Sheet conveying device and method for adjusting the sheet conveying device

Abstract

This design makes it less likely for the seat to come into contact with the turning section where the seat rotates. [Solution] The sheet conveying device 10 includes a first conveying section 20 in which a strip-shaped sheet 1 having a first surface 1A and a second surface 1B which is the back surface of the first surface 1A is conveyed with the first surface 1A facing downwards; a turn section 30 provided downstream of the first conveying section 20 in the conveying direction of the sheet 1 and having a convex curved surface 31 whose axis extends in the width direction of the sheet 1, and which rotates the sheet 1 along the convex curved surface 31 with the first surface 1A facing inwards; a second conveying section 40 provided downstream of the turn section 30 in the conveying direction and in which the sheet 1 is conveyed with the second surface 1B facing downwards; and an injection device 50 provided at the boundary between the first conveying section 20 and the turn section 30 and having an air nozzle 51 extending in the width direction of the sheet 1, which injects air from the air nozzle 51. The width of the air nozzle 51 is configured to be adjustable in the conveying direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a sheet conveying device and a method for adjusting the sheet conveying device.

Background Art

[0002] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a drying device that dries a coating material while conveying a strip-shaped metal foil coated with the coating material. In the drying device described in Patent Document 1, the conveying path is folded back twice in the vertical direction, and the conveying path is composed of three stages. A semi-cylindrical air turn bar is provided at the folding portion from the second stage to the third stage. In the air turn bar, the metal foil is conveyed along the outer circumference of the semi-cylindrical shape of the air turn bar with the side of the coating material facing inward. The air turn bar is configured such that the wall portion is made of a mesh and air blows out from the wall portion. According to Patent Document 1, the air blown out from the air turn bar can lift the metal foil from the air turn bar and convey it while maintaining a predetermined gap from the air turn bar. In the air turn bar, the metal foil can be folded back without contact.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the sheet conveying device described in Patent Document 1, when the metal foil comes into contact with the air turn bar for changing the direction of the metal foil, the coating material applied to the metal foil is damaged. Here, a sheet conveying device is proposed in which the sheet is less likely to come into contact with the turning portion for turning the sheet. Also, a method for adjusting the sheet conveying device so that the sheet is less likely to come into contact with the turning portion is proposed.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The sheet conveying device proposed herein comprises: a first conveying section in which a strip-shaped sheet having a first surface and a second surface which is the back surface of the first surface is conveyed with the first surface facing downwards; a turning section provided downstream of the first conveying section in the conveying direction of the sheet and having a convex curved surface whose axis extends in the width direction of the sheet, and which rotates the sheet along the convex curved surface with the first surface facing inward; a second conveying section provided downstream of the turning section in the conveying direction of the sheet and in which the sheet is conveyed with the second surface facing downwards; and an injection device provided at the boundary between the first conveying section and the turning section and having an air nozzle extending in the width direction of the sheet, which injects air from the air nozzle. The air nozzle is configured to be adjustable in width in the conveying direction.

[0006] According to the above sheet conveying device, the airflow volume and velocity of the air sprayed from the air nozzle can be adjusted by adjusting the width of the air nozzle in relation to the sheet conveying direction. By adjusting the airflow volume and velocity of the air sprayed from the air nozzle, a sheet conveying device can be realized in which the sheet is less likely to come into contact with the turning section.

[0007] Furthermore, the method for adjusting a sheet conveying device proposed herein is a method for adjusting a sheet conveying device comprising: a first conveying section in which a strip-shaped sheet having a first surface and a second surface which is the back surface of the first surface is conveyed with the first surface facing downwards; a turn section provided downstream of the first conveying section in the conveying direction of the sheet and having a convex curved surface whose axis extends in the width direction of the sheet, and which rotates the sheet along the convex curved surface with the first surface facing inward; a second conveying section provided downstream of the turn section in the conveying direction of the sheet and in which the sheet is conveyed with the second surface facing downwards; and an injection device provided at the boundary between the first conveying section and the turn section and having an air nozzle extending in the width direction of the sheet, which injects air from the air nozzle. The convex curved surface includes a small diameter portion facing the center of the sheet in the width direction, and a pair of large diameter portions arranged on both sides in the axial direction of the small diameter portion and extending radially outward from the small diameter portion, supporting both ends of the sheet in the width direction. The air nozzle is configured to adjust the width of the sheet in the conveying direction. The method for adjusting the sheet conveying device includes a measurement step of measuring the difference in radial position between the widthwise ends of the sheet supported by the pair of large-diameter portions and the widthwise center of the sheet, and an adjustment step of adjusting the width of the air nozzle in the conveying direction so that the difference in radial position measured in the measurement step falls within a predetermined range.

[0008] According to the above adjustment method, the width of the air nozzle in relation to the sheet's conveying direction is adjusted to control the airflow and velocity, and the difference in radial position between the ends of the sheet in the width direction supported by the large-diameter section and the center of the sheet in the width direction is kept within a predetermined range. This adjustment ensures a gap between the center and the small-diameter section of the sheet in the width direction. As a result, the sheet is less likely to come into contact with the turning section. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a sheet conveying device. [Figure 2] This is a perspective view of the turning section. [Figure 3]This is a schematic front view of the turning section. [Figure 4] This is a block diagram of a sheet conveying device. [Figure 5] This is a flowchart related to controlling the width of the air nozzle. [Figure 6] This is a flowchart relating to the control of the air nozzle width and the angle of the rectifier plate. [Figure 7] This graph shows the relationship between the amount of levitation of the electrode sheet, the tension applied to the electrode sheet, and whether or not wrinkles occur in the electrode sheet. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] The following describes one embodiment of the sheet conveying device. It should be noted that the embodiment described herein is not intended to limit the present invention. Furthermore, the figures are schematic diagrams and do not necessarily faithfully reflect actual implementations. In the following, components and parts that perform the same function are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations are omitted or simplified as appropriate.

[0011] [Configuration of the sheet transport device] Figure 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the sheet conveying device 10. The sheet conveying device 10 is a device for conveying electrode sheets 1 of an energy storage device. In this specification, "energy storage device" is a term that refers to all devices from which electrical energy can be extracted, and includes primary batteries and secondary batteries, as well as chemical batteries such as lithium-ion secondary batteries and nickel-metal hydride batteries, and physical batteries such as electric double-layer capacitors.

[0012] As shown in Figure 1, the sheet conveying device 10 is configured to turn the electrode sheet 1 during transport and change the transport direction. The electrode sheet 1 is formed in a strip shape, with a coating material 3 (paste) containing electrode active material coated on one surface of the electrode foil 2. The electrode sheet 1 has a coated surface 1A to which the coating material 3 is applied, and an uncoated surface 1B on the back side of the coated surface 1A. The electrode sheet 1 has a pair of uncoated portions 4A at both ends in the width direction of the coated surface 1A where the coating material 3 is not applied (see Figures 2 and 3; in Figures 2 and 3, the coated surface 1A is the bottom surface of the electrode sheet 1). Hereinafter, the area of ​​the coated surface 1A to which the coating material 3 is applied will also be called the coated portion 3A. The illustrated part of the sheet conveying device 10 here is used to transport the electrode sheet 1 in a state where the coating material 3 is not yet dry. However, the illustrated portion of the sheet conveying device 10 may be used to convey the electrode sheet 1 after the coating material 3 has been dried.

[0013] As shown in Figure 1, the sheet conveying device 10 includes a first conveying section 20 on which the electrode sheet 1 is conveyed, a turn section 30 located downstream of the first conveying section 20 in the conveying direction of the electrode sheet 1, a second conveying section 40 located downstream of the turn section 30 in the conveying direction of the electrode sheet 1, an air injection device 50 that injects air to levitate the electrode sheet 1 in the turn section 30, and a winding device 60 located further downstream of the second conveying section 40 in the conveying direction of the electrode sheet 1. The first conveying section 20 and the second conveying section 40 are located approximately horizontally. In the first conveying section 20, the electrode sheet 1 is conveyed with the coated surface 1A facing downwards. In the turn section 30, the electrode sheet 1 is rotated so that the uncoated surface 1B faces downwards, with the coated surface 1A facing inwards. By rotating the electrode sheet 1, the top and bottom surfaces of the electrode sheet 1 are swapped. In the second transport section 40, the electrode sheet 1 is transported with the uncoated surface 1B facing downwards. The second transport section 40 is located below the first transport section 20.

[0014] The first transport unit 20 is equipped with an upstream air nozzle 21 that sprays air toward the coated surface 1A of the electrode sheet 1. The first transport unit 20 is configured to levitate the electrode sheet 1 by the sprayed air. This prevents the undried (or dried) coating material 3 from coming into contact with the sheet transport device 10 and causing the coating material 3 to peel off. The upstream air nozzle 21 is positioned below the transport path of the electrode sheet 1 in the first transport unit 20 and sprays air upward. An upstream transport roller 22 is provided above the transport path of the electrode sheet 1 in the first transport unit 20. The upstream transport roller 22 contacts the uncoated surface 1B of the electrode sheet 1 and transports the electrode sheet 1 downstream. As shown in Figure 4, the first transport unit 20 is equipped with an air supply unit 21a that supplies compressed air to the upstream air nozzle 21 and a roller drive unit 22a that rotates the upstream transport roller 22.

[0015] In this embodiment, the upstream air nozzle 21 also serves as a nozzle for spraying air to dry the coating material 3. In this embodiment, the electrode sheet 1 is dried while being transported by the sheet transport device 10. However, the sheet transport device 10 may transport the electrode sheet 1, which is still wet with the coating material 3, to a separately provided drying device.

[0016] The turning section 30 is equipped with a convex curved surface 31 that follows the electrode sheet 1 as it is turned. The air injection device 50 is configured to blow air from the convex curved surface 31 radially outward. As a result, the coated portion 3A of the electrode sheet 1 is transported while separated from the convex curved surface 31. By separating the coated portion 3A from the convex curved surface 31, damage to the coated portion 3A due to contact with the turning section 30 is prevented. The detailed configuration of the turning section 30 and the air injection device 50 will be described later.

[0017] The second conveying unit 40 includes a downstream air nozzle 41 that injects air toward the coating surface 1A of the electrode sheet 1. The downstream air nozzle 41 is disposed above the conveying path of the electrode sheet 1 in the second conveying unit 40 and injects air downward. In the second conveying unit 40, the electrode sheet 1 is conveyed such that the coating surface 1A faces upward. A downstream conveying roller 42 is provided below the conveying path of the electrode sheet 1 in the second conveying unit 40. The downstream conveying roller 42 contacts the non-coating surface 1B that has become the lower surface of the electrode sheet 1 and conveys the electrode sheet 1 downstream. As shown in FIG. 4, the second conveying unit 40 includes an air supply unit 41a that supplies compressed air to the downstream air nozzle 41, and a roller driving unit 42a that rotates the downstream conveying roller 42.

[0018] The winding device 60 pulls the electrode sheet 1 downstream in the conveying direction by winding up the electrode sheet 1. Tension is applied to the electrode sheet 1 by the winding device 60. The winding device 60 is an example of a pulling device that pulls the electrode sheet 1. However, the pulling device may be, for example, a pair of nip rollers that convey the electrode sheet 1. When the pulling device is a pair of nip rollers, the electrode sheet 1 is pulled by rotating the pair of nip rollers with the electrode sheet 1 sandwiched between the pair of nip rollers. Here, the winding device 60 includes a motor (not shown) whose winding torque changes according to the value of the current flowing therethrough.

[0019] The sheet conveying device 10 includes a torque detection device 70 that detects the torque by which the winding device 60 pulls the electrode sheet 1. The winding device 60 controls the current flowing through the motor based on the torque detected by the torque detection device 70 so that the winding torque becomes a predetermined torque. The winding device 60 pulls the electrode sheet 1 with a predetermined tension by such control. However, the configuration of the winding device 60 for pulling the electrode sheet 1 with a predetermined tension is not limited to this. For example, the winding device 60 may be simply configured to apply a predetermined tension to the electrode sheet 1 by flowing a current corresponding to the tension through the motor. In this case, the sheet conveying device 10 may not include the torque detection device 70.

[0020] [Configuration of the turning section] Hereinafter, the configuration of the turning section 30 will be described. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the turning section 30. FIG. 3 is a schematic front view of the turning section 30. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the turning section 30 includes a convex curved surface 31 whose axis extends in the width direction of the electrode sheet 1. The turning section 30 turns the electrode sheet 1 along the convex curved surface 31 so that the coating surface 1A faces inward. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the convex curved surface 31 includes a small-diameter portion 32, a pair of large-diameter portions 33 arranged on both sides in the axial direction (width direction of the electrode sheet 1) of the small-diameter portion 32, a pair of upstream auxiliary rollers 34 respectively contacting the pair of large-diameter portions 33, and a pair of downstream auxiliary rollers 35 respectively contacting the pair of large-diameter portions 33.

[0021] As shown in FIG. 1, the small-diameter portion 32 is configured in a semi-circular shape whose axis extends in the width direction of the electrode sheet 1. In the present embodiment, the small-diameter portion 32 extends upstream in the conveying direction of the electrode sheet 1 from the uppermost point at the 12 o'clock direction. The small-diameter portion 32 is formed larger than a semi-circle (corresponding to 180 degrees) (has a circumference of an angle larger than 180 degrees).

[0022] As shown in Figure 2, the pair of large-diameter portions 33 are positioned on both sides of the small-diameter portion 32 in the axial direction and protrude radially outward from the small-diameter portion 32. Each large-diameter portion 33 is concentric with the small-diameter portion 32. The radius of each large-diameter portion 33 is larger than the radius of the small-diameter portion 32. Preferably, the difference between the radius of the large-diameter portion 33 and the radius of the small-diameter portion 32 is, for example, 1 mm or more and 5 mm or less. The pair of large-diameter portions 33 support both ends of the electrode sheet 1 in the width direction, more specifically, the uncoated portions 4A provided at both ends of the coated surface 1A. The electrode sheet 1 contacts the turn portion 30 (large-diameter portion 33) at the uncoated portions 4A at both ends. The small-diameter portion 32 is in the central part of the electrode sheet 1 in the width direction, here facing the coated portion 3A. The coated portion 3A of the electrode sheet 1 does not contact either the small-diameter portion 32 or the pair of large-diameter portions 33.

[0023] The pair of large-diameter sections 33 are configured to be rotatable around a rotation axis 33a extending in the axial direction (width direction of the electrode sheet 1). The turn section 30 includes a support member 36 that rotatably supports the pair of large-diameter sections 33. The outer portion of each large-diameter section 33 in the axial direction is rotatably supported by the support member 36. In this embodiment, each large-diameter section 33 is supported on one side by the support member 36. However, each large-diameter section 33 may also be rotatably supported by the small-diameter section 32. In this case, the support member 36 also supports the small-diameter section 32 in a non-rotatable manner.

[0024] As shown in Figure 2, each large-diameter portion 33 has multiple suction holes 33b formed therein for drawing in air. Each large-diameter portion 33 is hollow and has an internal space (not shown). Each suction hole 33b is a substantially circular through-hole formed to penetrate the circumferential surface of the large-diameter portion 33 and communicates with the internal space of the large-diameter portion 33. Multiple suction holes 33b are arranged around the entire circumference of the large-diameter portion 33. However, the shape, arrangement, etc., of the suction holes 33b are not particularly limited.

[0025] The turn section 30 is equipped with a pair of pressure reducing pipes 37 that draw air from the internal spaces of each of the pair of large-diameter sections 33. The pressure reducing pipes 37 are connected to the rotation shaft 33a of the large-diameter section 33 and communicate with the internal space of the large-diameter section 33. A fan (not shown) is connected to the other end of each pressure reducing pipe 37. When the fan is driven, the internal space of the large-diameter section 33 is depressurized, and outside air is drawn in through a plurality of suction holes 33b formed on the circumferential surface of the large-diameter section 33. As a result, the electrode sheet 1 (specifically, the uncoated section 4A) supported by the large-diameter section 33 is attracted to the large-diameter section 33. The electrode sheet 1 is pressed against the large-diameter section 33 by the tension applied by the winding device 60 and is attracted to the large-diameter section 33 by the depressurization of the internal space of the large-diameter section 33. However, the large-diameter section 33 does not necessarily have to be provided with a mechanism for attracting the electrode sheet 1. In that case, the electrode sheet 1 may be pressed against the large-diameter portion 33 only by the tension applied by the winding device 60.

[0026] The pair of upstream auxiliary rollers 34 are configured to be rotatable about a rotation axis 34a that extends parallel to the rotation axis 33a of the pair of large-diameter sections 33. The support member 36 rotatably supports the pair of upstream auxiliary rollers 34. The pair of upstream auxiliary rollers 34 are in contact with the pair of large-diameter sections 33. Therefore, the pair of upstream auxiliary rollers 34 rotate as the pair of large-diameter sections 33 rotates. Here, the pair of upstream auxiliary rollers 34 are provided upstream of the small-diameter section 32 in the direction of transporting the electrode sheet 1. The pair of upstream auxiliary rollers 34 are positioned above the central axis of the small-diameter section 32 and the large-diameter section 33 (the rotation axis 33a of the large-diameter section 33). The pair of upstream auxiliary rollers 34 are in contact with the semi-circular arc portion of the large-diameter section 33 that is opposite to the semi-circular arc portion that supports the electrode sheet 1 (the semi-circular arc portion that is positioned to be aligned with the small-diameter section 32). The pair of upstream auxiliary rollers 34 suppress the rotation of the large-diameter section 33 from wobbling around the rotation axis 33a. The pair of upstream auxiliary rollers 34 suppress the rotational wobble of the large-diameter section 33 by receiving the large-diameter section 33 which is pushed toward the side of the first conveying section 20 (to the right in Figure 1) by the electrode sheet 1.

[0027] The pair of downstream auxiliary rollers 35 are also configured to rotate around a rotation axis 35a that extends parallel to the rotation axis 33a of the pair of large-diameter sections 33. The support member 36 rotatably supports the pair of downstream auxiliary rollers 35. The pair of downstream auxiliary rollers 35 also contact the pair of large-diameter sections 33 and rotate passively when the pair of large-diameter sections 33 rotate. The pair of downstream auxiliary rollers 35 are located downstream of the small-diameter section 32 in the direction of transporting the electrode sheet 1. The pair of downstream auxiliary rollers 35 are positioned below the central axis of the small-diameter section 32 and the large-diameter section 33 (the rotation axis 33a of the large-diameter section 33). The pair of downstream auxiliary rollers 35 also contact the semi-circular arc portion of the large-diameter section 33 that is opposite to the semi-circular arc portion that supports the electrode sheet 1. The pair of downstream auxiliary rollers 35, together with the upstream auxiliary rollers 34, suppress the wobble of the rotation of the large-diameter section 33 around the rotation axis 33a. Furthermore, the upstream auxiliary roller 34 and the downstream auxiliary roller 35 do not necessarily have to be divided into two parts corresponding to a pair of large-diameter sections 33, but may be a single long roller.

[0028] As shown in Figure 3, the sheet transport device 10 is equipped with a position detection device 80 that detects the position of the electrode sheet 1 in the turn section 30. The position detection device 80 detects the difference ΔT in the radial position of the small diameter section 32 between the widthwise ends of the electrode sheet 1 supported by a pair of large diameter sections 33 (here, the uncoated section 4A) and the widthwise central part of the electrode sheet 1 floating on the small diameter section 32 (here, the coated section 3A). The vertical positions of the widthwise ends of the electrode sheet 1 supported by the pair of large diameter sections 33 are known in advance. The position detection device 80 detects the vertical position of the widthwise central part of the electrode sheet 1 floating on the small diameter section 32. The difference ΔT in the radial position between the widthwise ends and the central part of the electrode sheet 1 is obtained by subtracting the heights of the widthwise ends of the electrode sheet 1, which are known in advance, from the measured height of the central part of the electrode sheet 1. However, the position detection device 80 may also measure the heights of the widthwise ends of the electrode sheet 1. The position detection device 80 is, for example, a non-contact type laser displacement meter. However, the position detection device 80 is not particularly limited and may be, for example, a contact-type displacement sensor.

[0029] [Air injection system configuration] As shown in Figure 1, the air injection device 50 includes an air nozzle 51 provided at the boundary between the first conveying section 20 and the turning section 30, a plurality of air injection holes 52 provided in the small-diameter section 32 of the turning section 30, and a blower fan 53 that generates wind. The air injection device 50 injects air from the air nozzle 51 and the plurality of air injection holes 52 by driving the blower fan 53. As shown in Figure 1, the small-diameter section 32 is hollow. The blower fan 53 blows air into the internal space 32a of the small-diameter section 32. The small-diameter section 32 has an air inlet 32b that introduces air into the internal space 32a. The air inlet 32b is connected to the blower fan 53. The air nozzle 51 and the plurality of air injection holes 52 penetrate the small-diameter section 32 and communicate with the internal space 32a. The air supplied to the internal space 32a by the blower fan 53 is injected from the air nozzle 51 and the plurality of air injection holes 52. The air may be supplied not by the blower fan 53, but, for example, by an air compressor that generates compressed air.

[0030] The air injection holes 52 are through holes with a substantially circular cross-section. In this embodiment, the multiple air injection holes 52 are evenly distributed across the entire arc portion of the small-diameter section 32. However, the shape and arrangement of the multiple air injection holes 52 are not particularly limited. For example, some or all of the multiple air injection holes 52 may be configured as elongated holes that are long in the width direction of the electrode sheet 1. The multiple air injection holes 52 may be arranged such that, for example, the density is higher on the upstream side in the transport direction of the electrode sheet 1 than on the downstream side.

[0031] As shown in Figure 2, the air nozzle 51 is configured as a slit extending in the width direction of the electrode sheet 1. Here, the air nozzle 51 is positioned upstream of the uppermost point of the small diameter portion 32 at the 12 o'clock position in the transport direction of the electrode sheet 1. The air nozzle 51 is configured to allow the width of the electrode sheet 1 in the transport direction (shown as W1 in Figure 1) to be changed.

[0032] As shown in Figure 1, the air nozzle 51 comprises a downstream block 51a that constitutes the downstream side wall of the air nozzle 51, and an upstream plate 51b that is located upstream of the downstream block 51a and constitutes the upstream side wall of the air nozzle 51. The upstream plate 51b and the downstream block 51a are each configured to be movable in the direction of transport of the electrode sheet 1. The width W1 of the air nozzle 51 can be changed by moving at least one of the upstream plate 51b and the downstream block 51a so as to change the distance between them.

[0033] The upstream plate 51b has a flat plate shape that extends in the width direction and the transport direction of the electrode sheet 1. The upstream plate 51b is configured to be movable in the transport direction of the electrode sheet 1 along a guide member (not shown). When the upstream plate 51b is moved downstream in the transport direction of the electrode sheet 1, the width W1 of the air nozzle 51 narrows. As a result, the airflow volume from the air nozzle 51 decreases and the air velocity (air pressure) increases. When the upstream plate 51b is moved upstream in the transport direction of the electrode sheet 1, the width W1 of the air nozzle 51 widens. As a result, the airflow volume from the air nozzle 51 increases and the air velocity (air pressure) decreases.

[0034] The air injection device 50 includes a first drive unit 54 that moves the upstream plate 51b in the transport direction of the electrode sheet 1. The first drive unit 54 here includes a motor and a ball screw mechanism. However, the configuration of the first drive unit 54 is not particularly limited. The first drive unit 54 may include, for example, a motor, a pulley and a belt.

[0035] The downstream block 51a has a trapezoidal cross-section and extends in the width direction of the electrode sheet 1. The upper slope 51a1 of the downstream block 51a constitutes the downstream side wall of the air nozzle 51. As shown in Figure 1, the upper slope 51a1 of the downstream block 51a slopes upward toward the downstream direction in which the electrode sheet 1 is transported. The upper slope 51a1 of the downstream block 51a is configured non-parallel to the upstream plate 51b. Therefore, the upper slope 51a1 of the downstream block 51a and the upstream plate 51b form a nozzle that narrows in width toward the downstream direction in which the electrode sheet 1 is transported. Air from the air nozzle 51 is injected in the extension direction of the upper slope 51a1 of the downstream block 51a. Air from the air nozzle 51 is injected along the upper slope 51a1 of the downstream block 51a in a direction that is downstream in the transport direction and diagonally upward.

[0036] In this embodiment, the downstream block 51a is configured to move along the convex curved surface 31 of the turn section 30, in the circumferential direction of the convex curved surface 31. Here, the downstream block 51a moves along the inner circumferential surface of the small diameter section 32, thereby moving in the transport direction of the electrode sheet 1. In this embodiment, the downstream block 51a rotates around the center C1 of the turn section 30. As the downstream block 51a rotates around the center C1 of the turn section 30, the width W1 of the air nozzle 51 and the angle of the upper slope 51a1 with respect to the vertical direction change. The air injection device 50 is configured to allow adjustment of the angle of the rectifier plate 57. When the angle of the upper slope 51a1 changes, the direction of air discharge from the air nozzle 51 changes. An arm 55 is connected to the downstream block 51a, supporting the downstream block 51a and rotating around the center C1 of the turn section 30. The arm 55 is rotated around the center C1 of the turn section 30 by a second drive unit 56. The second drive unit 56 includes, for example, a stepping motor or servo motor capable of controlling the rotation angle. The downstream block 51a may be configured, for example, to change the width of the air nozzle 51 by moving horizontally.

[0037] As shown in Figure 1, the lower slope 51a2 of the downstream block 51a slopes downward toward the downstream direction in the transport direction of the electrode sheet 1. A flow straightening plate 57 is fixed to the lower slope 51a2 of the downstream block 51a. The flow straightening plate 57 is provided on the downstream block 51a and moves together with the downstream block 51a. Here, as the flow straightening plate 57 rotates around the center C1 of the turn section 30 together with the downstream block 51a, the angle θ with respect to the vertical changes. The flow straightening plate 57 extends further downstream in the transport direction of the electrode sheet 1 than the downstream block 51a. The flow straightening plate 57 extends along the extension of the lower slope 51a2 of the downstream block 51a, sloping downward toward the downstream direction in the transport direction, and then bends downward. Although not shown in the figure, the flow straightening plate 57 extends in the width direction of the electrode sheet 1.

[0038] The rectifier plate 57 forms part of the wall surface of the air inlet 57a that communicates with the air nozzle 51. The air generated by the blower fan 53 enters the air inlet 57a formed by the rectifier plate 57 and the rear wall 32c of the small-diameter section 32, and is ejected from the air nozzle 51. When the downstream block 51a is moved downstream in the direction of transport of the electrode sheet 1, the extension direction of the rectifier plate 57 becomes closer to the vertical direction (angle θ becomes smaller). As a result, the gap between the rectifier plate 57 and the rear wall 32c of the small-diameter section 32 narrows. That is, the width of the air inlet 57a formed between the rectifier plate 57 and the rear wall 32c of the small-diameter section 32 narrows. As a result, the amount of air flowing into the air inlet 57a decreases, and the airflow from the air nozzle 51 decreases.

[0039] When the downstream block 51a is moved upstream in the direction of transport of the electrode sheet 1, the extension direction of the rectifier plate 57 becomes closer to the horizontal direction (angle θ becomes larger). As a result, the width of the air inlet 57a increases. Consequently, the amount of air flowing into the air inlet 57a increases, and the airflow rate from the air nozzle 51 increases.

[0040] [Control Block Diagram] Figure 4 is a block diagram of the sheet conveying device 10. As shown in Figure 4, the control device 100 of the sheet conveying device 10 is connected to the air supply unit 21a and roller drive unit 22a of the first conveying unit 20, the air supply unit 41a and roller drive unit 42a of the second conveying unit 40, the winding device 60, and the blower fan 53, first drive unit 54, and second drive unit 56 of the air injection device 50, and controls their operation. The control device 100 is also connected to the torque detection device 70 and the position detection device 80, and receives signals from them.

[0041] The configuration of the control device 100 is not particularly limited. The control device 100 may include, for example, a microcomputer. The microcomputer may include, for example, an interface (I / F) for receiving data from external devices, a central processing unit (CPU) for executing program instructions, a read-only memory (ROM) for storing programs executed by the CPU, a random access memory (RAM) used as a working area for expanding programs, and a storage device such as memory for storing the above-mentioned programs and various data.

[0042] As shown in Figure 4, the control device 100 includes a tension setting unit 101, a tension control unit 102, and an airflow adjustment unit 103. The tension setting unit 101 can set the tension to be applied to the electrode sheet 1, specifically the winding torque of the winding device 60. The tension control unit 102 provides feedback control to the winding torque of the winding device 60 to the set torque based on the detection result of the torque detection device 70.

[0043] The airflow adjustment unit 103 adjusts the width W1 of the air nozzle 51 so that the radial position difference ΔT between both ends and the center of the electrode sheet 1, as detected by the position detection device 80, falls within a predetermined range. Here, the airflow adjustment unit 103 provides feedback control to the width W1 of the air nozzle 51 in the transport direction so that the position difference ΔT approaches the predetermined range. Specifically, the airflow adjustment unit 103 controls the position of the upstream plate 51b by controlling the first drive unit 54.

[0044] [Air nozzle width control] The following describes the control process for the width W1 of the air nozzle 51. Figure 5 is an example of a flowchart related to the control of the width of the air nozzle 51. As shown in Figure 5, in the example of air nozzle 51 width control, in step S01, the radial position difference ΔT between both ends and the center of the electrode sheet 1 is measured. In step S02, it is determined whether the position difference ΔT between both ends and the center is greater than or equal to a predetermined lower limit V1, that is, whether the electrode sheet 1 is not sagging below the lower limit. If the difference ΔT is less than the lower limit V1 (if the result of step S02 is NO), in step S03, the width W1 of the air nozzle 51 is widened by a predetermined width. After step S03, the process returns to step S01, and the feedback control is repeated.

[0045] If the result of step S02 is YES (the difference ΔT between the positions of both ends and the center of the electrode sheet 1 is greater than or equal to the lower limit V1), in step S04, it is determined whether the difference ΔT between the positions of both ends and the center is less than or equal to a predetermined upper limit V2, that is, whether the electrode sheet 1 is bulging beyond the upper limit. If the difference ΔT exceeds the upper limit V2 (the result of step S04 is NO), in step S05, the width W1 of the air nozzle 51 is narrowed by a predetermined width. After step S05, the process returns to step S01 and the feedback control is repeated.

[0046] If the result of step S04 is YES (the difference ΔT is less than or equal to the upper limit V2), the positional difference ΔT between the ends and the center of the electrode sheet 1 is between the lower limit V1 and the upper limit V2, i.e., within a predetermined range. In this case, the width W1 of the air nozzle 51 is not changed. The process returns to step S01, and the feedback control is repeated. When the positional difference ΔT between the ends and the center of the electrode sheet 1 is between the lower limit V1 and the upper limit V2, a gap of at least the lower limit V1 is secured between the center of the electrode sheet 1 and the small diameter portion 32. Therefore, in this state, the coated portion 3A of the electrode sheet 1 is less likely to come into contact with the small diameter portion 32. In addition, in this state, problems caused by excessive internal pressure between the small diameter portion 32 and the electrode sheet 1 (for example, the electrode sheet 1 stretching) are also suppressed.

[0047] The angle θ of the rectifier plate 57 (the rotational position of the downstream block 51a around the center C1) is adjusted if the radial position difference ΔT of the small diameter portion 32 detected by the position detection device 80, depending on the position control of the upstream plate 51b, does not fall within a predetermined range. If the vertical position of the central part of the electrode sheet 1 is still low (the central part of the electrode sheet 1 is sagging) even after moving the upstream plate 51b to the furthest downstream position, the adjustment operator drives the second drive unit 56 to increase the angle θ. If the vertical position of the central part of the electrode sheet 1 is still high (the central part of the electrode sheet 1 is bulging) even after moving the upstream plate 51b to the furthest upstream position, the adjustment operator drives the second drive unit 56 to decrease the angle θ. The angle θ is changed, for example, when the specifications of the electrode sheet 1 (e.g., thickness, width, material, etc.) are changed and the previous feedback control is no longer sufficient to control it.

[0048] As a modification, the angle θ of the rectifier plate 57 may also be controlled along with the width W1 of the air nozzle 51. Figure 6 is an example of a flowchart relating to the control of the width of the air nozzle 51 and the angle θ of the rectifier plate 57. Steps S11 and S12 in Figure 6 are the same as steps S01 and S02 in Figure 5, respectively. In step S12, if the difference ΔT is below the lower limit V1 (the result of step S12 is NO), in this modification, in step S13, it is determined whether the width W1 of the air nozzle 51 has reached its maximum value. If the result of step S13 is NO (the width W1 of the air nozzle 51 has not reached its maximum value), in step S14, the width W1 of the air nozzle 51 is widened by a predetermined width. After step S14, the process returns to step S11.

[0049] If the result of step S13 is YES (the width W1 of the air nozzle 51 has reached its maximum value), in step S15, the downstream block 51a and the rectifier plate 57 are rotated so that the angle θ increases by a predetermined angle. This increases the airflow volume of the air ejected from the air nozzle 51. After step S15, the process returns to step S11.

[0050] Step S16 in Figure 6 is the same as step S04 in Figure 5. In step S16, if the difference ΔT exceeds the upper limit V2 (the result of step S16 is NO), in step S17, it is determined whether the width W1 of the air nozzle 51 has reached its minimum value. If the result of step S17 is NO (the width W1 of the air nozzle 51 has not reached its minimum value), in step S18, the width W1 of the air nozzle 51 is narrowed by a predetermined width. After step S18, the process returns to step S11.

[0051] If the result of step S17 is YES (the width W1 of the air nozzle 51 has reached its minimum value), in step S19, the downstream block 51a and the rectifier plate 57 are rotated so that the angle θ decreases by a predetermined angle. This reduces the airflow rate of the air ejected from the air nozzle 51. After step S19, the process returns to step S11. For example, this control allows for feedback control of the width of the air inlet 57a along with the width W1 of the air nozzle 51.

[0052] [Effects of the Embodiment] The following describes the effects and advantages that the sheet transport device 10 according to this embodiment can provide.

[0053] The sheet conveying device 10 according to this embodiment includes: a first conveying section 20 in which a strip-shaped electrode sheet 1 having a coated surface 1A and an uncoated surface 1B on the back side of the coated surface 1A is conveyed with the coated surface 1A facing downwards; a turn section 30 provided downstream of the first conveying section 20 in the conveying direction of the electrode sheet 1 and having a convex curved surface 31 whose axis extends in the width direction of the electrode sheet 1, and which rotates the electrode sheet 1 along the convex curved surface 31 with the coated surface 1A facing inwards; a second conveying section 40 provided downstream of the turn section 30 in the conveying direction and in which the electrode sheet 1 is conveyed with the uncoated surface 1B facing downwards; and an air injection device 50 provided at the boundary between the first conveying section 20 and the turn section 30 and having an air nozzle 51 extending in the width direction of the electrode sheet 1, which injects air from the air nozzle 51. The air nozzle 51 is configured to be adjustable in width W1 in the conveying direction.

[0054] With this configuration, the airflow volume and velocity of the air sprayed from the air nozzle 51 can be adjusted by adjusting the width W1 of the air nozzle 51 in relation to the transport direction of the electrode sheet 1. By adjusting the airflow volume and velocity of the air sprayed from the air nozzle 51, a sheet transport device 10 can be realized in which the electrode sheet 1 is less likely to come into contact with the turn section 30.

[0055] In this embodiment, the air nozzle 51 comprises a downstream block 51a that constitutes the downstream side wall of the air nozzle 51, and an upstream plate 51b that is positioned upstream of the downstream block 51a and constitutes the upstream side wall of the air nozzle 51. The upstream plate 51b and the downstream block 51a are each configured to be movable in the direction of transport of the electrode sheet 1. With this configuration, the width W1 of the air nozzle 51 can be changed by moving at least one of the upstream plate 51b and the downstream block 51a. Note that the width W1 of the air nozzle 51 can be changed as long as at least one of the upstream plate 51b and the downstream block 51a can be moved. If the upstream plate 51b and the downstream block 51a are each configured to be movable in the direction of transport of the electrode sheet 1, the position of the air nozzle 51 can also be changed. In this embodiment, the downstream block 51a is moved in the direction of transport of the electrode sheet 1 by rotating the downstream block 51a.

[0056] In this embodiment, the air injection device 50 includes a flow straightening plate 57 provided on the downstream block 51a and moving together with the downstream block 51a. The downstream block 51a is configured to move along the convex curved surface 31 of the turn section 30, in the circumferential direction of the convex curved surface 31. As the flow straightening plate 57 moves together with the downstream block 51a, its angle θ with respect to the vertical changes. The flow straightening plate 57 constitutes a part of the wall surface of the air inlet 57a that communicates with the air nozzle 51. With this configuration, the angle θ of the flow straightening plate 57 can be changed by moving the downstream block 51a along the convex curved surface 31. As a result, as described above, the amount of air from the air nozzle 51 can be adjusted over a wider range.

[0057] In this embodiment, the convex curved surface 31 of the turn portion 30 includes a small-diameter portion 32 facing the center of the electrode sheet 1 in the width direction, and a pair of large-diameter portions 33 arranged on both sides of the small-diameter portion 32 in the axial direction, extending radially outward from the small-diameter portion 32 and supporting both ends of the electrode sheet 1 in the width direction. With this configuration, by supporting both ends of the electrode sheet 1 in the width direction with a pair of large-diameter portions 33 with a larger diameter than the small-diameter portion 32, it is possible to make it difficult for the center of the electrode sheet 1 in the width direction to come into contact with the turn portion 30 (in this case, the small-diameter portion 32). In addition, by supporting both ends of the electrode sheet 1 in the width direction with the large-diameter portions 33, it is possible to suppress the flapping of the electrode sheet 1 by the air injected by the air injection device 50.

[0058] The sheet conveying device 10 according to this embodiment further includes a position detection device 80 that detects the difference in radial position ΔT between the widthwise ends of the electrode sheet 1, which is supported by a pair of large-diameter portions 33, and the widthwise center portion of the electrode sheet 1, and an airflow adjustment unit 103 that adjusts the width W1 of the air nozzle 51 in the conveying direction so that the difference in radial position ΔT detected by the position detection device 80 is within a predetermined range. With such a sheet conveying device 10, a gap is secured between the widthwise center portion of the electrode sheet 1 and the small-diameter portion 32. As a result, the electrode sheet 1 is less likely to come into contact with the turn portion 30 (more specifically, the small-diameter portion 32). In addition, since the height difference ΔT between the widthwise center portion of the electrode sheet 1 can be kept below a predetermined value, wrinkles in the uncoated portion 4A caused by the height difference ΔT can be suppressed. If the height difference ΔT between the widthwise ends of the electrode sheet 1 and the center portion is large, the electrode sheet 1 will fold at the step portion between the large-diameter portion 33 and the small-diameter portion 32, making it easier for wrinkles to occur. Furthermore, problems caused by excessive internal pressure between the small-diameter portion 32 and the electrode sheet 1 (for example, stretching of the electrode sheet 1) can also be suppressed.

[0059] In this embodiment, the airflow adjustment unit 103 provides feedback control to the width W1 of the air nozzle 51 in the transport direction so that the radial position difference ΔT detected by the position detection device 80 approaches a predetermined range. With this configuration, even if there are variations in conditions, such as variations in the thickness of the electrode sheet 1, the radial position difference ΔT between both ends and the center of the electrode sheet 1 in the width direction can be kept within a predetermined range.

[0060] [Other embodiments] The above describes one embodiment of the sheet conveying device proposed herein. However, the above embodiment is merely an example, and the invention can be implemented in other ways. The above-described embodiment does not limit the present invention unless otherwise specifically mentioned. Furthermore, the technology disclosed herein can be modified in various ways, and each component and each process mentioned herein can be omitted or combined as appropriate, unless no particular problems arise.

[0061] For example, the control range (lower limit V1 and upper limit V2) of the radial position difference ΔT between the ends and the center of the electrode sheet 1 in the width direction may be determined according to the tension applied to the electrode sheet 1.

[0062] Figure 7 is a graph showing the relationship between the amount of lift of electrode sheet 1, the tension applied to electrode sheet 1, and the presence or absence of wrinkles in electrode sheet 1. The horizontal axis of Figure 7 represents the tension applied to electrode sheet 1. The vertical axis of Figure 7 represents the amount of lift of electrode sheet 1. An amount of lift of electrode sheet 1 of "0" indicates that ΔT is "0". Points plotted as circles in Figure 7 indicate conditions where wrinkles were minimal and there were no problems. Points plotted as triangles in Figure 7 indicate conditions where wrinkles were moderate. Points plotted as crosses in Figure 7 indicate conditions where wrinkles were significant and there were problems.

[0063] The amount of levitation of the electrode sheet 1 varies depending on the circumferential position of the small-diameter portion 32. For example, if the airflow from the air nozzle 51 is large, the airflow from the air injection holes 52 of the small-diameter portion 32 decreases, and the amount of levitation of the portion of the electrode sheet 1 that is levitated by the air from the air injection holes 52 decreases. Therefore, it is preferable to set the target amount of levitation of the electrode sheet 1 by referring to the wrinkle formation of the electrode sheet 1, as shown in Figure 7. The target amount of levitation of the electrode sheet 1, i.e., the control range of ΔT, is determined according to the tension applied to the electrode sheet 1, based on the result data shown in Figure 7. For example, the control range of ΔT may be determined around the amount of levitation indicated by the circle in Figure 7, depending on the tension applied to the electrode sheet 1. According to this method of determining the control range of ΔT, wrinkles in the electrode sheet 1 can be suppressed regardless of the tension applied to the electrode sheet 1.

[0064] Furthermore, the control to keep the radial position difference ΔT between both ends and the center of the electrode sheet 1 in the width direction within a predetermined range is not limited to feedback control. For example, the width W1 of the air nozzle 51 may be fixed if the width W1 of the air nozzle 51 is determined in advance using the function of the sheet transport device 10 which can adjust the width W1 of the air nozzle 51, so that ΔT is within a predetermined range.

[0065] The sheet conveying device 10 may be configured to allow manual adjustment of the width W1 of the air nozzle 51 and the angle θ of the rectifier plate 57. The adjustment of the width W1 of the air nozzle 51 and the angle θ of the rectifier plate 57 may be performed by an adjustment person moving the upstream plate 51b or the downstream block 51a without using a drive unit. The adjustment method for the sheet conveying device 10 may include a measurement step of measuring the difference ΔT in the radial position between both ends in the width direction of the electrode sheet 1 and the center of the electrode sheet 1 in the width direction, which are supported by a pair of large-diameter sections 33, and an adjustment step of adjusting the width W1 of the air nozzle 51 in the conveying direction so that the difference ΔT in the radial position measured in the measurement step falls within a predetermined range. The equipment for measuring the difference ΔT may be an external device not provided in the sheet conveying device 10.

[0066] The sheet conveying device is not limited to conveying electrode sheets for energy storage devices, but may also convey other strip-shaped sheets. For example, the small diameter portion may be an arc shape that is greater than or less than a semicircle. The first conveying unit is configured to convey the sheet with the coated portion facing downwards, and may convey the sheet in directions other than horizontal. The second conveying unit is also configured to convey the sheet with the coated portion facing upwards, and may convey the sheet in directions other than horizontal.

[0067] This Specification includes the disclosures set forth in the following sections:

[0068] Section 1: A strip-shaped sheet having a first surface and a second surface which is the back of the first surface is transported with the first surface facing downwards in a first transport unit, The sheet has a convex curved surface whose axis extends in the width direction of the sheet, and is provided downstream of the first conveying section in the conveying direction of the sheet, and rotates the sheet along the convex curved surface with the first surface facing inward, A second conveying section is provided downstream of the turning section in the conveying direction, and the sheet is conveyed with the second surface facing downwards. The device comprises an air nozzle provided at the boundary between the first conveying section and the turning section, extending in the width direction of the sheet, and an injection device that injects air from the air nozzle, The air nozzle is configured to allow adjustment of its width in the conveying direction. Sheet conveying device.

[0069] Section 2: The aforementioned air nozzle is The downstream member that constitutes the downstream side wall portion of the air nozzle, The system includes an upstream member positioned upstream of the downstream member and constituting the upstream wall portion of the air nozzle, At least one of the upstream member and the downstream member is configured to be movable in the transport direction. The sheet conveying device described in item 1.

[0070] Section 3: The upstream member and the downstream member are each configured to be movable in the transport direction. The sheet conveying device described in item 2.

[0071] Section 4: The downstream member is configured to move along the convex curved surface in the circumferential direction of the convex curved surface, The injection device includes a flow straightening plate provided on the downstream member, the angle of which changes with respect to the vertical as it moves together with the downstream member, The rectifier plate constitutes a part of the wall surface of the air inlet that communicates with the air nozzle. The sheet transport device described in item 3.

[0072] Section 5: The aforementioned convex surface is The small diameter portion facing the center in the width direction of the sheet, It includes a pair of large-diameter portions, which are arranged on both sides of the small-diameter portion in the axial direction and extend radially outward from the small-diameter portion, supporting both ends of the sheet in the width direction, A sheet conveying device as described in any one of items 1 to 4.

[0073] Item 6: A position detection device for detecting the difference in radial position between the widthwise ends of the sheet supported by the pair of large-diameter portions and the widthwise center of the sheet, The system further includes an adjustment device that adjusts the width of the air nozzle in the transport direction so that the difference in the radial position detected by the position detection device falls within a predetermined range, The sheet conveying device described in item 5.

[0074] Section 7: The adjustment device provides feedback control to the width of the air nozzle in the transport direction so that the difference in the radial position detected by the position detection device approaches the predetermined range. The sheet conveying device described in item 6.

[0075] Section 8: The system further includes a pulling device positioned downstream of the second conveying section in the conveying direction, which pulls the sheet so that a predetermined tension is applied, The aforementioned predetermined range is determined according to the tension applied to the sheet. The sheet conveying device described in items 6 and 7.

[0076] Section 9: A strip-shaped sheet having a first surface and a second surface which is the back of the first surface is transported with the first surface facing downwards in a first transport unit, The sheet has a convex curved surface whose axis extends in the width direction of the sheet, and is provided downstream of the first conveying section in the conveying direction of the sheet, and rotates the sheet along the convex curved surface with the first surface facing inward, A second conveying section is provided downstream of the turning section in the conveying direction, and the sheet is conveyed with the second surface facing downwards. An injection device is provided at the boundary between the first conveying section and the turning section, and includes an air nozzle extending in the width direction of the sheet, which injects air from the air nozzle. A method for adjusting a sheet conveying device equipped with, The aforementioned convex surface is The small diameter portion facing the center in the width direction of the sheet, It includes a pair of large-diameter portions, which are arranged on both sides of the small-diameter portion in the axial direction and extend radially outward from the small-diameter portion, supporting both ends of the sheet in the width direction, The air nozzle is configured to allow adjustment of its width in the conveying direction of the sheet. A measurement step of measuring the difference in radial position between the widthwise ends of the sheet supported by the pair of large-diameter portions and the widthwise center of the sheet, The adjustment step includes adjusting the width of the air nozzle in the conveying direction so that the difference in the radial position measured in the measurement step falls within a predetermined range. A method for adjusting a sheet conveying device.

[0077] Section 10: The sheet conveying device further includes a pulling device located downstream of the second conveying section for pulling the sheet, The aforementioned predetermined range is determined according to the tension applied to the sheet. A method for adjusting the sheet conveying device described in item 9.

[0078] Section 11: The injection device includes a flow straightening plate that forms part of the wall surface of the air inlet communicating with the air nozzle, and the angle of the flow straightening plate is configured to be adjustable. The adjustment step includes adjusting the angle of the rectifier plate so that the difference in the radial position measured in the measurement step falls within a predetermined range. A method for adjusting the sheet conveying device described in item 9 or 10. [Explanation of symbols]

[0079] 1. Electrode sheet (sheet) 1A Coated surface (first surface) 1B Uncoated surface (second surface) 2 Electrode foil 3. Coating materials 3A Coating Section 4A Unpainted section 10 Sheet conveying device 20. First Conveyor Unit 21 Upstream air nozzle 21a Air supply unit 22 Upstream conveyor roller 22a Roller drive unit 30 Turn section 31 Convex curved surface 32 Small diameter section 32a Interior space 32b Air Inlet 32c back wall 33 Large diameter section 33a Rotation axis 33b Suction hole 34 Upstream auxiliary roller 34a Rotation axis 35 Downstream auxiliary roller 35a Rotation axis 36 Support Member 37 Pressure Reducing Tube 40 Second Conveyor Unit 41 Downstream air nozzle 41a Air supply unit 42 Downstream conveyor roller 42a Roller drive unit 50 Air injection device (injection device) 51 Air nozzle 51a Downstream block (downstream member) 51a1 Upper slope 51a2 Lower slope 51b Upstream plate (upstream member) 52 air injection holes 53 Blower fan 54 First drive unit 55 Arm 56 Second drive unit 57 Rectifier plate 57a Air inlet 60 Winding device 70 Torque detection device 80 Position detection device 100 Control device 101 Tension setting section 102 Tension Control Unit 103 Air volume adjustment section (adjustment device) W1 Air nozzle width θ Angle of the rectifier plate

Claims

1. A strip-shaped sheet having a first surface and a second surface which is the back of the first surface is transported with the first surface facing downwards in a first transport unit, The sheet has a convex curved surface whose axis extends in the width direction of the sheet, and is provided downstream of the first conveying section in the conveying direction of the sheet, and rotates the sheet along the convex curved surface with the first surface facing inward, A second conveying section is provided downstream of the turning section in the conveying direction, and the sheet is conveyed with the second surface facing downwards. The device comprises an air nozzle provided at the boundary between the first conveying section and the turning section, extending in the width direction of the sheet, and an injection device that injects air from the air nozzle, The air nozzle is configured to allow adjustment of its width in the conveying direction. Sheet conveying device.

2. The aforementioned air nozzle is The downstream member that constitutes the downstream side wall portion of the air nozzle, The system includes an upstream member positioned upstream of the downstream member and constituting the upstream wall portion of the air nozzle, At least one of the upstream member and the downstream member is configured to be movable in the transport direction. The sheet conveying device according to claim 1.

3. The upstream member and the downstream member are each configured to be movable in the transport direction. The sheet conveying device according to claim 2.

4. The downstream member is configured to move along the convex curved surface in the circumferential direction of the convex curved surface, The injection device includes a flow straightening plate provided on the downstream member, the angle of which changes with respect to the vertical as it moves together with the downstream member, The rectifier plate constitutes a part of the wall surface of the air inlet that communicates with the air nozzle. The sheet conveying device according to claim 3.

5. The aforementioned convex surface is The small diameter portion facing the center in the width direction of the sheet, It includes a pair of large-diameter portions, which are arranged on both sides of the small-diameter portion in the axial direction and extend radially outward from the small-diameter portion, supporting both ends of the sheet in the width direction, The sheet conveying device according to claim 1.

6. A position detection device for detecting the difference in radial position between the widthwise ends of the sheet supported by the pair of large-diameter portions and the widthwise center of the sheet, The system further includes an adjustment device that adjusts the width of the air nozzle in the transport direction so that the difference in the radial position detected by the position detection device falls within a predetermined range, The sheet conveying device according to claim 5.

7. The adjustment device provides feedback control to the width of the air nozzle in the transport direction so that the difference in the radial position detected by the position detection device approaches the predetermined range. The sheet conveying device according to claim 6.

8. The system further includes a pulling device positioned downstream of the second conveying section in the conveying direction, which pulls the sheet so that a predetermined tension is applied, The aforementioned predetermined range is determined according to the tension applied to the sheet. The sheet conveying device according to claim 6.

9. A strip-shaped sheet having a first surface and a second surface which is the back of the first surface is transported with the first surface facing downwards in a first transport unit, The sheet has a convex curved surface whose axis extends in the width direction of the sheet, and is provided downstream of the first conveying section in the conveying direction of the sheet, and rotates the sheet along the convex curved surface with the first surface facing inward, A second conveying section is provided downstream of the turning section in the conveying direction, and the sheet is conveyed with the second surface facing downwards. An injection device is provided at the boundary between the first conveying section and the turning section, and includes an air nozzle extending in the width direction of the sheet, which injects air from the air nozzle. A method for adjusting a sheet conveying device equipped with, The aforementioned convex surface is The small diameter portion facing the center in the width direction of the sheet, It includes a pair of large-diameter portions, which are arranged on both sides of the small-diameter portion in the axial direction and extend radially outward from the small-diameter portion, supporting both ends of the sheet in the width direction, The air nozzle is configured to allow adjustment of its width in the conveying direction of the sheet. A measurement step of measuring the difference in radial position between the widthwise ends of the sheet supported by the pair of large-diameter portions and the widthwise center of the sheet, The adjustment step includes adjusting the width of the air nozzle in the conveying direction so that the difference in the radial position measured in the measurement step falls within a predetermined range. A method for adjusting a sheet conveying device.

10. The sheet conveying device further includes a pulling device located downstream of the second conveying section for pulling the sheet, The aforementioned predetermined range is determined according to the tension applied to the sheet. A method for adjusting a sheet conveying device according to claim 9.

11. The injection device includes a flow straightening plate that forms part of the wall surface of the air inlet communicating with the air nozzle, and the angle of the flow straightening plate is configured to be adjustable. The adjustment step includes adjusting the angle of the rectifier plate so that the difference in the radial position measured in the measurement step falls within a predetermined range. A method for adjusting a sheet conveying device according to claim 9.

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