Battery manufacturing system and battery manufacturing method

Abstract

According to an exemplary embodiment, a battery manufacturing system is provided, the system including: forming a plurality of first electrodes having electrode identities from a first electrode sheet having the electrode identities provided at a predetermined pitch interval; forming a plurality of second electrodes from a second electrode sheet; and a coupling device configured to couple the plurality of first electrodes and the plurality of second electrodes; The coupling device may include a controller configured to collect electrode identity data related to coordinates including the electrode identity and coordinate values ​​of at least one of the first electrode and second electrode matched to the electrode identity based on a first input of the first electrode sheet, a second input of the second electrode sheet, and an electrode identity sensing signal.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a battery manufacturing system and a battery manufacturing method.

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority based on Korean Patent Application No. 10-2023-0128126, filed on September 25, 2023, and all contents disclosed in the documents of said Korean patent application are incorporated herein by reference. [Background technology]

[0003] Batteries, especially secondary batteries, differ from primary batteries in that they can be charged and discharged multiple times. Batteries such as secondary batteries are widely used as energy sources for a variety of wireless devices, such as handsets, laptops, and wireless vacuum cleaners. In recent years, improvements in energy density and economies of scale have dramatically reduced the manufacturing cost per unit capacity of batteries, and as the driving range of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) has increased to the same level as fuel-powered vehicles, the primary use of batteries has shifted from mobile devices to mobility.

[0004] Battery cells are manufactured through an electrode process, an assembly process, and an activation process. The manufactured battery cells are then included in larger units, such as battery modules and battery packs, and used in electric vehicles. The electrode process is the most crucial process for determining the yield and performance of battery cells. The electrode process can include a coating process, a roll press process, and a slitting process. In the coating process, active materials and insulating materials can be applied to the surface of a current collector. In the roll press process, the electrode can be pressed by a pressure roll. The roll press process can determine the density, performance, and surface quality of the electrode. In the slitting process, the electrode can be cut into multiple electrodes according to the design of the battery cell. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2023-0025288 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] The problem to be solved by the technical idea of ​​the present invention is to provide a battery manufacturing system and a battery manufacturing method that are capable of searching for historical data of battery manufacturing. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention to achieve the above object, a battery manufacturing system is provided, the system including a coupling device configured to form a plurality of first electrodes having electrode identities from a first electrode sheet having electrode identities assigned at a predetermined pitch interval, form a plurality of second electrodes from a second electrode sheet, and couple the plurality of first electrodes to the plurality of second electrodes, the coupling device including a controller configured to collect electrode identity data relating to the electrode identities and coordinates including coordinate values ​​of at least one of the first electrodes and the second electrodes matched to the electrode identities based on a first input amount of the first electrode sheet, a second input amount of the second electrode sheet, and an electrode identity sensing signal.

[0008] The system may further include a server configured to store electrode identity data associated with the coordinates.

[0009] The system may further include a notching device that applies electrode identities to the first electrode sheet at a predetermined pitch interval. The notching device may include a notching machine that forms electrode tabs on the first electrode sheet at a predetermined pitch interval, an identity marking machine that marks the electrode identities on the electrode tabs, and a notching controller configured to collect electrode identity data related to the electrode identities and coordinates including a first coordinate value that is a position of the first electrode sheet in the notching process that is matched to the electrode identities.

[0010] The first coordinate value may be acquired based on a signal of an unwound amount and / or a wound amount of the first electrode sheet when the electrode identity is detected in the notching process.

[0011] The coupling device may include a first electrode cutter configured to cut a first electrode sheet unwound from a first electrode roll to provide a plurality of first electrodes, a second electrode cutter configured to cut a second electrode sheet unwound from a second electrode roll to provide a plurality of second electrodes, and a second electrode identity reader configured to sense an electrode identity of an electrode tab of each of the plurality of first electrodes to generate an electrode identity sensing signal.

[0012] The first input amount of the first electrode sheet can be calculated based on the pitch of the plurality of first electrodes and the cut count of the first electrode cutter, and the second input amount of the second electrode sheet can be calculated based on the pitch of the plurality of second electrodes and the cut count of the second electrode cutter.

[0013] The coupling device may further include a first rotary encoder configured to generate a first input amount signal representative of a first input amount of the first electrode sheet, and a second rotary encoder configured to generate a second input amount signal representative of a second input amount of the second electrode sheet.

[0014] The server may store a roll map for each process including roll map coordinate values ​​indicating positions on the first electrode sheet and the second electrode sheet in a plurality of preceding processes before the electrode ID is assigned. The server may associate at least one of the electrode ID, the coordinate values ​​of the first electrode matched to the electrode ID, and the coordinate values ​​of the second electrode matched to the electrode ID with the roll map coordinate values.

[0015] The system may further include a subsequent process event data matching unit that matches at least one of the electrode ID, coordinate values ​​of a first electrode matched to the electrode ID, and coordinate values ​​of a second electrode matched to the electrode ID with the ID of at least one upper battery assembly selected from the following and / or process event data acquired in a plurality of subsequent processes after the first electrode and the second electrode are coupled:

[0016] 1) An assembly idea of ​​an electrode assembly including at least one combination of the first electrode and the second electrode. 2) Semi-finished product ID of a battery semi-finished product including the above electrode assembly 3) Cell ID of a battery cell including the above electrode assembly or semi-finished battery product 4) A stacked body idea of ​​a battery cell stack including a plurality of the above battery cells. 5) Module ID of a battery module including the battery cell stack 6) Pack ID of a battery pack containing multiple battery modules

[0017] According to an exemplary embodiment, a method for manufacturing a battery is provided, the method including the steps of: applying electrode identities to a first electrode sheet at a predetermined pitch interval, forming a plurality of first electrodes from the first electrode sheet with the electrode identities and forming a plurality of second electrodes from a second electrode sheet, combining the plurality of first electrodes with the plurality of second electrodes, and collecting electrode identity data related to coordinates including coordinate values ​​of the electrode identities and at least one of the first electrodes and second electrodes matched to the electrode identities.

[0018] The electrode id may be provided to electrode tabs formed at predetermined intervals on the first electrode sheet by notching.

[0019] In the above method, a position in the notching process of the first electrode sheet corresponding to the electrode ID is obtained as a first coordinate value, and at least one of the electrode ID, the coordinate value of the first electrode matched to the electrode ID, and the coordinate value of the second electrode matched to the electrode ID can be made to correspond to the first coordinate value.

[0020] Electrode identity data associated with the coordinates is collected based on a first input of the first electrode sheet, a second input of the second electrode sheet, and an electrode identity sensing signal; The electrode identity sensing signal can be generated based on sensing the electrode identity.

[0021] The first input amount of the first electrode sheet can be calculated based on the pitch of the plurality of first electrodes and the cut count of the first electrode cutter, and the second input amount of the second electrode sheet can be calculated based on the pitch of the plurality of second electrodes and the cut count of the second electrode cutter.

[0022] The first input amount of the first electrode sheet can be determined by a first input amount signal generated by a first rotary encoder configured to sense the amount of rotation of a first electrode unwinder configured to unwind the first electrode sheet, and the second input amount of the second electrode sheet can be determined by a second input amount signal generated by a second rotary encoder configured to sense the amount of rotation of a second electrode unwinder configured to unwind the second electrode sheet.

[0023] The method may further include a step of acquiring coordinate values ​​indicating positions on the first electrode sheet and the second electrode sheet for each of a plurality of preceding steps before the electrode ID assignment step as the first electrode sheet and the second electrode sheet move through a predetermined process, and corresponding at least one of the coordinate values ​​of the first electrode sheet and the coordinate values ​​of the second electrode sheet in each of the steps to at least one of the electrode ID, the coordinate value of the first electrode matched to the electrode ID, and the coordinate value of the second electrode matched to the electrode ID.

[0024] At least one of the coordinate values ​​of the first electrode sheet and the coordinate values ​​of the second electrode sheet in each process may be a roll map coordinate value collected based on the input amount and / or consumption amount of the first electrode sheet or the second electrode sheet in multiple processes.

[0025] The method may further include a step of matching at least one of the electrode ID, coordinate values ​​of a first electrode matched to the electrode ID, and coordinate values ​​of a second electrode matched to the electrode ID with the ID of at least one upper battery assembly selected from the following and / or process event data acquired in a plurality of subsequent processes after the first electrode and the second electrode are coupled:

[0026] 1) An assembly idea of ​​an electrode assembly including at least one combination of the first electrode and the second electrode. 2) Semi-finished product ID of a battery semi-finished product including the above electrode assembly 3) Cell ID of a battery cell including the above electrode assembly or semi-finished battery product 4) A stacked body idea of ​​a battery cell stack including a plurality of the above battery cells. 5) Module ID of a battery module including the battery cell stack 6) Pack ID of a battery pack containing multiple battery modules

[0027] According to an exemplary embodiment, an electrode assembly may be provided that includes at least one combination of a first electrode having an electrode ID and a second electrode having coordinate values ​​that match the electrode ID, and that has an assembly ID corresponding to the electrode ID.

[0028] According to an exemplary embodiment, at least one upper battery assembly including the above electrode assembly and selected from the following may be provided:

[0029] 1) A semi-finished battery product including the electrode assembly. 2) A battery semi-finished product including the electrode assembly and having a semi-finished product ID corresponding to the assembly ID. 3) A battery cell including the above electrode assembly or semi-finished battery product. 4) A battery cell including the above electrode assembly or battery semi-finished product and having a cell ID corresponding to the above electrode assembly ID or semi-finished product ID. 5) A battery cell stack including a plurality of the battery cells. 6) A battery cell stack including a plurality of the battery cells and having a stack ID corresponding to the cell ID. 7) A battery module including the above battery cell stack. 8) A battery module including the battery cell stack and having a module ID corresponding to the stack ID. 9) A battery pack containing multiple battery modules as described above 10) A battery pack including a plurality of the battery modules and having a pack ID corresponding to the module ID. [Effects of the Invention]

[0030] According to exemplary embodiments of the present invention, it is possible to improve traceability between a roll map generated in an electrode manufacturing process and a semi-finished product such as a mono-cell or bi-cell. It is also possible to improve traceability between a semi-finished product assembly process and subsequent processes after the assembly process. This improves the reliability of battery manufacturing.

[0031] The effects that can be obtained from the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned can be clearly derived and understood from the following description by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure belong. In other words, unintended effects accompanying the implementation of the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure can also be derived from the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure by a person having ordinary skill in the art. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0032] [Figure 1] 1 illustrates a battery manufacturing system according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 2] 1 illustrates a notching device according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 3] 1 illustrates a lamination apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 4] 1 illustrates a lamination apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 5] The relative positions of the elements to the positive electrode sheet ESP are shown. [Figure 6] The relative positions of the elements to the negative electrode sheet ESN are shown. [Figure 7] 1 shows role maps generated in multiple previous steps before the combining step. [Figure 8] Indicates the data to be matched to the roll map coordinate value. [Figure 9] 1 illustrates a subsequent process event data matching unit according to an exemplary embodiment; [Figure 10] 1 illustrates data matching in a battery manufacturing system according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 11] 1 is a flowchart illustrating a method for manufacturing a battery according to an exemplary embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0033] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Before that, it should be noted that the terms and words used in the specification and claims should not be interpreted as being limited to their ordinary or dictionary meanings, but should be interpreted as meanings and concepts that are consistent with the technical idea of ​​the present invention, based on the principle that the inventor can appropriately define the concept of the term to best describe his / her own invention.

[0034] Therefore, the embodiments described in this specification and the configurations shown in the drawings are merely the most preferred embodiments of the present invention and do not represent the entire technical idea of ​​the present invention, and there may be various equivalents and modifications that can replace them at the time of this application.

[0035] Furthermore, in the description of the present invention, if it is determined that a specific description of related publicly known configurations or functions may obscure the gist of the present invention, the detailed description will be omitted.

[0036] The embodiments of the present invention are provided to more completely explain the present invention to those skilled in the art, and therefore the shapes and sizes of components in the drawings may be exaggerated, omitted, or shown schematically for clearer explanation. Therefore, the sizes and proportions of each component do not completely reflect the actual sizes and proportions.

[0037] (First embodiment) FIG. 1 illustrates a battery manufacturing system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0038] FIG. 2 illustrates a notching device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0039] 3 and 4 show a coupling device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0040] FIG. 5 shows the relative positions of the elements with respect to the positive electrode sheet ESP.

[0041] FIG. 6 shows the relative positions of the elements with respect to the negative electrode sheet ESN.

[0042] FIG. 1 illustrates a battery manufacturing system 10 according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0043] Referring to FIG. 1 , the battery manufacturing system 10 may include a coating device 100, a roll pressing device 200, a slitting device 300, a notching device 400, a bonding device 500, a subsequent process device 600, an EIF 1100, a server 1200, and a display device 1300.

[0044] The battery manufacturing system 10 can be configured to manufacture battery cells (eg, pouch-type battery cells, prismatic battery cells, or cylindrical battery cells) by performing a series of roll-to-roll processes.

[0045] The coating, roll pressing, and slitting processes are electrode manufacturing processes in which electrodes are applied to electrode sheets and pressed. The notching process processes the electrode sheet to form electrode tabs, and the bonding process stacks electrodes with electrode tabs to manufacture unit cells such as mono-cells and bi-cells. The notching and bonding processes (e.g., lamination, lamination and stacking, lamination and folding, and zigzag stacking processes such as ZZS (Zigzag stacking) and AZS (Advanced zigzag stacking)) are included in the assembly process.

[0046] In the lamination and stacking process (L&S process), the unit cells are stacked again to form an electrode assembly in the form of a stack cell, and in the lamination and folding process (L&F process), the unit cells are folded by a separator film to form an electrode assembly in the form of a folded cell.

[0047] In processes such as the ZZS process and the AZS process, electrodes on which electrode tabs are formed are sequentially stacked between zigzag separators, and electrode bonding and stacking are simultaneously performed to manufacture an electrode assembly.

[0048] The electrode assembly is then housed in a cell housing and filled with electrolyte to form a semi-finished battery cell. The semi-finished battery cell is then given predetermined electrical characteristics through an activation process or other process to become a finished battery cell. The resulting finished battery cells can be bundled together to form a battery module or a battery pack. To obtain finished products such as battery cells, battery modules, and battery packs, various subsequent processes must be performed, including a lamination and stacking process, a lamination and folding process, a ZZS process, an AZS process, a housing insertion process, a liquid filling process, an activation process, a modularization process, and a packing process.

[0049] The present invention is characterized in that, in a notching process, electrode IDs assigned to an electrode sheet are associated with coordinate values ​​of multiple electrodes cut in a bonding process (e.g., a lamination process) to collect electrode ID data related to the coordinates. By associating such electrode ID data with process event data for multiple preceding processes before the bonding process and multiple subsequent processes after the bonding process, quality tracking between process workpieces, semi-finished products, and finished products is possible. The electrode ID data includes the electrode ID and its corresponding coordinate data. By associating the coordinate data corresponding to the electrode ID with coordinate values ​​for multiple preceding processes, process event data for the preceding processes related to the coordinate values ​​can be associated with the electrode ID data. Furthermore, the electrode ID data can be associated with the ID of an upper battery assembly including electrodes having the electrode ID. Because the upper battery assembly ID is associated with subsequent process event data acquired in multiple subsequent processes, the electrode ID data can also be associated with subsequent process event data.

[0050] An electrode sheet unwound from an electrode roll fed into a coating apparatus (coating process) can be processed by any one of the die coater of the coating apparatus 100, the pressure roll of the roll pressing apparatus 200, and the slitting knife of the slitting apparatus 300, and the processed electrode sheet can be wound onto an electrode roll. Thus, the process using the coating apparatus 100, the roll pressing apparatus 200, and the slitting apparatus 300 to produce an electrode can be referred to as a roll-to-roll process. An electrode roll fed into the notching apparatus 400 can be notched to form electrode tabs at predetermined intervals, and can be given an electrode ID, which is an identification mark, before being wound onto an electrode roll. Thus, the process using the notching apparatus 400 can also be referred to as a roll-to-roll process. A combining apparatus (e.g., lamination apparatus 500) can laminate together a first electrode sheet unwound from a first electrode roll (e.g., a negative electrode roll), a second electrode sheet unwound from a second electrode roll (e.g., a positive electrode roll), and a separator membrane sheet unwound from a separator membrane roll. Therefore, the process using the lamination apparatus 500 can also be called a roll-to-roll process.

[0051] The coating apparatus 100 can perform a coating process on the electrode sheet. The coating process can coat the electrode sheet with an electrode slurry. The electrode slurry can include an active material, a conductive material, a binder, and a solvent. The electrode slurry can be prepared by dissolving the active material, the conductive material, the binder, and the like in a solvent.

[0052] The roll pressing device 200 may perform a pressing process on the electrode sheet. In the roll pressing process, the electrode sheet coated with the electrode slurry may be passed between pressure rolls. The roll pressing process may flatten the surface of the electrode sheet and increase the bonding strength between the active material of the electrode sheet and the current collector.

[0053] The slitting device 300 can perform a slitting process on the electrode sheet, which can separate the electrode sheet into a plurality of electrode sheets through the slitting process.

[0054] The EIF 1100 may be a device for communication between a process controller (e.g., a process PLC) of a manufacturing facility and the server 1200. The process PLC of the coating apparatus 100, the process PLC of the roll pressing apparatus 200, the process PLC of the slitting apparatus 300, the process PLC 443 of the notching apparatus 400 (see FIG. 2), and the process controller 540 of the lamination apparatus 500 (see FIG. 4) can communicate with the server 1200 via the EIF 1100. As a result, data on process events occurring in the coating apparatus 100, the roll pressing apparatus 200, the slitting apparatus 300, the notching apparatus 400, and the lamination apparatus 500 can be transmitted to the server 1200.

[0055] In addition, data on process events occurring from controllers of various subsequent process devices such as stacking process, folding process, housing insertion process, liquid injection process, activation process, modularization process, and packing process can also be transmitted to the server 1200.

[0056] The server 1200 can store the electrode identities collected in the notching process and coordinate values ​​(first coordinate values, described later) indicating the position of the electrode sheet in the notching process corresponding to the electrode identities.

[0057] The server 1200 can also store electrode identity data associated with coordinates collected during the lamination process.

[0058] The server 1200 can be configured to generate or store a roll map containing data of process events. The roll map data can include values ​​representing process events and coordinate values ​​that match the values. The coordinate values ​​can represent positions on the electrodes. This allows the roll map to track feedback, feedforward, and the battery manufacturing process, as described below.

[0059] The roll map can be generated on a lot-by-lot basis. A lot is a production unit of a roll-to-roll process, and an example of a lot is an electrode roll (or an electrode assembly roll) that is separated after achieving the target winding length for each process. Similarly, an example of a lot is an electrode roll that is loaded onto an unwinder for each process. The server 1200 can generate or store a roll map for each process (e.g., a coating process, a roll pressing process, a slitting process, or a notching process).

[0060] The time series data generated over time (i.e., according to the progress of the process) in the roll map can be associated with coordinate data collected based on the movement amount of the electrode sheet (i.e., either the consumption amount or the input amount).

[0061] Battery manufacturing involves a series of different processes, and leading processes affect subsequent processes. However, if the time-series data of the leading process cannot be directly matched with the real-world workpieces, intermediate products, and finished products, it is difficult to reflect the time-series data of the leading process in the subsequent process. Hereinafter, the correction of the subsequent process based on the data generated according to the results of the leading process is called feedforward.

[0062] Here, the term "workpiece" refers to an article provided as a result of each process, such as an electrode sheet, that has undergone a coating process, a roll pressing process, a slitting process, and a notching process. The term "intermediate product" may refer to one of a separator, an electrode, or an assembly thereof, cut by a lamination process. The intermediate product may also be a structure including a housing and an electrode assembly housed in the housing (in some cases, the structure may further include an electrolyte). The term "product" refers to an article that is processed to be operable as a battery through an activation process. The above definitions of workpiece, intermediate product, and product relate to one aspect of the same and do not exclude the usual definitions thereof.

[0063] Process events generally occur as the process progresses, and are therefore time-series data. Therefore, process event data may include a value representing the event and a time value matching the event. Thus, process event data may be time-series data.

[0064] For feedforward, the time series data needs to be associated with the locations of workpieces, parts, semi-finished products, and finished products in the real world. Here, feedforward can include controlling processing of the electrode sheet based on a roll map generated in a previous process. The roll map can associate the time series data with coordinate data including coordinate values ​​indicating the locations of workpieces, parts, semi-finished products, and finished products in the real world. The roll map can provide matching between the time series data and workpieces, parts, semi-finished products, and finished products in the real world based on the coordinate data. Thus, generation of the roll map and feedforward based on the roll map can increase productivity and quality by quantifying and objectifying aspects of the process that were previously dependent on the discretion of the worker.

[0065] The roll map of a previous lot can also be used to improve the process for subsequent lots, and such action can be called process feedback. Process feedback using a roll map can include identifying process conditions and process parameters that lead to problems and defects based on the data contained in the roll map.

[0066] Furthermore, as will be described later, roll maps are cumulatively generated for workpieces, parts, semi-finished products, and finished products of unit processes, thereby enabling tracking of the process history of shipped products (e.g., battery cells, battery modules, or battery packs). As an example, a battery cell may include an electrode ID of an electrode included in an electrode assembly and a superordinate ID formed on the electrode assembly or housing. The ID may include lot numbers and coordinate information of the electrodes and separator included in the battery cell. In other words, the ID may be associated with a roll map of the electrodes and separator included in the battery cell. As a result, if an event such as a quality problem occurs in a battery cell that has already been shipped, historical data on the manufacture of the battery cell may be retrieved based on the ID.

[0067] According to an exemplary embodiment, server 1200 may be a data processing system that supports various activities required to manage battery manufacturing, such as work schedule management, work instructions, quality control, and work performance aggregation. As such a data processing system, server 1200 may include, for example, a manufacturing execution system (MES). The MES may be configured to perform input, processing, output, and communication of data required for electrode manufacturing, such as coating processes, pressing processes, and manufacturing processes.

[0068] According to another exemplary embodiment, the server 1200 may be configured to store and process raw measurement data. The server 1200 may continuously monitor the electrode sheet processing based on the measurement data, thereby managing the quality of the electrode sheet processing. To this end, the server 1200 may include a statistical process controller (SPC), which is a higher-level data processing system. The SPC may collect and analyze production data in near real time to identify problem conditions in a timely manner and provide an alarm to an operator before a potential problem occurs.

[0069] According to another exemplary embodiment, the server 1200 may include, for example, a data warehouse, which is a higher-level data processing system. The data warehouse may store the role map for a long period of time based on, for example, a product warranty period.

[0070] According to other exemplary embodiments, server 1200 may perform all of the functions of the MES, SPC, and data warehouse, or may be provided separately from the MES, SPC, and data warehouse to create the role map.

[0071] The server 1200 can generate a visualization command for visualizing the role map. The server 1200 can transmit the visualization command to the display device 1300, and the display device 1300 can visualize the role map and display the visualized role map.

[0072] FIG. 2 illustrates a notching device 400 according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0073] The notching process forms tabs in the electrode sheet and, if necessary, can form V-shaped grooves for cutting the electrode sheet. The notching process can form a first electrode tab (e.g., a negative electrode tab TN) and a second electrode tab (e.g., a positive electrode tab TP).

[0074] In the notching process, electrode identities EID may be formed on the first electrode tabs. The electrode identities EID may be formed by methods such as laser printing and ink printing. As a result, each of the first electrode tabs TN may include an electrode identity EID. Unlike the negative electrode tabs TN, the positive electrode tabs TP may not include an electrode identity EID to prevent defects.

[0075] However, without being limited thereto, the electrode ID EID may include a symbol indicating the order of the negative electrode tabs TN. The electrode ID EID symbol may include, but is not limited to, Arabic numerals. The electrode ID EID symbol may include any characters that can provide information regarding the order of the negative electrode tabs TN. The electrode ID may also be a barcode or a QR code (registered trademark).

[0076] The notching apparatus 400 may include an unwinder 411, a rewinder 413, a notching machine 415, an inspection and / or measuring instrument 431, a first rotary encoder 421, a second rotary encoder 423, an ID marking machine 433, a first electrode ID reader 435, a roll map PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) 441, and a process PLC 443. The roll map PLC 441 and the process PLC 443 constitute a notching controller 440 of the notching apparatus.

[0077] In the notching process, a first electrode sheet, for example, a negative electrode sheet, may be notched, and a second electrode sheet, for example, a positive electrode sheet, may be notched.

[0078] In the notching process, the first electrode unwinding roll ER4 may be loaded onto the unwinder 411. The first electrode unwinding roll ER4 may be a slitting take-up roll that is taken up after a previous process, for example, a slitting process. The unwinder 411 may be configured to unwind the first electrode sheet ES4 from the first electrode unwinding roll ER4 in the notching process. The rewinder 413 may be configured to take up the first electrode sheet ES4, which has been unwound from the unwinder 411 and is to be notched, onto the first electrode take-up roll ER5. The first electrode sheet ES4 may be taken up onto the first electrode take-up roll ER5 and cut and separated after reaching a predetermined take-up length. Thus, the first electrode sheet ES4 can move between the unwinder 411 and the rewinder 413 in the notching process.

[0079] The first rotary encoder 421 may be configured to sense the amount of the first electrode sheet ES4 unwound from the first electrode unwinding roll ER4 by the unwinder 411. The first rotary encoder 421 may be configured to be a contact type or a non-contact type. The first rotary encoder 421 may be configured to generate a unwinding amount (feed amount) signal UWAS4 indicating the length of the first electrode sheet ES4 unwound by the unwinder 411. The first rotary encoder 421 may be configured to transmit the unwinding amount signal UWAS4 to the roll map PLC 441.

[0080] The second rotary encoder 423 may be configured to sense the amount of the first electrode sheet ES4 wound onto the first electrode take-up roll ER5 by the rewinder 413. Thus, the second rotary encoder 423 may be configured to generate a winding amount (consumed amount) signal WAS4 indicating the length of the first electrode sheet ES4 wound by the rewinder 413. The second rotary encoder 423 may be configured to transmit the winding amount signal WAS4 to the roll map PLC 441.

[0081] The notching machine 415 may be configured to mechanically punch or laser cut and remove predetermined portions of a metal foil on which an electrode active material is formed to a substantially uniform thickness and width to form electrode tabs. Any device known in the art to which the present invention pertains may be used as the notching machine 415. In some embodiments, the notching machine 415 may be a notching press device, and may include, for example, a driving unit configured to move a notching die up and down at a regular interval. As the notching die descends, it may punch the edge of the first electrode sheet ES4 at a predetermined pitch to form electrode tabs (lead tabs) having a predetermined shape (e.g., rectangular).

[0082] After the notching process, an ID marking machine 433 can mark each electrode tab with an electrode ID (EID). The ID marking machine 433 can be, for example, an inkjet type ink marking machine or a laser type laser marking machine, but is not limited thereto. An appropriate marking machine can be selected and used as long as it has good visibility and does not damage the electrodes.

[0083] The first electrode ID reader 435 may be configured to detect the electrode ID EID. The first electrode ID reader 435 may be configured to read the order indicated by the electrode ID EID. The first electrode ID reader 435 may be, for example, but is not limited to, a bar code reader (BCR). The first electrode ID reader 435 may also be an optical character reader (OCR). The first electrode ID reader 435 may be configured to generate an electrode ID sensing signal EIDS based on the detection of the electrode ID EID. The first electrode ID reader 435 may be configured to transmit the electrode ID sensing signal EIDS to the controller 440.

[0084] Meanwhile, the ID marking device 433 or the first electrode ID reader 435 includes a tab sensor and a trigger board to obtain the order (count) information of the electrode ID.

[0085] The tab sensor can determine the length, i.e., pitch, of each electrode tab. The trigger board can increment a count value based on the length of each electrode tab received from the tab sensor. The trigger board can convert the count value for each electrode tab length into a BCD code and send it to the ID marking machine 433, the first electrode ID reader 435, or the notching controller 440.

[0086] In this way, the ID marking machine 433 or the first electrode ID reader 435 can receive electrode specification information (pitch information), obtain the count value (sequence information) for each pitch, and mark the electrode ID for each electrode tab of the pitch or recognize the electrode ID.

[0087] The inspection and / or measurement instrument 431 may be configured to inspect or measure the first electrode sheet ES4 to collect inspection and / or measurement data of the first electrode sheet ES4. The inspection and / or measurement instrument may inspect and / or measure the first electrode sheet ES4 in a scanning manner. In some embodiments, the inspection and / or measurement instrument may move along the width direction of the first electrode sheet ES4. The inspection and / or measurement instrument 431 may include a sensing unit 431S and a processing unit 431P. The sensing unit 431S may be configured to sense a physical quantity of the first electrode sheet ES4 to generate an inspection and / or measurement signal MS4. The sensing unit 431S and the processing unit 431P may be connected by wire or wirelessly.

[0088] For example, the sensing unit 431S may include an imaging device such as a time delay and integration (TDI) camera or a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) image sensor. The sensing unit 431S may be configured to generate an inspection signal IS indicative of the surface of the first electrode sheet ES4. The sensing unit 431S may be configured to transmit an inspection and / or measurement signal MS4 to the processing unit 431P. The inspection and / or measurement signal MS4 may include, for example, an image of the surface of the first electrode sheet ES4.

[0089] The processing unit 431P may be configured to collect inspection and / or metrology signals MS4 generated by the sensing unit 431S to generate inspection and / or metrology data. The processing unit 431P may be configured to collect coordinate-related inspection and / or metrology data CMD4 based on the inspection and / or metrology signals MS4 and the coordinate data CD4. The processing unit 431P may be configured to transmit the coordinate-related inspection and / or metrology data CMD4 to the roll map PLC 441.

[0090] The roll map PLC 441 may be configured to collect coordinate data CD4 of the first electrode sheet ES4 based on either the winding amount data or the unwinding amount data of the first electrode sheet ES4. For example, the movement distance of the first electrode sheet ES4 may be determined, and thus the position of the portion of the first electrode sheet ES4 wound by the rewinder 413 may be determined at each point in time when the notching process is performed.

[0091] The coordinate data CD4 may include coordinate values ​​corresponding to each portion of the first electrode sheet ES4. That is, each arbitrary point on the first electrode sheet ES4 may be matched with a coordinate value. The coordinate value may be a one-dimensional quantity in the direction of travel of the first electrode sheet ES4, but is not limited thereto. The coordinate value may also be a two-dimensional quantity in the direction of travel and the Y direction, which is the lateral direction of the first electrode sheet ES4.

[0092] The roll map PLC 441 may be in operative communication with the first rotary encoder 421, the second rotary encoder 423, the inspection and / or measuring instrument 431, the ID marking machine 433, and the ID reader 435 via a wired or wireless data network. The data network may be unidirectional or bidirectional. The data network may be embodied by a public network and / or a specialized network using physical channels, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and / or other frequency bands. The first rotary encoder 421, the second rotary encoder 423, the inspection and / or measuring instrument 431, the ID marking machine 433, and the ID reader 435 may be configured to collect data or generate signals to collect data from equipment, workpieces, workpieces, and products within the notching device.

[0093] The roll map PLC 441 can be configured to transmit the coordinate data CD4 to the processing unit 431P. The processing unit 431P can be configured to associate the inspection and / or metrology data with the coordinate data CD4 to generate coordinate-related inspection and / or metrology data CMD4. Generally, the inspection and / or metrology data can be processed based on the trigger point. Examples of processing the inspection and / or metrology data can include storing, manipulating (e.g., generating coordinate-related inspection and / or metrology data CMD4), and transmitting the inspection and / or metrology data.

[0094] As a non-limiting example, the trigger point for processing the inspection and / or measurement data may be the completion of a scan. For example, the sensing unit 431S may scan the sheet material in the width direction of the first electrode sheet ES4, and the inspection and / or measurement data may be stored, processed, modulated, and transmitted for each scan. In other examples, the trigger point may be the completion of multiple scans or the completion of a portion of a scan.

[0095] The inspection and / or measurement data CMD4 associated with the coordinates transmitted to the roll map PLC 441 can be transmitted to the server 1200 via the process PLC 443. Although not shown in Fig. 2, the inspection and / or measurement data CMD4 associated with the coordinates can be transmitted from the process PLC 443 to the server 1200 via the EIF 1100 (see Fig. 1).

[0096] The process PLC 443 and the EIF can relay communication of data including the inspection and / or measurement data CMD4 between the server 1200 and the roll map PLC 441. However, without being limited thereto, the roll map PLC 441 can also transmit the coordinate-related inspection and / or measurement data CMD4 directly to the server 1200.

[0097] The process PLC 443 can be configured to control the operation of the unwinder 411, the rewinder 413, the notching machine 415, the ID marking machine 433, and the ID reader 435. The process PLC 443 can be configured to generate signals for operating and interrupting the unwinder 411, the rewinder 413, and the notching machine 415. The process PLC 443 can be configured to generate signals for operating and interrupting the unwinder 411, the rewinder 413, the notching machine 415, the ID marking machine 433, and the ID reader 435. The signals can be generated based on a body including product ID and manufacturing recipe details.

[0098] The notching controller 440 may be configured to collect electrode identity data related to coordinates including the electrode identity EID and a first coordinate value that is a position of the first electrode sheet ES4 in the notching process that matches the electrode identity EID. The first coordinate value may be obtained based on a signal of an unwinding amount and / or a winding amount of the first electrode sheet ES4 when the electrode identity is detected in the notching process.

[0099] The first electrode ID reader 435 can be configured to generate an electrode ID sensing signal EIDS based on sensing the electrode ID EID. The electrode ID reader 435 can be configured to communicate the electrode ID sensing signal EIDS to the notching controller 440.

[0100] Specifically, the first electrode ID reader 435 detects a specific electrode ID on the first electrode sheet ES4 and transmits an electrode ID detection signal EIDS to the roll map PLC 441 of the notching controller 440. The roll map PLC 441 can collect a coordinate value (first coordinate value) indicating the position of the portion of the first electrode sheet ES4 corresponding to the electrode ID EID from the first electrode sheet unwinding amount signal UWAS4 or the first electrode sheet winding amount signal WAS4 at the time of sensing the electrode ID detection signal. That is, in the notching process, the notching controller 440 can collect electrode ID data EID D1 associated with coordinates including the electrode ID and the first coordinate value matching the electrode ID. The electrode ID data associated with the coordinates in the notching process can be distinguished from the electrode ID data associated with the coordinates in the lamination process described below, and the former can be referred to as electrode ID data EID D1 associated with the first coordinate and the latter as electrode ID data EID D2 associated with the second coordinate. The electrode identity data EIDD1 associated with the former first coordinate may include the electrode identity and the first coordinate value.

[0101] According to an exemplary embodiment, the position of the first electrode sheet ES4 at the time when the first electrode ID reader 435 senses the electrode ID may be different from the position of the first electrode sheet ES4 based on the unwinding amount data sensed by the first rotary encoder 421 or the winding amount data sensed by the second electrode rotary encoder 423.

[0102] According to an exemplary embodiment, the first coordinate value may be a value obtained by subtracting an offset distance, which is the length from the unwinder 411 to the first electrode idler 435, from the coordinate value of the first electrode sheet ES4 based on the unwinding amount data sensed by the first rotary encoder 421 at the sensing time.

[0103] Alternatively, according to an exemplary embodiment, the first coordinate value may be a value obtained by adding an offset distance, which is the length from the rewinder 413 to the first electrode idler 435, to the coordinate value of the first electrode sheet ES4 based on the winding amount data sensed by the second rotary encoder 423 at the sensing time.

[0104] The first coordinate value may be one of a start coordinate value, an end coordinate value, and a coordinate value of an electrode tab of a first electrode sheet ES4 portion having a predetermined pitch and including an electrode tab on which the electrode identity EID is marked, or may include two or more of a start coordinate value, an end coordinate value, and a coordinate value of an electrode tab of a first electrode sheet ES4 portion having a predetermined pitch and including an electrode tab on which the electrode identity EID is marked.

[0105] The electrode ID data EID D1 related to the first coordinate, including the first coordinate value and the electrode ID that matches it, is sent from the roll map PLC 441 to the server 1200 via the process PLC 443 .

[0106] In order to control the process, a communication line connecting the process PLC 443 and the first server 1210 via the EIF 1100 can be installed between the process PLC 443 and the server 1200. As a result, data transmission via the process PLC 443 can reduce resources required for installing a communication line and improve the efficiency of data processing and management compared to when the first rotary encoder 421, the second rotary encoder 423, and the inspection and / or measurement instrument 430 directly transmit the unwinding amount signal UWAS4, the winding signal WAS4, and the inspection and / or measurement signal MS4 to the first server 1210, and when the roll map PLC 441 directly transmits various data to the first server 1210.

[0107] The servers may include a first server 1210, a second server 1220, and a third server 1230.

[0108] The first server 1210 can be configured to generate a roll map for a notching process. The first server 1210 can also generate roll maps for processes preceding the notching process, such as a coating process, a roll pressing process, and a slitting process (see FIG. 7).

[0109] The roll map can be generated for each lot formed by winding and cutting the sheet material. The roll map can include data related to lot specifications. The lot specifications can include, for example, the lot number, the length of the wound sheet material, the width of the sheet material, and the materials and compositions used in processing the sheet material. The first server 1210 can be configured to generate a roll map of the first electrode winding roll ER5 on which the first electrode sheet ES4 to be notched is wound, based on the inspection and / or measurement data CMD4 and additional process event data related to coordinates transmitted from the process PLC 443. The roll map can display both the process event data and the coordinate values ​​corresponding to the process event data.

[0110] According to an exemplary embodiment, the first server 1210 may be a data processing system that supports various activities required to manage the manufacturing of secondary batteries, such as work schedule management, work instructions, quality control, and work performance aggregation. The first server 1210 may be, for example, a manufacturing execution system (MES). The server 1210 may be configured to perform input, processing, output, and communication of data required for electrode manufacturing, such as a coating process, a roll pressing process, a slitting process, and a notching process.

[0111] The first server 1210 may generate a visualization command for visualizing the role map. The first server 1210 may transmit the visualization command to a display device, and the display device may visualize the role map and display the visualized role map as shown in FIG. 7.

[0112] In addition, the first server 1210 may receive electrode ID data EIDD1 associated with the first coordinate from the notching controller 440. The electrode ID data EIDD1 associated with the first coordinate includes the electrode ID EID and a first coordinate value associated therewith. Therefore, by finding and associating the coordinate value of the actual electrode sheet corresponding to the first coordinate value in a preceding process before the notching process, the coordinate value in the preceding process of the electrode sheet portion corresponding to the electrode ID EID in the notching process can be associated with the electrode ID. Furthermore, the roll map of the preceding process includes various process event data and roll map coordinate values ​​for the preceding process, as shown in FIG. 7. Therefore, by associating the first coordinate value with the roll map coordinate values, it is possible to search for process event data for a preceding process that has, for example, a quality-related problem, using the roll map information for the preceding process that corresponds to a specific electrode ID.

[0113] Furthermore, as will be described later, by matching the electrode ID data EIDD1 associated with the first coordinate with the electrode ID data EIDD2 associated with the second coordinate in the lamination process and with the ID of the upper battery assembly in the subsequent process, it becomes possible to link or track data at almost every stage of battery manufacturing.

[0114] The second server 1220 can be configured to store and process coordinate-related inspection and / or measurement data CMD4 and electrode identity data EIDD1 associated with the first coordinate. The second server 1220 can manage the quality of the sheet material processing by continuously monitoring the sheet material processing based on the stored data. According to an exemplary embodiment, the second server 1220 can be a statistical process controller (SPC). By collecting and analyzing production data in near real time, the second server 1220 can timely identify problem conditions and provide alarms to operators before potential problems occur.

[0115] The third server 1230 may be configured to store the coordinate-related measurement data CMD4 and the electrode ID data EIDD1 associated with the first coordinate transmitted from the second server 1220. If the first server 1210 is an MES and the second server 1220 is an SPC, the third server 1230 may be inappropriate for long-term storage of associated data. The third server 1230 may be, for example, a data warehouse, and may store the coordinate-related measurement data CMD4 and the first coordinate-related electrode ID data EIDD1 for a long period of time based on, for example, a product warranty period.

[0116] Referring to Figures 3 to 6, the lamination apparatus 500 may include a positive electrode unwinder 511P, a negative electrode unwinder 511N, separation membrane unwinders 511S1 and 511S2, electrode cutters 513P and 513N, a guide roll 515, a separation membrane cutter 517, rotary encoders 521P and 521N, seam sensors 523P and 523N, an electrode spacing sensor 525, a second electrode idler 527, a controller 540, and servers 1210, 1220, and 1230.

[0117] The lamination apparatus 500 can be configured to perform, for example, lamination and stacking processes. As a result of the lamination process, mono-cell MCs can be provided. Each mono-cell MC can include a positive electrode EPP, a negative electrode EPN, and a separator. In the stacking process, the mono-cell MCs and additional half-cells can be stacked vertically to provide an electrode assembly.

[0118] The lamination process follows the notching process. Therefore, the first electrode take-up roll ER5 and the second electrode take-up roll, which have been completed in the notching process, are loaded onto the unwinder for the lamination process. At this time, the electrode sheet having the electrode ID EID on the electrode tab due to the ID marking in the notching process becomes the first electrode sheet. In this embodiment, the electrode ID EID is given to the negative electrode tab in the notching process, so the negative electrode sheet and the negative electrode become the first electrode sheet and the first electrode in the lamination process. The positive electrode sheet is notched in the notching process and has a positive electrode tab, but no electrode ID is given, so the positive electrode sheet and the positive electrode become the second electrode sheet and the second electrode in the lamination process. Conversely, if the positive electrode tab is assigned an electrode ID during the notching process and the negative electrode tab is not assigned an electrode ID, the positive electrode sheet and positive electrode can become the first electrode sheet and first electrode during the lamination process, and the negative electrode sheet and negative electrode can become the second electrode sheet and second electrode.

[0119] The unwinders 511P, 511N, 511S1, and 511S2 can be configured to input rolled material into the lamination apparatus 500. More specifically, the unwinder 511P can be configured to unwind the positive electrode sheet ESP from the positive electrode roll ERP, the unwinder 511N can be configured to unwind the negative electrode sheet ESN from the negative electrode roll ERN, and the unwinders 511S1 and 511S2 can be configured to unwind the separation membrane sheets SS1 and SS2 from the separation membrane rolls SR1 and SR2.

[0120] The positive electrode roll ERP and the negative electrode roll ERN can be provided by a series of processes for battery manufacturing, for example, a coating process, a roll pressing process, a selective slitting process, and a notching process.

[0121] To increase the production capacity (e.g., GWh) per line of a battery production facility, a wide electrode sheet is subjected to a coating process and a roll pressing process. In a subsequent slitting process, the wide electrode sheet can be cut according to the specifications of the battery cell. Depending on the specifications of the battery cell, the slitting process may be omitted.

[0122] The positive electrode cutter 513P can be configured to cut the positive electrode sheet ESP. By cutting the positive electrode sheet ESP, a plurality of positive electrode EPPs can be provided. The negative electrode cutter 513N can be configured to cut the negative electrode sheet ESN. By cutting the negative electrode sheet ESN, a plurality of negative electrode EPNs can be provided.

[0123] The controller 540 can control the operation of the positive electrode cutter 513P and the negative electrode cutter 513N, as described below, and can be configured to count the cuts of the positive electrode sheet ESP by the positive electrode cutter 513P and the cuts of the negative electrode sheet ESN by the negative electrode cutter 513N. For example, the controller 540 can be configured to receive a first cut count signal CCSN from the negative electrode cutter 513N and a second cut count signal CCSP from the positive electrode cutter 513P.

[0124] The guide rolls 515 can be configured to define paths for the separator membrane sheets SS1 and SS2. The separator membrane sheets SS1 and SS2 can be aligned side by side by the guide rolls 515. The positive electrode EPP and the negative electrode EPN can be placed on the separator membrane sheets SS1 and SS2. For example, the negative electrode EPN can be placed on the separator membrane sheet SS2, and the positive electrode EPN can be placed on the separator membrane sheet SS1. The positive electrode EPP and the negative electrode EPN can be electrically and physically separated by the separator membrane sheet SS1.

[0125] The separator cutter 517 can be configured to cut the separator membrane sheets SS1 and SS2. Before the separator membrane sheets SS1 and SS2 are cut by the separator cutter 517, the stacked structure of the separator membrane sheets SS1 and SS2, the positive electrode EPP, and the negative electrode EPN can be pressed by nip rolls (not shown) or the like. By cutting the separator membrane sheets SS1 and SS2, a monocell MC including the positive electrode EPP, the negative electrode EPN, and the separator can be provided.

[0126] The first rotary encoder 521N may be configured to sense the amount of rotation of the unwinder 511N. The first rotary encoder 521N may be configured to sense the amount of negative electrode sheet ESN unwound from the negative electrode roll ERN by the unwinder 511N. Thus, the first rotary encoder 521N may be configured to generate a first input amount signal UWSN indicating the length of the negative electrode sheet ESN unwound by the unwinder 511N (i.e., the input amount of the negative electrode sheet ESN). The first rotary encoder 521N may be configured to transmit the first input amount signal UWSN to the controller 540.

[0127] The second rotary encoder 521P may be configured to sense the amount of rotation of the unwinder 511P. The second rotary encoder 521P may be configured to sense the amount of positive electrode sheet ESP unwound from the positive electrode roll ERP by the unwinder 511P. As a result, the second rotary encoder 521P may be configured to generate a second input amount signal UWSP indicating the length of the positive electrode sheet ESP unwound by the unwinder 511P (i.e., the input amount of positive electrode sheet ESP). The second rotary encoder 521P may be configured to transmit the second input amount signal UWSP to the controller 540.

[0128] The first seam detection sensor 523N may be configured to detect a seam in the negative electrode sheet ESN. Here, the negative electrode sheet ESN may include a seam when the negative electrode roll ERN is replaced (i.e., when the subsequent negative electrode roll ERN is loaded onto the unwinder 511N), when electrode breakage occurs in the current process (i.e., processing of the negative electrode sheet ESN by the lamination device 500), or when electrode breakage occurs in the previous process (i.e., processing of the negative electrode roll ERN before loading onto the unwinder 511N).

[0129] The first seam detection sensor 523N may be, for example, but is not limited to, a color sensor. The first seam detection sensor 523N may be configured to generate a first seam detection signal JSSN. The first seam detection signal JSSN may be transmitted to the controller 540.

[0130] The second seam detection sensor 523P may be configured to detect a seam in the positive electrode sheet ESP. Here, the positive electrode sheet ESP may include a seam when the positive electrode roll ERP is replaced (i.e., when a subsequent positive electrode roll ERP is loaded onto the unwinder 511P), when electrode breakage occurs in the current process (i.e., processing of the positive electrode sheet ESP by the lamination device 500), or when electrode breakage occurs in a previous process (i.e., processing of the positive electrode roll ERP before loading onto the unwinder 511P).

[0131] The second seam detection sensor 523P may be, for example, but is not limited to, a color sensor. The second seam detection sensor 523P may be configured to generate a second seam detection signal JSSP. The second seam detection signal JSSP may be transmitted to the controller 540.

[0132] The electrode spacing sensor 525 can be configured to sense the spacing between the positive electrode EPPs and the negative electrode EPNs. As an example, the electrode spacing sensor 525 can be configured to sense the spacing between the positive electrode EPPs. As another example, the electrode spacing sensor 525 can be configured to sense the spacing between the negative electrode EPNs. As another example, the electrode spacing sensor 525 can be configured to sense each of the spacing between the positive electrode EPPs and the spacing between the negative electrode EPNs.

[0133] The electrode spacing sensor 525 can be configured to generate a spacing sensing signal ISS. The electrode spacing sensor 525 can be configured to communicate the spacing sensing signal ISS to the controller 540.

[0134] The second electrode ID reader 527 may be configured to sense the electrode ID EID. The second electrode ID reader 527 may be configured to read the order indicated by the electrode ID EID. The second electrode ID reader 527 may be, for example, but is not limited to, a bar code reader (BCR). The second electrode ID reader 527 may also be an optical character reader (OCR). The second electrode ID reader 527 may be configured to generate an electrode ID sensing signal EIDS based on sensing the electrode ID EID. The second electrode ID reader 527 may be configured to transmit the electrode ID sensing signal EIDS to the controller 540.

[0135] The controller 540 can be configured to control elements of the lamination apparatus 500 such as, for example, the unwinders 511P, 511N, 511S1, 511S2, the positive electrode cutter 513P, the negative electrode cutter 513N, and the separator cutter 517.

[0136] Controller 540 may be in operative communication with rotary encoders 521P, 521N, seam detection sensors 523P, 523N, electrode spacing sensor 525, and second electrode idle reader 527 via a wired or wireless data network. The data network may be unidirectional or bidirectional. Rotary encoders 521P, 521N, seam detection sensors 523P, 523N, electrode spacing sensor 525, and second electrode idle reader 527 may be configured to collect data or generate signals to collect data from equipment, workpieces, workpieces, and products within lamination apparatus 500.

[0137] By way of non-limiting example, controller 540 may be a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC). A PLC is a specialized form of microprocessor-based controller that uses programmable memory to store instructions and implements functions such as logic, sequencing, timing, counting, and arithmetic to control machines and processes. PLCs are easy to operate and program.

[0138] The controller 540 may include a power supply, a CPU, an input interface, an output interface, a communication interface, and a memory device. The power supply may be configured to provide power to other elements of the controller 540, such as the CPU, the input interface, the output interface, the communication interface, and the memory device, for operation of the controller 540. The communication interface may be configured to transmit and receive data between the controller 540 and the server 1200.

[0139] However, without being limited thereto, the controller 540 may include any one of a simple controller, a complex processor such as a microprocessor, a CPU, a GPU, a processor configured by software, dedicated hardware and firmware.

[0140] The cutting by the positive electrode cutter 513P and the negative electrode cutter 513N can be performed based on a pitch, which is a fixed repeat unit. The pitch can be the minimum unit length at which the same shape and structure are repeated, such as the length in the running direction between the positive electrode tabs TP of adjacent positive electrode EPPs. Because the positive electrode sheet ESP is cut to substantially the same target length, the input amount of the positive electrode sheet ESP can be proportional to the cut count (e.g., cut count signal CCSP) of the positive electrode cutter 513P. Similarly, because the negative electrode sheet ESN is cut to substantially the same target length, the input amount of the negative electrode sheet ESN can be proportional to the cut count (e.g., cut count signal CCSN) of the negative electrode cutter 513N.

[0141] More specifically, the input amount of the positive electrode sheet ESP may be the sum of the product of the cut count Cutcount_P and the pitch Pitch_P and the offset length OLP1, as shown in Equation 1. Here, the offset length OLP2 may be the length of the positive electrode sheet ESP between the unwinder 511P and the positive electrode cutter 513P.

[0142] [Formula 1]

number

[0143] Similarly, the input amount of the negative electrode sheet ESN may be the sum of the product of the cut count Cutcount_N and the pitch Pitch_N and the offset length OLN2, as shown in Equation 2. Here, the offset length OLN2 may be the length of the negative electrode sheet ESN between the unwinder 511N and the negative electrode cutter 513N.

[0144] [Formula 2]

number

[0145] In another example, the input amount of the negative electrode sheet ESN can be determined from the first input amount signal UWSN of the first rotary encoder 521N, and the input amount of the positive electrode sheet ESP can be determined from the second input amount signal UWSP of the second rotary encoder 521P.

[0146] The input amount of the positive electrode sheet ESP can indicate the relative position within the positive electrode sheet ESP of the portion of the positive electrode sheet ESP unwound by the unwinder 511P. The controller can be configured to determine the coordinates of an event occurring in the positive electrode sheet ESP based on the input amount and offset lengths OLP1, OLP2, and OLP3 of the positive electrode sheet ESP. The controller can be configured to determine the coordinates of an event occurring in the negative electrode sheet ESN based on the input amount and offset lengths OLN1, OLN2, and OLN3 of the negative electrode sheet ESN.

[0147] For example, the coordinate value of the portion of the positive electrode sheet ESP sensed by the seam sensor 523P (i.e., the coordinate value of the positive electrode sheet ESP from which the seam sensing signal JSSP is derived) can be determined by calculating (e.g., adding or subtracting) the input amount of the positive electrode sheet ESP and the offset length OLP1. The offset length OLP1 can be the length of the positive electrode sheet ESP between the unwinder 511P and the portion of the positive electrode sheet ESP sensed by the seam sensor 523P.

[0148] For example, the coordinate value of the portion of the positive electrode sheet ESP cut by the positive electrode cutter 513P can be determined by calculating (e.g., adding or subtracting) the input amount of the positive electrode sheet ESP and the offset length OLP2. The offset length OLP2 can be the length of the positive electrode sheet ESP between the unwinder 511P and the portion of the positive electrode sheet ESP cut by the positive electrode cutter 513P.

[0149] For example, the coordinate value (e.g., converted coordinate value or equivalent coordinate value) of the positive electrode EPP coupled with the negative electrode EPN sensed by the second electrode idler 527 can be determined by calculating (e.g., adding or subtracting) the input amount of the positive electrode sheet ESP and the offset length OLP3. The offset length OLP3 can be the length (e.g., converted length or equivalent length) of the positive electrode sheet ESP between the unwinder 511P and the positive electrode EPP coupled with the negative electrode EPN sensed by the second electrode idler 527.

[0150] At this time, the positive electrode EPP, not the positive electrode sheet ESP, is between the positive electrode cutter 513P and the second electrode idler 527. Therefore, the offset length OLP3 may be calculated based on the cut count of the positive electrode cutter 513P, or may be an equivalent length determined from the second input amount signal UWSP, rather than the length of the actual positive electrode sheet ESP.

[0151] The input amount of the negative electrode sheet ESN can indicate the relative position within the negative electrode sheet ESN of the portion of the negative electrode sheet ESN unwound by the unwinder 511N. Based on the input amount of the negative electrode sheet ESN, the coordinate value of an event occurring in the negative electrode sheet ESN can be determined.

[0152] For example, the coordinate value of the portion of the negative electrode sheet ESN sensed by the seam sensor 523N (i.e., the coordinate value of the negative electrode sheet ESN from which the seam sensing signal JSSN is derived) can be determined by calculating (e.g., adding or subtracting) the input amount of the negative electrode sheet ESN and the offset length OLN1. The offset length OLN1 can be the length of the negative electrode sheet ESN between the unwinder 511N and the portion of the negative electrode sheet ESN sensed by the seam sensor 523N.

[0153] For example, the coordinate value of the portion of the negative electrode sheet ESN cut by the negative electrode cutter 513N can be determined by calculating (e.g., adding or subtracting) the input amount of the negative electrode sheet ESN and the offset length OLN2. The offset length OLN2 can be the length of the negative electrode sheet ESN between the unwinder 511N and the portion of the negative electrode sheet ESN cut by the negative electrode cutter 513N.

[0154] For example, the coordinate value (e.g., converted coordinate value or equivalent coordinate value) of the negative electrode EPN sensed by the second electrode idle reader 527 can be determined by calculating (e.g., adding or subtracting) the input amount of the negative electrode sheet ESN and the offset length OLN3. The offset length OLN3 can be the length (e.g., converted length or equivalent length) of the negative electrode sheet ESN between the unwinder 511N and the negative electrode EPN sensed by the second electrode idle reader 527.

[0155] At this time, the negative electrode EPN, not the negative electrode sheet ESN, is present between the negative electrode cutter 513N and the second electrode idler 527. Therefore, the offset length OLN3 may be calculated based on the cut count of the negative electrode cutter 513N, or may be an equivalent length determined from the first input amount signal UWSN, rather than the length of the actual negative electrode sheet ESN.

[0156] The coordinate values ​​of the positive electrode sheet ESP can be matched to each portion of the positive electrode sheet ESP. That is, each arbitrary point on the positive electrode sheet ESP can have a coordinate value. The coordinate value can be a one-dimensional quantity in the running direction MD (or longitudinal direction) of the sheet material SM, but is not limited to this. The coordinate value can also be a two-dimensional quantity in the running direction MD and the lateral direction (or width direction) of the positive electrode sheet ESP.

[0157] The coordinate values ​​of the negative electrode sheet ESN can be matched to each portion of the negative electrode sheet ESN. That is, each arbitrary point on the negative electrode sheet ESN can have a coordinate value. The coordinate value can be a one-dimensional quantity in the running direction MD (or longitudinal direction) of the sheet material SM, but is not limited to this. The coordinate can also be a two-dimensional quantity in the running direction MD and the lateral direction (or width direction) of the positive electrode sheet ESP.

[0158] The controller 540 can be configured to collect electrode identity data EIDD2 associated with the second coordinate based on the electrode identity sensing signal EIDS, the input amount of the positive electrode sheet ESP, and the input amount of the negative electrode sheet ESN. The input amount of the negative electrode sheet ESN can be calculated based on the cut count of the negative electrode cutter 513N or determined by the first input amount signal UWSN, as described above.

[0159] The input amount of the positive electrode sheet ESP can be calculated based on the cut count of the positive electrode cutter 513P, as described above, or can be determined by the second input amount signal UWSP.

[0160] According to an exemplary embodiment, the controller 540 can determine the coordinate value of the negative electrode EPN sensed by the second electrode ID reader 527 by calculating the input amount of the negative electrode sheet ESN and the offset length OLN3. The controller 540 can be configured to match the coordinate value of the negative electrode EPN sensed by the second electrode ID reader 527 with the electrode ID sensing signal EIDS.

[0161] According to an exemplary embodiment, the controller 540 may be configured to determine the coordinate value of the positive electrode EPP coupled with the negative electrode EPN sensed by the second electrode ID reader 527 by calculating the input amount of the positive electrode sheet ESP and the offset length OLP3. The controller 540 may be configured to match the coordinate value of the positive electrode EPP coupled with the negative electrode EPN sensed by the second electrode ID reader 527 with the electrode ID sensing signal EIDS.

[0162] Here, the coordinate values ​​of the negative electrode EPN may be any one of the start coordinate values, end coordinate values ​​of the negative electrode EPN, and coordinate values ​​of the negative electrode tab TN. The coordinate values ​​of the negative electrode EPN may also include two or more of the start coordinate values, end coordinate values ​​of the negative electrode EPN, and coordinate values ​​of the negative electrode tab TN. Furthermore, the coordinate values ​​of the positive electrode EPP may be any one of the start coordinate values, end coordinate values ​​of the positive electrode EPP, and coordinate values ​​of the portion of the positive electrode EPP that overlaps with the negative electrode tab TN. Furthermore, the coordinate values ​​of the positive electrode EPP may include two or more of the start coordinate values, end coordinate values ​​of the positive electrode EPP, and coordinate values ​​of the portion of the positive electrode EPP that overlaps with the negative electrode tab TN.

[0163] To match the electrode ID EID with the coordinate values ​​of the positive electrode sheet ESP and the coordinate values ​​of the negative electrode sheet ESN, the lot number of the positive electrode roll ERP from which the positive electrode sheet ESP is unwound and the lot number of the positive electrode roll ERP from which the negative electrode sheet ESN is unwound must be determined. The seam sensing signals JSSP and JSSN can be used to classify the lots. According to an exemplary embodiment, the controller 540 can update the lot numbers of the positive electrode roll ERP and the negative electrode roll ERN based on the seam sensing signals JSSP and JSSN. This allows the coordinate values ​​of the negative electrode sheet ESN and the coordinate values ​​of the positive electrode sheet ESP to be reset based on the seam sensing signals JSSP and JSSN.

[0164] The offset lengths OLP1 and OLN1 can be used to update the lot number and reset the coordinate values ​​of the negative electrode sheet ESN and the positive electrode sheet ESP. Here, the offset length OLP1 can be the length of the positive electrode sheet ESP between the unwinder 511P and the splice sensor 523P. Here, the offset length OLN1 can be the length of the negative electrode sheet ESN between the unwinder 511N and the splice sensor 523N.

[0165] More specifically, when a new electrode roll ERP is loaded onto the unwinder 511P, the electrode roll ERP must be connected to the remaining electrode sheets ESP of the previous lot using a seam to continue the roll-to-roll process. For example, the portion of the electrode sheet ESP following the seam of the electrode sheet ESP sensed for the first time after the new electrode roll ERP is loaded onto the unwinder 511P can be determined as being unwound from the newly loaded electrode roll ERP. Thus, when a seam sensing signal JSSP is generated after loading the new electrode roll ERP, the controller 540 can be configured to match the electrode ID EID to the coordinate values ​​of the positive electrode sheets ESP of the subsequent lot. The electrode ID EID of each of the negative electrode EPNs connected to the positive electrode EPP can be assigned to another lot based on the loading of the positive electrode roll ERP and the sensing of the seam.

[0166] Similarly, when a new negative electrode roll ERN is loaded onto the unwinder 511N, the negative electrode roll ERN must be connected to the remaining negative electrode sheet ESN of the previous lot using a seam to continue the roll-to-roll process. For example, the portion of the negative electrode sheet ESN following the seam of the negative electrode sheet ESN sensed for the first time after loading the new negative electrode roll ERN onto the unwinder 511N can be determined to be unwound from the newly loaded negative electrode roll ERN. Thus, when a seam sensing signal JSSN is generated after loading the new negative electrode roll ERN, the controller 540 can be configured to match the electrode ID EID to the coordinate values ​​of the negative electrode sheet ESN of the subsequent lot. The electrode ID EID of each negative electrode EPN can be assigned to another lot based on the loading of the negative electrode roll ERN and the sensing of the seam.

[0167] The electrode ID data EIDD2 associated with the second coordinates can include at least one of the electrode ID EID of the negative electrode EPN, the coordinate values ​​of the positive electrode sheet ESP matched to the electrode ID EID of the negative electrode EPN, and the coordinate values ​​of the negative electrode sheet ESN.

[0168] The first server 1210 can be configured to relay communications between the controller 540 and the second server 1220. The first server 1210 can be configured to convert data collected by the controller 540, such as the electrode identity data EIDD2 associated with the second coordinate, into a language of the server 1220 and record the converted data in a database of the second server 1220.

[0169] The second server 1220 can be configured to store or process the electrode identity data EIDD2 associated with the second coordinates. The second server 1220 can be configured to transmit the electrode identity data EIDD2 associated with the second coordinates to the third server 1230. The third server 1230 can be, for example, a data warehouse, and can store the electrode identity data EIDD2 associated with the second coordinates for a long period of time based on, for example, a product's quality warranty period. This can provide tracking of the manufacturing process according to the product's life cycle.

[0170] Furthermore, the third server 1230 can provide matching between the roll map of the previous process of the positive electrode roll ERP and the roll map of the previous process (e.g., electrode process) of the negative electrode roll ERN and the electrode ID EID. Because the third server 1230 is a data warehouse, it can include historical data (i.e., roll map) for manufacturing the positive electrode roll ERP and historical data (i.e., roll map) for manufacturing the negative electrode roll ERN.

[0171] Here, the roll map can represent process events of the positive electrode sheet ESP and the negative electrode sheet ESN based on roll map coordinate values ​​indicating positions on the positive electrode sheet ESP and the negative electrode sheet ESN.

[0172] The roll map can include event data representing events in the roll-to-roll process of the electrode sheets ESP and ESN. Event data is generally time-series data because it occurs as the process progresses. Thus, process event data can include values ​​representing events and time values ​​that match the events. Time-series data can be ordered temporally. Temporal ordering is a key characteristic of time-series data, and it organizes events in the order in which they occur and arrive for processing. That is, time-series data can be sorted based on the time at which an event occurs (i.e., the time at which inspection and measurement are performed or a process action is performed), and events can be matched with time values.

[0173] The roll map represents the history of the processes performed on the positive electrode sheet ESP and the negative electrode sheet ESN and can include coordinate-related data, allowing for feedback, feedforward, and tracking of the battery manufacturing process.

[0174] The monocell MC includes an electrode ID EID formed on the negative electrode tab TN, and the server 1220 can include the lot numbers and coordinates of the positive and negative electrodes included in the monocell that match the electrode ID EID. In other words, the electrode ID EID allows the positive electrode EPP and negative electrode EPN included in the battery cell to be associated with the roll map. This makes it possible to retrieve collective data on the manufacturing history of a monocell MC based on the electrode ID when an event such as a quality problem occurs in a monocell MC (or a battery cell including a monocell MC) that has already been shipped.

[0175] In some embodiments, the operations of the servers 1210, 1220, 1230 may be embodied as instructions stored on a machine-readable medium that can be read and executed by one or more processors. Here, a machine-readable medium may include any mechanism for storing and / or transmitting information in a form readable by a machine (e.g., a computing device). For example, a machine-readable medium may include read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic disk storage media, optical storage media, flash memory, electrical, optical, acoustical, or other forms of radio signals (e.g., carrier waves, infrared signals, digital signals, etc.), and any other signals.

[0176] The servers 1210, 1220, and 1230 may be configured with firmware, software, routines, and instructions to perform the operations described above or any of the steps described below. For example, the servers 1210, 1220, and 1230 may be instantiated in memory.

[0177] However, this is for convenience of explanation, and the operations of the servers 1210, 1220, 1230 described above may be caused by a computing device, a distributed computing device, a processor, firmware, software, routines, instructions, or other device executing instructions.

[0178] Figure 7 shows roll maps generated in multiple preceding steps before lamination, Figure 8 shows data matched to roll map coordinate values, and Figure 10 shows data matching in a battery manufacturing system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0179] Referring to FIG. 7, roll maps for the coating process, the roll pressing process, and the notching process are arranged in a row along the longitudinal direction of the raw electrode sheet. FIG. 7 illustrates a case in which electrode slurry is coated on both sides of the electrode sheet and then roll pressed. Roll maps for the coating process and the roll pressing process are created for the top and bottom surfaces of the electrode sheet, respectively. In some cases, a slitting process can be performed between the roll pressing process and the notching process. Although not shown, roll maps for both sides of the electrode sheet, similar to those shown in FIG. 7, can also be created for the slitting process. However, in the notching process, only notching is performed on the top and bottom surfaces of the electrode without any special processing. In the notching process, because notching does not significantly change the properties of the top and bottom surfaces, it is sufficient to create only a single-plane roll map, regardless of the top and bottom surfaces of the electrode.

[0180] The roll map records electrode manufacturing history data for successive electrode manufacturing processes, such as the electrode coating process, roll pressing process, and notching process, and can identify the cause of defects in the relationship between subsequent processes. The server 1200 stores roll maps for multiple preceding processes for the first electrode sheet and the second electrode sheet, which are respectively associated with the first electrode and the second electrode to be laminated in the lamination process. For example, the roll map in FIG. 7 may be a roll map for multiple preceding processes (coating, roll pressing, notching) for the first electrode sheet.

[0181] The roll map includes roll map coordinate values ​​that indicate positions on the first electrode sheet. The server 1200 can align the roll maps as shown in Figure 7 so that the roll maps for each process correspond to the same portion of the actual electrode sheet.

[0182] In FIG. 7, the roll map coordinate value (1) for the notching process of the first electrode sheet is "90.04," the roll map coordinate value (2) is "189.78," and the roll map coordinate value (3) is "220.37." In FIG. 7, the roll map portions for the roll pressing process and the coating process corresponding to the roll map coordinate values ​​"90.04," "189.78," and "220.37" for the notching process are indicated by dotted lines above the roll map for the notching process. Therefore, the roll map coordinate values ​​for the corresponding roll map portions for the roll pressing process and the coating process can be searched for in the roll maps for the roll pressing process and the coating process or can be calculated separately. However, the numerical values ​​of the roll map coordinate values ​​for the roll pressing process and the coating process may differ from the numerical values ​​of the roll map coordinate values ​​for the notching process. FIG. 7 only shows that the roll map coordinate values ​​for the notching process may correspond to the roll map coordinate values ​​for other processes; the actual numerical values ​​of the roll map coordinate values ​​for each corresponding process may vary. It should be noted here that the "(1)", "(2)", and "(3)" in "role map coordinate value (1)", "role map coordinate value (2)", and "role map coordinate value (3)" correspond to the circled numbers 1, 2, and 3 in FIG. 7, respectively.

[0183] The first electrode sheet portions corresponding to the roll map coordinate values ​​(1), (2), and (3) may be assigned electrode identities EID in different orders.

[0184] FIG. 8 shows an example of electrode ID data EID D1 associated with a first coordinate in a notching process. In FIG. 8, the electrode ID EID for the notching process, "SBKF010098," and the corresponding roll map coordinate value (first coordinate value) for the notching process of the first electrode sheet, "89.79," are displayed in correspondence with each other. The time at which the electrode ID and roll map coordinate value were acquired, as well as the lot ID of the first electrode sheet, are also displayed. This is merely an example, and the electrode ID data EID D1 associated with the first coordinate may also include inspection and / or measurement data or other additional process event data at that time.

[0185] In this way, electrode ID data EIDD1 associated with the first coordinate in the notching process can be obtained, and the electrode ID in the notching process and the roll maps of other processes corresponding to the first coordinate value can be compared, thereby matching the electrode ID data associated with the first coordinate with the corresponding roll map coordinate value and process event data in the other processes.

[0186] In addition, in the lamination process, electrode ID data EIDD2 associated with second coordinates can be acquired. The electrode ID data EIDD2 associated with second coordinates includes the electrode ID EID, coordinate values ​​of a first electrode (e.g., negative electrode) matched to the electrode ID, and coordinate values ​​of a second electrode (e.g., positive electrode) matched to the electrode ID.

[0187] Therefore, the electrode ID data EIDD1 associated with the first coordinate having the same electrode ID as the electrode ID included in the electrode ID data EIDD2 associated with the second coordinate can be associated. As a result, at least one of the electrode ID of the electrode ID data EIDD2 associated with the second coordinate, the coordinate value of the first electrode matched to the electrode ID, and the coordinate value of the second electrode matched to the electrode ID can be matched to the electrode ID included in the electrode ID data EIDD1 associated with the first coordinate and the first coordinate value. In addition, roll map coordinate values ​​in a plurality of preceding processes (coating, roll pressing, slitting, etc.) corresponding to the first coordinate value can be associated.

[0188] In conclusion, the server 1200 can match at least one of the electrode ID of the electrode ID data EIDD2 associated with the second coordinate in the lamination process, the coordinate value of the first electrode matched to the electrode ID, and the coordinate value of the second electrode matched to the electrode ID with the corresponding roll map coordinate values ​​of the previous multiple preceding processes (coating, roll pressing, slitting, and notching).

[0189] 10, the data set acquired in the lamination process (electrode ID data EIDD2 associated with the second coordinate) is displayed as PD1, EID, Ca, and Cb. PD1 is the process event data of the lamination process, EID is the electrode ID at the time the process event data is acquired, and Ca and Cb are the coordinate values ​​of the first electrode and the second electrode that match the electrode ID.

[0190] By searching for the electrode ID in the notching process corresponding to the EID, the electrode ID data associated with the second coordinate can be matched with the electrode ID data associated with the first coordinate. The data set acquired in the notching process is represented by PDn, EID, and Cn. PDn is the process event data for the notching process, EID is the electrode ID at the time the process event data is acquired, which is the same electrode ID as the electrode ID for the lamination process, and Cn is the coordinate value of the first electrode sheet that matches the electrode ID, i.e., the first coordinate value. Although not shown in FIG. 10, the coordinate value (first coordinate value) for the second electrode sheet in the notching process that corresponds to the coordinate value Cb of the second electrode in the lamination process can also be determined.

[0191] As described above, roll map coordinate values ​​C1, C2, ..., Cn of the first electrode sheet in multiple preceding processes corresponding to EID and the first coordinate value Cn in the notching process can be determined. Furthermore, process event data PD1, PD2, ..., PDn related to the roll map coordinate values ​​can be obtained from the roll maps of the multiple preceding processes. Although not shown in Figure 10, roll map coordinate values ​​and related process event data in multiple preceding processes corresponding to the coordinate value Cb of the second electrode in the lamination process can also be obtained.

[0192] 9 illustrates a subsequent process event data matching unit according to an exemplary embodiment. FIG. 10 illustrates data matching in a battery manufacturing system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0193] The battery manufacturing system 10 of the present invention further includes a subsequent process event data matching unit 610 that matches at least one of the electrode ID, the coordinate values ​​of the first electrode matched to the electrode ID, and the coordinate values ​​of the second electrode matched to the electrode ID with the ID of at least one upper battery assembly selected from the following and / or process event data acquired in a plurality of subsequent processes after the first electrode and the second electrode are combined:

[0194] 1) An assembly ID for an electrode assembly including at least one combination of the first electrode and the second electrode. 2) Semi-finished battery product ID HID including the above electrode assembly 3) Cell ID of a battery cell including the electrode assembly or semi-finished battery product 4) A stack ID (SID) of battery cell stacks including a plurality of the battery cells. 5) Module ID MID of a battery module including the battery cell stack 6) Pack ID PID of the battery pack containing multiple battery modules

[0195] The battery manufacturing system 10 of the present invention may include a subsequent process event data matching unit 610, for example, as shown in FIG. 9. The subsequent process event data matching unit 610 may be a process controller that manages each subsequent process. Specifically, the process controller may be a PLC. A PLC may be defined as a control device used to maintain, manage, automatically control, and monitor a process system for battery manufacturing. Such a process controller may include a main control unit 611, as shown in FIG. 9. The main control unit 611 may control the overall operation of the process controller and the overall process flow. The subsequent process event data matching unit 610 may include an electrode ID collecting unit 612 and a process event data collecting unit 613. The electrode ID collecting unit 612 may be, for example, a barcode reader (BCR). The process event data collecting unit 613 may be a predetermined testing and / or measuring instrument installed for each process. For example, predetermined testing and / or measurement data may be acquired from a measuring instrument that measures the charge / discharge capacity, temperature, etc. of a cell to be activated during the activation process. Alternatively, the PLC for each process can itself collect process event data such as equipment data and time series data.

[0196] The subsequent process event data matching unit 610 may match the process event data with the electrode ID. The matched electrode ID and each subsequent process data may be sent to the server 1200. The server 1200 may associate the electrode ID and each subsequent process event data with roll map coordinate values ​​of a previous process stored in the server 1200, and / or process event data matched to the roll map coordinate values, electrode ID data associated with the first coordinate, and electrode ID data associated with the second coordinate.

[0197] Meanwhile, in subsequent processes, electrodes are bundled into multiple electrodes to form an electrode assembly, or the electrode assemblies are bundled again to form larger units (e.g., a semi-finished battery, a battery cell, a battery cell stack, a battery module, or a battery pack). An identification mark (ID) can be assigned to such an upper battery assembly including electrodes to which an electrode ID (EID) is assigned. One upper battery assembly can include multiple lower battery assemblies. In FIG. 9, the subsequent process event data matching unit 610 includes an upper battery assembly ID generator 614. The upper battery assembly ID generator 614 can assign a physical ID or a virtual ID to the upper battery assembly. For example, the upper battery assembly ID generator 614 can be an ID marking device. Alternatively, the upper battery assembly ID generator 614 can be another virtual ID generator that can identify the upper battery assembly by generating predetermined count information using a tab sensor or a trigger board.

[0198] Referring to FIG. 10, various upper battery assembly ideas are shown in a number of subsequent processes.

[0199] For example, an electrode assembly can be constructed by stacking or folding at least one combination (e.g., monocell or bicell) in which a first electrode and a second electrode are combined in a lamination process. That is, an electrode assembly in the form of a stacked cell is manufactured by a lamination and stacking (L&S) process, and an electrode assembly in the form of a folded cell is manufactured by a lamination and folding (L&F) process. In processes such as the ZZS process and AZS process, electrodes with electrode tabs are sequentially stacked between zigzag separators, and electrode bonding and stacking are performed simultaneously to manufacture an electrode assembly.

[0200] If the ID of such an electrode assembly is designated as AID, AID can correspond to a plurality of electrode IDs (EID1, EID2, ...) included in the electrode assembly. Process event data PDa acquired in the assembly process of the L&S process, L&F process, ZZS process, or AZS process is collected by the process event data collection unit 613 and can correspond to AID and a plurality of electrode IDs (EID1, EID2, ...). Figure 10 shows a data set (PDa, AID, EID1, EID2, ...) in such an assembly process.

[0201] The electrode assembly is housed in a housing, and an electrolyte is poured into it to undergo an activation process. Before the activation process, it is not considered a finished battery cell, and an item including the unfinished electrode assembly can be called a semi-finished battery. A semi-finished battery ID HID can be assigned to such a semi-finished battery, and the HID can correspond to multiple AIDs (AID1, AID2, etc.) and multiple electrode IDs (EID1, EID2, etc.). The process event data PDb of the semi-finished battery manufacturing process can correspond to the HID, AID, and EID.

[0202] A completed battery cell after the activation process may be assigned a cell ID (CID). A plurality of battery cells may be stacked to form a stack. The stack may be housed in at least one module housing to form a module. A plurality of modules may be housed in a pack housing to form a battery pack. The battery cells, cell stacks, modules, and packs are each assigned a cell ID (CID), a stack ID (SID), a module ID (MID), and a pack ID (PID). In this way, the ID of one upper battery assembly may be associated with the IDs of multiple lower battery assemblies, and ultimately with the electrode IDs (EID) of the bonding process and the notching process. During the association process, process event data of each process is associated with the ID of the process.

[0203] Therefore, according to the present invention, the electrode ID data, particularly the electrode ID, associated with the second coordinates of the bonding process can be used to correspond to the IDs and process event data of the upper battery assemblies of the subsequent processes. Also, the electrode ID data associated with the second coordinates of the bonding process can be associated with the electrode ID data associated with the first coordinates of the preceding notching process, which can in turn be associated with the roll map coordinate values ​​and process event data of the coating, roll pressing, and slitting processes, which are electrode manufacturing processes.

[0204] In conclusion, according to the present invention, all product-related history originating from an electrode can be traced throughout the entire process from the electrode manufacturing process to the finished battery manufacturing process.

[0205] (Second embodiment) FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a method for manufacturing a battery according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0206] 2 and 11, an electrode ID can be assigned to the first electrode sheet ES4 in the notching process of step P110. After notching by the notching machine 415, the ID marking machine 433 marks the electrode ID on the electrode tab portion formed on the first electrode sheet ES4 at a predetermined pitch, thereby assigning the electrode ID EID.

[0207] In the notching process, the electrode ID EID is sensed by the first electrode ID reader 435, whereby the electrode ID and a first coordinate value, which is a coordinate value of the first electrode sheet corresponding to the electrode ID, can be acquired. The electrode ID and the first coordinate value can be included in electrode ID data EIDD1 associated with the first coordinate. The acquired electrode ID data EIDD1 associated with the first coordinate can be transmitted from the notching controller 440 to the server 1200 together with inspection and / or measurement data CMD4 associated with the coordinate or other additional process event data.

[0208] Subsequently, in the bonding process (e.g., lamination process) of step P120, a plurality of first electrodes having the electrode IDs can be formed from the first electrode sheet, and a plurality of second electrodes can be formed from the second electrode sheet. That is, the first electrode sheet ESN and the second electrode sheet ESP can be cut to form the first electrodes EPN and the second electrodes EPP.

[0209] 3, 4, and 11, the plurality of negative electrode EPNs (first electrodes) can be cut at a substantially constant pitch by a negative electrode cutter 513N. The plurality of positive electrode EPPs (second electrodes) can be cut at a substantially constant pitch by a positive electrode cutter 513P. Each of the plurality of positive electrode EPPs can include a positive electrode tab TP, and each of the plurality of negative electrode EPNs can include a negative electrode tab TN.

[0210] Next, in step P130, multiple positive electrode EPPs and multiple negative electrode EPNs can be bonded together. The multiple positive electrode EPPs and multiple negative electrode EPNs can be bonded together with separator sheets SS1 and SS2 to prevent short circuits. The multiple positive electrode EPPs, multiple negative electrode EPNs, and separator sheets SS1 and SS2 can be pressed together using nip rolls. The separator sheets SS1 and SS2 can be cut with a separator cutter 517 to provide a monocell MC. Alternatively, in the ZZS process or AZS process, an electrode assembly can be manufactured by sequentially stacking the positive electrode EPPs and negative electrode EPNs on a zigzag separator.

[0211] Subsequently, in step P140, electrode identity data EIDD2 associated with the second coordinates can be collected. The electrode identity data EIDD2 associated with the second coordinates can be collected by matching at least one of the coordinate values ​​of the plurality of positive electrode EPPs and the coordinate values ​​of the plurality of negative electrode EPNs to the electrode identity EID. The electrode identity data EIDD2 associated with the second coordinates can be collected by the controller 540 and stored in the server 1200.

[0212] Next, in step P150, the roll map of the preceding process can be associated with the electrode ID of the negative electrode. The roll map can be generated in the electrode processes (i.e., coating, roll pressing, selective slitting) and notching processes for manufacturing the positive electrode roll ERP and the negative electrode roll ERN. Therefore, in the preceding processes before the electrode ID assignment step, coordinate values ​​indicating the positions on the first electrode sheet and the second electrode sheet can be acquired for each process as the negative electrode sheet (first electrode sheet) and the positive electrode sheet (second electrode sheet) move through predetermined processes. The coordinate values ​​of the first electrode sheet and the coordinate values ​​of the second electrode sheet in each process can be roll map coordinate values ​​collected based on the input and / or consumption amounts of the first electrode sheet or the second electrode sheet in the multiple processes.

[0213] At least one of the roll map coordinate values ​​of the first electrode sheet and the roll map coordinate values ​​of the second electrode sheet in each of the above steps can be made to correspond to at least one of the electrode ID, the coordinate value of the first electrode matched to the electrode ID, and the coordinate value of the second electrode matched to the electrode ID. In this case, the electrode ID data associated with the second coordinate can be made to correspond to the electrode ID data associated with the first coordinate. Therefore, the first coordinate value of the electrode ID data associated with the first coordinate can be made to correspond to the electrode ID, the coordinate value of the first electrode, and the coordinate value of the second electrode of the electrode ID data associated with the second coordinate.

[0214] Next, in step P160, for example, the subsequent process event data matching unit 610 of FIG. 9 can match at least one of the electrode ID, the coordinate value of the first electrode matched to the electrode ID, and the coordinate value of the second electrode matched to the electrode ID to the ID of the upper battery assembly and / or process event data acquired in the subsequent process.

[0215] In this case, the identity of the upper battery assembly may be at least one selected from the following:

[0216] 1) An assembly ID for an electrode assembly including at least one combination of the first electrode and the second electrode. 2) Semi-finished battery product ID HID including the above electrode assembly 3) Cell ID of a battery cell including the electrode assembly or semi-finished battery product 4) A stack ID (SID) of battery cell stacks including a plurality of the battery cells. 5) Module ID MID of a battery module including the battery cell stack 6) Pack ID PID of the battery pack containing multiple battery modules

[0217] (Third embodiment) According to the present invention, workpieces, semi-finished products, and finished products with quality traceability can be provided from electrode manufacturing to the manufacturing of finished batteries.

[0218] According to the present invention, there can be provided an electrode assembly (e.g., a stacked cell or a folding cell, or an electrode assembly stacked in a zigzag pattern by a ZZS process or an AZS process) that includes at least one combination (e.g., a monocell or a bicell) of a first electrode (e.g., a negative electrode) having an electrode ID EID and a second electrode (e.g., a positive electrode) having coordinate values ​​that match the electrode ID, and that has an assembly ID AID corresponding to the electrode ID.

[0219] According to the present invention, at least one upper battery assembly including the above electrode assembly and selected from the following may be provided.

[0220] 1) A semi-finished battery product including the electrode assembly. 2) a battery semi-finished product including the electrode assembly and having a semi-finished product ID HID corresponding to the assembly ID AID; 3) A battery cell including the above electrode assembly or semi-finished battery product. 4) A battery cell including the electrode assembly or semi-finished battery product and having a cell ID CID corresponding to the electrode assembly ID EID or semi-finished battery product ID HID. 5) A battery cell stack including a plurality of the battery cells. 6) A battery cell stack including a plurality of the battery cells and having a stack ID SID corresponding to the cell ID. 7) A battery module including the above battery cell stack. 8) A battery module including the battery cell stack and having a module ID MID corresponding to the stack ID SID. 9) A battery pack containing multiple battery modules as described above 10) A battery pack including a plurality of the battery modules and having a pack ID PID corresponding to the module ID MID.

[0221] The present invention has been described in more detail above with reference to the drawings and embodiments, etc. However, the configurations shown in the drawings or embodiments in this specification are merely one embodiment of the present invention and do not represent all of the technical ideas of the present invention, and therefore, at the time of filing this application, there may be various equivalents and modifications that can replace them. [Explanation of symbols]

[0222] 10: Battery manufacturing system 100: Coating equipment 200: Roll pressing device 300: Slitting device 400: Notching device 500: Lamination device 600: Subsequent process equipment 1100:EIF 1200: Server, 1210: First Server, 1220: Second Server, 1230: Third Server 1300:Display device 411: Unwinder 413: Rewinder 421, 423: Rotary encoder 415: Notching machine 433: ID marking machine 431: Testing and / or Measuring Instruments 435: First electrode ID reader 441: Role Map PLC 443: Process PLC 440: Notching controller 511P, 511N, 511S1, 511S2: Unwinder 513P: Positive cutter, 513N: Negative cutter 515: Guide roll 517: Separation membrane cutter 521P, 521N: Rotary encoder 523P, 523N: Seam sensor 525: Electrode spacing sensor 527: Second electrode ID reader 540: Controller

Claims

1. forming a plurality of first electrodes having the electrode identities from a first electrode sheet to which the electrode identities are assigned at predetermined intervals; forming a plurality of second electrodes from the second electrode sheet; a coupling device configured to couple the plurality of first electrodes and the plurality of second electrodes; The coupling device includes a controller configured to collect electrode identity data relating to coordinates including the electrode identity and coordinate values ​​of at least one of the first electrode and the second electrode matched to the electrode identity based on a first input amount of the first electrode sheet, a second input amount of the second electrode sheet, and an electrode identity sensing signal.

2. The battery manufacturing system of claim 1 , further comprising a server configured to store electrode identity data associated with the coordinates.

3. 3. The battery manufacturing system according to claim 1, further comprising a notching device configured to provide electrode ids at predetermined pitch intervals to the first electrode sheet.

4. The notching device is a notching machine for forming electrode tabs on the first electrode sheet at a predetermined pitch; an ID marking machine for marking an electrode ID on the electrode tab; a notching controller configured to collect electrode identity data relating to coordinates including the electrode identity and a first coordinate value that is a position of a first electrode sheet in a notching process matched to the electrode identity.

5. The first coordinate value is The battery manufacturing system according to claim 4 , wherein the electrode identity is acquired based on a signal of an unwound amount and / or a wound amount of the first electrode sheet when sensing the electrode identity during the notching process.

6. The coupling device comprises: a first electrode cutter configured to cut a first electrode sheet unwound from a first electrode roll to provide a plurality of first electrodes; a second electrode cutter configured to cut the second electrode sheet unwound from the second electrode roll to provide a plurality of second electrodes; a second electrode identity reader configured to sense an electrode identity of an electrode tab of each of the plurality of first electrodes to generate an electrode identity sensing signal.

7. the first input amount of the first electrode sheet is calculated based on a pitch of the plurality of first electrodes and a cut count of the first electrode cutter; The battery manufacturing system according to claim 6 , wherein the second input amount of the second electrode sheet is calculated based on a pitch of the plurality of second electrodes and a cut count of the second electrode cutter.

8. The coupling device comprises: a first rotary encoder configured to generate a first input signal representative of a first input of the first electrode sheet; 7. The battery manufacturing system of claim 6, further comprising: a second rotary encoder configured to generate a second input signal representative of a second input of the second electrode sheet.

9. the server stores roll maps for each process, each including roll map coordinate values ​​indicating positions on the first electrode sheet and the second electrode sheet in a plurality of preceding processes before the electrode ID is assigned; 3. The battery manufacturing system of claim 2, wherein the server associates at least one of the electrode ID, a coordinate value of a first electrode matched to the electrode ID, and a coordinate value of a second electrode matched to the electrode ID with the roll map coordinate value.

10. At least one of the electrode ID, the coordinate value of a first electrode matched to the electrode ID, and the coordinate value of a second electrode matched to the electrode ID, 1) An assembly ID of an electrode assembly including at least one combination of the first electrode and the second electrode; 2) a semi-finished product ID of a battery semi-finished product including the electrode assembly; 3) Cell ID of a battery cell including the electrode assembly or semi-finished battery; 4) A stack ID of a battery cell stack including a plurality of the battery cells; 5) A module ID for a battery module including the battery cell stack; and 6) Pack ID of a battery pack including a plurality of the battery modules; and / or a subsequent process event data matching unit configured to match the process event data acquired in a plurality of subsequent processes after the first electrode and the second electrode are coupled to the identification of at least one upper battery assembly selected from the group consisting of:

11. providing electrode ids at a predetermined pitch interval to a first electrode sheet; forming a plurality of first electrodes comprising the electrode identities from the first electrode sheet and a plurality of second electrodes from a second electrode sheet; coupling the plurality of first electrodes and a plurality of second electrodes; and collecting electrode identity data relating to coordinates including coordinate values ​​of the electrode identity and at least one of a first electrode and a second electrode matched to the electrode identity.

12. The method for manufacturing a battery according to claim 11 , wherein the electrode id is provided to electrode tabs formed at a predetermined pitch interval on the first electrode sheet by notching.

13. A position of the first electrode sheet in the notching process corresponding to the electrode ID is acquired as a first coordinate value; 13. The method of manufacturing a battery according to claim 12, wherein at least one of the electrode ID, a coordinate value of a first electrode matched to the electrode ID, and a coordinate value of a second electrode matched to the electrode ID corresponds to the first coordinate value.

14. Electrode identity data associated with the coordinates is collected based on a first input of the first electrode sheet, a second input of the second electrode sheet, and an electrode identity sensing signal; The method for manufacturing a battery according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the electrode identity sensing signal is generated based on sensing the electrode identity.

15. the first input amount of the first electrode sheet is calculated based on a pitch of the plurality of first electrodes and a cut count of a first electrode cutter; The method of manufacturing a battery according to claim 14 , wherein the second input amount of the second electrode sheet is calculated based on a pitch of the plurality of second electrodes and a cut count of a second electrode cutter.

16. the first input amount of the first electrode sheet is determined by a first input amount signal generated by a first rotary encoder configured to sense an amount of rotation of a first electrode unwinder configured to unwind the first electrode sheet; 15. The method of manufacturing a battery of claim 14, wherein the second input amount of the second electrode sheet is determined by a second input amount signal generated by a second rotary encoder configured to sense an amount of rotation of a second electrode unwinder configured to unwind the second electrode sheet.

17. In a plurality of preceding steps prior to the step of assigning the electrode ID, when the first electrode sheet and the second electrode sheet move through predetermined processes, coordinate values ​​indicating positions on the first electrode sheet and the second electrode sheet are acquired for each step; 13. The battery manufacturing method according to claim 11 or 12, further comprising a step of making at least one of the coordinate values ​​of the first electrode sheet and the coordinate values ​​of the second electrode sheet in each step correspond to at least one of the electrode ID, the coordinate value of the first electrode matched to the electrode ID, and the coordinate value of the second electrode matched to the electrode ID.

18. At least one of the electrode ID, coordinate values ​​of a first electrode matched to the electrode ID, and coordinate values ​​of a second electrode matched to the electrode ID, 1) An assembly ID of an electrode assembly including at least one combination of the first electrode and the second electrode; 2) a semi-finished product ID of a battery semi-finished product including the electrode assembly; 3) Cell ID of a battery cell including the electrode assembly or semi-finished battery; 4) A stack ID of a battery cell stack including a plurality of the battery cells; 5) A module ID for a battery module including the battery cell stack; and 6) Pack ID of a battery pack including a plurality of the battery modules; and / or process event data acquired in a plurality of subsequent processes after the first electrode and the second electrode are coupled.

19. At least one combination of a first electrode having an electrode ID and a second electrode having coordinate values ​​that match the electrode ID; An electrode assembly comprising an assembly ID corresponding to said electrode ID.

20. 20. An electrode assembly according to claim 19, 1) a semi-finished battery including the electrode assembly; 2) a battery blank including the electrode assembly and having blank ID corresponding to the assembly ID; 3) a battery cell including the electrode assembly or the battery semi-finished product; 4) a battery cell including the electrode assembly or the battery semi-finished product and having a cell ID corresponding to the assembly ID or the semi-finished product ID; 5) a battery cell stack including a plurality of the battery cells; 6) a battery cell stack including a plurality of the battery cells and having a stack ID corresponding to the cell ID; 7) a battery module including the battery cell stack; 8) a battery module including the battery cell stack and having a module ID corresponding to the stack ID; 9) A battery pack including a plurality of the battery modules; and 10) A battery pack including a plurality of the battery modules and having a pack ID corresponding to the module ID; At least one upper battery assembly selected from:

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