device is configured such that the take-up head performs a combination of these movements, that is, a translational movement that does not change the distance between the heads and / or a combination of any movements that change the distance between the heads.

[0227] Preferably, the take-up head and the movable part are movably coordinated, and the moving device is configured to move the take-up head along the operating segment so as to keep each take-up head from which the strip-shaped article is wound at a predetermined distance from the movable part while the take-up head is moving.

[0228] Thanks to these features, in various steps of manufacturing the coil, it is possible to control the distance between the supply unit and the take-up head, provide an appropriate distance for performing winding, minimize the tension state, and enable cutting of the strip-shaped article if necessary.

[0229] Preferably, the at least one strip-shaped article is subjected to substantially constant tension with respect to the segment included at least between the supply unit and each take-up head on which the strip-shaped article is wound.

[0230] Thanks to the present invention, in particular, thanks to the fact that winding is performed while the take-up head is being displaced, it will be understood that it is possible to subject the formed strip-shaped article to substantially constant tension while manufacturing the coil.

[0231] Preferably, the supply unit is configured to supply the strip-shaped article at a supply speed, the take-up head is configured to wind up the strip-shaped article, and is configured to be displaced at a displacement speed, and the winding speed and the displacement speed are preferably such that they apply the substantially constant tension to the strip-shaped article.

[0232] In this way, the device can control the tension by simply controlling the speed at which it is made to operate, thus enabling easy control of the operating steps of the device.

[0233] Preferably, the supply speed is substantially equal to the sum of the take-up speed and the displacement speed.

[0234] This condition makes it possible to maintain a substantially constant tension in the strip-like article without the need to stop it during winding or generally during coil formation.

[0235] Preferably, the strip-like article includes a plurality of strips stacked as layers, and at least one of the strips is supplied continuously.

[0236] Preferably, the supply speed is constantly greater than zero along the supply path and is preferably substantially constant.

[0237] These features enable each of them to produce a coil without interrupting the supply of the strip, thus avoiding interruptions in the movement of the strip that could generate an undesirable state of tension or that could reduce the productivity of the device in any case.

[0238] Preferably, the supply unit includes a bonding roller, the strip is arranged to converge towards the bonding roller, and downstream of the bonding roller, the strip is grouped to form the strip-like article and is partially wound up.

[0239] Preferably, the outlet is defined by the bonding roller.

[0240] Preferably, the bonding roller is connected to the movable part.

[0241] Thanks to these features, it is possible to group the strips in order to obtain a multi-layer strip-like article having a solution that allows for the continuous advancement of the strips. Furthermore, the position where the strips are joined can be advantageously changed during different operating steps of the device.

[0242] Preferably, the operating segment preferably comprises at least first and second portions that are substantially parallel to each other.

[0243] This feature allows for obtaining a widely extended operating segment and using a relatively simple moving device from a structural point of view, since two substantially parallel segments can use a kinematic mechanism that is not overly complex to travel.

[0244] Preferably, the moving device is configured to displace each take-up head in a first direction along the first portion and, in the second portion, in a direction opposite to the first direction.

[0245] In this way, the take-up heads can move along two substantially parallel segments in two opposite directions, so that the moving device, or more generally, the overall dimensions of the device can be optimized.

[0246] Preferably, each gripping device is configured to wind up the strip-like article at a different speed along the first portion than along the second portion.

[0247] By using different winding speeds, it is possible to maintain a substantially constant tension on the strip-like article during its winding, especially when it is supplied continuously.

[0248] Preferably, the take-up head is displaced in a direction coinciding with the supply direction in the first portion and in a direction not coinciding with the supply direction in the second portion, and the take-up head is preferably configured to take up the strip-shaped article at a higher speed when each take-up head is displaced in a direction not coinciding with the supply direction.

[0249] Thanks to these features, it is possible to optimally utilize the movement of the take-up head and, taking into account the fact that the take-up head moves during winding and at the same time the strip-shaped article continues to be supplied, to wind up the strip-shaped article as quickly as possible.

[0250] Preferably, the operating segment preferably includes a third portion substantially parallel to the first and / or second portions, and the take-up head is again displaced along the third portion in a direction coinciding with the supply direction.

[0251] The presence of the third portion makes it possible to further utilize the characteristics of the moving device within the periodic solution and preferably provides for the displacement of the take-up head along a closed path.

[0252] Preferably, the strip-shaped article is wound up during the displacement of the moving head along the first portion and / or the second portion and / or the third portion.

[0253] Preferably, the moving device is configured to take up from 5% to 15%, preferably 10%, of the total length of the strip-shaped article used to form a single coil along the first portion.

[0254] Preferably, the moving device is configured to take up from 70% to 90%, preferably 80%, of the total length of the strip-shaped article used to form a single coil along the second portion.

[0255] Preferably, the moving device is configured to wind up 5% to 15%, preferably 10% of the total length of the strip-shaped article used to form a single coil along the third portion.

[0256] Thus, the winding is mainly performed while the winding head returns, that is, along the second portion. As the winding head moves in a direction inconsistent with the supply direction, it can wind up at a higher speed.

[0257] Preferably, the apparatus comprises a storage device configured to store at least one amount of the plurality of strips between the inlet portion and the outlet portion, and preferably a device for operating the storage device to displace the storage device and change the amount of the stored strips.

[0258] Thanks to this feature, it is possible to provide this without continuously advancing at least one of the strips, especially the step of winding it onto the winding head. In this way, the cutting process can be better managed and / or, in the case of a strip-shaped article formed by a plurality of overlapping layers, it is possible to provide strips of different lengths.

[0259] Preferably, the storage device comprises at least one movable element configured to change the total length of the supply path by moving its movable element.

[0260] Preferably, the movable element is formed by the movable part.

[0261] Preferably, the moving device is configured to move integrally with the movable part and is preferably rotatably supported by the movable part.

[0262] In this way, for example, when the moving device, and thus the movable part, moves along the first part of the operating segment and as a result returns to the second part of the operating segment, it is possible to simultaneously store all the strips that form the strip-shaped article when quickly winding up the stored strip.

[0263] Preferably, the movable element comprises at least one movable roller, and the at least one strip is wound around the movable roller and at least one fixed roller so as to change the overall length. Preferably, the movable roller and the fixed roller are configured to rotate freely.

[0264] Thanks to this feature, when the strip-shaped article is formed by several overlapping strips, it is possible to shift the advancement of a single strip or a more specific strip with respect to the remaining strips without the need to stop the advancement of the strip. In this way, by cutting the stored strip at a predetermined position, it is possible to obtain a portion of the strip-shaped article in which one or more of the strips forming the multi-layer structure are absent. This is particularly advantageous in the case of a coil for an electrochemical cell, where the end portion of the coil typically has only a part of the separator strip.

[0265] Preferably, the supply unit comprises means for holding at least one of the one or more strips, and these means are configured to decelerate or stop the supply of at least one of the one or more strips passing through the outlet.

[0266] Preferably, the storage device is configured to store the strip when the holding means decelerates or stops the supply of the strip.

[0267] In this way, the storage device can operate when the strip is decelerated or stopped, thus avoiding causing tension in the strip, which makes it possible to continuously advance a single strip without being fed through the outlet of the supply unit.

[0268] Preferably, the operating segment includes at least one substantially straight segment.

[0269] The presence of a straight segment where winding takes place is particularly advantageous for avoiding an undesirable state of tension on the strip-shaped article.

[0270] Preferably, the straight segment is substantially parallel to the supply direction, thereby further contributing to the strip-shaped article being free of a state of tension during coil production.

[0271] Preferably, the first part and / or the second part and / or the third part each form respective straight segments.

[0272] Preferably, the winding head is configured to at least partly release the coil after winding the at least one strip, and the working path comprises a reset segment along which each of the winding heads is displaced to a gripping position where the winding head grips the part of the at least one strip-shaped article. Preferably, the working path is closed.

[0273] In this way, the device can operate periodically, advantageously providing an operating segment in which the winding head performs winding and generally produces a coil, and a reset part where the head can return to an appropriate position to resume the cycle.

[0274] Furthermore, this is particularly advantageous when there is a straight path or in any case where it is desired to concentrate the winding operation in a specific area. This is because for the strip-shaped article in this area, it is sufficient to only control the rotation of the winding heads and their behavior, simplifying the required kinematic mechanisms.

[0275] Preferably, the operating segment has a length equal to at least 5%, preferably at least 10%, preferably at least 15%, preferably at least 20% of the total length of the working path.

[0276] Preferably, in such an operating segment, the winding of the strip-shaped article is performed during the displacement of each winding head around which the strip-shaped article is wound.

[0277] Thus, in other words, such a displacement will cover a substantial part of the overall working path of the winding heads. Therefore, it will be understood that the movement of the winding heads is not limited to compensating for the difference in diameter occurring during winding or the minimum displacement of the strip-shaped article with respect to its movement supply direction during winding.

[0278] In this way, the head can follow the advancement of the strip-shaped article during its movement and the formation of the coil. Furthermore, this makes it possible to utilize the operating segment along which the winding heads move and wind the strip-shaped article in an appropriate way to adjust the operation of two or more winding heads in an appropriate way, for example, by assuming that one head starts winding one coil while another head finishes another winding.

[0279] Preferably, the cutting device is configured to cut the strip-shaped article along the operating segment of the working path, preferably in the intermediate region of the working path.

[0280] Thanks to this feature, it is possible to utilize the movement of the take-up head in various steps of take-up in order to cut the coil cut in this way and transport it to its discharge area.

[0281] Preferably, the plurality of take-up heads includes at least a first take-up head and a second take-up head, and the moving device is configured to change the distance between the first take-up head and the second take-up head along the working path.

[0282] The possibility of changing the distance between two take-up heads makes it possible to efficiently manage the step of manufacturing the coil, in particular by changing the distance between the two heads between the step in which the take-up is performed and the step in which the strip-shaped article is cut.

[0283] Preferably, the moving device is configured to approach the second take-up head from the first take-up head along the working path when the cutting device cuts the strip-shaped article.

[0284] In this way, it is possible to perform the cutting between the two take-up heads, minimize the dimensions of the two flaps of the strip-shaped article generated after cutting, and bring one head as close as possible to the other head.

[0285] Preferably, the moving device is configured to move the first take-up head away from the supply unit, and further, when the first take-up head is moved away, the second take-up head is displaced to an intermediate position along the operating segment between the first take-up head and the supply unit.

[0286] Thanks to this feature, the second take-up head can be arranged to grip the strip-shaped article while another take-up head is still taking it up, or in any case while the second take-up head is gripping the strip-shaped article itself. In this way, when the second moving head grips the strip-shaped article, the strip-shaped article is still being wound by the first take-up head.

[0287] Preferably, when the first take-up head travels along the third part, the moving device is configured such that the second take-up head that precedes the first take-up head along the working path travels along the first part.

[0288] This feature also optimizes the overall dimensions of the device, enables at least partially simultaneous winding of two coils, and after cutting the strip-shaped article, the first take-up head finishes winding the remaining flap along the third part, and the second take-up head starts winding along the first part.

[0289] Preferably, each gripping device includes a pair of pins configured to hold the strip-shaped article therebetween, and at least one of the pins is movable to couple the other pins that hold the strip-shaped article therebetween.

[0290] The presence of the pins makes it possible to grip and block the strip-shaped article in a simple way, in a way that winds it, and as part of a continuous and automated process.

[0291] Preferably, the take-up shaft is aligned with the longitudinal extension direction of the pins.

[0292] Preferably, the at least one pin is movable along a direction transverse to the supply direction of the strip-shaped article, preferably an extraction direction perpendicular to the supply direction of the strip-shaped article.

[0293] In this way, a single pin approaches the strip during the movement of the head and is brought to the first pin only when the other pin reaches the strip, so that it is possible to place the strip-shaped article in a sandwich configuration between the two pins during the approach of the winding head to the article itself. At this position, the pin can start rotating around itself, start winding up the strip, and start gripping it.

[0294] Preferably, both of the pins are movable, and the pins are configured to be movable independently of each other and in relation to each other, and both of the pins are configured to move along the extraction direction.

[0295] In this way, the same pin can be advantageously used both for gripping the strip-shaped article, for starting the winding up of the strip-shaped article, and for discharging the coil after the strip-shaped article has been produced.

[0296] Preferably, the displacement direction of the movable part forms an angle of 30° to 60°, preferably 40° to 50°, with respect to the horizontal direction, and the angle is preferably substantially equal to 45°. In this way, it is possible to obtain an optimal compromise between the overall dimensions related to the stroke of the movable part and the power required for the vertical movement of the movable part and all the components supported thereby.

[0297] Preferably, each of the strips defines a respective supply path, and the supply paths each include a respective storage segment, and the storage segments are substantially parallel to each other.

[0298] Preferably, at least two of the groups formed by at least one of the storage segments, the supply direction of the strip-shaped article, the displacement direction of the movable part, and at least one of the parts of the operating segment are substantially parallel to each other.

[0299] Preferably, at least one of the storage segment, the supply direction of the strip-like article, the displacement direction of the movable part, and the part of the operation segment are all substantially parallel to each other.

[0300] Preferably, the supply unit is configured to change each longitudinal extension of the storage segment in cooperation with the movement of the movable part along the movement direction.

[0301] In this way, it is possible to maintain a constant tension even during the storage of the strip forming the strip-like article, and thus the movement of the movable part does not generate an undesirable tension in the strip.

[0302] Preferably, the one or more storage segments preferably extend between the pairs of diverter rollers in an idle state. Preferably, the pair of diverter rollers are supported by the movable part.

[0303] This feature enables the strip to slide during the movement of the movable part, especially while the strip is stored, and as described above, does not generate an undesirable tension.

[0304] Preferably, the longitudinal extensions of the storage segments are changed simultaneously by the same amount and to keep the storage segments substantially parallel to each other.

[0305] Thanks to this feature, it is possible to simultaneously store the same amount of strip for each strip forming the strip-like article using the displacement of the movable part. In this way, it is possible to use the continuous supply of the strip and, nevertheless, provide steps in which the strip-like article is not wound up.

[0306] Preferably, combining the strips into a layer comprises converging the strips downstream of the storage segment toward an outlet where the strip-shaped article is provided to the winding head.

[0307] In this way, between one strip and the other, in front of the outlet, a space can be defined for placing grippers and knives that can be used to cut one or more of the strips before they are combined to form the strip-shaped article.

[0308] Preferably, the strip-shaped article is gripped by a gripping device, and the strip-shaped article is wound by rotating the gripping device around a winding axis.

[0309] This feature also enables easy gripping of the strip-shaped article, which can then be wound by rotating the same device that grips the strip-shaped article. In this way, the rotation speed, trajectory, and speed of the winding head while winding the strip-shaped article can be easily controlled.

[0310] Preferably, gripping the portion of the strip-shaped article includes feeding the strip-shaped article, and the strip-shaped article is fed by displacement in the feeding direction.

[0311] In this way, the feeding unit itself defines the direction in which the strip-shaped article is fed, i.e., the direction in which the strip-shaped article reaches the winding head and is then gripped and wound.

[0312] Preferably, the strip-shaped article is wound during displacement of the winding head. Preferably, when the winding head winds the strip-shaped article, it is displaced in a direction inconsistent with the feeding direction.

[0313] Also, thanks to this feature, it is possible to shorten the length of the strip-shaped article during winding of the strip, or in any case, to minimize it. In this way, the situations in which a tensile state can be generated in the strip are limited, and generally, it is possible to achieve a high winding speed.

[0314] In a preferred embodiment, it may be assumed that the strip-shaped article is supplied to the winding head, and the strip-shaped article is preferably supplied through an outlet portion of the strip-shaped article.

[0315] Preferably, the outlet portion is movable along a displacement direction, and the displacement direction is preferably substantially parallel to the supply direction.

[0316] Preferably, the outlet portion is movable back and forth along the displacement direction.

[0317] By moving the outlet portion, it is possible to change the position where the strip-shaped article comes out and is supplied to the winding head. In this way, the winding head can more easily grip the strip-shaped article, and similarly, it is possible to adjust the length of the strip between the winding head and the supply unit.

[0318] In a preferred embodiment, it may be assumed that the strip-shaped article is cut at a position downstream of the supply unit.

[0319] By cutting the strip-shaped article downstream of the supply unit, it is possible to eliminate the need to stop the strip at the moment of cutting, and it becomes possible to adjust the movement of the head and the cutting operation performed via the relative movement device.

[0320] Preferably, the winding head is arranged at a minimum distance from the outlet portion that prepares for the step of cutting the strip-shaped article.

[0321] Also, thanks to this feature, it is possible to minimize the length of the portion of the strip-shaped article exiting the supply unit when cutting is performed, and thus, it is possible to simplify the management, especially the winding operation, for the two parts of the strip-shaped article produced as a result of cutting.

[0322] Preferably, the method includes providing a cutting device for cutting the strip-shaped article, and displacing the cutting device integrally with the movable part and / or the winding head and / or the strip-shaped article while the strip-shaped article is being cut.

[0323] In this way, it is possible to perform cutting while the winding head is moving, and thus, there is no need to stop the strip, and as a result, a continuous process for producing a coil is enabled.

[0324] In a preferred embodiment, it can be envisaged to move the winding head along a trajectory formed at least by: A rotation about the rotation axis of the moving device, the rotation axis being different from the winding axis, A translation and / or rotation around a further axis different from the rotation axis and the winding axis.

[0325] Thanks to these steps, it is possible to obtain the necessary trajectory for the winding head using a structurally simple solution and to achieve high speed, which can achieve the winding of the strip during the movement of the head itself without being accompanied by difficult tension or movement states for controlling the strip.

[0326] In a preferred embodiment, it can be envisaged to move the outlet part and the winding head to which the strip-shaped article is supplied simultaneously and keep them at a predetermined distance.

[0327] Moreover, due to these features, it is possible to control the distance between the supply unit and the take-up head during various steps of manufacturing the coil, provide an appropriate distance for performing the take-up, minimize the tension state, and enable the cutting of the strip-shaped article if necessary.

[0328] Preferably, it can be assumed that the outlet portion and the take-up head are simultaneously moved while the take-up head is taking up the strip-shaped article. The strip-shaped article is gripped and moved by the take-up head such that the strip-shaped article is substantially under constant tension upstream of the take-up head.

[0329] In this way, due to the fact that the take-up is performed while the take-up head is displaced, it is possible to apply a substantially constant tension to the strip-shaped article, especially while manufacturing the coil.

[0330] Preferably, the formed strip-shaped article is supplied through the outlet portion at a supply speed that is substantially equal to the sum of the winding speed of the strip-shaped article and the displacement speed at which the take-up head on which the strip-shaped article is being wound is displaced.

[0331] In this way, the apparatus can control the tension simply by controlling the speed at which it is made to operate, and thus enables easy control of different operating steps.

[0332] Preferably, connecting the strips includes converging the strips towards the connecting device.

[0333] Preferably, joining the strips includes partially winding the strips around the joining roller.

[0334] Preferably, connecting the strips includes compressing the strips.

[0335] In a preferred embodiment, it is conceivable to combine a plurality of layers so as to form the strip-shaped article, and at least one of the strips is continuously supplied.

[0336] Preferably, the supply speed is always greater than zero, and even more preferably is substantially constant.

[0337] These features also make it possible to produce coils without interrupting the supply of the strip, thus avoiding interruptions in the movement of the strip that can create undesirable states of tension or, in any case, reduce the productivity of the apparatus.

[0338] Preferably, it is envisaged that the strip is joined to form the strip-shaped article by partially winding the strip around a joining roller.

[0339] Preferably, the outlet is defined by the joining roller.

[0340] Also, thanks to these features, it is possible to group the strips in order to obtain a multi-layer strip-shaped article having a solution that allows for the continuous advancement of the strips. Furthermore, the position where the strips are joined can be advantageously changed during different operating steps of the apparatus.

[0341] In a preferred embodiment, it can be envisaged to move the winding heads substantially parallel to each other along the first and second parts of the operating segment, and each winding head is displaced in a first direction along the first part and in a direction opposite to the direction in the second part.

[0342] In this way, it is possible to use a kinematic mechanism that is not overly complex for two substantially parallel segments to travel, so that it is possible to obtain a widely extended operating segment and it is possible to use a relatively simple moving device from a structural point of view.

[0343] Furthermore, the winding head of the method according to the invention or the operating steps of a more general method can be optimized since the winding head can move along two parallel or substantially coinciding segments, but in two opposite directions.

[0344] Preferably, each gripping device is configured to wind the strip-shaped article at a speed different from that of the second part along the first part.

[0345] Preferably, the winding head is displaced in a direction that coincides with the supply direction in the first part and in a direction that does not coincide with the supply direction in the second part.

[0346] The strip-shaped article is preferably wound at a higher speed when each winding head is displaced along the second part.

[0347] By using different winding speeds, it is possible to maintain a substantially constant tension in the strip-shaped article during its winding, especially when it is supplied continuously.

[0348] In a preferred embodiment, it may be envisaged to move the winding head along a third part of the operating segment, preferably substantially parallel to the first and second parts, and the winding head is preferably displaced along the third part in a direction that coincides with the supply direction.

[0349] Thanks to these features, it is possible to wind the strip-shaped article as quickly as possible, taking into account the fact that the winding head moves during winding while the strip-shaped article continues to be supplied, by optimally utilizing the movement of the winding head.

[0350] Preferably, at least one of the strips advances at a substantially constant speed along a segment included between an inlet portion where the strips are individually provided and the outlet portion.

[0351] In a preferred embodiment, it may be assumed that an amount of the at least one strip is stored before being gripped by the take-up head, preferably, the stored amount being variable during the displacement of the take-up head.

[0352] Preferably, the strip comprises a conductor strip and a separator strip, and the method includes storing at least one of the conductor strips during the advancement of the conductor strip between the inlet portion and the outlet portion.

[0353] Also, thanks to this feature, it is possible to provide the step of winding it, in particular onto a take-up head, without continuously advancing at least one of the strips. In this way, the cutting process can be better managed and / or, in the case of a strip-like article formed by a plurality of overlapping layers, it is possible to provide strips having different lengths.

[0354] Preferably, it may be assumed that the supply of one or more of the strips is decelerated or stopped, and when the supply is decelerated or stopped, one or more of the variable amounts of the strip stored are stored.

[0355] In this way, the storage of the strip can be carried out when it is decelerated or stopped, thus preventing tension from occurring in the strip and making it possible to continuously advance a single strip without it being supplied through the outlet portion of the supply unit.

[0356] Preferably, the outlet portion is displaced, preferably along the displacement direction, when the strip-like article is stored.

[0357] Preferably, the take-up head moves simultaneously while maintaining a substantially constant distance from each other.

[0358] Preferably, the take-up head moves integrally with the outlet portion.

[0359] In this way, for example, when the moving device, and thus the movable part, moves along the first part of the operating segment and thus returns to the second part of the operating segment, all the strips forming the strip-shaped article can be stored simultaneously when quickly taking up the stored strip.

[0360] Preferably, storing the at least one strip includes changing the distance due to the at least one strip between the inlet portion and the outlet portion.

[0361] Also, thanks to this feature, when the strip-shaped article is formed by several overlapping strips, it is possible to shift the advancement of the remaining strips with respect to a single strip or a more specific strip without the need to stop the advancement of the strip.

[0362] Preferably, the operating segment includes a substantially straight segment.

[0363] The existence of a straight segment along which the take-up takes place is particularly advantageous for avoiding an undesirable tension state on the strip-shaped article.

[0364] In a preferred embodiment, after winding up the coil, it may be envisaged to at least partially discharge the strip-shaped article, and after discharging the coil, the take-up head is returned to a gripping position along the working path at the gripping portion of the portion of the strip-shaped article.

[0365] Also, these features contribute to enabling the periodic performance of the method of the present invention, and preferably provide an operation part in which the take-up head performs take-up and generally manufactures a coil, and a reset part in which the head can return to an appropriate position to resume the cycle.

[0366] Preferably, the plurality of take-up heads includes at least a first take-up head and a second take-up head, and the method includes changing the distance between the first take-up head and the second take-up head along the working path.

[0367] The change in the distance between the two take-up heads enables efficient management of the step of manufacturing the coil, particularly by changing the distance between the two heads between the step of performing take-up and the step of cutting the strip-shaped article.

[0368] Preferably, it can be assumed that the first take-up head approaches the second take-up head along the working path in preparation for the step of cutting the strip-shaped article.

[0369] In this way, the cutting of the strip-shaped article is performed between the two take-up heads so that while minimizing the dimensions of the two flaps of the strip-shaped article generated after cutting, one head is as close as possible to the other head.

[0370] Preferably, the first take-up head is moved away from the outlet portion, and the second take-up head is positioned at an intermediate position between the first take-up head and the outlet portion. Meanwhile, it can be assumed that the first take-up head grips the portion of the strip-shaped article.

[0371] Also, thanks to this feature, it is possible to arrange the second take-up head so as to grip the strip-shaped article or, in any case, the strip-shaped article itself while another take-up head is still taking it up. In this way, when the second moving head grips the strip-shaped article, this is still being wound up by the first take-up head.

[0372] Preferably, when the first take-up head extends along the third portion, the second take-up head preceding the first take-up head extends along the first portion.

[0373] This feature also makes it possible to optimize the overall dimensions of the device. Furthermore, preferably, after cutting the strip-shaped article, it is envisaged that the winding of the two coils can be carried out at least partially simultaneously in that the first take-up head winds up the remaining flap along the third portion and the second take-up head starts to wind along the first portion.

[0374] Preferably, gripping the portion of the strip-shaped article includes placing the portion of the strip-shaped article between a pair of pins, at least one of the pins being movable so as to join the other pins that hold the strip-shaped article therebetween.

[0375] In this way, it is possible to grip and block the strip-shaped article in a simple way, in a way that winds it up, and as part of a continuous and automated process.

[0376] Preferably, the pins are movable along a direction transverse to the supply direction of the strip-shaped article, preferably along a perpendicular extraction direction.

[0377] Thanks to this feature, during the movement of the head, a single pin approaches the strip and only after reaching the strip is the other pin brought to the first pin.

[0378] Preferably, both of the pins are movable, and the method comprises moving the pins independently of each other to grip the portion of the strip-shaped article, and moving the pins in conjunction with each other to release the coil from the winding head when the coil is formed by winding the strip-shaped article.

[0379] In this way, the same pins can be advantageously used both for gripping the strip-shaped article and for starting the winding of the strip-shaped article and for discharging the coil after the strip-shaped article has been produced.

[0380] Note that some of the steps of the method described above may be independent of the order of execution described. Further, some of the steps may be optional. In addition, some of the steps of the method may be executed repeatedly, or they may be executed in series or in parallel with other steps of the method.

[0381] The features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the detailed description of its preferred embodiments, presented as non-limiting examples, with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0382]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

[0383] First, referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, an apparatus for manufacturing coil B fabricated according to the present invention is indicated generally at 100.

[0384] In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus 100 is intended to carry out winding of strip - shaped article N for the purpose of manufacturing an electrochemical cell.

[0385] However, this represents a possible example of an embodiment, and it is understood that the apparatus 100 according to the present invention can be intended to wind strip - shaped articles also in fields other than those related to the manufacture of electrochemical cells, with different uses also intended.

[0386] For example, still in the field of energy storage, the present invention can find applications in the manufacture of other rolled parts targeted at batteries or supercapacitors.

[0387] In some embodiments, for example, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the apparatus 100 may be used in-line for the manufacture of coils for electrochemical cells, and the strip-shaped article N is made up of a combination of a plurality of strips N1, N2, N3, N4, and preferably, are stacked as layers.

[0388] Such strips advantageously include at least two conductor strips N1, N3 and two separator layers N2, N4 arranged alternately so as to form the strip-shaped article N.

[0389] In this way, the separator strips N2, N4 enable the two conductor strips N1 and N3 to be kept electrically separated from each other when they are wound spirally, and a coil for an electrochemical cell can be formed.

[0390] In a preferred embodiment, the strips N1, N2, N3, N4 are provided by a suitable supply device 6. As an example, FIG. 1 shows an exemplary embodiment of a supply device 6 for separator strips, which is collected so that the strips are unwound and thus can be formed by a large coil provided during the operation of the device.

[0391] Next, the strips provided by the supply device 6 are supplied to the supply unit 2, and note that in a preferred embodiment, the strips between the plurality of strips are combined to form the strip-shaped article N before being wound by the relative winding unit 1, and its features are described in detail below.

[0392] Preferably, the supply unit 2 preferably comprises an inlet 21 adapted to receive strips from each supply device 6 and an outlet 22 through which the strip-shaped article N passes when exiting the supply unit 2 and being supplied to the winding unit 1.

[0393] A supply path 8 for the strips is defined between the inlet 21 and the outlet 22.

[0394] It will be appreciated that the strip can pass through a further unit, for example, for the purpose of performing preliminary processing on the strip, before being provided to the supply unit 2. For example, the conductor strip can undergo a preliminary etching operation to form relative outer edges in order to advantageously serve for connection with further conductor portions within the electrochemical cell.

[0395] As described above, the strips N1, N2, N3, N4 can be combined inside the supply unit so as to form a strip-shaped article N that is wound up to produce a coil.

[0396] For this purpose, the strips N1, N2, N3, N4 are advanced along various directions and converge towards the joining roller 23A as seen in FIG. 9, on which they are all partially wound up such that there is a single multilayer structure forming the strip-shaped article N at the subsequent stage of said strips. More generally, it can be assumed that the strip is advanced towards the joining device 23 by means by which the strip-shaped article N is formed.

[0397] The joining device 23 may comprise a single roller 23A as in the embodiment shown in the figure, or may comprise a pair of rollers 23A through which the strip is made to pass. In this case, a compression action can be exerted on the strip to facilitate their joining in a single structure.

[0398] However, it will be understood that the joining device 23 may use elements different from rollers to produce the combination of strips of the strip-shaped article.

[0399] In a preferred embodiment, the strips N1, N2, N3, N4 are continuously supplied inside the supply unit 2.

[0400] In other words, each strip, or one or more of the aforementioned strips, is introduced into the supply unit 2 without stopping and advances at a speed greater than zero, preferably at a substantially constant speed.

[0401] However, due to other operational requirements related to the specific processes being carried out, it may be necessary to provide one or more interruptions of one or more of the strips forming the strip-like article N, or to slow down the advancement of one or more of the strips.

[0402] For example, in order to produce a coil for manufacturing an electrochemical cell, it can be provided that the strips forming the anode and the cathode respectively do not exist in the end portions of the strip-like article wound to form the coil. In other words, the coil can have a terminal flap where only two separator strips overlap.

[0403] For this and other purposes, the presence of a storage device 4 can be provided that is configured to store at least one amount of the plurality of strips N1, N2, N3, N4 between the inlet 21 and the outlet 22 of the device.

[0404] As shown in the embodiment example of FIG. 3, in a preferred embodiment, the storage device 4 comprises at least one movable element 4A configured to change the overall length of the supply path by moving the movable element 4A.

[0405] The amount of strips stored can be variable in that, in order to meet the specific requirements as described above, it can be provided that the amount of strips stored is variable with respect to length between different steps of the process.

[0406] For this purpose, a device for operating the storage device 4 can be provided, which displaces the storage device 4 to change the amount of strips stored.

[0407] As shown in the example of FIG. 3, the movable element 4A may comprise at least one movable roller 40 on which a strip in which a certain amount is stored is wound.

[0408] The strip is then wound onto the movable roller 40 and onto at least one fixed roller. In this way, by changing the distance between the two rollers, it is possible to change the length of the path that the strip has to travel between the inlet 21 and the outlet 22, and a desired amount can be effectively stored.

[0409] In this way, for example, considering the example of FIG. 3, by lowering the movable roller 40, the length of the strip N1 can be increased, and considering a constant or substantially constant forward speed at the inlet to the supply unit 2, a part of the strip at the outlet can be decelerated or stopped relative to the other strip.

[0410] It should also be noted that in a preferred embodiment, the action of the movable roller 40, or more generally of the storage device 4, may be associated with a strip holding device 26A configured to decelerate or stop the supply of one or more of the strips.

[0411] In other words, it is possible to coordinate the operation of the storage device 4 with one of the holding devices 26A such that the storage device 4 stores the strip N when the holding device 26A decelerates or stops the supply of the strip.

[0412] For example, in some embodiments, for example, acting on the strip when the gripper 26 shown in FIG. 2, or other similar holding elements, need to be stopped or decelerated, can be provided to decelerate the movement of such a part of the strip.

[0413] The gripper 26 can advantageously be movable so as to adjust the forward speed of the relative strip by controlling the movement of the relative strip.

[0414] The gripper 26 can also be associated with a relative knife 27, if necessary, to cut one of the strips and create an interruption in the continuity of this strip within the strip-shaped article N as a whole.

[0415] Referring now to FIGS. 1 and 2, the winding unit 1 is arranged immediately downstream of the supply unit 2 so as to receive the strip-shaped article N formed thereby.

[0416] Preferably, the strip-shaped article N is supplied by being displaced along the supply direction f, and in a preferred embodiment, corresponds to the direction in which the strip-shaped article N moves along after being formed by combining the individual strips N1, N2, N3, N4, and in some cases, corresponds to the direction assumed between the roller 23 and the winding unit 1.

[0417] However, generally, it is possible to define the overall forward direction of the strip-shaped article N according to the characteristics of the supply unit 2 and the way in which the strips are combined therein.

[0418] Referring again to FIGS. 2 and 3, in a preferred embodiment, the winding unit 1 comprises a plurality of winding heads 10, each of which enables the winding of the strip-shaped article N according to a method that will be described in more detail below.

[0419] The winding head 10 is preferably movable within a closed working path P, as schematically shown in FIG. 3.

[0420] The movement of the winding head 10 is achieved by respective moving devices 3 that can move each head along the working path P.

[0421] For example, in some embodiments as shown in FIG. 2, the moving device 3 comprises a rotatable body 30 that can rotate about a rotation axis C.

[0422] The rotatable body 30 preferably supports a plurality of telescopic arms 31 with one end thereof hinged to the rotatable body 30, and each winding head 10 is supported at the opposite end thereof.

[0423] Advantageously, the combination of the rotatable body 30 and the telescopic arms 31 enables the winding head to perform the displacements required to follow the working path P.

[0424] In a preferred embodiment, thereby, the winding head 10 moves along a trajectory including at least one rotation about the rotation axis C of the moving device 3 and translation and / or rotation about a further axis different from the rotation axis C.

[0425] Thus, in the embodiment shown in the figures, it can be observed how the rotation about the further axis is achieved by the oscillation of the arm 31 about an axis passing through the end connected to the rotatable body 30.

[0426] However, different combinations of such movements can also be envisioned, and it is clear that these can be performed simultaneously and one after the other.

[0427] FIG. 10 shows an alternative embodiment of the present invention in which the winding head 10 is directly fixed to the rotatable body 30 and thus does not use telescopic arms. The rotatable body 30 can also advantageously be moved not only around its rotation axis C but also in the displacement direction d, along which the rotatable body 30, and generally the moving device 3, can be displaced.

[0428] Referring again to FIG. 2, in some embodiments, each winding head 10 supports a gripping device 11 configured to grip a portion of the strip-shaped article N.

[0429] Thus, the winding of the strip-shaped article N can be obtained by rotating the gripping device 11 itself about the winding axis X. By gripping one end, or more generally, a portion of the strip-shaped article N and rotating this end or portion, it is actually possible to obtain a helical configuration that forms a coil.

[0430] Referring also to FIG. 9 here, each gripping device 11 preferably includes a pair of pins 12, 13 between which the strip-shaped article N is held.

[0431] At least one of the two pins is movable so as to be able to join the other pin that holds the strip-shaped article N therebetween.

[0432] The pins 12, 13 are arranged substantially parallel to the winding axis X of the strip-shaped article and can also perform the winding of the rotating body.

[0433] To enable the pins to grip the strip-shaped article N, it may be provided that at least one of the two pins is movable along the extraction direction e. In this way, the first pin 12 of the pair can approach the strip-shaped article N during the movement of the relative head 10 along the path P.

[0434] The second movable pin 13 is instead intended to be arranged at a downstream position along the path P with respect to the fixed pin 12. In this way, the strip-shaped article can be included between the two pins 12, 13.

[0435] For this purpose, the extraction direction and the movement of the movable pin 13 are substantially parallel to the axis X and perpendicular, or more generally not perpendicular, or more generally transverse with respect to the supply direction f of the strip-shaped article N.

[0436] In this way, the second pin 13 can be arranged at a position that does not prevent the first pin 12 from approaching the strip-shaped article N, and when the first pin 12 is positioned, the second pin 13 can be displaced to a position that holds the article N.

[0437] Advantageously, the first pin 12 can be configured to move simultaneously with the second pin 13 along the pulling-out direction in order to enable the discharge of the coil, as will be shown in more detail below. Figs. 3 to 8 show the movement of the winding head 10 and generally show the operation of the present invention in a preferred embodiment.

[0438] Below these figures, it is clear that the explanation is related to two winding heads 10 and the same concept is applicable to any number of heads. Therefore, a first winding head 10A and a second winding head 10B are shown in Fig. 3, and the second winding head is arranged at an upstream position along the working path P with respect to the first head 10A. In the state of Fig. 3, the first winding head 10A is at a position adjacent to the outlet 22 of the supply unit and receives the strip-shaped article N therefrom.

[0439] The second winding head 10B, instead, is arranged along the reset segment P2 of the working path P. This reset segment P2 enables the path P to be closed and, in particular, is the segment that returns to the start of the operation segment P1 after the winding head has wound the strip-shaped article to form a coil and discharged the latter in the discharge area 7, as schematically shown in Figs. 1 and 2. It will be understood that the coil B in this discharge area 7 is discharged from the winding unit 1 and transported to other units for manufacturing batteries.

[0440] Preferably, the discharge is performed by moving the two pins 12, 13 that are displaced along the pulling-out direction so as to release the coil B from the relative winding head.

[0441] After the strip-shaped article N is gripped by the winding head 10A, its movement continues along the working path in the first part P11 of the operation segment P1.

[0442] Preferably, the first part P11 is linear and extends so as to coincide with the supply direction f of the strip-shaped article N.

[0443] In some embodiments, the supply unit 2 includes a movable part 20, and the movable part 20 can be displaced along the displacement direction d. An outlet 22 is formed, and it is preferable that a coupling roller 23 is fixed thereon.

[0444] In some embodiments, the displacement direction d forms an angle of 30° to 60° with respect to the horizontal direction, and preferably is equal to 45°.

[0445] Referring now to FIG. 4, preferably, the supply paths 8 of the strips N1, N2, N3, N4 each include a respective storage segment 81, and the storage segment 81 preferably has a variable length that extends between each pair of idle diverting rollers 24, 25.

[0446] Preferably, the storage segments 81 extend substantially parallel to each other, and the directions of the strips N1, N2, N3, N4 are diverted by the diverting roller 25 such that each of the strips flows to the coupling roller 23. In some embodiments as shown in FIGS. 1 - 10 and particularly FIG. 4, the strip N1 is substantially parallel to the displacement direction d of the movable part 20 and is aligned with the coupling roller 23, and thus the presence of the roller 25 is not necessary.

[0447] Advantageously, the distance between the parallel segments 81 is such that it is possible to accommodate the gripper 26 and the knife 27 exemplified above between two adjacent strips within the segment included between the diverting roller 25 and the coupling roller 23.

[0448] In some embodiments, one of each pair of rollers of the diverter rollers 24, 25 is supported on the movable part 20 and is adapted to move integrally therewith.

[0449] In this way, the length of the storage segment 81 of each strip can be simultaneously changed by moving the movable part 20.

[0450] Therefore, during the forward movement of the movable part 20, the supply unit 2 can store an amount of strip-shaped article N between the inlet part 21 and the outlet part 22.

[0451] In fact, as can be seen from the comparison between FIGS. 3 and 4, the length of the storage segment 81, more generally, the length of the path through which the strips N1, N2, N3, N4 pass between the inlet part 21 and the outlet part 22, increases by coordinating the forward movement of the strips with the displacement of the movable part 20 and effectively storing the respective amounts of strip between these parts.

[0452] Preferably, it is associated with the forward movement of the strip so that the displacement of the movable part 20 does not cause tension in the strip. The strip can actually slide on the diverter roller 25 while the movable part 20 is being displaced, thus increasing the length of the strip between the roller 24 and the roller 25 without inducing any tension state. Preferably, when the displacement speed of the movable part 20 matches its forward movement of the strip, it is lower than their feed speeds.

[0453] In this way, it is possible to avoid pulling the strip during the movement of the movable part 20, and thus it is possible to make this displacement neutral with respect to the movement of the strip.

[0454] In a preferred embodiment, the storage segments 81 extend substantially parallel to each other and remain substantially parallel during and subsequent to the displacement of the movable part 20, resulting in a change in length.

[0455] This can be achieved by causing the movable part 20 to displace along a displacement direction substantially parallel to the storage segment 81. In this way, as the movable part displaces along direction d, the storage segments 81 increase or decrease their lengths by the same amount.

[0456] More generally, the displacement direction d can preferably be substantially parallel to the supply direction f.

[0457] Alternatively, the same result can be achieved by appropriately arranging the rollers 24, 25 between which the storage segment 81 extends.

[0458] In particular, in an alternative embodiment such as, for example, the embodiment shown in FIG. 12, unlike the embodiments shown in other figures, it can be provided that both the roller 24 and the roller 25 are aligned with each other and with the displacement direction d of the movable part 20.

[0459] It can be noted that the movement of the movable part 20 is thus also related to the change in the length of each storage segment 81 in this case.

[0460] In some embodiments, the supply unit 2 comprises one or more alignment devices 82 configured to guide the strip N along the supply path 8, thereby avoiding or in any case limiting the lateral deviation of the strip N during the advancement of the strip. For example, the alignment device 82 may comprise a swivel carriage that biases the strip to return it to a straight state when the strip is laterally displaced with respect to its advancement direction.

[0461] Referring again to FIG. 4, in some embodiments, the movement of the take-up head along the portion P11 can be accompanied by a corresponding movement of the movable part 20 along the displacement direction d.

[0462] Furthermore, the take-up head 10 and the movable part 20 may be movable in cooperation. In other words, the movements of the take-up head 10 and the movable part 20 are performed synchronously.

[0463] In this way, it is possible to control the distance between the take-up head 10 that is taking up the strip, or more generally, holding it, and the movable part 20 of the take-up unit 2. Therefore, advantageously, it is possible to provide that the length of the strip-like article N included between the take-up unit 2 and the take-up head holding the take-up unit 2 is minimized or, in any case, equal to a predetermined distance.

[0464] For example, from FIG. 4, it can be noted that even in this operating position, the first head 10A is arranged adjacent to the outlet portion 22 of the supply unit 2.

[0465] For this purpose, in a preferred embodiment, the displacement direction d can be substantially parallel to the first part P11 of the operating segment P1.

[0466] As described above, in the context of the present invention, it will be understood that the term "substantially" in relation to the parallelism with respect to the operating segment P1 where the winding is performed is intended to mean that the two directions are parallel except for the deviation related to the winding of the strip-like article N. In fact, during the winding of the strip-like article N, the position of the contact point of the strip-like article N on the formed coil is variable and does not follow a perfect straight line unless compensated by the movement of the telescopic arm 31. Therefore, this can lead to a deviation from perfect parallelism.

[0467] Therefore, as described above, the term "substantially parallel" still indicates a possible deviation of ±10°, preferably ±5° with respect to perfect parallelism.

[0468] The take-up head 10 can also start winding the strip-like article N along the part P11.

[0469] This is particularly related to the supply speed v at which the strip-shaped article is supplied by the supply unit 2 f and the moving speed v at which the take-up head moves along a part P11 sp and it will be understood that it is related to the ratio therebetween.

[0470] In fact, when the supply speed v f is greater than the moving speed v sp it may be assumed that at this location, the strip-shaped article N is taken up at a take-up speed that compensates for the difference in the above two speeds.

[0471] In this way, the amount of the strip-shaped article N supplied is taken up or stored as described above. Thereby, while taking up and / or holding the strip-shaped article N, by appropriately acting on the moving speed of the head, the strip-shaped article N can be kept under a substantially constant tension.

[0472] The supply speed v f is preferably understood to be determined by the speed at which the supply coil forming the supply device 6 is rotated to unwind the strip, extrude it, then feed the strip into the supply unit 2, and subsequently feed it into the take-up unit 3. More generally, this speed can be determined by the operating mode of the supply device 6.

[0473] At the same time, the take-up of the strip-shaped article N passing through the take-up head 10 can also contribute to determining the feeding speed v f by the tensile action on each strip. At most, when the coil or other supply device 6 is not electric and thus in an idle state, the strip can only be advanced by the take-up operation.

[0474] The tension of the strip is also adjusted by the balance between the action of the supply device 6 and the take-up of the strip-shaped article in a way conceptually similar to that exemplified with respect to speed.

[0475] Referring now to FIG. 5, when the winding head 10A reaches the displacement limit position in the direction consistent with the supply direction f, it is displaced in the opposite direction along the second part P12 of the operation segment P1.

[0476] Also in this case, the movement of the head 10A can advantageously be associated with the corresponding displacement of the movable part 20 of the supply unit 2.

[0477] During the movement of the winding head 10A in the part P12, the strip-like article N is preferably wound through the head itself at a winding speed higher than the winding speed provided in the part P11.

[0478] It will be understood that the displacement of the winding head 10 during such winding occurs in a direction inconsistent with the supply direction f.

[0479] Also, the relative part P12 is preferably substantially parallel to the supply direction f and optionally to the displacement direction d.

[0480] Also, in this case, the same considerations as described above regarding the term "substantially parallel" apply. Therefore, while the winding head 10A is moving along the part P12, it is possible to wind up the amount of strip stored in the previous step.

[0481] Also in this step, the same considerations apply regarding the feed speed and displacement speed of the head with respect to the part P11.

[0482] Supply speed v f , winding speed v avv and moving speed v sp are preferably such as to apply a substantially constant tension to the strip-like article N in practice.

[0483] As described above, in the preferred embodiment, this is the supply speed vf is substantially equal to the sum of the take-up speed v avv and the moving speed v sp and can be actually achieved by providing that it is substantially equal to the sum of the take-up speed v and the moving speed v.

[0484] The rotatable body 30 of the moving device 3 continuously progresses its rotational motion while the arm 31 is rotated in the opposite direction, and thus, it will also be conveniently understood that it performs a movement opposite to the movement executed during the movement along the portion P11.

[0485] In other words, along the portions P11 and P12, the arm 31 vibrates back and forth, whereby the take-up head can perform the movement and take-up of the strip-shaped article as described above.

[0486] At the limit position along the segment P12 shown in FIG. 6, the first take-up head 10A can move away from the outlet portion 22.

[0487] This movement can be performed by moving the head itself and / or by moving the movable portion 20.

[0488] Thus, as shown in FIG. 7, sufficient space can be provided so that the second take-up head 10B disposed upstream of the first take-up head 10A along the path P can be interposed between the first take-up head 10A and the outlet portion 22.

[0489] In fact, in a preferred embodiment, it should be noted that the distance between the first take-up head 10A and the second take-up head 10B can be provided to be variable along the working path P according to the operation steps of the apparatus 100.

[0490] Thanks to this feature, it is possible to obtain the configurations shown as examples in FIGS. 7 to 9, and the two heads 10A and 10B are at a minimum distance such as to allow the positioning of the cutting element 51 of the cutting device 5 therebetween, and the second head 10B is then at a predetermined distance, preferably substantially equal to the minimum distance from the movable part 20, more generally from the supply unit 2.

[0491] Also, the two heads are preferably arranged side by side along the supply direction of the strip-shaped article N.

[0492] In this way, as can be seen from FIG. 9 and as shown above, it is possible to grip the relative parts of the strip-shaped article N through the gripping device 11 of the second take-up head 10B. The part of the strip-shaped article N can be gripped as shown above, in particular by using a pair of pins 12, 13.

[0493] In this state, the strip-shaped article N is wound up so as to form a coil B on the first take-up head 10A and is simultaneously gripped by the second take-up head 10B.

[0494] That is, the strip-shaped article N is gripped simultaneously by both the first take-up head 10A and the second take-up head 10B.

[0495] Also, at this position too, the strip-shaped article N can be cut at an intermediate position between the first take-up head 10A and the second take-up head 10B.

[0496] For this purpose, a cutting device 5 can be provided, which is configured to cut the strip-shaped article N at a position downstream of the supply unit 2, preferably at said position.

[0497] In fact, as can be seen from the illustrated embodiments, the cutting device 5 preferably cuts the strip-shaped article N when each take-up head 10 is positioned at said predetermined distance from said supply unit 2 and preferably when substantially equal to the minimum distance compatible with the kinematic mechanism that causes the movement of the take-up head 10.

[0498] As already illustrated, in relation to cutting, the second take-up head 10B approaches the first take-up head 10A and preferably is at a minimum reciprocating distance along the working path P when the strip-shaped article N is cut.

[0499] The cutting device 5 is illustrated in its preferred embodiment in FIG. 9.

[0500] Preferably, the cutting device 5 comprises a body 50 that supports a cutting element 51.

[0501] In some embodiments, the take-up head 10 comprises a contact element 14 arranged in such a position that the strip-shaped article N is interposed between the contact element 14 and the cutting device 5.

[0502] The contact element 14 preferably has a seat 14A configured to receive the cutting element 51. Thus, when the cutting device 5 approaches the contact element 14, the body 50 of the cutting device 5 contacts the contact element 14 with the strip-shaped article N interposed therebetween, and the cutting element 51 is received within the seat 14A and can generate sufficient pressure on the strip-shaped article N to obtain its cutting.

[0503] It should be noted that prior to the cutting operation of the strip-shaped article N, the conductor strips N1, N3 can be interrupted and their advancement stopped or decelerated by the gripper system 26 illustrated previously.

[0504] In this way, the cutting performed by the device 5 can affect only the separator strips N2, N4 that form the strip-shaped article N following the interruption of the conductor strips.

[0505] In particular, in FIGS. 7 and 8, the action of the gripper 26 on the conductor strip and the displacement of the movable roller 40 with respect to the position of FIG. 6 can be noted as storing the strip as described above.

[0506] In some embodiments, the cutting device 5 is also movable in a direction substantially parallel to the supply direction f. In general, it can be provided that the cutting device is movable with at least one component substantially parallel to this direction. For example, the cutting device 5 may be supported by the movable part 20 or may be integrally movable. In this way, it is possible both to bring the cutting device 5 closer to the abutting element 14 and to displace it synchronously with the strip-shaped article N. In other words, the cutting device 5 copies the movement of the strip-shaped article N when performing the cutting operation and moves synchronously with it.

[0507] Also, thanks to such a feature, it is possible to provide that the strip-shaped article N is supplied with a supply speed v f that is constantly greater than 0, preferably substantially constant, and cutting can be performed while the strip-shaped article is also moving.

[0508] It should also be noted that the strip forming the strip-shaped article N can also be continuously advanced inside the supply unit 2. In embodiments where an interruption of the conductor strip or other strip forming the strip-shaped article is envisaged, continuous advancement is preferably related to the possibility of storing the strip. Instead, for strips or a plurality of strips for which no interruption is envisaged, these can be continuously advanced through the outlet 22 continuously in line with the strip-shaped article N. When the strip-shaped article N is cut, two flaps are defined, one related to the first winding head 10A forming the end portion of the coil wound therein, and one related to the second winding head 10B forming the initial portion of the coil B to be wound later.

[0509] Preferably, the process for manufacturing the coil B preferably provides a third portion P13 of the operating segment P1 that is substantially parallel to the first and second portions P11, P12 and along which the winding head 10A is displaced after cutting the strip-shaped article N.

[0510] In a preferred embodiment, the winding head moves again in a direction that coincides with the supply direction f along the third portion P13.

[0511] Preferably, when the first winding head 10A travels along the third portion P13, the moving device 3 is preferably configured such that the second winding head 10, which just grips the strip-shaped article N, travels along the first portion P11 that sequentially executes the steps described above with respect to the first winding head 10A.

[0512] On the other hand, along the portion P13, the first winding head completes the winding of the flap of the strip-shaped article N produced following the cutting and ends to produce the coil B.

[0513] As described above, the winding of the strip-shaped article N for manufacturing the coil B can be performed in each of the three portions P11, P12, P13.

[0514] Preferably, the winding is mainly, that is, in a larger percentage, performed along the second portion P12.

[0515] However, the winding may be partially performed in other portions.

[0516] In fact, in a preferred embodiment, the winding of the strip is performed in an amount of 5% to 15%, preferably 10%, of the total length of the strip-shaped article that forms a single coil along the first portion P11, in an amount of 70% to 90%, preferably 80%, along the second portion P12, and in an amount of 5% to 15%, preferably 10%, along the third portion P13.

[0517] Next, the displacement of the first take-up head 10A continues until the coil B reaches the discharge area 7 where it is discharged from the take-up unit 1.

[0518] In some embodiments, the apparatus 100 can include an additional working unit 60 through which the take-up head 10 passes before the coil B reaches the discharge area 7.

[0519] As an example, the additional working unit 60 can include a folding device configured to fold two opposing axial ends of the coil. In practice, it can be provided that the conductor strips project axially, one on one side and the other on the other side, and are folded to form a single conductor portion that is intended to be connected to the anode / cathode ends of the battery once assembled.

[0520] In some embodiments, a closing element for the coil B can also be applied, which is configured to prevent the coil B from being rewound when it is discharged from the take-up head 10. Such a closing element can be represented, for example, by a strip applied circumferentially to the coil to close the end flap of a strip-like element.

[0521] After discharging the coil, the take-up head 10A begins to pass along the reset segment P2 in order to displace itself to a gripping position where the take-up head 10 can grip a part of the strip-like article N, as illustrated previously.

[0522] Next, for each of the take-up heads 10 included in the take-up unit 1, the above-described steps can be repeated periodically.

[0523] As described above, FIG. 10 shows a possible exemplary variation of the apparatus according to the present invention.

[0524] In this variant, the moving device 3 moves integrally with the movable part 20 of the winding unit 2 .

[0525] For this purpose, the displacement device 3 may be supported rotatably about an axis of rotation C on the mobile part 20 .

[0526] In an embodiment in which the moving device 3 is movable as a whole, such as the illustrated example moving along the displacement direction d, it can be provided that the winding head 10 remains in a substantially fixed position relative to the rotatable body 3, so that their mutual distance remains unchanged.

[0527] In other words, the winding head 10 may not only rotate by itself but also be displaced in order to wind up the strip-like product N, in this case by following the movement, preferably the linear displacement, of the rotating body of the moving device 3. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 10, as well as in other more general embodiments in preferred embodiments not shown, such a movement includes both a rotation about the axis C and a translation along the displacement direction d.

[0528] However, more generally, it will be understood that the movement of the winding head 10 can be caused by any rotation and any translation or further rotation in addition to the rotation which in this case is always performed to wind the strip-like article N.

[0529] However, these movements do not cause any variation in the mutual distance between the winding heads 10.

[0530] However, a combination may be provided between this embodiment and the previous embodiment in which the head distance is variable.

[0531] More generally, all elements previously described with respect to the embodiment shown in FIG. 10 are provided by the present invention and can be combined with all possible embodiments described above.

[0532] It goes without saying that those skilled in the art may make further modifications and variations within the scope of protection as defined by the following claims, notwithstanding to meet specific and accidental application requirements.

Claims

Claim 1 An apparatus (100) for manufacturing a coil (B) for an electrochemical cell, preferably for battery manufacturing, comprising: - A supply unit (2) configured to supply a strip-shaped article (N) comprising a plurality of strips (N1, N2, N3, N4), said supply unit (2) being downstream of a coupling device (23), and said supply unit (2) being configured to couple the strips (N1, N2, N3, N4) within the strip-shaped article (N) such that the strips (N1, N2, N3, N4) are grouped to form the strip-shaped article (N), said supply unit (2) comprising a coupling device (23); - A winding unit (1) including at least one winding head (10); Said at least one winding head (10) is configured to wind the strip-shaped article (N) to produce the coil (B) during displacement of said at least one winding head (10) along an operating segment (P1) of an operating path (P), and said coupling device (23) is configured to couple the strips (N1, N2, N3, N4) of the strip-shaped article (N) during respective displacements along an operating path between a first position and a second position different from each other; Apparatus (100). Claim 2 The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said supply unit (2) comprises a movable part (20), and said coupling device (23) is connected to said movable part (20). Claim 3 The apparatus (100) according to claim 2, wherein both said coupling device (23) and said at least one winding head (10) are supported by said movable part (20). Claim 4 The apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein said coupling device (23) includes a coupling roller (23A). Claim 5 The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the strips (N1, N2, N3, N4) are partially wound around the coupling roller (23A) downstream of the coupling device (23) such that the strips (N1, N2, N3, N4) are grouped to form the strip-shaped article (N). Claim 6 The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the strips (N1, N2, N3, N4) are arranged to converge towards the coupling device (23). Claim 7 The movable part (20) includes an outlet (22) through which the strip-shaped article (N) passes when it exits from the supply unit (2) and is supplied to the winding unit (1). The device according to any one of claims 1 to 6 when dependent on claim 2.

8. The outlet (22) is defined in the coupling device (23). The device according to claim 7.

9. The coupling device (23) is configured to couple the strips (N1, N2, N3, N4) as a single multi-layer structure forming the strip-shaped article (N). The device according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. The coupling device (23) includes a pair of coupling rollers (23A). The strips (N1, N2, N3, N4) pass between the pair of coupling rollers (23A) to compress the strips (N1, N2, N3, N4), and the strips (N1, N2, N3, N4) are coupled as the strip-shaped article (N). The device according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. The coupling device (23) includes a single coupling roller (23A). The device according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. The operating path between a first position and a second position, different from each other, along which the coupling device (23) moves is substantially parallel to the operating segment (P1). The device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

13. The at least one winding head (10) supports a gripping device (11) configured to grip a part of the strip-shaped article (N). The gripping device (11) is preferably configured to rotate itself about a winding axis (X) so as to wind up the strip-shaped article (N). The device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

14. The supply unit (2) defines the supply direction (f) of the strip-shaped article (N). The device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

15. The displacement of the at least one winding head (10) along the operating segment (P1) is substantially parallel to the supply direction (f). The device (100) according to claim 14.

16. The apparatus (100) according to the claim, wherein the operating path between the different first and second positions along which the coupling device (23) moves is substantially parallel to the supply direction (f).

17. The apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 14 to 16, wherein the displacement of each of the at least one winding head (10) during winding is in a direction that does not coincide with the supply direction (f).

18. The supply unit (2) preferably comprises an inlet (21) adapted to receive at least one strip of the plurality of strips from each supply device (6), and the supply path of the strip is included between the inlet (21) and the outlet (22). The apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 17.

19. The apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 18, further comprising a cutting device (5) configured to cut the strip-shaped article (N) at a position downstream of the supply unit (2).

20. At least one of the strips (N1, N2, N3, N4) is continuously supplied. The apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 19.

21. The operating segment (P1) comprises at least first and second portions (P11, P12) that are substantially parallel to each other. The apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 20.

22. The winding unit (1) comprises a moving device (3) configured to displace each winding head in a first direction along the first portion (P11) and in a direction opposite to the first direction in the second portion (P12). The apparatus (100) according to claim 21.

23. The at least one winding head (10) is configured to wind the strip-shaped article (N) along the first portion (P11) at a speed different from that of the second portion (P12). The apparatus (100) according to claim 21 or 22.

24. The operating segment (P1) has a length equal to at least 5%, preferably at least 10%, preferably at least 15%, preferably at least 20% of the total length of the working path along which the winding head (10) is displaced. The apparatus (100) according to any one of the preceding claims.

25. The at least one take-up head (10) is arranged downstream of the connecting device (23) along the supply direction (f), of the device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 24 when dependent on claim 14.

26. A method (100) for manufacturing a coil (B) for an electrochemical cell, preferably for the purpose of manufacturing a battery, wherein the coil (B) is produced by winding up one strip-shaped article (N), the method (100) comprising: - providing a plurality of strips (N1, N2, N3, N4); - providing a connecting device (23) for the strips (N1, N2, N3, N4); - displacing the connecting device (23) along respective operating paths between a first position and a second position different from each other; - connecting the strips (N1, N2, N3, N4) of the strip-shaped article (N) by the connecting device (23) while the connecting device (23) is being displaced along the respective operating paths; - providing at least one take-up head (10) movable along a working path (P); - winding up the strip-shaped article (N) by the at least one take-up head (10) during displacement of the at least one take-up head (10) along an operating segment (P1) of the working path (P). A method comprising the above.

27. The method according to claim 26, wherein the connecting device (23) comprises a connecting roller (23A).

28. The method according to claim 26 or 27, wherein connecting the strips (N1, N2, N3, N4) comprises converging the strips (N1, N2, N3, N4) towards the connecting device (23).

29. The method according to claim 27 or 28, wherein connecting the strips (N1, N2, N3, N4) comprises partially winding up the strips (N1, N2, N3, N4) on the connecting roller (23A).

30. The method according to any one of claims 26 to 29, wherein the strips (N1, N2, N3, N4) are joined as a single multi-layer structure forming the strip-shaped article (N).

31. The method according to any one of claims 26 to 30, wherein connecting the strips (N1, N2, N3, N4) comprises compressing the strips (N1, N2, N3, N4).

32. The method according to any one of claims 26 to 31, wherein the operating path between the different first and second positions along which the coupling device (23) moves is substantially parallel to the operating segment (P1).

33. The method according to any one of claims 26 to 32, wherein the strip-shaped article (N) is gripped by a gripping device (11), and the strip-shaped article (N) is wound up by rotating the gripping device (11) around a winding shaft (X).

34. The method according to claim 33, wherein gripping the portion of the strip-shaped article (N) includes supplying the strip-shaped article (N) to the winding head (10).

35. The method according to any one of claims 26 to 34, wherein the strip-shaped article is supplied by displacement in the supply direction (f).

36. The method according to claim 35, wherein the at least one winding head (10) is displaced in a direction that does not coincide with the supply direction (f) when winding up the strip-shaped article (N).

37. The method according to claim 35 or 36, wherein the operating path between the different first and second positions along which the coupling device (23) moves is substantially parallel to the supply direction (f).

38. The method according to any one of claims 26 to 37, wherein the strip-shaped article (N) is supplied through an outlet portion (22) of the strip-shaped article (N), and the outlet portion (22) is movable along a displacement direction (d).

39. The method according to claim 38, when dependent on claim 35, wherein the displacement direction (d) is preferably substantially parallel to the supply direction (f).

40. The method according to claim 38 or 39, wherein the outlet portion (22) is movable back and forth along the displacement direction (d).

41. continuously supplying at least one of the strips (N1, N2, N3, N4) at a supply speed (v ｆ ), the supply speed (v ｆ ) is preferably always greater than 0 and preferably substantially constant, the method according to any one of claims 26 to 40.

42. Moving the at least one take-up head (10) along first and second portions (P11, P12) substantially parallel to each other, moving each take-up head (10) in a first direction along the first portion (P11) and in an opposite direction in the second portion (P12), and each gripping device being configured to wind up the strip-shaped article (N) at a speed different from that of the second portion (P12) along the first portion (P11). The method according to any one of claims 26 to 41, wherein it is preferred.

43. The method according to any one of claims 26 to 42, wherein the operating segment (P1) includes a substantially straight segment.

44. The method according to any one of claims 26 to 43, wherein the operating segment (P1) has a length equal to at least 5%, preferably at least 10%, preferably at least 15%, preferably at least 20% of the total length of the working path along which the take-up head (10) is displaced along its working path.

45. The method according to any one of claims 26 to 44 when dependent on claim 35, wherein the displacement of the take-up head (10) along the operating segment (P1) is substantially parallel to the supply direction (f).

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