Preferably an apparatus and method for fabricating a multilayer structure for electrochemical cells for battery manufacturing.

Abstract

An apparatus for manufacturing a multilayer structure, comprising: a supply unit configured to supply at least one strip-shaped article; a combination unit configured to combine at least one strip-shaped article in a semi-finished product having an overlapping layer structure; a first moving device configured to move the semi-finished product along a work path between two different first and second positions; a finishing device configured to perform finishing work on the multilayer structure; and a second moving device configured to move the finishing device so that the finishing work is performed at least partially while the semi-finished product is moving along a work path between the first and second positions.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an apparatus for producing a type of poly-coupled article formed by, for example, laminating one strip-like article.

[0002] The present invention also relates to a method for producing such a poly-coupled article.

Background Art

[0003] The present invention is preferably applied to the field of manufacturing electrochemical cells. In order to achieve this, semi-finished products having an overlapping layer structure, for example in the form of a coil or a laminate, are used, but it is not limited thereto.

[0004] In particular, in the related technical field, it is known to layer a conductor element and a separator element to form a structure having an anode and a cathode. Articles manufactured by stacking the aforementioned layers are then wound in the form of a coil and used in the manufacture of the electrochemical cell itself.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

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

[0006] The term "strip-like article" means any solid product represented in the form of an elongated strip or ribbon within an industrial production line, that is, in the form of an element whose longitudinal elongation is significantly greater than its transverse elongation. A strip-like article can be formed by a single strip or ribbon of material, or by the superposition of a plurality of strips laminated together.

[0007] Furthermore, the strip-shaped articles have characteristics that allow for a certain degree of bending as they move forward along opposing production lines.

[0008] Strip-like articles can be manufactured, for example, by alternating layers of conductive and insulating materials. This is intended to form sandwiches that are wound to create coils for the manufacture of electrochemical cells.

[0009] As a further example, a strip-like article can be described as one formed by insulating strips that function as separators between conductive elements. Thus, the insulating strip-like article can be folded according to a "Z" arrangement by interposing it between alternating "Z"-shaped loops, one having foil form the anode and cathode of an electrochemical cell, respectively.

[0010] Strip-shaped articles can be pre-cut to form individual sheets intended to be stacked in a structure that unfolds primarily vertically.

[0011] The term “combination” as used in reference to strip articles means combining a strip article with further elements to obtain a structure of a different shape from the strip article, preferably a non-strip structure such as a coil or folded, or combining different parts of a strip article with each other.

[0012] The term "winding" refers to creating a spiral structure by rotating a strip, ribbon, or more generally, a strip-like article around an axis, a flat surface, or other structure. By winding a strip-like article, one or more turns are formed around the axis or structure.

[0013] The term "coil" means any helical structure formed by winding a strip, ribbon, or more generally, a strip-like article around an axis, a flat surface, or other winding structure. The overall shape of the coil may be substantially cylindrical, rather than flattened or other shapes, depending on the structure around which the strip-like article is wound.

[0014] As mentioned above, this coil is applicable not only in the field of electrochemical cells but also in other fields such as conductors, and a coil-like structure can be used similarly within them.

[0015] The term "multilayer structure" refers to any solid product obtained by combining multiple elements or multiple different parts of a single element. For example, a multilayer structure may be formed by winding a strip-like article in the form of a coil, or by combining a strip-like article with other elements, such as a conductive element that can be placed between the loops of the strip-like article folded in the aforementioned "Z" shape and combined with it in a folded configuration.

[0016] Another example is a laminated solution in which individual foils of insulating material and individual foils of conductive material are layered and arranged alternately.

[0017] The term "semi-finished product having an overlapping layered structure" in relation to multilayer structures refers to an intermediate product used in the manufacture of the multilayer structure itself. A semi-finished product having an overlapping layered structure includes multiple layers formed by continuous winding of spirally wound strip-like articles, or by alternating layers formed by strip-like articles folded in a "Z" shape and conductive elements in the form of foil, or by layered foils forming the aforementioned laminated solution. A multilayer structure is manufactured by using a semi-finished product having an overlapping layered structure and then performing subsequent finishing processes.

[0018] Therefore, the term “finishing” means one or more operations that continuously form a multilayer structure necessary to obtain a finished product such as an electrochemical cell. A finishing operation or finishing process may include, for example, the step of applying at least one strip that can lock a flap or other part of a semi-finished product in an overlapping layer structure to maintain its structure in a configuration obtained by winding or a combination of other types. Further examples of finishing operations include, for example, laser marking operations, or welding and / or bonding operations, or other operations suitable for applying inserts.

[0019] The term "flap" refers to any portion of a strip-like article, more generally, a separator or conductive element. The flap is preferably located at its edge or end and defines the termination of the formed semi-finished product. It should also be noted that one or more flaps may be defined on the semi-finished product.

[0020] The term "closed path" means a path along which the winding head or other elements travel, where the start and end points of that path substantially coincide.

[0021] The term "continuous" is a motion-related expression that refers to a movement that occurs seamlessly without any stops or interruptions. In particular, the terms "continuous motion" or simply "continuous" when referring to the movement of strip articles, semi-finished products, or other elements indicate that the strip articles, semi-finished products, or other elements do not stop during their movement. Movement can be decelerated in any case. Therefore, the strip articles / semi-finished products / elements can accelerate or decelerate, but never come to a complete stop. However, it should be noted that if the motion involves reversal, the strip articles / semi-finished products / elements may temporarily reach an absolute velocity of zero. In this case, the strip articles / semi-finished products / elements avoid a state of effective cessation by being given a non-zero acceleration at the moment their velocity becomes zero.

[0022] The term "substantially constant" when referring to a measured value or quantity, such as the moving speed of an article, means that such measured value or quantity preferably maintains a value that changes by at most ±10%, preferably at most ±5%, preferably at most ±2% over time.

[0023] The term "integrated" when referring to the movement of two or more elements means that these elements perform substantially the same movement substantially simultaneously. In other words, two integrated elements are not necessarily joined or constrained to each other, but move together as a single component. In practice, it can be provided that the respective movement systems of the two elements are adjusted to move the two elements together as needed. Further, the two elements may be temporarily constrained. This constraint can, for example, join the two elements to each other in several steps, move them together, and then separate them to move independently of each other.

[0024] Note also that the expression "moving an article between a first position and a second position" means both movement from the first position to the second position and movement from the second position to the first position.

[0025] This definition applies similarly to similar movement expressions, including, for example, movement between two positions of a general article, between two regions, or between two different operating configurations.

[0026] Preferably, the expression "moving along a path between a first position and a second position that are different from each other" when referring to a device, structure, or more generally a component that performs a combination means movement between two different spatial positions while the center of mass changes position along the path.

[0027] Therefore, such movement excludes rotation of the combination device / structure / component around a point that substantially coincides with the center of mass.

[0028] For example, in the case of a helix, rotation around the axis of the helix is excluded. This rotation is considered to coincide substantially with the center of mass of the helix, but may not coincide exactly due to the relative mass distribution of the material, which is not necessarily uniformly distributed around the axis of the helix.

[0029] Instead, other movements of the helix are included in the definition of movement along a path between a first position and a second position that are different from each other. Thus, for example, linear movement, rotational and translational movement, and rotation around an axis that does not coincide with the axis of the helix, i.e., the axis around which the helical shape is formed, are included.

[0030] The applicant has preliminarily observed that, among the constantly increasing requirements to improve the performance and efficiency of the production process for manufacturing multi-structures, the finishing work required for manufacturing multi-structures can be an important factor limiting the production capacity of the line itself.

[0031] The applicant has actually observed that, even when attempting to speed up the combination process of multi-structures by increasing, for example, the winding speed of strip-shaped articles or the combination speed with other elements, subsequent operations can be a factor causing a slowdown in the entire production process.

[0032] Furthermore, this constraint becomes even more prominent in a production process that assumes the movement of semi-finished products used in manufacturing multi-structures during the processing. In particular, the applicant has observed that as the movement speed of the semi-finished products increases, it becomes increasingly difficult to perform finishing operations with the required accuracy.

[0033] In order to ensure the accuracy required for finishing, it is usually necessary to stop or at least decelerate the movement of the semi-finished products, so the above requirements limit the productivity of the production line.

[0034] To improve the manufacturing speed of multilayer structures, the applicant has found that by moving a device for performing one or more finishing processes necessary for manufacturing the multilayer structure along with the semi-finished product, the necessary processing can be carried out without stopping the semi-finished product, or with minimal deceleration.

[0035] Furthermore, the applicant observed that by using a device for combining strip-shaped articles and a moving device that can move the semi-finished products formed using these articles together, the production speed of semi-finished products can be maintained at a high rate.

[0036] Furthermore, the applicant has found that if it is possible to continue moving semi-finished products during the finishing process, preferably at a constant speed and without causing significant deceleration, the productivity of a multi-layer structure production line can be further improved compared to the prior art.

[0037] Furthermore, the applicant has found that by providing a dedicated moving device for moving the device that performs the finishing process, the finishing process and the movement of the semi-finished product can be appropriately coordinated.

[0038] These features allow finishing work to be performed while moving semi-finished products, without restricting the mobility of the semi-finished products themselves. [Means for solving the problem]

[0039] Accordingly, in its first embodiment, the present invention relates to an apparatus for producing a multilayer structure comprising a semi-finished product having an overlapping layered structure including at least one strip-like article. Preferably, the multilayer structure is intended to produce an electrochemical cell for manufacturing a battery.

[0040] Preferably, the apparatus includes a supply unit configured to supply at least one strip-shaped article.

[0041] Preferably, the apparatus comprises a combination unit including at least one combination device configured to combine strip-shaped articles in a semi-finished product having an overlapping layer structure intended to form a multi-layer structure.

[0042] Preferably, the apparatus includes a first moving device configured to move a combination device. Preferably, the first moving device is configured to move semi-finished products having an overlapping layer structure along a work path between two different first and second positions.

[0043] Preferably, the apparatus includes a finishing device configured to perform finishing work on a multi-layer structure.

[0044] Preferably, the apparatus includes a second moving device configured to move a finishing device such that finishing is performed at least partially while a first moving device moves a semi-finished product having an overlapping layer structure along a work path between a first position and a second position.

[0045] These features allow the coil manufacturing apparatus to perform finishing operations on the semi-finished product while it is being moved by a relative moving device, without slowing down or stopping the movement.

[0046] In fact, the finishing device can move along a section of the semi-finished product's path while performing the finishing process, following the semi-finished product.

[0047] In this way, it becomes possible to work at a faster speed than known solutions, allowing finishing work to be performed at a speed equivalent to or at least close to the movement speed of the semi-finished product, and ensuring the quality required for the structure of the multi-layered structure.

[0048] In a second embodiment, the present invention relates to a method for producing a multilayer structure comprising a semi-finished product having an overlapping layered structure including at least one strip-like article, preferably for an electrochemical cell intended to manufacture a battery.

[0049] Preferably, the method includes the step of supplying at least one strip-shaped article.

[0050] Preferably, the method includes the step of forming a semi-finished product having an overlapping layered structure by combining strip-shaped articles in layers.

[0051] Preferably, the method includes the step of moving a semi-finished product having an overlapping layer structure along a work path between two different first and second positions.

[0052] Preferably, the method includes the step of performing at least partially finishing work on a multilayer structure while a semi-finished product having an overlapping layer structure is moving along a work path between a first position and a second position.

[0053] This method allows finishing work to be performed while the semi-finished product is being moved, enabling the fabrication of multi-layer structures at a faster speed than known solutions without interrupting the semi-finished product's forward movement. In fact, the movement of the semi-finished product can be coordinated with the movement of a device designed to perform the finishing work.

[0054] In a third embodiment, the present invention relates to an apparatus for producing an electrochemical cell comprising a semi-finished product having an overlapping layer structure.

[0055] Preferably, the semi-finished product having an overlapping layer structure includes a plurality of conductor elements and at least one separator element.

[0056] Preferably, the apparatus includes a supply unit configured to supply a conductor element and at least one separator element.

[0057] Preferably, the apparatus comprises a combination unit including at least one combination device configured to combine a conductive element and at least one separator element in a predetermined layered arrangement, so as to produce a semi-finished product having an overlapping layered structure.

[0058] Preferably, the apparatus includes a first moving device configured to move semi-finished products having an overlapping layer structure along a work path between two different first and second positions.

[0059] Preferably, the apparatus includes a finishing device configured to perform finishing work on an electrochemical cell.

[0060] The apparatus includes a second moving device configured to move a finishing device such that a semi-finished product having an overlapping layered structure is moved by a first moving device along a work path between a first position and a second position, while at least partially finishing the product. This allows the semi-finished product having an overlapping layered structure to move along the work path in continuous motion.

[0061] These features allow the apparatus for fabricating electrochemical cells to perform finishing processes on the semi-finished product without slowing it down or stopping it while it moves through a relative moving device.

[0062] In fact, the finishing device can move along a section of the semi-finished product's path while performing the finishing process, following the semi-finished product.

[0063] In this way, the movement of semi-finished products can be predicted, and in some cases, their fabrication can be tracked, allowing for faster finishing during relative movement. This enables finishing at a speed equal to or at least close to the movement speed of the semi-finished products, thereby ensuring the quality required for the multi-layered structure. This also limits the risk of damage to the structure of the semi-finished products during finishing.

[0064] In a fourth embodiment, the present invention relates to a method for producing an electrochemical cell, which includes a semi-finished product having an overlapping layer structure, preferably comprising a plurality of conductor elements and at least one separator element, and more preferably a method for producing an electrochemical cell intended for manufacturing a battery.

[0065] Preferably, the method includes the step of supplying a plurality of conductor elements and at least one separator element.

[0066] Preferably, the method includes the step of combining a conductive element and at least one separator element in a predetermined layered arrangement to form a semi-finished product having an overlapping layered structure.

[0067] Preferably, the method includes the step of moving a semi-finished product having an overlapping layer structure along a work path between two different first and second positions. This movement of the semi-finished product having an overlapping layer structure is preferably carried out by continuous motion.

[0068] Preferably, the method includes the step of performing at least partially finishing work on an electrochemical cell while moving a semi-finished product having an overlapping layer structure along a work path between a first position and a second position.

[0069] Furthermore, based on this embodiment, the same advantages described in relation to the embodiments described above can be achieved.

[0070] In at least one of the embodiments described above, the present invention may have at least one of the following further preferred features.

[0071] Preferably, the finishing device is configured to lock the flaps of the strip-shaped articles in a semi-finished product having an overlapping layer structure. Preferably, the finishing process includes the step of locking the flaps of the strip-shaped articles in a semi-finished product having an overlapping layer structure.

[0072] This feature allows the structure of the fabricated semi-finished product to be locked in place through a combination of components. This locking can be performed while the semi-finished product is in motion, thus eliminating the need to stop the product. Furthermore, simultaneous movement of the finishing device and the semi-finished product allows for precise locking of the flaps even at high semi-finished product speeds, reducing the possibility of waste during the processing.

[0073] It should be noted that, for example, if more separator or conductor elements are used, each defining a flap, the lock may be performed on one or more flaps.

[0074] Preferably, the finishing device is configured to apply a locking element to the flap. Preferably, the locking element is a locking strip. Preferably, the step of locking the flap of a strip-shaped article includes the step of applying a locking element to the flap. Preferably, the locking element is a locking strip.

[0075] It should be noted that the application of lock strips or other locking elements is particularly suitable for use while semi-finished products are in motion. Furthermore, since situations where multiple strips / locking elements are used are anticipated, it should also be noted that the application of one or more strips / locking elements may be considered.

[0076] Preferably, the device includes a contact device configured to contact the flap during or immediately before the application of the locking element. Preferably, the contact device is provided to contact and hold the flap against the contact device, preferably during or immediately before the application of the locking element.

[0077] These features prevent, or at least reduce, the possibility of, the locked flaps moving during the finishing process. As a result, the overlapping layered structure of the semi-finished product can maintain the geometric and dimensional accuracy required by its application.

[0078] By using contact elements to hold the flap, this operation can be carried out by utilizing the movement of the semi-finished product itself.

[0079] Preferably, the first moving device is configured to move at least one combination device and a semi-finished product having an overlapping layer structure in a translational direction. Preferably, the step of moving the semi-finished product having an overlapping layer structure along a work path between a first position and a second position includes the step of translating the semi-finished product having an overlapping layer structure in a translational direction.

[0080] The applicant observed that by adding translational movement to the movement of semi-finished products, for example by winding up strip-shaped articles during this movement, the combination of strip-shaped articles can be appropriately coordinated with this translational movement.

[0081] Preferably, the translational movement of the semi-finished product is carried out in accordance with a reciprocating motion.

[0082] This feature allows semi-finished products to be moved toward or away from the strip supply unit or other components of the apparatus during the assembly of the strip articles themselves. In this way, the strip articles can be accumulated during one part of the movement and assembled during another part of the movement. This allows assembly to be performed with a continuous supply of strip articles.

[0083] Preferably, the translational direction defines the linear movement trajectory of the semi-finished product having at least one combined device and overlapping layered structure. Preferably, the translational movement of the semi-finished product is carried out along a linear trajectory.

[0084] In this way, a kinematically simple and stable structure enables easily controllable and highly accurate movement.

[0085] Preferably, the first moving device comprises a movable support configured to move at least one combination device and a semi-finished product having an overlapping layer structure relative to a fixed frame in a translational direction, preferably in a reciprocating motion.

[0086] These features allow for the translational and, advantageously, reciprocal movement of semi-finished products with a structurally simple solution that provides faster speeds without requiring a complex moving system.

[0087] Preferably, the finishing device is supported on a support device. Preferably, a second moving device is configured to move the support device and the finishing device. Preferably, the second moving device is provided to move the finishing device while the finishing process is being performed.

[0088] In this way, a finishing device having similar characteristics to, or in any case very similar to, conventionally used devices, which provides a specific support for relative movement, can be used. Furthermore, by using a support device, finishing work can be performed while moving, which always results in a speed advantage.

[0089] Preferably, the finishing device includes rollers configured to take in and unload a lock strip. Preferably, the rollers are configured to rotate around an axis applied by their respective moving mechanisms. Preferably, the rollers are provided to take in and unload a lock strip. Preferably, the method includes the step of rotating the rollers together with the lock belt around an applied axis parallel to the rotation axis of the finishing device.

[0090] In this way, the risk of damaging the structure of the semi-finished product during the application of the strip can be suppressed.

[0091] Preferably, the moving device is configured to swing the support device around the axis of rotation. Preferably, the finishing device is generally provided to swing around the axis of rotation.

[0092] This feature allows the finishing device to be moved towards or away from the semi-finished product through simple and easily controllable movement.

[0093] Preferably, the support device is mounted on a fixed frame. In this way, the components designed for the movement of the finishing device can be kept stationary during the movement carried out during the assembly of strip articles and the resulting semi-finished products.

[0094] Preferably, the support device is attached to a movable support.

[0095] This feature simplifies the coordination between the movement of the finishing device and the movement of the semi-finished product during the finishing process. Furthermore, it can advantageously reduce the distance that the finishing device has to move to perform the finishing work.

[0096] Preferably, the second moving device is configured to maintain contact between the finishing device and the semi-finished product having an overlapping layer structure while the finishing device is being moved by the first moving device. Preferably, the finishing device follows the semi-finished product having an overlapping layer structure so as it moves while performing the finishing process, maintaining contact with the semi-finished product having an overlapping layer structure.

[0097] In this way, the finishing device and the semi-finished product device can be integrated while the finishing process is being performed, so that high precision can be obtained in the finishing process, and the finishing process can be performed in a manner at least equivalent to that which would be performed using a stopped semi-finished product.

[0098] Preferably, the second moving device is configured to maintain contact between the finishing device and the semi-finished product having an overlapping layer structure during the reversal of the reciprocating motion. Preferably, the finishing device comes into contact with the semi-finished product having an overlapping layer structure when it reverses its direction of movement during the reciprocating motion.

[0099] In this way, when the movement of the semi-finished product is slowed down, that is, when the direction of movement is reversed in the case of reciprocating motion, the finishing process can be performed at least partially.

[0100] This allows the finishing device to be moved at a relatively slow speed, thus facilitating the control of the second moving device and generally enabling high precision in the finishing work.

[0101] Preferably, the method includes moving at least one combination device together with a semi-finished product having an overlapping layer structure while moving at least one combination device between a first position and a second position.

[0102] It should be noted that this feature allows for the movement of semi-finished products from the first position to the second position, i.e., the movement of semi-finished products along two positions that define the path where finishing work is performed, without removing the semi-finished products from the assembly device.

[0103] Preferably, the second moving device is configured to move the finishing device toward or away from the movable support while moving along the translational direction.

[0104] Preferably, the second moving device is configured to move the finishing device in a direction that coincides with the forward direction of the movable support along the translational direction, at a speed slower than the corresponding translational speed of the movable support. This allows the semi-finished product having an overlapping layer structure to reach the finishing device and for the finishing device to come into contact with the semi-finished product having an overlapping layer structure.

[0105] Preferably, the step of moving the finishing device includes moving the finishing device in a direction consistent with the forward direction at a speed slower than the translational speed of the semi-finished product having an overlapping layer structure. This allows the semi-finished product having an overlapping layer structure to reach the finishing device while translating along the translational direction, and allows the finishing device to come into contact with the semi-finished product having an overlapping layer structure.

[0106] In this way, it is possible to avoid generating excessive stress when the finishing device comes into contact with the semi-finished product.

[0107] Preferably, the step of moving the finishing device includes moving the finishing device in the opposite direction to the forward direction before moving the finishing device in the direction coinciding with the forward direction.

[0108] This feature allows the finishing device to reduce the stroke required to reach the semi-finished product.

[0109] Preferably, after the finishing device comes into contact with the semi-finished product having an overlapping layer structure, the finishing device moves along the translational direction at a speed substantially equal to the corresponding speed along the translational direction of the semi-finished product having an overlapping layer structure.

[0110] In this way, contact between the finishing device and the semi-finished product can be maintained while performing the necessary finishing processes.

[0111] Preferably, at least one combination device is configured to rotate around a first axis of rotation. Preferably, at least one combination device is configured to rotate around a second axis of rotation parallel to the first axis of rotation. Preferably, the finishing device is configured to perform finishing work while the semi-finished product having at least one combination device and / or overlapping layered structures rotates around the first axis of rotation, and / or while the semi-finished product having at least one combination device and / or overlapping layered structures rotates around the second axis of rotation.

[0112] Preferably, each combining device can be configured to rotate around a first axis of rotation in order to combine strip-shaped articles by helical winding. Preferably, at least one combining device can be configured to rotate around a second axis of rotation parallel to the first axis of rotation.

[0113] Preferably, the finishing process is performed while the semi-finished product having at least one combined device and / or overlapping layered structure rotates around a first axis of rotation, and / or while the semi-finished product having the combined device and / or overlapping layered structure rotates around a second axis of rotation.

[0114] Preferably, the finishing device is configured to perform finishing work on the semi-finished product having an overlapping layer structure while the first moving device and the semi-finished product having an overlapping layer structure move in the translational direction.

[0115] These features allow for optimal utilization of the movement of semi-finished products during finishing. In fact, for example, when strip-shaped articles are assembled in a helical manner, rotation around a first axis of rotation that may coincide with the axis around which the strip-shaped articles are wound can also be advantageously utilized for positioning lock strips to hold the end flaps of the semi-finished products. In this way, two different functions can be performed by the same drive system.

[0116] Similarly, finishing processes, such as the application of lock strips, can also be performed while rotating around a second axis. This second axis may be configured, for example, as an axis rotated to move multiple combination devices between different stations of the apparatus when multiple combination devices are provided. Thus, the same rotational motion for switching combination devices allows for the movement of semi-finished products while finishing processes are being performed.

[0117] Furthermore, as described above, translational movement can be advantageously used to obtain a retention of strip-shaped articles between combinations for forming semi-finished products. Consequently, the same moving device can also be used for finishing operations, as described with respect to rotation around the first and second axes of rotation.

[0118] Preferably, the finishing device is configured to perform finishing work while at least one combination device and a semi-finished product having an overlapping layer structure move in accordance with rotation around a third rotation axis. Generally, at least one combination device can be provided to rotate around the third rotation axis.

[0119] This rotation can be used, sometimes in combination with translational movement, to move a combined device along a specific trajectory in order to optimize the movement of semi-finished products and the arrangement of device components.

[0120] Preferably, the first moving device is configured to move the combination device between a combination position where the strip articles are assembled, preferably a position corresponding to a first position, and a finishing position where finishing is performed on a semi-finished product having an overlapping layered structure obtained from the combination of strip articles, preferably located upstream of the second position. The movement between the combination position and the finishing position is adapted to define a work path. The apparatus further comprises a cutting device configured to cut the strip articles in a cutting region defined along the work path at an intermediate position between the combination position and the finishing position. Preferably, a step of cutting the strip articles may be provided following the formation of a semi-finished product having an overlapping layered structure by combining the strip articles in layers, and before finishing.

[0121] By providing a cutting device along the path through which the semi-finished product moves, the strip-shaped article can be cut using part of the fabrication process of the multi-layer structure, thereby optimizing the production process. Advantageously, the strip-shaped article can be cut following the formation of the semi-finished product but before the finishing process. This ensures that the formation of the semi-finished product is not hindered or complicated by the presence of the strip-shaped article.

[0122] Preferably, the cutting device comprises a knife and, preferably, an auxiliary roller positioned downstream of the knife. The auxiliary roller is preferably configured in the flap to bias the strip-like article into an elongated form. Preferably, the step of cutting the strip-like article includes, downstream of the cutting region, a step of biasing the strip-like article into an elongated form.

[0123] Preferably, at least one combination device is provided to grip the strip-shaped articles. This holds the strip-shaped articles in place while they are being assembled in layers, and the combination device holds the semi-finished product having an overlapping layered structure while it is being moved between a first position and a second position, and while finishing is being performed.

[0124] Preferably, at least one combination device is configured to hold a strip-shaped article to be combined with a semi-finished product having an overlapping layer structure, and to hold the semi-finished product having an overlapping layer structure while finishing is being performed.

[0125] In this way, strip-shaped articles / semi-finished products can be held on the assembly device, and even on the same element, for at least part of the process. This can, in some cases, limit the removal of semi-finished products, thereby ensuring the productivity and precision of the processing.

[0126] Preferably, at least one conductive element and / or at least one separator element are formed from strip-shaped articles. Preferably, the conductive element and at least one separator element are formed from strip-shaped articles, respectively. In this way, the conductive element and separator element can be supplied continuously, which provides a speed advantage in the manufacturing process of the multilayer structure.

[0127] It should be noted that some steps of the method described above may be independent of the order in which they are performed. Furthermore, some steps are optional. In addition, some steps of the method may be performed repeatedly, and may also be performed in series or in parallel with other steps of the method. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0128] The features and advantages of the present invention will become clearer from the following detailed description relating to embodiments that are not limited to those described with reference to the accompanying drawings. [Figure 1] This is a partial side perspective view of the apparatus according to the present invention. [Figure 2] This is a magnified, detailed view of the apparatus shown in Figure 1. [Figure 3] Figure 2 is a further enlarged and detailed view of the apparatus. [Figure 4A] This figure shows the apparatus of the present invention in one operating position and is a schematic diagram illustrating the method of the present invention. [Figure 4B] This figure shows the apparatus of the present invention in one operating position and is a schematic diagram illustrating the method of the present invention. [Figure 4C] This figure shows the apparatus of the present invention in one operating position and is a schematic diagram illustrating the method of the present invention. [Figure 4D] This figure shows the apparatus of the present invention in one operating position and is a schematic diagram illustrating the method of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0129] First, referring to Figures 1 and 2, an apparatus for fabricating a multilayer structure B formed according to the present invention is collectively indicated by reference numeral 100.

[0130] In some embodiments, as shown in the attached figures, the apparatus 100 is intended to manufacture coils used in the fabrication of an electrochemical cell.

[0131] As will be described in more detail below, the present invention can also be found to be applicable to other types of multilayer structures that are not necessarily intended for the manufacture of electrochemical cells.

[0132] Preferably, the fabrication of the multilayer structure B using the apparatus 100 of the present invention is carried out starting with at least one strip-shaped article. This strip-shaped article is processed to obtain a semi-finished product S having an overlapping layer structure used to fabricate the multilayer structure itself, as will be described in detail below.

[0133] In a preferred embodiment as shown in Figure 1, a plurality of strip-like articles N1, N2, N3, and N4 are used. For example, when the multilayer structure B is used in connection with the fabrication of an electrochemical cell, the strip-like articles may be formed by alternating conductive strips and separator strips. These strips can be appropriately combined to form an overlapping layer structure in which anodes, first separators, cathodes, and second separators are alternately arranged. The order of anodes and cathodes shown here is an example, and the reverse order is also conceivable. In fact, the multilayer structure may comprise alternating conductive elements and separator elements.

[0134] In this regard, for example, a single strip-shaped article may be used to form the separator element of an electrochemical cell. Thus, the strip-shaped article can always be associated with a conductive element, for example, in the form of a foil, for the purpose of forming an overlapping layer structure.

[0135] Alternatively, the present invention may also be applied in the form of a single foil in which both the conductive elements and the separator elements are laminated in alternating continuous layers.

[0136] Referring again to Figure 1, the strip-shaped articles N1, N2, N3, and N4 are supplied by the supply unit 2.

[0137] In this supply unit 2, the strip-shaped articles are advanced toward the outlet 20, where they converge toward the combination unit 1, and where they are assembled into a single structure.

[0138] Preferably, the structure formed by the strip-shaped articles N1, N2, N3, and N4 is a semi-finished product S having an overlapping layered structure in which each layer is represented by one of the strip-shaped articles.

[0139] In combination unit 1, the strip-shaped articles N1, N2, N3, and N4 can be formed by winding them in a spiral shape to obtain a coil structure.

[0140] In other embodiments (not shown), one or more strip-like articles may be folded into a continuous loop of substantially "Z"-shaped unfolding and alternately combined with anode and cathode elements in the form of foil.

[0141] In further embodiments (not shown), the supply unit 2 may be configured to supply a plurality of conductor elements and a plurality of separator elements. These elements are combined in a laminated configuration in the combination unit 1.

[0142] Therefore, generally, at least one combined device 10 can be provided, the preferred embodiment of which is shown in Figure 3. This can combine strip-shaped articles N1, N2, N3, N4, more generally conductive elements and separator elements, as semi-finished products having an overlapping layer structure.

[0143] For example, the combination device 10 may be configured such that strip-shaped articles N1, N2, N3, and N4 converge on it, preferably wound in a spiral shape.

[0144] Therefore, the combination device 10 may be configured to hold the strip-shaped articles N1, N2, N3, and N4 while they are combined in layers in a semi-finished product S having an overlapping layer structure.

[0145] Therefore, in some embodiments, the combination device 10 may include a gripping device 10A.

[0146] Advantageously, the gripping device may be formed by a rotating mandrel 11 divided into two parts that can move independently of each other. In this way, a portion of a strip of material can be inserted between the two parts of the rotating mandrel 11, and the two parts can be held close to each other. In this way, the strip of material can be gripped and a combination operation can be performed.

[0147] Similarly, by separating both parts, the semi-finished product S can be shipped out once the assembly and subsequent processing, as described later, are complete.

[0148] Advantageously, the rotating mandrel 11 can be used to spirally wind a strip of material by rotating around a relative axis of rotation X1.

[0149] More generally, the combination device 10 may be configured to rotate around a first rotation axis X1 while combining strip-shaped articles.

[0150] As described above, in a preferred embodiment, the combination unit 1 comprises a plurality of combination devices 10.

[0151] The combination device 10 may be supported on, for example, a disc-shaped support 12, which preferably rotates around a second rotation axis X2 parallel to a first rotation axis X1, in order to alternately change the operating position of the combination device 10.

[0152] Preferably, the gripping device 10 is positioned at an equidistant angle with respect to the rotation axis X2.

[0153] In some embodiments, rotation around axis X2 allows the gripping device 10 to be transported from a station where strip articles are combined, or at least initiated, to a station where the semi-finished products S obtained by the combination are finished, and further to a discharge station.

[0154] However, more generally, assembly and finishing operations may be performed while the gripping device is rotating around the rotation axis X2.

[0155] In addition to this movement, the combined device and semi-finished product S can also move along the translational direction T.

[0156] It should be noted that in some embodiments, the translational direction is linear, and preferably defines a linear movement trajectory between at least one combined device and a semi-finished product having an overlapping layer structure.

[0157] Therefore, in some embodiments, the combination unit 1 may be supported on the movable body 30 so as to be able to reciprocate, preferably in the translational direction T.

[0158] Preferably, the movable body 30 may be in the form of a movable carriage that reciprocates in the translational direction T.

[0159] As shown in Figure 1, the movable body 30 is configured to move relative to the fixed frame 6 of the device 100.

[0160] In a preferred embodiment, the translational movement of the winding device 10, which may be carried out by the movable body 30, has the effect of changing the length of parallel sections of the strip-like article.

[0161] This allows for a retention effect, and furthermore, by coordinating translational movement with winding or other types of combined operations, a semi-finished product can be formed in association with the movement of the winding device along direction T. This brings a series of advantages, particularly in that it can improve the speed of semi-finished product production and can avoid or suppress the occurrence of tension conditions that may occur in the strip-like article during processing.

[0162] To perform one or more of the above-described movements, the apparatus 100 according to the present invention may include a first moving device 3. The moving device 3 is configured to move the combination device 10 and the semi-finished product S having an overlapping layer structure along at least a work path between two different first and second positions.

[0163] Movement along this path can be defined by any combination of one or more rotations and one or more translational movements, or by a single movement of either rotation or translation. However, the combined device 10 and the semi-finished product S having an overlapping layered structure must be configured to occupy two distinct spatial positions that are separated from each other. In other words, this movement must not be such that the combined device 10 and the semi-finished product S having an overlapping layered structure only rotate around their respective axes.

[0164] In particular, in the embodiments shown in Figures 4A to 4D, the work path is defined by movement between the position where the strip-shaped articles are assembled and wound up, more generally the assembly position where the assembly begins, and the discharge position shown in Figure 4C. At the discharge position, a discharge device (not shown) grasps the semi-finished products after they have been finished at the finishing position described later.

[0165] In the embodiment shown in the figure, when winding of the semi-finished product S begins, the combination device 10 moves along the translational direction T, simultaneously rotating around axis X1 to wind the strip-shaped article, and possibly in subsequent steps, rotating around axis X2 to reach an intermediate position where finishing is performed, and finally reaching the discharge position.

[0166] To obtain such a combination of movements, for example, the movable body 30 can support a drive system (not shown) designed to rotate a disc-shaped support 12. This drive system can support a drive system designed to rotate each of the rotating mandrels 11 of the combination device.

[0167] More generally, the moving device 3 may have a drive system designed to perform one of the aforementioned movements, such as rotation or translation. Alternatively, the moving device 3 may have a transmission capable of two or more different movements performed by a single drive system. Depending on the complexity of the trajectory moved by the combined device 10 and the semi-finished product S, one of the above solutions can be selected for the moving device 3.

[0168] It should also be noted that in alternative embodiments (not shown), at least one further rotational movement around a third axis of rotation may be provided in combination with, or as an alternative to, the translational movement described above.

[0169] Referring again to Figures 2 and 3, the apparatus 100 according to the present invention further comprises a finishing device 4 configured to perform finishing work on the multilayer structure B.

[0170] In a preferred embodiment, the finishing process provides a step of locking the flaps L of the strip articles N1, N2, N3, and N4 in the semi-finished product S. In other words, it provides a step of locking the final flaps L of the helical-wound or otherwise assembled strip articles so that the structure obtained by the assembly process cannot be lost.

[0171] Preferably, locking is achieved by applying the locking element E to the flap L using a finishing device. For example, the locking element E may be formed by a locking strip.

[0172] As shown in Figure 2, the lock strip may be supplied by one or more supply coils, each winding a strip in an amount that is appropriately divided before or during application to the semi-finished product.

[0173] In some embodiments, the finishing device 4 is supported on a support device 40 that can swing around a rotation axis Z.

[0174] The apparatus 100 further comprises a second moving device 5 associated with the finishing device. Preferably, the second moving device 5 is configured to move the support device 40 and the finishing device 4, causing them to oscillate around the axis of rotation Z, or more generally, to perform appropriate movement in other embodiments.

[0175] In a preferred embodiment, the second moving device 5 may be manufactured by an electric motor, such as a rotary brushless motor, or by a cam mechanism.

[0176] Preferably, in some embodiments, the finishing device 40 may include a roller 41 configured to take in and discharge the lock strip. Preferably, the roller 41 is configured to rotate around a corresponding axis Z1 by a moving mechanism (not shown). Such a moving mechanism may include, for example, a brushless motor or a cam mechanism.

[0177] For example, in some embodiments as shown in the figure, the support device 40 is attached to the fixed frame 6. Alternatively, according to a more preferred embodiment, the support device 40 may be attached to the movable support 30.

[0178] Furthermore, it should be noted that, generally, the second moving device 5 is configured to move the finishing device 4 so that the finishing process is performed at least partially while the first moving device 3 is moving the semi-finished product S along the work path described above.

[0179] Therefore, the two moving devices are configured to cooperate with each other so that the finishing device 4 follows the semi-finished product S during at least part of its movement.

[0180] As shown in Figures 4B and 4C, the finishing device 4 is moved by the second moving device 5 so as to come into contact with the semi-finished product S while the semi-finished product S is being moved by the first moving device 3.

[0181] In the embodiment described above, this contact occurs while the storage device 10 rotates around the second rotation axis X2 and moves between the combination position and the discharge position, and simultaneously moves along the translational direction T.

[0182] These movements can also be associated with further rotations around a first axis of rotation X1, which contributes to the application of the lock strip.

[0183] It should be noted that, advantageously, the semi-finished product S is held by the combination device 10 while moving between the first and second positions, and even while finishing work is being performed.

[0184] This allows for further rotation of the semi-finished product S using the rotating mandrel 11 even while the finishing process is being carried out.

[0185] Therefore, in a preferred embodiment, finishing work is performed while the combined device 10 and the semi-finished product S perform one or more movements among rotation around the first rotation axis X1, rotation around the second rotation axis X2, and movement along the translational direction T.

[0186] Therefore, the finishing device can follow the semi-finished product with respect to the second moving device 5 while the semi-finished product performs part of such movement or combination of movement.

[0187] In preferred embodiments as shown in Figures 4A to 4D, contact between the finishing device 4 and the semi-finished product S, and consequently the finishing process, may occur while the movable body 30 reverses its movement along the translational direction T and while the support 12 rotates around the second rotation axis X2.

[0188] The finishing device is thought to move either toward or away from the semi-finished product S as it moves along the translational direction T.

[0189] In a preferred embodiment, the finishing device 4 first moves in the opposite direction to the direction in which the movable body 30, more generally the semi-finished product S, moves.

[0190] Therefore, this movement moves the finishing device toward the semi-finished product S.

[0191] Once it reaches a predetermined distance, the finishing device 4 can move in a direction that coincides with the movable body 30. This movement is advantageously performed at a speed slower than the speed of the movable body 30 or, more generally, the semi-finished product S.

[0192] In this way, the semi-finished product S can reach and come into contact with the finishing device 4 while moving in the translational direction T.

[0193] As described above, the finishing process is preferably performed while the finishing device 4 is in contact with the semi-finished product S and is moving.

[0194] Therefore, the finishing device 4 and the movable body 30 can move at a substantially constant speed when the semi-finished product comes into contact with the finishing device 4. In some embodiments, the movable body 30 moves in the translational direction T, and the finishing device 4 moves along the translational direction T at a speed substantially equal to the speed at which the movable body 30 moves.

[0195] Once the locking device E is applied, the movable body 30 and the finishing device 4 can move away from each other again. This allows the movable body 30 to perform at least partially further winding of the semi-finished product, and then perform the operations described above again.

[0196] Preferably, the finishing device 4 is associated with a contact device 8 to which the flap L contacts during or immediately before the application of the strip or other locking element E, as shown in the figure.

[0197] Furthermore, it should be noted that a work path P is defined during the movement between the assembled position and the finished position of the semi-finished product S, and that further work can be performed on the semi-finished product or generally a strip-shaped article along this path.

[0198] Therefore, the apparatus 100 may include a cutting device 7 configured to cut strip-shaped articles N1, N2, N3, and N4 in a cutting region defined along the work path P at an intermediate position between the combination position and the finishing position.

[0199] Preferably, the cutting device comprises a knife 71 and an auxiliary roller 72 preferably located downstream of the knife 71 itself. Advantageously, the roller 72 can preferably bias the strip article to an elongated configuration, i.e., to avoid or limit the lifting of the strip article as it advances, in a locked flap.

[0200] When the strip-shaped material is cut, two free ends are defined. One is wound onto the assembly device 10, which has been moved to the finishing position. This completes the fabrication of the semi-finished product S. The other is wound onto the assembly device, which has been placed in the assembly position. This initiates winding on the rotating mandrel 11.

[0201] As described above, once the finishing process is complete, the semi-finished product S moves along the work path to the discharge position, where it is released by the combination device 10.

[0202] Therefore, this process is repeated periodically, which is advantageous as it allows for continuous movement of the support 12 around the axis of rotation X2.

[0203] Needless to say, to meet the specific and incidental needs of use, a person skilled in the art can make further modifications and alterations, even within the scope of protection defined by the attached claims.

Claims

1. An apparatus (100) for manufacturing a multilayer structure (B) comprising a semi-finished product (S) having an overlapping layered structure including at least one strip-like article (N1, N2, N3, N4), wherein the multilayer structure (B) is intended to manufacture an electrochemical cell for manufacturing a battery. - A supply unit (2) configured to supply at least one strip-shaped article (N1, N2, N3, N4), - A semi-finished product (S) having the overlapping layer structure intended to form the multi-layer structure (B), comprising a combination unit (1) including at least one combination device (10) configured to combine the at least one strip-shaped article (N1, N2, N3, N4), - A first moving device (3) configured to move at least one combination device (10) and to move the semi-finished product (S) having the overlapping layer structure along a work path between two different first and second positions, - A finishing device (4) configured to perform finishing work on the multilayer structure (B), - A second moving device (5) is configured to move the finishing device (4) so ​​that the finishing process is performed at least partially while the first moving device (3) moves the semi-finished product (S) having the overlapping layer structure along the work path between the first position and the second position, A device (100) comprising:

2. The apparatus (100) according to claim 1, wherein the finishing device (4) is configured to lock the flap (L) of at least one strip-shaped article (N1, N2, N3, N4) in the semi-finished product (S) having the overlapping layer structure.

3. The apparatus (100) according to claim 2, wherein the finishing device (4) is configured to apply a locking element (E) to the flap (L), and the locking element is preferably a locking strip.

4. The apparatus (100) according to claim 3, further comprising a contact device (8) configured to contact the flap (L) during or immediately before the application of the locking element (E).

5. The apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first moving device (3) is configured to move the at least one combination device (10) and the semi-finished product (S) having the overlapping layer structure in a translational direction (T).

6. The apparatus (100) according to claim 5, wherein the first moving device (3) comprises a movable support (30) configured to move the at least one combination device (10) and the semi-finished product (S) having the overlapping layer structure relative to the fixed frame (6) in the translational direction (T), preferably in a reciprocating motion.

7. The apparatus (100) according to claim 6, wherein the second moving device (5) is configured to move the finishing device (4) toward or away from the movable support (3) while moving along the translational direction (T).

8. The apparatus (100) according to claim 7, wherein the second moving device (5) is configured to move the finishing device (4) in a direction that coincides with the forward direction of the movable support (3) along the translational direction (T) at a speed slower than the corresponding translational speed of the movable support (3), thereby causing the semi-finished product (S) having the overlapping layer structure to reach the finishing device (4) and the finishing device (4) to come into contact with the semi-finished product (S) having the overlapping layer structure.

9. The apparatus (100) according to claim 8, wherein the finishing device (4) is supported on a support device (40), and the second moving device (5) is configured to move the support device (40) and the finishing device (4) by the oscillation of the support device (40) around a rotation axis (Z).

10. The apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the second moving device (5) is configured to maintain contact between the finishing device (4) and the semi-finished product (S) having the overlapping layer structure while the finishing device (4) is being moved by the first moving device (3).

11. The apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the at least one combination device (10) is configured to rotate around a first axis of rotation (X1) and preferably a second axis of rotation (X2) parallel to the first axis of rotation (X1), and preferably the finishing device (4) is configured to perform the finishing process while the at least one combination device (10) and / or the semi-finished product (S) having the overlapping layer structure rotates around the first axis of rotation (X1), and / or while the at least one combination device (10) and / or the semi-finished product (S) having the overlapping layer structure rotates around the second axis of rotation (X2).

12. The apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 6 to 11, as dependent on claim 5, wherein the finishing device (4) is configured to perform the finishing process on the semi-finished product (S) having an overlapping layer structure while the first moving device (3) and the semi-finished product (S) having an overlapping layer structure move in the translational direction (T).

13. The apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the first moving device (3) is configured to move the moving device (10) between a combination position where the at least one strip-shaped articles (N1, N2, N3, N4) are combined, preferably a position corresponding to the first position, and a finishing position where the finishing process is performed on a semi-finished product (S) having the overlapping layer structure obtained from the combination of the at least one strip-shaped articles (N1, N2, N3, N4) which is preferably located upstream of the second position, the movement between the combination position and the finishing position defines a work path (P), and the apparatus (100) further comprises a cutting device (7) configured to cut the at least one strip-shaped article (N1, N2, N3, N4) in a cutting region defined along the work path (P) at an intermediate position between the combination position and the finishing position.

14. The apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the at least one combination device (10) is configured to hold the at least one strip-shaped article (N1, N2, N3, N4) while the at least one strip-shaped article (N1, N2, N3, N4) is combined with the semi-finished product (S) having the overlapping layer structure, and to hold the semi-finished product (S) having the overlapping layer structure while the finishing process is being carried out.

15. A method for producing a multilayer structure (B) comprising a semi-finished product (S) having an overlapping layer structure including at least one strip-like article (N1, N2, N3, N4) for an electrochemical cell preferably intended to manufacture a battery, - A step of supplying at least one strip-shaped article (N1, N2, N3, N4), - A step of forming a semi-finished product (S) having the overlapping layered structure by combining at least one strip-shaped article (N1, N2, N3, N4) in a layered manner, - A step of moving the semi-finished product (S) having the overlapping layer structure along a work path between two different first and second positions, - A step of performing at least partially finishing work on the multilayer structure (B) while the semi-finished product (S) having the overlapping layer structure is moving along the work path between the first position and the second position, Methods that include...

16. The method according to claim 15, wherein the step of performing the finishing work includes locking the flap (L) of the at least one strip-shaped article (N1, N2, N3, N4) in the semi-finished product (S) having the overlapping layer structure.

17. The method according to claim 16, wherein the step of locking the flap (L) of the at least one strip-shaped article (N1, N2, N3, N4) includes the step of applying a locking element (E) to the flap (L), preferably the locking element (E) is a locking strip.

18. The method according to claim 17, preferably further comprising the step of bringing the flap into contact with the contact device (8) and holding it in place during or immediately before the application of the locking element (E).

19. The method according to any one of claims 15 to 18, wherein the step of moving the semi-finished product (S) having the overlapping layer structure along the work path between the first position and the second position includes the step of translating the semi-finished product (S) having the overlapping layer structure in a translational direction (T), preferably the translational movement is performed in accordance with a reciprocating motion, and the reciprocating motion is defined by a forward direction and a reverse direction.

20. The method according to any one of claims 15 to 19, wherein the finishing process is performed by a finishing device (4), and the method includes the step of moving the finishing device (4) while the finishing process is being performed, preferably by oscillating the finishing device around a rotation axis (Z).

21. The method according to claim 19 or 20, wherein the finishing device (4) follows the semi-finished product (S) having an overlapping layer structure so as it moves while performing the finishing process, maintaining contact with the semi-finished product (S) having an overlapping layer structure.

22. The method according to claim 21, as dependent on claim 17, wherein the finishing device (4) comes into contact with the semi-finished product (S) having the overlapping layer structure when the direction of its movement is reversed in the reciprocating motion.

23. The method according to any one of claims 20 to 22 as dependent on claim 19, wherein the step of moving the finishing device (4) includes moving the finishing device (4) in a direction consistent with the forward direction at a speed slower than the translational speed of the semi-finished product (S) having the overlapping layer structure, so that the semi-finished product (S) having the overlapping layer structure reaches the finishing device (4) while translating along the translational direction (T) and the finishing device (4) comes into contact with the semi-finished product (S) having the overlapping layer structure.

24. The method according to claim 23, wherein the step of moving the finishing device (4) includes moving the finishing device (4) in the opposite direction to the forward direction before moving the finishing device (4) in the direction coinciding with the forward direction.

25. The method according to claim 23 or 24, wherein, after the finishing device (4) comes into contact with the semi-finished product (S) having the overlapping layer structure, the finishing device (4) moves along the translation direction (T) at a speed substantially equal to the corresponding speed of the semi-finished product (S) having the overlapping layer structure along the translation direction (T).

26. The method according to any one of claims 15 to 25, wherein the at least one strip-shaped article is assembled by the at least one combination device (10), and preferably the method includes the step of moving the at least one combination device (10) together with the semi-finished product (S) having the overlapping layer structure while moving the at least one combination device (10) between the first position and the second position.

27. Preferably, the method according to claim 26, comprising the steps of rotating the at least one combining device (10) around a first axis of rotation (X1) to combine the at least one strip-shaped articles (N1, N2, N3, N4) by helical winding, and rotating the at least one combining device (10) around a second axis of rotation (X2) which is preferably parallel to the first axis of rotation (X1), wherein the finishing work is performed while the at least one combining device (10) and / or the semi-finished product (S) having the overlapping layer structure rotates around the first axis of rotation (X1), and / or while the at least one combining device and / or the semi-finished product (S) having the overlapping layer structure rotates around the second axis of rotation (X2).

28. The method according to claim 27, comprising the step of rotating the at least one combination device (10) around a third axis of rotation.

29. The method according to any one of claims 26 to 28, as dependent on claim 25, further comprising the step of gripping the at least one strip-shaped article (N1, N2, N3, N4) with the at least one combination device (10), thereby holding the at least one strip-shaped article (N1, N2, N3, N4) while it is being assembled in layers, while it is being moved between the first and second positions, and while the finishing work is being performed.

30. The method according to any one of claims 15 to 29, comprising the step of cutting the at least one strip-shaped article (N1, N2, N3, N4) after the step of forming a semi-finished product (S) having the overlapping layered structure by combining the at least one strip-shaped article (N1, N2, N3, N4) in layers, and before performing the finishing process.

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