Roll press machine for battery electrodes and method for managing the roll press machine for battery electrodes

Abstract

To realize a roll press machine for battery electrodes that enables high productivity and low cost manufacturing of battery electrodes. [Solution] A roll press device for battery electrodes, comprising a press roll, a measuring means for measuring the pressing result of an electrode sheet by the press roll, and a manufacturing control device for recording the measurement result from the measuring means along with manufacturing parameters, wherein the device saves the results of roll pressing an electrode sheet against multiple manufacturing parameters as NG data for NG rolls, and saves the results of roll pressing an electrode sheet against multiple manufacturing parameters as OK data for OK rolls or new press rolls, derives the relationship between the NG data and the OK data, acquires mass-produced product data from the results of pressing an electrode sheet three or more times during mass production, and estimates the lifespan of the press roll from the mass-produced product data and the relationship between the NG data and the OK data.

Description

Technical Field

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[0001] The present invention relates to a roll press device for battery electrodes and a method for managing a roll press device for battery electrodes.

Background Art

[0002] With the spread of electric vehicles, the demand for batteries, which are essential as power sources for electric vehicles, has been increasing rapidly. Along with this, there is a strong demand for improving the productivity of electrodes used in batteries.

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses a method for inspecting electrodes. Patent Document 2 also discloses switching the conveyance system when an abnormality is detected on the roll surface.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] Patent Document 1 is a technology related to the inspection of electrodes after production, and does not disclose any improvement in the electrode production method itself. Also, Patent Document 2 requires a roll width that is twice the width of the electrode, resulting in high roll costs and equipment costs.

[0006] Therefore, the present invention provides a roll press device for battery electrodes and a method for managing a roll press device for battery electrodes that achieve high productivity and low-cost production of battery electrodes.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] If an example of the means of the present invention is disclosed, it will be as follows.

[0008] The system includes a press roll, a measuring means for measuring the pressing result of the electrode sheet by the press roll, and a manufacturing control device for recording the measurement result from the measuring means along with manufacturing parameters. For NG rolls, the results of roll-pressing electrode sheets under multiple manufacturing parameters are saved as NG data. For an OK roll or a new press roll, the result of roll-pressing the electrode sheet against the aforementioned multiple manufacturing parameters is saved as OK data. The relationship between the aforementioned NG data and the aforementioned OK data is derived, During mass production, the results of pressing the electrode sheet three or more times are obtained as mass-production product data. A roll press device for battery electrodes that estimates the lifespan of the press roll based on the relationship between the mass-produced product data, the NG data, and the OK data. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the above means, it is possible to provide a roll press device for battery electrodes and a method for managing the roll press device for battery electrodes that enables the manufacture of battery electrodes with high productivity and low cost.

[0010] Further means and effects of the present invention will become apparent throughout the entire specification below. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] [Figure 1] This is an example of a roll press machine for battery electrodes. [Figure 2] This is an explanatory diagram of the manufacturing control equipment. [Figure 3] This is a flowchart illustrating one embodiment. [Figure 4] This is a flowchart illustrating one embodiment. [Figure 5] This is an example of organizing operating conditions and measurement results. [Figure 6] This is an example of distance derivation. [Figure 7] This is an example of lifespan estimation. [Figure 8] This is an example of the display screen of the manufacturing management device. [Figure 9] This is an example of the display screen of the manufacturing management device. [Figure 10] This is an example of the display screen of the manufacturing management device. [Figure 11] This is an example of the display screen of the manufacturing management device. [Figure 12] This is an example of the display of the manufacturing management device. [Figure 13] This is an example of the display of the manufacturing management device. [Figure 14] This is an explanatory diagram of the cooperation with the equipment manufacturer side.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0012] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings as necessary.

Embodiment

[0013] FIG. 1 is an example of a roll press device for battery electrodes.

[0014] The electrode sheet 1 is pressure-pressed by the rolls 2A and 2B. The rolls 2A and 2B rotate in opposite directions to each other in the direction of the arrows in the figure. As a result, the electrode sheet 1 moves in the electrode sheet advancing direction 12.

[0015] Note that due to the pressure pressing, the thickness of the electrode sheet 1 becomes thinner after pressing than before pressing. In FIG. 1, for the sake of simplicity of description, the change in the thickness of the electrode sheet 1 is omitted from the description.

[0016] The purpose of the pressure pressing is to increase the density in the electrode sheet and reduce the thickness. As a result, it becomes possible to stack a large number of electrode sheets in the same-sized space, increasing the capacity of the battery.

[0017] The electrode sheet 1 may also be composed of an active substance, a conductive material, a binder, etc. Alternatively, it may be in a form where these are sandwiched between thin metal films such as aluminum. The present invention is applicable to both.

[0018] The roll operation management device 8 manages the pressure applied by rolls 2A and 2B, the rotational speed, and, in some cases, the heating temperature. For example, the roll operation management device 8 outputs a roll drive signal 15 directly to rolls 2A and 2B, or to their drive motors. This allows the roll operation management device 8 to determine the rotational speed of the rolls or the advancement speed of the electrode sheet 1. Roll drive information 16 is input from the roll operation management device 8 to the manufacturing management device 7. Conversely, the manufacturing management device 7 may also instruct the roll operation management device 8 to provide the roll drive information 16.

[0019] The electrode sheet 1 after pressing is measured by the sensor 6.

[0020] This measurement may be performed continuously for non-contact items. Alternatively, data may be obtained by measuring a portion of the electrode sheet 1 offline after pressing at appropriate intervals. In this case, the input of measurement results from a terminal or similar device will define the function of the sensor 6.

[0021] The measurement result 20 is input into the manufacturing control device 7.

[0022] The type of sensor 6, or the measurement method, may be varied and used in combination depending on the item being measured.

[0023] For example, the thickness of electrode sheet 1 may be measured online using a laser reflection interferometry system or the like. Alternatively, it may be measured offline after cutting it out.

[0024] Alternatively, for example, the density of electrode sheet 1 may be derived by setting up an area in the transport system where electrode sheet 1 is placed online, measuring its weight there, and combining this with the thickness data. Or, it may be derived by cutting it offline, measuring its weight, and combining this with the thickness data.

[0025] Furthermore, the uniformity of thickness and density may be derived in multiple regions. In this case, efficient measurement becomes possible by arranging thin sensors side by side in a direction perpendicular to the electrode sheet's direction of travel 12.

[0026] Figure 2 shows an example of the configuration of the manufacturing control device 7 shown in Figure 1.

[0027] The manufacturing control device 7 includes a communication device 31, a storage device 32, a memory 33, an input device 34, and a display device 35. The communication device 31 to the display device 35 are connected directly or indirectly to the arithmetic unit 40.

[0028] The arithmetic unit 40 implements various processing functions using software. Data from the communication device 31 is processed by the data acquisition unit 41. The data from the data acquisition unit 41 is passed to the distance determination unit 42. The distance determination unit 42 determines the relationship between the measured data and the distance between a normal roll or a new roll and a deteriorated roll.

[0029] The life prediction unit 43 predicts the lifespan of the roll.

[0030] Reference database 44 stores various relationship information between normal or new roles and degraded roles.

[0031] Figure 3 shows an example of a flowchart for roll life prediction in the roll press apparatus of this embodiment. An example of the implementation based on this flowchart will be described sequentially below.

[0032] First, begin collecting data on degraded rolls (S10).

[0033] Deteriorated rolls, rolls that have reached the end of their lifespan, or rolls that have failed are attached to the roll press machine (S11).

[0034] Set N=1 (S12).

[0035] Test manufacturing or test roll pressing is performed on the electrode sheet under condition N (S13).

[0036] Subsequently, measurements are taken on the electrode sheets that have undergone test manufacturing or test roll pressing (S14).

[0037] Determine if test manufacturing or test roll pressing has been completed under all test conditions (S15). If not, set N=N+1 and proceed to test manufacturing or test roll pressing under the next manufacturing condition (S16).

[0038] This type of data collection on deteriorated rolls is performed during equipment startup or at infrequently, and the data is kept as background information.

[0039] Next, we begin collecting data using good rolls, OK rolls, or new rolls.

[0040] Here, similar to the case of collecting data on deteriorated rolls, data on good rolls or OK rolls may be collected in advance, either at the time of equipment startup or at infrequently, and secured as background data, just as background data for deteriorated rolls is secured.

[0041] Alternatively, it is also possible to define a new roll as a "good roll" each time it is replaced and collect data each time it is replaced. This has the advantage of reflecting the latest state of the equipment.

[0042] The following explanation uses the example of obtaining OK data after installing a new roll.

[0043] First, the new roll is attached to the roll press machine (S21).

[0044] Set N=1 (S22).

[0045] Test manufacturing or test roll pressing is performed on the electrode sheet under condition N (S23).

[0046] Subsequently, measurements are taken on the electrode sheets that have undergone test manufacturing or test roll pressing (S24).

[0047] Determine if test manufacturing or test roll pressing has been completed under all test conditions (S25). If not, set N=N+1 and proceed to test manufacturing or test roll pressing under the next manufacturing condition (S26).

[0048] The background data is now complete.

[0049] Next, relationships are established (S30) between NG data from deteriorated rolls, rolls that have reached the end of their lifespan, or rolls that have failed, and OK data from good rolls, OK rolls, or new rolls. The established relationships are stored, for example, in the reference database 44 shown in Figure 2.

[0050] Mass production will then begin using new rolls already installed in the roll press machine (S31).

[0051] After mass production begins, the manufacturing results will be measured multiple times at appropriate intervals (S32).

[0052] Using the multiple measured results and information on the roll operation time at the time of measurement, a deterioration prediction line is derived (S33). This is done using the relationships established in S30.

[0053] Next, the lifespan of the rolls is predicted. One example of how this can be organized on a graph is as follows: The horizontal axis represents time. The vertical axis represents the distance from the standardized OK roll, the distance to the deteriorated roll, or the degree of deviation, etc.

[0054] The idea is to plot the measured manufacturing results using relationship information, with the horizontal axis representing the operating time at the time of measurement and the vertical axis representing the distance from the standardized OK roll, the distance to the deteriorated roll, or the degree of deviation.

[0055] Extrapolation is performed on the plots at multiple time points to derive a deterioration prediction line (S33).

[0056] The point at which the value on the vertical axis of the degradation prediction line reaches a set value is defined as the lifespan, and the lifespan prediction information is displayed on the display screen, etc. (S34).

[0057] Furthermore, if the operating time approaches the predicted operating time of the rolls, a recommendation for roll replacement may be made, for example (S35).

[0058] As described above, predicting the lifespan of the rolls allows us to avoid unnecessary premature roll replacements. This enables us to continue using the rolls until the very last moment they are still usable. As a result, the frequency of roll replacements can be reduced, and the total cost of the rolls can be lowered.

[0059] Furthermore, reducing the frequency of roll changes also means that production line downtime due to roll changes can be reduced. Therefore, the operating rate of the roll press equipment can be improved.

[0060] This enables the provision of a roll press machine for battery electrodes that achieves high productivity and low cost in the manufacturing of battery electrodes.

[0061] Figure 4 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the time flow for deriving a degradation prediction line, focusing on measurements during mass production. An example of the implementation based on this flowchart is described below.

[0062] First, the mass-production rolls are installed (S41). This step can be omitted if it follows steps S21 to S31 in Figure 3. Next, the manufacturing conditions are set in the roll press machine (S42).

[0063] Then, mass production begins (S43). While mass production is underway, data measurements are taken on the mass-produced products at appropriate intervals. In Figure 4, measurement 1 (S44) and subsequent distance determination (S45) are performed. After an appropriate amount of time, or after a predetermined operating time has elapsed, measurement 2 (S46) and subsequent distance determination (S47) are performed. Measurement continues in the same manner, and the nth measurement n (S48) and subsequent distance determination (S49) are performed. The distance determination is performed by the distance determination unit 42 of the manufacturing control device 7.

[0064] The life prediction unit 43 of the manufacturing control device 7 uses the reference database 44 to derive a deterioration prediction line based on the distance determination results for each distance (S50). Then, the roll replacement time is predicted based on the deterioration prediction line (S51).

[0065] The frequency of measurements 1, 2, n, etc., can be set to be continuous if the measurement is online. Alternatively, if the measurement is offline, it should be performed at intervals of a certain operating time.

[0066] Figure 5 shows an example of how operating conditions and measurement results are organized.

[0067] Various operating conditions can be set. Typical operating conditions include the press pressure on the electrode sheet, the temperature of the rolls, the rotation speed of the rolls, and the width of the gap between the rolls.

[0068] In addition to these device conditions, conditions for the electrode sheet can also be set.

[0069] For example, the composition, viscosity, or hardness of the electrode sheet material.

[0070] These various operating conditions correspond to the vertical and horizontal axes of the table in Figure 5. Note that Figure 5 is shown as a two-dimensional table for illustrative purposes. However, if the operating conditions are, for example, press pressure on the electrode sheet, roll temperature, roll rotation speed, and gap width between rolls, it is desirable that the items on the vertical and horizontal axes of the table be organized as a 5x5 multi-dimensional table.

[0071] In Figure 5, for example, if the horizontal axis represents press pressure, then different press pressures are set for A1, A2, A3, etc. For example, if the vertical axis represents the rotational speed of the roll, then different rotational speeds are set for B1, B2, B3, etc.

[0072] Please note that the three conditions listed are purely for explanatory purposes; the actual number of conditions will be determined as needed.

[0073] The various measurement results for the electrode sheets created under those conditions are organized in the figure as follows: C11, C12, C13, C21, C22, C23, C31, C32, and C33.

[0074] The measurement results include the thickness, density, and uniformity of the electrode sheet after pressing.

[0075] If the measurement items and measurement results are of three types—thickness, density, and uniformity—then C11, C12, C13, C21, C22, C23, C31, C32, and C33 will each contain data that includes three types of measurement results.

[0076] Data for NG rolls, defective rolls, or rolls at the end of their lifespan is acquired as a collection of numerous two-dimensional tables, or in the form of a multi-dimensional table, as shown in Figure 5. For example, data is acquired using the flow shown in Figure 3. This completes the acquisition of the NG roll values ​​for a given parameter. For explanatory purposes, this will be referred to as NG data.

[0077] Next, data is acquired for OK rolls or new rolls in the same manner. For example, data is acquired using the flow shown in Figure 3. This completes the acquisition of values ​​for OK rolls or new rolls for a given parameter. For explanatory purposes, this will be referred to as OK data.

[0078] Next, the obtained NG data and OK data are organized into the same diagram. This naturally includes cases where the data is processed similarly as numerical data on the computing device, without actually displaying it graphically.

[0079] Figure 6 shows an example of distance derivation.

[0080] The horizontal axis represents the value under condition X. For example, if the horizontal axis represents press pressure, it will represent multiple different values ​​such as A1, A2, and A3.

[0081] In this case, the parameters set on the horizontal axis are the various conditions for which measurement results were obtained in Figure 5. For example, in Figure 5, when setting values ​​on the horizontal axis for the press pressure on the electrode sheet, roll temperature, roll rotation speed, gap width between rolls, composition of the electrode sheet material, viscosity or hardness, etc., and obtaining measurement results, the parameters would be, for example, the press pressure on the electrode sheet, roll temperature, roll rotation speed, gap width between rolls, composition of the electrode sheet material, viscosity or hardness, etc.

[0082] Furthermore, it is desirable that the horizontal axis X in Figure 6 includes not just a single condition, but the conditions of both the vertical and horizontal axes in Figure 5.

[0083] For example, in Figure 5, if the horizontal axis represents press pressure and the vertical axis represents the roll rotation speed, then the horizontal axis X in Figure 6 will be a condition set to include both press pressure and roll rotation speed.

[0084] The vertical axis represents the result Z. For example, it represents the measurement results corresponding to C11, C12, C13, C21, C22, C23, C31, C32, C33, etc. in Figure 5.

[0085] This is illustrated for both the NG data and the OK data. As a result, the OK roll value of 50 and the NG roll value of 51 are represented in the same figure.

[0086] Note that in Figure 6, the OK roll value 50 and the NG roll value 51 are shown as a straight line, but this is because the individual values ​​were extrapolated and then linearized.

[0087] Figure 6, assuming a two-dimensional processing approach, would consist of a large number of graphs containing conditions X on the horizontal axis and results Z on the vertical axis. This is because a two-dimensional display cannot accommodate all the conditions. Therefore, it is acceptable to organize them as a virtual, multi-dimensional graph on the computing device.

[0088] In the flowchart in Figure 4, once mass production begins, measurements of the mass-produced products are taken as shown in S44, S46, and S48 of the diagram. The measured results are reflected in Figure 6 as the mass production measurement results 53.

[0089] For the mass production measurement result 53, the distance between the OK roll value 50 and the NG roll value 51 is determined. In Figure 6, the distance to the OK roll is 54A, and the distance to the NG roll is 54B. If the mass production measurement result 53 reaches the NG roll value 51, roll replacement is desirable. Alternatively, if the distance to the NG roll 54B becomes zero or negative, roll replacement is desirable.

[0090] Figure 7 shows an example of lifespan estimation. The horizontal axis represents operating time T, and the vertical axis represents the degree of deviation DF from the normal state.

[0091] As an example, the deviation data 58 during mass production measurement is derived from the mass production measurement results 53 in Figure 6. For example, the deviation data 58 uses the sum of 54A and 54B in Figure 6 as the denominator, with 54A as the denominator. In this case, if the mass production measurement result 53 reaches the NG roll value 51, the value will be 1. This is a concept for normalizing and expressing the current state of the mass production measurement results 53. Note that this normalization can also be expressed as a percentage.

[0092] By plotting the operating time used to create mass-produced measurement samples on the horizontal axis and plotting the deviation values ​​derived from Figure 6 on the vertical axis, the deviation data 58 for nitric acid products is reflected in Figure 7.

[0093] In Figure 7, DV is the threshold value used to recommend roll replacement. It is desirable to set it to a value where the degree of deviation is 1 when normalized, or a value immediately before or after that.

[0094] In the flowchart in Figure 4, each time a measurement is performed during mass production (Measurement 1, Measurement 2, Measurement n), deviation data 58 is added to Figure 7.

[0095] After three or four or more deviation degree data 58 are reflected in Figure 7, a degradation prediction line 60 is created by extrapolating to the deviation degree data 58. The operating time at which the value on the vertical axis of this degradation prediction line 60 reaches DV is the estimated lifespan CH.

[0096] In the explanation of Figure 6, if we assume a two-dimensional processing, Figure 6 will be a collection of many graphs containing the condition X on the horizontal axis and the result Z on the vertical axis. This is because it is not possible to display all the conditions in a two-dimensional display. Therefore, it was explained that it is also acceptable to organize them as a virtual, multi-dimensional graph on the computing device.

[0097] If Figure 6 is a diagram that aggregates many two-dimensional diagrams, then Figure 7 can also be made up of many degradation prediction lines derived for each applicable condition.

[0098] In this case, the estimated lifespan CH can be represented, for example, by the CH with the shortest operating time among a large number of CHs. Alternatively, CHs may be set or selected by assigning weights or priorities to each condition.

[0099] Furthermore, if Figure 6 is organized as a virtual multidimensional graph on the computing device, then Figure 7 may be created as a two-dimensional result obtained by reducing the multidimensional result of Figure 6. In that case, each deviation degree data 58 can be treated as an accumulation of many deviation degree data. Alternatively, the overall deviation degree data 58 can be derived through vector operations, feature extraction, and processing.

[0100] The derivation of the estimated lifetime CH using Figure 7 does not need to be performed only once. Rather, it is desirable to continuously derive the estimated lifetime CH that reflects the latest data by adding deviation data 58 and re-extracting each time the results of mass-produced products are measured for periodic quality control purposes.

[0101] In this way, it becomes possible to derive and understand the operating life of the rolls in advance, thus avoiding unnecessary roll replacements. Furthermore, since the rolls can be used until their estimated lifespan is reached, the cost of roll replacement is reduced.

[0102] Furthermore, since the rolls are large and heavy, replacing them takes time. Therefore, reducing the frequency of roll replacement can reduce downtime on the battery production line. This will lead to increased productivity and lower production costs through improved production line utilization.

[0103] Furthermore, since the roll lifespan can be accurately determined in advance, roll replacement can be timed to coincide with, for example, equipment maintenance or statutory electrical inspections. In this case, downtime due to roll replacement can be effectively eliminated, resulting in further improvements in productivity and reductions in production costs.

[0104] Figure 8 shows an example of the display screen of a manufacturing control device. It is an example of the screen display items shown on the display device 35 of the manufacturing control device 7 in Figure 2. Of course, this also includes examples of screen displays shown on the operator's device or the manager's remote terminal.

[0105] The display screen 300 shows the estimated lifespan 301A, operating time 301B, remaining time until estimated lifespan 30C, and estimated roll status 301D. Note that the numbers in the diagram are hypothetical values ​​for illustrative purposes only and are not particularly related to the actual lifespan of the battery manufacturing rolls.

[0106] The detailed display section can also show the current status of the roll. Figure 8 shows the display corresponding to the status in Figure 7. The current status is indicated by icons of different shapes and colors on the deterioration prediction line corresponding to the current operating time, making it possible to intuitively recognize the current operating time and degree of deterioration of the roll.

[0107] Additionally, it would be acceptable to display the circuitry level and other parameters numerically.

[0108] Figure 9 shows an example of the display when the operating time of the roll approaches its estimated lifespan.

[0109] In such cases, it is desirable to arrange for replacement rolls in advance. This is because battery manufacturing equipment is not necessarily standardized in size and configuration across the industry; rather, it is not uncommon for it to be customized according to the requirements of the battery manufacturer. In such cases, the size and length of the rolls will also differ from one battery manufacturer to another or from one production line to another, requiring replacement rolls based on the specifications of that equipment. Therefore, depending on the circumstances, it may take time for the equipment manufacturer to manufacture and arrange for replacement rolls. Considering this situation, it is desirable to arrange for replacement rolls in advance to avoid the risk of production downtime due to shortages or delivery delays of replacement rolls.

[0110] In Figure 9, when the operating time of a roll approaches its estimated lifespan, a status indication 302 is displayed. In the case of Figure 9, it is recommended to start arranging for a replacement roll and specific action advice is displayed.

[0111] Figure 9 also shows the order button 303. This allows workers and managers to order replacement rolls by pressing the order button 303. After pressing the order button 303, it is desirable that the display in that area be changed, or that the display be switched to something that indicates that an order has been placed, such as "Replacement rolls ordered". Furthermore, after pressing the order button 303, it is desirable that the status display 302 be cleared, or that the display be switched to "Replacement rolls ordered".

[0112] Figure 10 shows an example of a display when the roll's operating time reaches its estimated lifespan.

[0113] Figure 10 shows an example where the operating time exceeds the estimated lifespan of the roll. This is because the quality of batteries produced at the end of the operating life does not change from 0 to 1. However, a gradual increase in the defect rate and other factors can be expected. As the rate of discarding batteries or battery components due to inspection failures in subsequent production processes increases, it is economically desirable to replace the roll when the roll lifespan is reached.

[0114] Figure 10 shows an example where the situation 301D directly indicates that the roll has exceeded its lifespan. Situation display 302 notifies the operator or manager that the roll has reached the end of its lifespan. Then, roll replacement instruction 304 is displayed, strongly recommending that the roll be replaced. In this case, flashing lights or color changes may be used to more strongly convey the need to replace the roll.

[0115] Figure 11 shows another example of the display screen 300. In Figure 11, the display screen 300 is an example of a simple screen that only displays the status. This is suitable when the size of the display device 35 is small. Also, if the display device 35 is a device that only supports numerical display or is an analog display device, it may only display numerical values. However, it is desirable that at least the estimated lifespan and remaining time be displayed.

[0116] Figure 12 shows an example where a lamp is used as the display device 35. In this case, for example, a blue lamp 311A ​​indicates that the lifespan is sufficient, a yellow lamp 311B indicates that the lifespan has been designed, and a red lamp 311C indicates that the lifespan has been reached, thereby realizing the minimum necessary notification functions.

[0117] Figure 13 is another example of Figure 12. Instead of the three lamps in Figure 12, a single lamp capable of displaying multiple colors, the 311D, is used. Similar to Figure 12, the color changes from blue, yellow, and red allow operators and managers to understand the condition of the roll until the end of its lifespan.

[0118] As described above, according to the technical concept disclosed in this embodiment, it becomes possible to derive and understand the operating life of the roll in advance, thereby avoiding unnecessary roll replacement. Furthermore, for example, since the roll can be used until its estimated lifespan, the cost of replacing the roll can be reduced.

[0119] Therefore, we can provide a roll press device for battery electrodes that achieves improved productivity and reduced production costs.

[0120] Furthermore, based on the technical guidance described above, by understanding and managing the lifespan of the roll press for battery electrodes, we can provide a management method for roll press equipment for battery electrodes that is effective in improving productivity and reducing production costs. [Examples]

[0121] This embodiment is based on Embodiment 1.

[0122] Procuring rolls can sometimes take time. Therefore, it is desirable to have a function to coordinate with equipment manufacturers.

[0123] Figure 14 is an explanatory diagram of the collaboration with the equipment manufacturer.

[0124] Information regarding the status of each display screen of the manufacturing management device 7, or the status of the rolls, can be shared or displayed on the equipment manufacturer's terminal 100 via communication 102 through the communication network 101.

[0125] The scope of information that can be shared or displayed may, for example, be configurable in the manufacturing management device 7. This is because there may be cases where information such as operating rates does not want to be disclosed.

[0126] One example of its use is that, as shown in Figure 9, when a replacement roll order 303 is instructed, the equipment manufacturer receives this information and begins ordering and manufacturing the replacement roll. This virtually eliminates the administrative steps involved in ordering replacement rolls, resulting in smoother and shorter turnaround times for replacement roll orders.

[0127] Another example of its use is that, when the equipment manufacturer's terminal 100 detects that the equipment's roll life is nearing its end, it recommends that the battery manufacturer arrange for replacement rolls via the manufacturing control device 7 or through sales channels. This allows for fail-safe warnings to be issued. As described above, in this embodiment, in addition to the effects of Embodiment 1, the risk of failing to procure replacement rolls is reduced.

[0128] As long as the ideas and concepts disclosed above are used, any modifications or similar examples thereof are also included within the scope of the present invention.

[0129] Furthermore, an example of the present invention described using the above embodiments can also be expressed as follows.

[0130] <Part 1> The system includes a press roll, a measuring means for measuring the pressing result of the electrode sheet by the press roll, and a manufacturing control device for recording the measurement result from the measuring means along with manufacturing parameters. For NG rolls, the results of roll-pressing electrode sheets under multiple manufacturing parameters are saved as NG data. For an OK roll or a new press roll, the result of roll-pressing the electrode sheet against the aforementioned multiple manufacturing parameters is saved as OK data. The relationship between the aforementioned NG data and the aforementioned OK data is derived, During mass production, the results of pressing the electrode sheet three or more times are obtained as mass-production product data. A roll press device for battery electrodes that estimates the lifespan of the press roll based on the relationship between the mass-produced product data, the NG data, and the OK data. <Part 2> The relationship is defined by the distance or degree of deviation between the NG data and the OK data. A roll press apparatus for battery electrodes as described in <Part 1>. <Part 3> A roll press apparatus for battery electrodes according to <Part 2>, wherein the lifespan of the press roll is estimated by extrapolating data from three or more mass-produced products. <Part 4> The lifespan of the press roll is re-estimated by extrapolation when new mass production data is obtained, as described in Part 3 of the battery electrode roll press apparatus. <Part 5> The aforementioned relationship is constructed for a large number of two-dimensional data, constitutes a large number of lifetime data, and performs lifetime estimation based on the aforementioned large number of lifetime data, as described in <Part 3>, for a roll press apparatus for battery electrodes. <Part 6> The aforementioned relationship is a roll press apparatus for battery electrodes described in <Part 3>, which performs lifetime estimation by reducing the dimensionality of multidimensional data using vector operations or features. <Part 7> The manufacturing control device has a function to display the estimated lifespan of the press roll and the current operating time on a display device, as described in <Part 3>, for a roll press apparatus for battery electrodes. <Part 8> The manufacturing control device displays a message on the display device recommending the arrangement of a replacement roll when the estimated lifespan of the press roll is approaching, or displays a message on the display device recommending the replacement of the roll when the estimated lifespan of the press roll has been reached. This is a roll press device for battery electrodes as described in <7>. <Part 9> The roll press apparatus for battery electrodes described in <7>, wherein the manufacturing management device has a communication function with the manufacturer of the press roll, and via the communication function, arranges for replacement press rolls or receives a proposal from the manufacturer to arrange for replacement rolls. <Part 10> The system includes a press roll, a measuring means for measuring the pressing result of the electrode sheet by the press roll, and a manufacturing control device for recording the measurement result from the measuring means along with manufacturing parameters. For NG rolls, the results of roll-pressing electrode sheets under multiple manufacturing parameters are saved as NG data. For an OK roll or a new press roll, the result of roll-pressing the electrode sheet against the aforementioned multiple manufacturing parameters is saved as OK data. The relationship between the aforementioned NG data and the aforementioned OK data is derived, During mass production, the results of pressing the electrode sheet three or more times are obtained as mass-production product data. A method for managing a roll press apparatus for battery electrodes, which estimates the lifespan of the press roll based on the relationship between the mass-produced product data, the NG data, and the OK data. <Part 11> The relationship is defined by the distance or degree of deviation between the NG data and the OK data. A method for managing a roll press apparatus for battery electrodes as described in <Part 10>. <Part 12> A method for managing a roll press apparatus for battery electrodes as described in <Part 11>, wherein the lifespan of the press roll is estimated by extrapolating data from three or more mass-produced products. <Part 13> The method for managing a roll press apparatus for battery electrodes described in <Part 12>, wherein the lifespan of the press roll is re-estimated by extrapolation when new mass production data is obtained. <Part 14> The aforementioned relationship is constructed for a large number of two-dimensional data, constitutes a large number of lifetime data, and the lifetime is estimated based on the large number of lifetime data. This is the management method for a roll press apparatus for battery electrodes as described in <Part 12>. <Part 15> The aforementioned relationship relates to the management method for a roll press apparatus for battery electrodes described in <Part 12>, which performs lifetime estimation by reducing the dimensionality of multidimensional data using vector operations or features. <Part 16> The manufacturing control device has a function to display the estimated lifespan of the press roll and the current operating time on a display device. (Method 12) A method for controlling a roll press apparatus for battery electrodes as described above. <Part 17> The manufacturing control device displays a message on the display device recommending the arrangement of a replacement roll when the estimated lifespan of the press roll is approaching, or displays a message on the display device recommending the replacement of the roll when the estimated lifespan of the press roll is reached. <Method 16> A method for managing a roll press device for battery electrodes. <Part 18> The manufacturing control device has a communication function with the manufacturer of the press rolls, and through the communication function, it arranges for replacement press rolls or receives a proposal from the manufacturer to arrange for replacement rolls. A method for managing a roll press device for battery electrodes as described in <16>. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0131] 1: Electrode sheet 2A, 2B: Roll 6: Sensor 7: Manufacturing control equipment 8: Roll operation control device 10: Measurement 12: Electrode sheet direction of travel 15: Roll drive signal 16: Roll drive information 20: Measurement results 31: Communication device 32: Storage device 33: Memory 34: Input device 35:Display device 40: Arithmetic device 41: Data Collection Department 42: Distance determination unit 43: Replacement timing prediction unit 44: Reference Databases 50: OK Roll Value 51: NG Role Value 53: Mass Production Measurement Results 54:Distance 58: Deviation Data 60: Deterioration prediction line 100: Equipment manufacturer's terminal 101: Communications Network 102: Communications 300:Display screen 301: Time information and other display 301A: Estimated lifespan 301B: Driving time 301C: Remaining time 301D: Situation 302: Situation Presentation 303: Order button 304: Roll replacement instruction 310:Details display section 311: Lamp CH: Estimated lifespan DF: Degree of deviation from normal state DV: Setting value RT: Current status

Claims

1. The system includes a press roll, a measuring means for measuring the pressing result of the electrode sheet by the press roll, and a manufacturing control device for recording the measurement result from the measuring means along with manufacturing parameters. For NG rolls, the results of roll-pressing electrode sheets under multiple manufacturing parameters are saved as NG data. The results of roll-pressing an electrode sheet against an OK roll or a new press roll according to the aforementioned multiple manufacturing parameters are saved as OK data. The relationship between the aforementioned NG data and the aforementioned OK data is derived, During mass production, the results of pressing the electrode sheet three or more times are obtained as mass-production product data. A roll press device for battery electrodes that estimates the lifespan of the press roll based on the relationship between the mass-produced product data, the NG data, and the OK data.

2. The roll press apparatus for battery electrodes according to claim 1, wherein the relationship is defined by the distance or degree of deviation between the NG data and the OK data.

3. The roll press apparatus for battery electrodes according to claim 2, wherein the lifespan of the press roll is estimated by extrapolating three or more mass-produced product data.

4. The battery electrode roll press apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the lifespan of the press roll is re-estimated by extrapolation when new mass production data is obtained.

5. The aforementioned relationship is constructed for a large number of two-dimensional data, constitutes a large number of lifespan data, and lifespan estimation is performed based on the large number of lifespan data, as described in claim 3, for a roll press apparatus for battery electrodes.

6. The aforementioned relationship is a roll press apparatus for battery electrodes according to claim 3, which performs lifetime estimation by reducing the dimensionality of multidimensional data using vector operations or feature quantities.

7. The roll press apparatus for battery electrodes according to claim 3, wherein the manufacturing management device has a function to display the estimated lifespan of the press roll and the current operating time on a display device.

8. The roll press apparatus for battery electrodes according to claim 7, wherein the manufacturing control device displays a message on the display device recommending the arrangement of a replacement roll when the estimated lifespan of the press roll is approaching, or displays a message on the display device recommending the replacement of the roll when the estimated lifespan of the press roll has been reached.

9. The roll press apparatus for battery electrodes according to claim 7, wherein the manufacturing management device has a communication function with the manufacturer of the press roll, and via the communication function, arranges for replacement press rolls or receives a proposal from the manufacturer to arrange for replacement rolls.

10. The system includes a press roll, a measuring means for measuring the pressing result of the electrode sheet by the press roll, and a manufacturing control device for recording the measurement result from the measuring means along with manufacturing parameters. For NG rolls, the results of roll-pressing electrode sheets under multiple manufacturing parameters are saved as NG data. The results of roll-pressing an electrode sheet against an OK roll or a new press roll according to the aforementioned multiple manufacturing parameters are saved as OK data. The relationship between the aforementioned NG data and the aforementioned OK data is derived, During mass production, the results of pressing the electrode sheet three or more times are obtained as mass-production product data. A method for managing a roll press apparatus for battery electrodes, which estimates the lifespan of the press roll based on the relationship between the mass-produced product data, the NG data, and the OK data.

11. The management method for a roll press apparatus for battery electrodes according to claim 10, wherein the relationship is defined by the distance or degree of deviation between the NG data and the OK data.

12. A method for managing a roll press apparatus for battery electrodes according to claim 11, wherein the lifespan of the press roll is estimated by extrapolating three or more mass-produced product data.

13. The method for managing a roll press apparatus for battery electrodes according to claim 12, wherein the lifespan of the press roll is re-extracted and re-estimated when new mass production data is acquired.

14. The method for managing a roll press apparatus for battery electrodes according to claim 12, wherein the manufacturing management device has a function to display the estimated lifespan of the press roll and the current operating time on a display device.

15. The method for managing a roll press apparatus for battery electrodes according to claim 14, wherein the manufacturing management apparatus displays a message on the display device recommending the arrangement of a replacement roll when the estimated lifespan of the press roll is approaching, or displays a message on the display device recommending the replacement of the roll when the estimated lifespan of the press roll has been reached.

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