Stacking device and stacking method

Abstract

The present invention includes an electrode stacking device that alternately stacks a first electrode and a second electrode on a stacking region using a first rotating body that carries a first electrode and a second rotating body that carries a second electrode; a separator stacking device that stacks a single connected separator between the first electrode and the second electrode, and between the second electrode and the first electrode; and a control unit that controls the driving of the electrode stacking device and the separator stacking device. The control unit discloses a stacking device that controls the operation of the separator stacking device to stack separators while the stacking region is fixed, and the separator stacking device traces a two-dimensional trajectory in the vertical (z-axis) and horizontal (x-axis) directions. According to the present invention, continuous separators are stacked while separating the positive electrode and the negative electrode from each other without the sagging phenomenon.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a stacking device and a stacking method, and more particularly, to a method for alternately stacking a separator and an electrode in manufacturing an electrode of a secondary battery, and an apparatus using the same.

Background Art

[0002] A battery includes a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and an electrolyte, and is classified into a primary battery that generates electrical energy using a chemical reaction and is used as a disposable battery, and a secondary battery that can be charged and discharged and can be repeatedly used.

[0003] Due to the advantage of being rechargeable, the usage amount of secondary batteries is gradually increasing. Among secondary batteries, lithium-ion batteries are widely used as a power source for electronic communication devices or in electric vehicles and hybrid vehicles because of their high energy density per unit weight.

[0004] An electrode used in a secondary battery functions as a positive electrode and a negative electrode of the battery and electrically connects the battery to a charging circuit or a discharging circuit.

[0005] The electrode is produced through a process of notching and cutting an electrode sheet with an electrode tab formed at regular intervals. The cut electrodes are stacked one by one in a magazine for storage. In order to store the electrodes in the magazine, it is necessary to adsorb the cut electrodes and transport them to the magazine. The process of producing the electrode sheet through notching and cutting into electrodes can proceed continuously.

[0006] The electrodes stacked one by one in the magazine can be supplied to an electrode stacking device. The electrode stacking device can alternately stack a positive electrode, a separator, and a negative electrode.

[0007] The arm of the stacking device can pick up electrodes loaded in the magazine and transport them to the stacking area. The arm rotates around an axis and reciprocates between the magazine and the stacking area.

[0008] In conventional designs, a separator is inserted between sheets of stacked electrodes (positive and negative electrodes). However, because a continuous separator is inserted, the electrodes move during the insertion process. This method has a problem where the separator cannot tightly enclose the electrodes, resulting in excessive separator loosening.

[0009] Furthermore, with conventional technology, if the time it takes for the arm of the stacking device to move is long, there is a problem in that the overall stacking process time increases.

[0010] Furthermore, conventional technology has the problem that, prior to lamination, electrodes may be attracted to two or more layers due to causes such as static electricity.

[0011] As a technology related to the present invention, Registered Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2234730 discloses a method for manufacturing an electrode stack for an automobile energy storage device, relating to the folding of electrode strips in which a separator strip is interposed between the cathode and anode. This related technology relates to folding the anode and cathode using a gripper after aligning the electrode strips on a horizontal plane, and the present invention is distinguished from the other in that it stacks electrodes alternately, but inserts separators between the electrodes. [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0012] One problem that the present invention aims to solve is to provide a stacking device and method that ensures the separator tightly encloses the electrode when stacking electrodes and separators.

[0013] One problem that the present invention aims to solve is to provide a stacking device and method that, when stacking electrodes and separators, moves the separators to be stacked in the future without moving the electrodes that have already been stacked.

[0014] One problem that the present invention aims to solve is to provide a stacking device and method that can reduce the amount of looseness, or sagging, that occurs when electrodes and separators are stacked, where the separators sag without elasticity.

[0015] One problem that the present invention aims to solve is to provide a stacking apparatus and method that can minimize the time required for transporting electrodes in electrode stacking and increase the process speed.

[0016] One problem that the present invention aims to solve is to provide a stacking device and method that can prevent the adsorption of two or more electrodes.

[0017] One problem that this invention aims to solve is not limited to the problems described above, and other problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the following description. [Means for solving the problem]

[0018] To achieve the above objective, according to one embodiment of the technical concept of the present invention, an electrode stacking device is disclosed which includes an electrode stacking device that alternately stacks the first electrode and the second electrode on a stacking region using a first rotating body that carries the first electrode and a second rotating body that carries the second electrode; and a control unit that controls the driving of the electrode stacking device, wherein the first axis of the first rotating body and the second axis of the second rotating body form the same center, and the control unit is configured to control the stacking of the first electrode through the rotation of the first rotating body and the stacking of the second electrode through the rotation of the second rotating body on the fixed stacking region.

[0019] Furthermore, the stacking device may be configured such that the first rotating body includes a first arm portion that attracts the first electrode arranged on the first stage and transports it to the stacking region through rotation of the first axis, and the second rotating body includes a second arm portion that attracts the second electrode arranged on the second stage and transports it to the stacking region through rotation of the second axis.

[0020] Furthermore, the stacking device may be configured such that the first rotating body includes a third arm portion that, through simultaneous rotation with the first arm portion, transports the first electrode, which is placed in the first magazine, to the first stage, and the second rotating body includes a fourth arm portion that, through simultaneous rotation with the third arm portion, transports the second electrode, which is placed in the second magazine, to the second stage.

[0021] Furthermore, the stacking device can be configured such that the first arm portion and the third arm portion, and the second arm portion and the fourth arm portion, are connected to the first axis or the second axis, respectively, at acute angles to each other.

[0022] Furthermore, the stacking device can be configured such that the control unit controls the first rotating body and the second rotating body so that the first rotating body rotates within a range of 90° or less between the stacking area and the first magazine, and the second rotating body rotates within a range of 90° or less between the stacking area and the second magazine.

[0023] Furthermore, the stacking device can be configured such that the control unit controls the operation of the separator stacking device, which stacks separators in a zigzag pattern while reciprocating along the left and right edges of the stacking area, and controls the separator stacking device to reciprocate along a two-dimensional trajectory in the vertical (z-axis) and horizontal (x-axis) directions, so that the separators sequentially wrap around one side and the top surface of the first electrode on which they are stacked, and after the second electrode is stacked on the separators, the separators sequentially wrap around the other side and the top surface of the second electrode.

[0024] In addition, the stacking device further includes a gripper unit that grips and transports the electrode pack with the stacking completed, and the control unit may be configured to control the entry movement of the gripper unit into the stacking area and the avoidance movement of the first stage or the second stage so as not to interfere with the gripper unit.

[0025] In addition, the stacking device further includes a separator stacking device that stacks a separator connected in one piece between the first electrode and the second electrode and between the second electrode and the first electrode, and the control unit may be configured to control the operation of the separator stacking device to draw a two-dimensional locus in the vertical (z-axis) direction and the horizontal (x-axis) direction and stack the separator in a state where the stacking area is fixed.

[0026] In addition, the stacking device may be configured such that the separator stacking device includes a frame provided in the stacking area; a driving unit coupled to the frame through a first rotating shaft and causing reciprocating movement of the frame in the vertical (z-axis) direction and the horizontal (x-axis) direction using a cam; a roller coupled to the frame and guiding the separator to the stacking area; a denser coupled to the frame and adjusting the elasticity of the separator; and a guider coupled to the frame and guiding the reciprocating movement of the frame to control the stacking locus of the roller.

[0027] In addition, the stacking device may be configured such that the frame includes a lever coupled to the driving unit; and a roller bracket coupled to the lever using a second rotating shaft and coupled to the roller.

[0028] In addition, the stacking device may be configured such that the lever includes a power transmission unit coupled to the driving unit through the first rotating shaft; a first locus center unit that determines the locus center of the lever; and a moving unit coupled to the roller bracket.

[0029] Further, the stacking device can be configured such that the guide includes a first guide in which the guide is slidably coupled to the roller bracket and guides a two-dimensional locus of the roller bracket in the vertical (z-axis) direction and the left-right (x-axis) direction.

[0030] Also, the stacking device can be configured such that the guide further includes a second guide that guides the position of the center of the first locus.

[0031] Further, the stacking device can be configured such that the roller bracket includes a second locus center portion that is coupled to the other end of the lever through the second rotating shaft; a guide coupling portion that is slidably coupled to the first guide; and a roller coupling portion that is coupled to the roller.

[0032] Also, the stacking device includes a stacking roller in which the roller stacks the separator in the stacking region. The stacking roller includes a lower stacking roller and an upper stacking roller, and the control unit can be configured to control the movement locus of the roller bracket such that the lower stacking roller and the upper stacking roller are vertically arranged.

[0033] Further, the stacking device can be configured such that the first guide includes a vertical guide that guides the roller in the vertical direction; a horizontal guide that guides the roller in the horizontal direction; an inner rail plate that connects the vertical guide and the horizontal guide; and an outer rail plate that fixes the vertical rail of the vertical guide.

[0034] Also, the stacking device can be configured such that the control unit controls the movement locus of the roller coupling portion so that the guide coupling portion moves along the first guide and the roller can reciprocate along an arcuate two-dimensional locus in the vertical (z-axis) direction and the left-right (x-axis) direction within the stacking region.

[0035] Furthermore, the stacking device may be configured such that the second guider includes a base equipped with a third rotating shaft; a rotating rail that rotates in conjunction with the third rotating shaft; and a slider that moves along the rotating rail.

[0036] Furthermore, the stacking device may further include a suction device that performs suction of the first and second electrodes, which are waiting in the suction region, before stacking the first and second electrodes, and the suction device may be configured to include a suction section that uses a first suction unit to suction one electrode among the electrodes loaded in the magazine through vertical (z-axis) movement control in the suction region; and a second suction unit that is coupled with a first and second rotating body and takes over from the first suction unit to suction an electrode.

[0037] Furthermore, the stacking device can be configured such that the control unit drives the first and second rotating bodies that connect to the second suction unit at the time of the change between the first and second suction units, sets the suction of the second suction unit, and controls the downward movement of the second suction unit while releasing the suction of the first suction unit.

[0038] Furthermore, the stacking device can be configured such that the second suction unit is positioned above the first suction unit, alternating with the electrodes above them.

[0039] Furthermore, the stacking device may be configured to include multiple first and second suction units, with the first suction units located on the outside of the first suction unit being positioned at an inclination with respect to the vertical.

[0040] Furthermore, the stacking device can be configured so that the control unit controls the movement of the second suction unit between different first suction units.

[0041] The stacking device may further include a blower positioned around the outer first suction unit, and the control unit may be configured to control the first suction unit to blow air horizontally toward the underside of the electrode while the electrode is held in place.

[0042] Furthermore, the stacking device may further include a vibrator coupled to at least some of the first suction units, and the control unit may be configured to control the vibration of the vibrator in the vertical (z-axis) direction.

[0043] Furthermore, the stacking device can be configured so that the control unit controls the vibration of the first suction unit, which is not coupled to the vibrator, in the vertical (z-axis) direction through ON / OFF control of the suction.

[0044] Furthermore, the stacking device can be configured so that the control unit controls the vibration of a vibrator in the horizontal direction to remove wrinkles that have formed on the electrodes during the suction of the first suction unit.

[0045] To achieve the above objective, according to one embodiment of the technical concept of the present invention, a stacking method is disclosed which is performed by a stacking device provided in a stacking region, and includes the steps of: guiding a continuously supplied sheet-like separator into the stacking region; alternately stacking a plurality of first electrodes and second electrodes in the stacking region; and stacking separators between the plurality of first electrodes and second electrodes, wherein the step of stacking separators includes the steps of: controlling a roller to reciprocate the separator at the point where stacking begins in the left-right (x-axis) direction; and controlling the separator at the point where stacking begins to reciprocate in the upper (+z-axis) direction and the lower (-z-axis) direction between movement in the right (-x-axis) direction and movement in the left (+x-axis) direction.

[0046] Furthermore, the stacking method can be configured such that the steps for stacking electrodes include: an electrode adsorption step of adsorbing the first electrode and the second electrode placed in the standby area; an electrode transport step of moving the adsorbed first electrode and the second electrode to the stacking area; and an electrode release step of lowering the first electrode and the second electrode in the stacking area.

[0047] Furthermore, the stacking method can be configured such that the electrode adsorption step includes a step of preventing the adsorption of two or more electrodes by electrostatic means using at least one of the following methods: a method utilizing vibration, a method utilizing wind, and a method utilizing a physical tool.

[0048] Furthermore, the stacking method is characterized in that the electrode transport stage involves transporting the first electrode and the second electrode using a rotating body that rotates within a range of acute angles.

[0049] Specific details of other embodiments are included in the "Specific Details for Carrying Out the Invention" and the attached "Drawings".

[0050] The advantages and / or features of the present invention, and how they are fulfilled, will become clearer with reference to the various embodiments described in detail later with the accompanying drawings.

[0051] However, it should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the configurations of the embodiments disclosed below, but can also be embodied in a variety of other forms, and each embodiment disclosed herein is merely provided to complete the disclosure of the present invention and to fully inform those skilled in the art of the scope of the invention, and the present invention is defined only by the scope of each claim. [Effects of the Invention]

[0052] According to the present invention, when stacking electrodes and separators, the separator can tightly enclose the electrodes.

[0053] Furthermore, electrode packs can be manufactured by moving the separator while the electrodes are stationary.

[0054] Furthermore, in electrode stacking, the time required for transporting the electrodes is minimized, resulting in a higher process speed.

[0055] Furthermore, the adhesion of two or more electrodes during electrode transport is prevented.

[0056] The effects obtained by the stacking device and stacking method according to the technical concept of the present invention are not limited to the problems described above, and any other problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the following description. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0057] [Figure 1] This is an illustrative diagram of a stacking device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This is a front view of a stacking device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] This is an illustrative diagram of a separator stacking apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] This is an illustrative diagram of a drive unit according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] This is an illustrative diagram of a laminated body formed by a separator lamination apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] This is a front view of a separator stacking apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] This is a right side view of a separator stacking apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] This is a plan view of a separator stacking apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] This is an illustrative diagram of a first guider included in a separator stacking apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] This is a series of illustrative diagrams showing a separator stacking method using a separator stacking apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11]This is an illustrative diagram of a separator stacking apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] This is a plan view of a separator stacking apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] This is an illustrative diagram of a first guider included in a separator stacking apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] This is a series of illustrative diagrams showing a separator stacking method using a separator stacking apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15] This is an illustrative diagram of an electrode stacking apparatus utilizing the electrode supply method according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 16] This is an illustrative diagram of an electrode stacking apparatus utilizing the electrode supply method according to the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 17] This is an illustrative diagram of a gripper section according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 18] This is an illustrative diagram of a suction device included in a stacking device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 19] This is an enlarged view of the suction section and the second suction unit. [Figure 20-26] This is an illustrative diagram illustrating the process of preventing the formation of two electrodes (S). [Figure 27] This is an illustrative diagram of a vibrator according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 28] This is an illustrative diagram of a vibrator according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 29] This is an illustrative diagram of a vibrator according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 30] This is an illustrative diagram showing the positions of the electrodes and the push portion. [Figure 31] This is an illustrative diagram showing other positions of the electrodes and push-button. [Figure 32] This is an illustrative diagram of a blower according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 33] These are illustrative diagrams of the first and second suction units. [Figure 34]These are illustrative diagrams of the first and second suction units. [Figure 35-37] This is an illustrative diagram depicting the loading process of electrode (S). [Figure 38] This is an illustrative diagram of the first suction unit. [Figure 39] This is a flowchart of a stacking method according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 40] This is a flowchart of a stacking method according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 41] This is a flowchart of a stacking method according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0058] Before describing the present invention in detail, it should be noted that the terms and words used herein should not be interpreted unconditionally as being limited to their ordinary or dictionary meanings, and that the inventors of the present invention may appropriately define and use the concepts of various terms in order to best describe their invention, and furthermore, these terms and words must be interpreted as meanings and concepts consistent with the technical idea of ​​the present invention.

[0059] In other words, it should be noted that the terms used herein are used to describe preferred embodiments of the invention and are not intended to specifically limit the scope of the invention, and these terms are defined in consideration of the various possibilities of the invention.

[0060] Furthermore, in this specification, singular expressions can include plural expressions unless the context explicitly indicates otherwise, and it should be understood that even if similar expressions are plural, they can still include a singular meaning.

[0061] Throughout this specification, where a component is described as "including" another component, unless otherwise stated, it means that it may include any other component, rather than excluding any other component.

[0062] Furthermore, when it is stated that a component is "located inside or connected to" another component, it should be understood that this component may be directly connected to or in contact with the other component, or it may be provided at a certain distance apart. In the case where it is provided at a certain distance apart, there may be a third component or means for fixing or connecting the component to the other component, and the description of this third component or means may be omitted.

[0063] On the other hand, if one component is described as being "directly connected" or "directly linked" to another component, it should be understood that there is no third component or means.

[0064] Similarly, other expressions describing the relationships between each component, such as "between" and "immediately between," or "adjacent to" and "directly adjacent to," must be analyzed as having a similar meaning.

[0065] Furthermore, when terms such as "one side," "the other side," "one side," "the other side," "the first," and "the second" are used in this specification, they are used to clearly distinguish one component from other components, and it should be understood that such terms are not used restrictively to define the meaning of that component.

[0066] Furthermore, where position-related terms such as "up," "down," "left," and "right" are used in this specification, they should be understood to indicate the relative position of the component in the drawing, and unless an absolute position is specified for these positions, these position-related terms should not be understood to refer to an absolute position.

[0067] Furthermore, in this specification, when specifying the reference numeral for each component in each drawing, the same component will have the same reference numeral even if it is shown in other drawings; that is, the same reference numeral throughout the specification will indicate the same component.

[0068] The size, position, and relationship of each component constituting the present invention in the drawings attached herein may be exaggerated, reduced, or omitted in order to fully and clearly convey the concept of the present invention or for the sake of explanatory convenience, and therefore, their proportions and scales are not strictly accurate.

[0069] Furthermore, in describing the present invention below, detailed explanations of configurations that are deemed likely to obscure the gist of the invention, such as prior art and other known technologies, may be omitted.

[0070] Embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the relevant drawings.

[0071] In the x, y, and z coordinate axes displayed in each drawing, the x-axis direction is defined as the left-right direction of the stacking device 1, the y-axis direction as the front-back direction, and the z-axis direction as the up-down direction.

[0072] Figure 1 is an illustrative diagram of a stacking device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0073] Referring to Figure 1, the stacking device 1 sequentially stacks the first electrode (S1) and the second electrode (S2), but inserts a separator, which is a separation membrane, between the first electrode (S1) and the second electrode (S2) and stacks them together, ultimately producing an electrode pack that is a laminate.

[0074] The stacking device 1 can be configured to include a separator stacking device 100, an electrode stacking device 103, a suction device 700, and a control unit 800.

[0075] The separator lamination apparatus 100 has the function of inserting a sheet-type continuous separator (SP) between the first electrode (S1) and the second electrode (S2) that are laminated in the lamination region (ST).

[0076] The electrode stacking apparatus 103 has the function of stacking a first electrode (S1) and a second electrode (S2) between the separators (SP) inserted and stacked by the separator stacking apparatus 100. More details about the electrode stacking apparatus 103 will be described later.

[0077] The suction device 700 has the function of attracting the first electrode and the second electrode. Some components of the suction device 700 are provided in the area where the electrodes are waiting, and the remaining components are provided in the first arm section 200 to the fourth arm section 500. More details about the suction device 700 will be described later.

[0078] The control unit 800 has the function of controlling the mutual operation of the separator stacking device 100, the electrode stacking device 103, and the suction device 700, which are included in the stacking device 1.

[0079] Figure 2 is a front view of a stacking device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0080] Referring to Figure 2, the separator stacking device 100 is positioned in the center and upper part of the x-axis, and the stacking region (ST) is located below the separator stacking device 100. The first moving body 201 and the second moving body 301 are positioned below the separator stacking device 100, with their y-coordinates being different from those of the separator stacking device 100.

[0081] Figure 3 is an illustrative diagram of a separator stacking apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0082] Referring to Figure 3, the first separator stacking device 101 is positioned on the stacking region (ST). The first separator stacking device 101 has the function of continuously supplying separators to the stacking region (ST) and stacking the separators (SP) together with the electrodes to separate the first electrode (S1) and the second electrode (S2).

[0083] In the laminated region (ST) where the laminated separators (SP), first electrode (S1), and second electrode (S2) are arranged, the first separator lamination device 101 has the function of moving the leading edge of the separator before lamination in the left-right (x-axis) direction and up-down (z-axis) direction to laminate it between the first electrode (S1) and the second electrode (S2). The first electrode (S1) and the second electrode (S2) are alternately laminated by the first rotating body 201 and the second rotating body 301, and the first separator lamination device 101 repeats the operation of laminating a continuous separator (SP) between the first electrode (S1) and the second electrode (S2).

[0084] While conventional separator lamination devices are of the type that move the lamination region (ST) on which the laminate is placed, the first separator lamination device 101 according to the first embodiment of the present invention belongs to the type that moves the separators (SP) before they are laminated while the lamination region (ST) is fixed.

[0085] The first separator stacking device 101 can be configured to include a frame 110, a drive unit 120, rollers 140, and a guider 150.

[0086] The frame 110 forms the framework of the first separator stacking device 101 and has the function of rotating in rotational coupling with the drive unit 120. The frame 110 is provided on the stacking region (ST) where the stacked material is placed. As the first electrode (S1), second electrode (S2), and separator (SP) are stacked on the stacking region (ST), the stacking region (ST) can gradually descend, and the height of the position where the separator (SP) is stacked can be maintained at a constant height in real time.

[0087] The drive unit 120 is rotatably coupled to one end of the frame 110 and has the function of transmitting rotational force to the frame 110. An electric motor is used to generate the rotational force. The drive unit 120 is coupled to the frame 110 through the first rotating shaft 122 and has the function of causing reciprocating motion of the frame 110 in the vertical (z-axis) and horizontal (x-axis) directions.

[0088] The drive unit 120 includes a motor that rotates the first rotating shaft 122. The motor may be directly connected to the first rotating shaft 122, but the first rotating shaft 122 can also be rotated by further utilizing the main rotating shaft 127.

[0089] Figure 4 is an illustrative diagram of a drive unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0090] Referring to Figure 4, the drive unit 120 can be configured to further include a main rotating shaft 127, a motor 128, and pulleys 129a and 129b. The motor 128 rotates the main rotating shaft 127, and the rotational force can be transmitted to the first rotating shaft 122 through the pulleys 129a and 129b and the belt. In this case, a stable power can be transmitted to the first lever 111 and the second lever 112 using a single motor 128. The motor 128 can be located in the middle of the main rotating shaft 127 or on one side of the main rotating shaft 127, as shown in Figure 2.

[0091] The roller 140 is coupled to the frame 110 and has the capability to guide the separator (SP) into the stacking region (ST). Multiple rollers 140 may be provided depending on their coupling position with the frame 110. In particular, the roller 140 may include a stacking roller 141, which may be configured to include a lower stacking roller 142 located below the roller bracket 114 and an upper stacking roller 143 located above the roller bracket 114.

[0092] The guider 150 has the function of guiding the trajectory of the frame 110. Multiple guiders 150 may be provided, each at a different connection point with the frame 110. For example, when one end of the frame 110 is rotated by the drive unit 120 within an angular range of 180° to a rotation radius a, a second guider 160 is positioned between the one end and the other end of the frame 110 to convert the rotation radius from a to b, so that the other end of the frame 110 can rotate to a rotation radius b. A first guider 151 is positioned at the other end of the frame 110 to guide the movement of the roller bracket 114 belonging to the other end of the frame 110 in a trajectory of a certain shape.

[0093] The roller bracket 114 may be directly connected to other types of drive units that generate arc motion in the vertical and horizontal directions, in addition to the combination of the drive unit 120 and levers 111 and 112.

[0094] Figure 5 is an illustrative diagram of a laminated body stacked by a separator stacking apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0095] Referring to Figure 5, the lower stacking roller 142 of the separator stacking device 100 is shown in a series of images guiding and stacking the separators (SP). The lower stacking roller 142 is the final roller that guides the separators (SP). Driven by the separator stacking device 100, the lower stacking roller 142 moves back and forth, tracing a continuous trajectory in the left-right (x-axis) and up-down (z-axis) directions.

[0096] Referring to the first and third drawings of Figure 5, the lower stacked roller 142 can move such that it includes a section in which it rises while being lower than the surface of the uppermost electrode near both sides of the electrode.

[0097] In other words, the separator stacking device 100, including the lower stacking roller 142, does not merely reciprocate in the left-right (x-axis) direction, but also traces upward and downward trajectories near the edges on both sides of the first electrode (S1) and the second electrode (S2), creating a two-dimensional trajectory resembling an infinite Mobius strip. After each cycle, the lower stacking roller 142 returns to the same position. The swing motion of the stacking device 100, which is a two-dimensional reciprocating motion that combines the left-right (x-axis) and up-down (z-axis) directions, is controlled to minimize the amount of slack that occurs when the separator (SP) hangs down for a long time. That is, the tension of the separator (SP) between the uppermost electrode and the lower stacking roller 142 is maintained, or the instantaneous change in tension is reduced, so that the separator (SP) is stacked stably.

[0098] Furthermore, by maintaining the tension of the separator at the left and right ends of the trajectory when the lower stacked roller 142 turns, the impact on the separator caused by a sudden increase in tension after a period of decreased tension can be prevented or reduced.

[0099] The separator (SP), having passed the lower stacking roller 142 which moves along a two-dimensional trajectory, is stacked between the electrodes (S1, S2) while reciprocating within the length range of the first electrode (S1) and the second electrode (S2) stacked in a fixed stacking region (ST). For reference, the width is defined as the distance between the edge where the tabs of the first electrode (S1) and the second electrode (S2) are formed and the opposite edge, and the length is defined as the distance between the edges that are cut in the electrode sheet state.

[0100] While the separators (SP) are continuously supplied and stacked, the first electrode (S1) is stacked between the separators (SP) by the first moving body 201, and the second electrode (S2) is stacked between the separators (SP) by the second moving body 301.

[0101] Figure 6 is a front view of a separator stacking apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0102] Figure 7 is a right side view of a separator stacking apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0103] Figure 8 is a plan view of a separator stacking apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0104] The overall structure will be explained primarily by referring to Figure 3, while each component will be explained by referring to the most appropriate drawing.

[0105] Referring to Figures 3 and 7, the frame 110 can be configured to include a first lever 111, a second lever 112, a bridge 113, and a roller bracket 114.

[0106] The first lever 111 and the second lever 112 can be connected to each other with a bridge 113 in between. That is, the first lever 111, the second lever 112 and the bridge 113 can form a ladder-shaped frame 110 through their connection to each other. Since the bridge 113 has the function of connecting the first lever 111 and the second lever 112, the bridge 113 can be omitted from the configuration insofar as the rollers 140 and the shafts 125 also serve the same function of connecting the first lever 111 and the second lever 112. Overall, the frame 110 includes the first lever 111 and the second lever 112, which are held in parallel with the help of the bridge 113, the shafts 125 or the rollers 140, and has a ladder-like shape that is long in the vertical (z-axis) direction and wider in the y-axis direction than the width of the separator.

[0107] Referring to Figure 7, the first lever 111 and the second lever 112 can be configured to include a power transmission section (one end) 110a that connects to the drive section 120 via the first rotating shaft 122, a first trajectory center 110b that determines the trajectory center of the frame 110, and a moving section (the other end) 110c that connects to the roller bracket 114.

[0108] Referring to Figure 3, a pair of roller brackets 114 can be rotatably coupled to the other ends of the first lever 111 and the second lever 112, respectively. The position of the roller bracket 114 that is coupled to the other ends of the first lever 111 and the second lever 112 is a point located between one end and the other end. For example, the other ends of the first lever 111 and the second lever 112 can be rotatably coupled to the middle of the roller bracket 114, the first guider 151 can be coupled to one end of the roller bracket 114, and the laminated roller 141 can be coupled to the other end.

[0109] The reason for further configuring the roller bracket 114 is to control the roller bracket 114 so that it is positioned vertically and to maintain a constant trajectory for the laminated roller 141 that is coupled to the roller bracket 114.

[0110] The rotational force generated by the drive unit 120 is converted into reciprocating motion in the vertical (z-axis) and horizontal (x-axis) directions and transmitted to the first lever 111 and the second lever 112 of the frame 110. This reciprocating motion is guided along a constant trajectory by the second guider 160 located in the middle of the frame 110 and the first guider 151 located at the other end of the frame 110.

[0111] A power transmission section 111a, a first trajectory center 111b, and a moving section 111c are formed on the first lever 111 and the second lever 112. However, because the first trajectory center 111b is formed closer to the power transmission section 111a than the moving section 111c, a larger trajectory (radius of rotation b) is drawn at the other end of the lever connected to the roller bracket 114 than at the trajectory (radius of rotation a) at the one end of the lever connected to the drive unit 120. The magnification ratio of the trajectory is adjusted by changing the position of the first trajectory center 111b.

[0112] In this case, the roller bracket 114 has the function of transmitting a reciprocating motion along a fixed trajectory to the stacked rollers 141 at the other end of the frame 110, with a reciprocating motion along an even larger trajectory.

[0113] Referring to Figures 3 and 7, the drive unit 120 can be configured to include a base 121, a first rotating shaft 122, a cam 123, a camshaft 124, a slider 126, and a shaft 125. The base 121, cam 123, and camshaft 124 are positioned on both sides of the frame 110 to drive the first lever 111 and the second lever 112. The first lever 111 and the second lever 112 are connected to each other by the shaft 125. Alternatively, the shaft 125 can be omitted, as shown in Figure 4.

[0114] The base 121 includes a first rotating shaft 122 and is fixed in a floating state. The rotating shaft of an electric motor is connected to the first rotating shaft 122. A cam 123 is connected to the first rotating shaft 122. The shaft 125 has the function of connecting the camshaft 124 between the first lever 111 and the second lever 112. Alternatively, the first rotating shaft 122 connected to the base 121 may be configured to transmit driving force to the cam 123 using gears or a belt.

[0115] Referring to Figures 3 and 7, the roller 140 can be configured to include a stacked roller 141, a mid-roller 145, and an upper roller 147. The mid-roller 145 and the upper roller 147 are guide rollers that guide the transport of the separator.

[0116] The laminated roller 141 can be configured to include a lower laminated roller 142 and an upper laminated roller 143. Here, it is important that the relative position between the lower laminated roller 142 and the upper laminated roller 143 is maintained perpendicular to the direction of gravity.

[0117] Roller 140 has the function of guiding the separator into the stacking region (ST). The lower stacking roller 142, upper stacking roller 143, mid roller 145, and upper roller 147 can be coupled to the frame 110 in order of proximity to the stacking region (ST). Here, the mid roller 145 and upper roller 147 are omitted from the configuration due to the presence of the denser 170, which will be described later.

[0118] Referring to Figures 3 and 7, the guider 150 can be configured to include a first guider 151 and a second guider 160.

[0119] The guider 150 has the function of guiding the frame 110 so that it can move back and forth while drawing a constant trajectory.

[0120] As described above regarding the frame 110, the first guider 151 has the function of guiding the trajectory of the other end of the frame 110, and the second guider 160 is located in the middle of the frame 110 and has the function of transmitting the trajectory generated by the drive unit 120 at one end to the other end of the frame 110.

[0121] Referring to Figures 3 and 8, the second guider 160 can be configured to include a base 161, a third rotating shaft 162, a rotating rail 163, and a slider 164.

[0122] The second guider 160 can be configured such that the base 161 is fixed, includes a third rotating shaft 162, and a rotating rail 163 is coupled to the third rotating shaft 162, allowing the slider 164 to slide within the range of the rotating rail 163. For reference, the base 121 and base 161 can be configured as a single unit. As the third rotating shaft 162 moves within a certain range, the movement of the lower stacked roller 142 is smoothly controlled at points where the rotation direction of the camshaft 124 changes within a 180° range.

[0123] Referring to Figures 3 and 7, the first separator stacking apparatus 101 can be configured to further include a denser 170. The denser 170 can be configured to include a denser drive unit 171 and a denser roll 172. The denser 170 has the function of adjusting the tension of the separator by moving the denser roll 172 through the denser drive unit 171. That is, the denser 170 can adjust a loose separator to be taut. The denser 170 basically includes the function of guiding the separator. The denser roll 172 has multiple rolls, and the tension of the separator can be adjusted by adjusting the rotation angle of the multiple rolls, and can be embodied in other forms other than those depicted in Figures 1 and 4, within the scope of performing such a function.

[0124] Figure 9 is an illustrative diagram of a first guider included in a separator stacking apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0125] Referring to Figure 9, the first guider 151 can be configured to include a horizontal guider 152, an inner rail plate 155, a vertical guider 156, and an outer rail plate 159.

[0126] The first guider 151 has the function of guiding the roller bracket 114, which is coupled to the stacked roller 141, to slide in the z-axis and x-axis directions. Guided by the first guider 151, the roller bracket 114 can maintain its vertical position while moving in the x-axis and z-axis directions in three-dimensional space.

[0127] The horizontal guider 152 can be configured to include a horizontal rail 153 and a slider 154. The horizontal guider 152 has the function of guiding the sliding motion of the roller bracket 114 in the x-axis direction.

[0128] The vertical guider 156 can be configured to include a vertical rail 157 and a slider 158. The vertical guider 156 has the function of guiding the sliding motion of the roller bracket 114 in the z-axis direction.

[0129] Overall, the horizontal guider 152 is connected to the roller bracket 114, and the inner rail plate 155 can connect the horizontal guider 152 and the vertical guider 156. The outer rail plate 159 can be connected to the vertical rail 157.

[0130] The roller bracket 114 can be configured to include a roller coupling portion 114a, a guider coupling portion 114b, and a second rotating shaft 115. The roller bracket 114 has the function of guiding the reciprocating motion of the frame 110 along a certain range of trajectories using the first guider 151 and transmitting it to the stacked rollers 141.

[0131] The roller bracket 114 can be connected to the stacked roller 141 at the roller coupling portion 114a, to the first guider 151 at the guider coupling portion 114b, and can be rotatably coupled to the first lever 111 and the second lever 112 at the second rotation axis 115.

[0132] The following describes the reciprocating motion of the stacking roller 141 in the vertical (z-axis) and horizontal (z-axis) directions, which is necessary for carrying out the stacking method (step S100) performed by the first separator stacking apparatus 101 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0133] Figure 10 is a sequential illustrative diagram of a separator stacking method using a separator stacking apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0134] Referring to Figure 10, the operation of the first separator stacking device 101 is described in three different operating states.

[0135] In the first operation on the left, the stacking roller 141 is located on the left side of the stacking area (ST), and the drive unit 120 uses the cam 123 to reciprocate one end of the frame 110 in the vertical (z-axis) and horizontal (x-axis) directions.

[0136] In the second central movement, as the camshaft 124 of the cam 123 rises, the lamination roller 141 moves to the central position of the lamination region (ST), i.e., it rises in the vertical (z-axis) direction and moves to the right in the x-axis direction. In this process, the separator (SP) induced by the lamination roller 141 can tightly wrap around the edges of the electrodes.

[0137] In the third movement on the right, as the cam shaft 124 of the cam 123 descends again, the stacking roller 141 moves to the right side of the stacking region (ST) at the center of the stacking region (ST), that is, it descends in the vertical (z-axis) direction and moves to the right in the horizontal (x-axis) direction. During this process, the separator (SP) guided by the stacking roller 141 performs the action of covering the electrodes.

[0138] As the camshaft 124 rises again through the counter-rotation of the drive unit 120, the second movement in the center and the first movement on the left are sequentially linked. That is, the drive unit 120 performs repeated forward and reverse rotations of the first axis (C1) within a 180° range. The semicircular motion of the camshaft 124, i.e., the 180° arc motion, is converted into the arc motion of the lower stacked roller 142 through the frame 110.

[0139] When the driving force of the drive unit 120 is transmitted to the stacking roller 141 through the camshaft 124, the first guider 151, and the second guider 160, the stacking roller 141 can stack separators (SP) between the first electrode (S1) and the second electrode (S2) through reciprocating motion in a two-dimensional trajectory in the vertical (z-axis) and horizontal (x-axis) directions of a Mobius strip. In this case, no movement occurs in the width direction of the electrode corresponding to the front-to-back (y-axis) direction, and the edges of the electrode and the separator coincide.

[0140] The second separator 102 according to the second embodiment of the present invention will be described below. Since the configuration of the first separator 101 that is common to the configuration of the second separator 102 can be found in the description of the first separator 101, only the configuration of the second separator 102 that differs from the configuration of the two embodiments will be described.

[0141] Figure 11 is an illustrative diagram of a separator stacking apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0142] Figure 12 is a plan view of a second separator stacking apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0143] Referring to Figures 11 and 12, the second separator stacking apparatus 102 according to the second embodiment of the present invention can be configured such that the drive unit 120 includes a moving unit 130, compared to the first separator stacking apparatus 101 according to the first embodiment. The drive unit 120 generates rotational force, and the moving unit 130 can use the rotational force to cause reciprocating motion of the frame 110 in the vertical (z-axis) and horizontal (x-axis) directions.

[0144] The drive unit 120 is connected to the frame 110 through the first rotating shaft 122, and the moving unit 130 may be connected to the drive unit 120 through the connecting rod 127.

[0145] The rotational force generated by the drive unit 120 is converted by the moving unit 130 into reciprocating motion in the vertical (z-axis) and horizontal (x-axis) directions and transmitted to the first lever 111 and the second lever 112 of the frame 110. This reciprocating motion is guided along a constant trajectory by the second guider 160 located in the middle of the frame 110 and the first guider 151 located at the other end of the frame 110.

[0146] The drive unit 120 can be configured to include a base 121, a first rotating shaft 122, a cam 123, a camshaft 124, a shaft 125, and a connecting rod 127.

[0147] The shaft 125 has the function of connecting the camshaft 124 between the first lever 111 and the second lever 112. Alternatively, the first rotating shaft 122, which is connected to the base 121, may be configured to transmit the driving force to the cam 123 using gears or a belt.

[0148] The moving section 130 can be configured to include a base 131, a rail 133, a slider 134, and a jig 136. The base 131, rail 133, and slider 134 are positioned on both sides of the frame 110 for driving the first lever 111 and the second lever 112.

[0149] A first-to-second rotation axis 132 is formed on the base 131, and a camshaft 135 may be formed on the slider 134. The first-to-second rotation axis 132 and the camshaft 124 are connected by a connecting rod 127. The connecting rod 127 has the function of converting the rotational force of the drive unit 120 into reciprocating motion and transmitting it to the moving unit 130. The slider 134 can slide within the range of the rail 133. Once the rotational force is transmitted to the moving unit 130, the slider 134 reciprocates, and the jig 136 coupled to the slider 134 moves the shaft 125, causing the frame 110 to reciprocate.

[0150] Figure 13 is an illustrative diagram of a first guider included in a separator stacking apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0151] Referring to Figure 13, the first guider 151 can be configured to include a curved rail 153c and a slider 154. The roller bracket 114 is coupled with the slider 154 to form a trajectory along the curved rail 153c, and this trajectory is directly transmitted to the stacked roller 141. The curved rail 153c includes the functions of a horizontal rail and a vertical rail. Thus, the slider 154 can move along the curved rail 153c in an arched two-dimensional trajectory.

[0152] Figure 14 is a sequential illustrative diagram of a separator stacking method using a separator stacking apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0153] Referring to Figure 14, the operation of the second separator stacking device 102 is described in terms of three different operating states.

[0154] In the first operation on the left, the stacking roller 141 is located on the left side of the stacking area (ST), and the drive unit 120 uses the cam 123 to reciprocate one end of the frame 110 in the vertical (z-axis) and horizontal (x-axis) directions.

[0155] In the second central movement, as the camshaft 124 of the cam 123 rises, the lamination roller 141 moves to the central position of the lamination region (ST), that is, it rises in the vertical (z-axis) direction and moves to the right in the horizontal (x-axis) direction. In this process, the separator (SP) induced by the lamination roller 141 can tightly wrap around the edges of the electrodes.

[0156] In the third movement on the right, as the cam shaft 124 of the cam 123 descends again, the stacking roller 141 moves to the right side of the stacking region (ST) at the center of the stacking region (ST), that is, it descends in the vertical (z-axis) direction and moves to the right in the horizontal (x-axis) direction. During this process, the separator (SP) guided by the stacking roller 141 performs the action of covering the electrodes.

[0157] As the camshaft 124 rises again through the counter-rotation of the drive unit 120, the second movement in the center and the first movement on the left are sequentially linked. In other words, the drive unit 120 performs this by repeatedly rotating the first rotation axis 122 in the forward and reverse directions within a 180° range.

[0158] When the driving force of the drive unit 120 is transmitted to the stacking roller 141 through the camshaft 124, the first guider 151, and the second guider 160, the stacking roller 141 can stack separators (SP) between the first electrode (S1) and the second electrode (S2) through reciprocating motion in a two-dimensional trajectory in the vertical (z-axis) and horizontal (x-axis) directions of a Mobius strip.

[0159] The following describes an electrode stacking apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0160] Figure 15 is an illustrative diagram of an electrode stacking apparatus utilizing the electrode supply method according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0161] Figure 16 is an illustrative diagram of an electrode stacking apparatus utilizing the electrode supply method according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0162] Referring to Figure 15, the first electrode (S1) can wait in the first waiting area (SB1) via the first conveyor belt (CB1), and the second electrode (S2) can wait in the second waiting area (SB2) via the second conveyor belt (CB2).

[0163] Referring to Figure 16, the first electrode (S1) is placed in the first magazine (M1), and the first magazine (M1) is positioned in the first standby area (SB1) through positional variation. The second electrode (S2) is also placed in the second magazine (M2), and the second magazine (M2) is positioned in the second standby area (SB2) through positional variation.

[0164] Referring to Figures 15 and 16, the first electrode (S1) in the first standby area (SB1) is moved to the first stage 10 by the third arm 400 of the electrode stacking device 103, and then moved to the stacking area (ST) by the first arm 200 of the electrode stacking device 103. Then, the second electrode (S2) in the second standby area (SB2) is moved to the second stage 20 by the fourth arm 500 of the electrode stacking device 103, and then moved to the stacking area (ST) by the second arm 300 of the electrode stacking device 103. Once the first electrode (S1) is stacked in the stacking area (ST), the aforementioned separator stacking device 100 intervenes in the stacking area (ST) and stacks a separator (SP) on top of the first electrode (S1), and then the second electrode (S2) is stacked on top of that, and this cycle is repeated.

[0165] The electrode stacking apparatus 103, which moves the first electrode (S1) waiting in the first magazine (M1) and the second electrode (S2) waiting in the second magazine (M2) to the stacking area, will be described below.

[0166] Referring again to Figure 1, the electrode stacking apparatus 103 can be configured to include a first rotating body 201 and a second rotating body 301.

[0167] The first moving body 201 includes a first axis (C1), a first arm section 200, and a third arm section 400. The control unit 800 has the function of controlling the rotation of the first arm section 200 and the third arm section 400 in the left-right (x-axis, y-axis) direction and the movement in the up-down (z-axis) direction around the first axis (C1). The first arm section 200 and the third arm section 400 have the function of attracting and transporting the first electrode (S1) using a suction device 700.

[0168] The second moving body 301 includes a second axis (C2), a second arm section 300, and a fourth arm section 500. The control unit 800 has the function of controlling the rotation of the second arm section 300 and the fourth arm section 500 in the left-right (x-axis, y-axis) direction and the movement in the up-down (z-axis) direction around the second axis (C2). The second arm section 300 and the fourth arm section 500 have the function of attracting and transporting the second electrode (S2) using a suction device 700.

[0169] In this configuration, a through-hole is formed in either the first axis (C1) of the first rotating body 201 or the second axis (C2) of the second rotating body 301, with the remaining axis positioned within the through-hole. The first rotating body 201 and the second rotating body 301 are positioned at different heights but with the same x-axis and y-axis coordinates, such that the first axis (C1) and the second axis (C2) form a single center. The first rotating body 201 and the second rotating body 301 are driven by different motors.

[0170] A first magazine (M1) containing the first electrode (S1) is positioned on one side of the stacking region (ST) with respect to the left-right (x-axis) direction. Multiple first magazines (M1) containing the first electrode (S1) are arranged. One of the multiple first magazines (M1) is positioned in the first standby region (SB1), i.e., the suction region, of the first electrode (S1) within the movement path of the third arm section 400. The multiple first magazines (M1) are transported sequentially so that they are positioned in the first standby region (SB1) of the first electrode (S1). For example, as shown in Figure 15, four first magazines (M1) are transported in a clockwise direction.

[0171] The second magazine (M2), which is loaded with the second electrode (S2), is positioned on the other side of the stacking region (ST) with reference to the left-right (x-axis) direction. Multiple second magazines (M2) loaded with the second electrode (S2) are arranged. One of the multiple second magazines (M2) is positioned in the second standby region (SB2) of the second electrode (S2) within the movement path of the fourth arm section 500. The multiple second magazines (M2) are transported sequentially so that they are positioned in the second standby region (SB2) of the second electrode (S2). For example, as shown in Figure 14, four second magazines (M2) are transported in a counterclockwise direction.

[0172] The first magazine (M1), located in the first standby area (SB1) of the first electrode (S1), and the second magazine (M2), located in the second standby area (SB2) of the second electrode (S2), are positioned on a virtual straight line passing through the centers of the first axis (C1) and the second axis (C2). Here, the first axis (C1) corresponds to the rotation center of the first arm section 200 and the third arm section 400, and the second axis (C2) corresponds to the rotation center of the second arm section 300 and the fourth arm section 500.

[0173] The first stage 10 is a waiting area for the first electrode (S1) transported from the first magazine (M1) before it is transported to the stacking region (ST). The first stage 10 is positioned on one side of the stacking region (ST) in the left-right (x-axis) direction. Such a first stage 10 may include position adjustment means that can adjust its position in accordance with the suction setting position of the first arm 200 and the suction release position of the third arm 400.

[0174] The second stage 20 is a waiting area for the second electrode (S2) transported from the second magazine (M2) before it is transported to the stacking region (ST). The second stage 20 is located on the other side of the stacking region (ST) in the left-right (x-axis) direction. Such a second stage 20 may include position adjustment means that can adjust its position in accordance with the suction setting position of the second arm 300 and the suction release position of the fourth arm 500. The second stage 20 is also positioned to be movable in the up-down (z-axis) direction so as not to interfere with the movement of the gripper 600.

[0175] The angle (R1) between the stacking region (ST) and the first stage 10, centered on the first axis (C1), is acute. Similarly, the angle (R2) between the stacking region (ST) and the second stage 20, centered on the second axis (C2), is also acute. As a result, at least a portion of the first stage 10, or at least a portion of the second stage 20, is positioned to overlap with the stacking region (ST) in the front-to-back (y-axis) direction.

[0176] This is to minimize the path by which the first electrode (S1) and the second electrode (S2) are transported to the stacking region (ST) in the first magazine (M1) or the second magazine (M2), thereby significantly reducing the stacking time. Furthermore, the first electrode (S1) and the second electrode (S2) have the same shape.

[0177] With respect to the first axis (C1), the angle between the stacking region (ST) and the first magazine (M1) is 90°, the angle between the stacking region (ST) and the first stage 10 (R1) is 45°, and the angle between the first stage 10 and the first magazine (M1) is also 45°.

[0178] With respect to the second axis (C2), the angle between the stacking region (ST) and the second magazine (M2) is 90°, the angle between the stacking region (ST) and the second stage 20 (R2) is 45°, and the angle between the second stage 20 and the second magazine (M2) is also 45°.

[0179] However, such angles correspond to one embodiment, where the angle (R1) between the stacking region (ST) and the first stage 10 is acute, and the angle between the first stage 10 and the first magazine (M1) is also acute. Furthermore, the angle (R1) between the stacking region (ST) and the first stage 10 and the angle between the first stage 10 and the first magazine (M1) are the same.

[0180] This relationship is similarly applicable between the stacked region (ST) and the second stage 20 and the second magazine (M2).

[0181] The separator stacking apparatus 100 can continuously supply sheet-type strip-shaped separators (SP) wound on rolls to the stacking area (ST) from the top in a downward direction.

[0182] The first arm 200 rotates around the first axis (C1) and has the function of suctioning the first electrode (S1) placed on the first stage 10 and transporting it to the stacking region (ST). The third arm 400 rotates around the first axis (C1) and has the function of suctioning the first electrode (S1) placed on the first magazine (M1) and transporting it to the first stage 10.

[0183] The second arm 300 rotates around the second axis (C2) and has the function of suctioning the second electrode (S2) placed on the second stage 20 and transporting it to the stacking region (ST). The fourth arm 500 rotates around the second axis (C2) and has the function of suctioning the second electrode (S2) placed on the second magazine (M2) and transporting it to the second stage 20.

[0184] The angle formed by the first arm section 200 and the third arm section 400 around the first axis (C1) is less than 90°. For example, the angle formed by the first arm section 200 and the third arm section 400 is 45°.

[0185] The angle formed by the second arm section 300 and the fourth arm section 500 around the second axis (C2) is less than 90°. For example, the angle formed by the second arm section 300 and the fourth arm section 500 is 45°.

[0186] The first arm section 200 and the third arm section 400 can be configured to rotate integrally around the first axis (C1). The second arm section 300 and the fourth arm section 500 can be configured to rotate integrally around the second axis (C2).

[0187] The gripper section 600 has the function of transporting electrode packs that have been stacked in the stacking region (ST) to a region outside the stacking region (ST). The gripper section 600 can be configured to include a guide rail 610 and a gripper 620 that moves along the guide rail 610. The guide rail 610 is arranged to be long along the left-right (x-axis) direction. The gripper 620 has the function of gripping the electrode packs that have been stacked.

[0188] When the first arm 200 and the third arm 400 rotate counterclockwise around the first axis (C1), the first arm 200 aligns with the first stage 10, and the third arm 400 aligns with the first magazine (M1). At this time, the separator stacking device 100 moves to the right in the drawing and aligns with the right edge of the stacking region (ST).

[0189] The first arm section 200 suctions the first electrode (S1) placed on the first stage 10. At this time, the first stage 10 also acts as an alignment stage, adjusting the position of the first electrode (S1) in accordance with the suction position of the first arm section 200. Simultaneously, the third arm section 400 suctions the first electrode (S1) loaded in the first magazine (M1).

[0190] Thereafter, as the first arm 200 and the third arm 400 rotate clockwise around the first axis (C1), the first arm 200 aligns with the stacking region (ST1), and the third arm 400 aligns with the first stage 10. At this time, the first arm 200 stacks the first electrode (S1) in the stacking region (ST). Simultaneously, the third arm 400 lowers the first electrode (S1) brought from the first magazine (M1) onto the first stage 10.

[0191] Furthermore, when the second arm 300 and the fourth arm 500 rotate clockwise around the second axis (C2), the second arm 300 aligns with the second stage 20, and the fourth arm 500 aligns with the second magazine (M2). The second arm 300 suctions the second electrode (S2) placed on the second stage 20. At this time, the second stage 20 also acts as an alignment stage, adjusting the position of the second electrode (S2) in accordance with the suction position of the second arm 300. Simultaneously, the fourth arm 500 suctions the second electrode (S2) loaded in the second magazine (M2).

[0192] Thereafter, as the second arm portion 300 and the fourth arm portion 500 rotate counterclockwise around the second axis (C2), the second arm portion 300 aligns with the stacking region (ST), and the fourth arm portion 500 aligns with the second stage 20.

[0193] Meanwhile, the separator stacking device 100 moves to the left side in the diagram and aligns with the left edge of the stacking region (ST). The second arm 300 then stacks the second electrode (S2) onto the stacking region (ST). At the same time, the fourth arm 500 lowers the second electrode (S2) brought from the second magazine (M2) onto the second stage 20.

[0194] Thus, on the rotational paths of the first arm section 200 and the second arm section 300, the distance between the first stage 10 and the stacking region (ST) and the distance between the second stage 20 and the stacking region (ST) are short, and on the rotational paths of the third arm section 400 and the fourth arm section 500, the distance between the first stage 10 and the first magazine (M1) and the distance between the second stage 20 and the second magazine (M2) are short, which has the advantage of significantly improving the stacking speed.

[0195] The separator stacking device 100 can stack separators (SP) that are continuously supplied downwards from the top in a zigzag pattern between the first electrode (S1) and the second electrode (S2) while they reciprocate along the left and right edges of the stacking region (ST).

[0196] As the separator lamination device 100 moves between the left and right edges of the lamination region (ST), the lamination rollers 141 are used to bend the separator (SP) so that it wraps around the sides of the first electrode (S1) and the second electrode (S2).

[0197] When the first arm 200 moves to the first stage 10 to pick up the first electrode (S1), and the third arm 400 moves to the first magazine (M1) to pick up yet another first electrode (S1), the second arm 300 picks up the second electrode (S2) and moves to the stacking region (ST), and the fourth arm picks up yet another second electrode (S2) and moves to the second stage 20. After the second electrodes (S2) are stacked in the stacking region (ST), the separator stacking device 100 moves from the right edge of the stacking region (ST) toward the left edge so that the separator (SP) wraps around the top surface of the second electrode (S2), and moves upward at the left edge so that it wraps around the side surface of the second electrode (S2).

[0198] Next, the first arm 200 picks up the first electrode (S1) and moves to the stacking region (ST), and the third arm 400 picks up another first electrode (S1) and moves to the first stage 10. Then the third arm 400 moves to the second stage 20 to pick up the second electrode (S2), and the fourth arm 500 moves to the second magazine (M2) to pick up another second electrode (S2). After the first electrodes (S1) are stacked in the stacking region (ST), the separator stacking device 100 moves from the left edge of the stacking region (ST) towards the right edge so that the separator (SP) wraps around the top surface of the first electrode (S1), but then moves upward again so that it wraps around the sides of the first electrode (S1).

[0199] In this manner, the separator stacking apparatus 100 forms a two-dimensional trajectory in the vertical (z-axis) and horizontal (x-axis) directions between the left edge and the right edge of the stacking region (ST), so as to wrap the separator (SP) around the upper and side surfaces of the first electrode (S1) and the second electrode (S2).

[0200] Figure 17 is an illustrative diagram of a gripper section according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0201] Referring to Figures 1 and 17, the second stage 20 is positioned on the path of the gripper 620 toward the stacking region (ST). This is because the second stage 20 is positioned to overlap with the stacking region (ST) with respect to the left-right (x-axis) direction in order to increase the stacking speed. As a result, as shown in Figure 17(a), when the gripper 620 moves toward the stacking region (ST) after stacking is complete, the second stage 20 moves to a position lower than the gripper 620 so as not to obstruct it.

[0202] The guide rail 610 may be positioned above the stacking region (ST) to accommodate the vertically moving second stage 20.

[0203] As shown in Figure 17(b), once the second stage 20 moves downward and space is secured, the gripper 620 moves toward the stacking region (ST) and grasps the completed electrode pack (P). Thereafter, the gripper 620 can carry the electrode pack (P) to the wrapping region. The second stage 20 moves vertically by a cylinder or motor. Contrary to the above description, the first stage 10 may be located in the path of the gripper 620 toward the stacking region (ST).

[0204] <Suction device>

[0205] Among the electrodes, which include a first electrode (S1) and a second electrode (S2), the first electrode (S1) is waiting in the first standby area (SB1), and the second electrode (S2) is waiting in the second standby area (SB2). If a part of the suction device 700 provided in the first standby area (SB1) attracts the first electrode (S1), a part of the suction device provided in the third arm section 400 receives the first electrode (S1) and transports it to the first stage 10 in the first standby area (SB1). If a part of the suction device 700 provided in the second standby area (SB2) attracts the second electrode (S2), a part of the suction device 700 provided in the fourth arm section 500 receives the second electrode (S2) and transports it to the second stage 20 in the second standby area (SB2). Then, a portion of the suction device 700 provided on the first arm 200 picks up the first electrode (S1) in the first stage 10, transports it to the stacking region (ST) and stacks it, and after the separator (SP) is stacked on top of it, a portion of the suction device 700 provided on the second arm 300 picks up the second electrode (S2) in the second stage 20, transports it to the stacking region (ST) and stacks it on top of the separator (SP). After this cycle is repeated, once one electrode pack is completed, the electrode pack moves out of the stacking region (ST) through the gripper 600, and the stacking of a new electrode pack begins again in the stacking region (ST).

[0206] The following describes a suction device 700 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Since the suction device 700 is provided with multiple identical configurations for the suction purposes of the first electrode (S1) and the second electrode (S2), the suction of the electrode (S) will be described without distinguishing between the first electrode (S1) and the second electrode (S2).

[0207] Figure 18 is an illustrative diagram of a suction device included in a stacking device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0208] Referring to Figure 18, in one embodiment of the present invention, the stacking device 1 can be configured to include a suction device 700 for transporting electrodes (S) loaded in a magazine (M) for use in a process. Furthermore, the suction device 700 is characterized by including a suction section 710 that has a function to prevent the double-electrode phenomenon.

[0209] The "two-electrode phenomenon" refers to the phenomenon in which, during the process of an electrode (S) being suctioned and loaded by the suction device 700, another electrode (S) adheres to the bottom of the suctioned electrode (S) and is loaded together with it.

[0210] The stacking device 1 is characterized in that, in order to increase the process speed, the first suction unit 720 pre-lifts the electrode (S) in the suction area before the second suction unit 750 of the suction device 700 enters the suction area, separating any other electrodes (S) that may be stuck to the bottom of the electrode (S).

[0211] The electrodes (S) are loaded into the magazine (M). The suction section 710 is located on top of the magazine (M).

[0212] The suction device 700 can be configured to include a suction section 710 and a second suction unit 750. The suction section 710 can be configured to include a first suction unit 720, a body 730, and a suction drive unit 740.

[0213] The suction unit 710 has the function of initially suctioning the electrode (S) at the top of the magazine (M). The suction unit 710 also has a function to prevent the double-layer phenomenon.

[0214] The first suction unit 720 has the function of contacting the electrode (S) and initially suctioning the electrode (S). Multiple first suction units 720 are arranged.

[0215] The body 730 is positioned on top of the magazine (M).

[0216] The suction drive unit 740 is positioned on the body 730. The suction drive unit 740 is connected to the first suction unit 720 and can move the first suction unit 720 in the vertical (z-axis) direction.

[0217] The second suction unit 750 basically includes a suction function, but also has the function of moving to the suction section 710 and receiving the electrode (S) from the suction section 710. The electrode (S) is first suctioned by the suction section 710 and then transmitted to the second suction unit 750.

[0218] The second suction unit 750 is provided on the arm section 760 (first arm section 200 to fourth arm section 500). Within the rotating body 770, the first rotating body 201 can drive the first arm section 200 and the third arm section 400, and the second rotating body 301 can drive the second arm section 300 and the fourth arm section 500.

[0219] The arm section 760 is rotatably positioned around the shaft section (C) (first shaft (C1), second shaft (C2)). The second suction unit 750 is fixed to the underside of the arm section 760. The arm section 760 is controlled to be movable above the magazine (M) on which the suction section 710 is provided.

[0220] The rotating body 770 can move in the vertical (z-axis) direction while rotating the arm portion 760. The arm portion 760 can be slidably connected to the rotating body 770.

[0221] The second suction unit 750 rotates together with the arm portion 760 around the shaft portion (C) and also moves in the vertical (z-axis) direction.

[0222] Figure 19 is an enlarged view of the suction section and the second suction unit.

[0223] Referring to Figure 19, the second suction unit 750 of the suction device 700 is positioned below the arm portion 760. The second suction units 750 are arranged in two rows. The second suction units 750 arranged in two rows are positioned in pairs with respect to the longitudinal (y-axis) direction of the electrode (S) when they enter the suction portion 710. A second suction unit 750 arranged in one row of the two rows of second suction units 750 can suction one side of the electrode (S) in the longitudinal (y-axis) direction, while a second suction unit 750 arranged in the other row of the two rows can suction the other side of the electrode (S) in the longitudinal (y-axis) direction.

[0224] The first suction units 720 of the suction section 710 are also arranged in double rows. The first suction units 720 are arranged in double rows on the upper side of the magazine (M) so that they form pairs based on the left-right (x-axis) direction. The first suction units 720 are also arranged on the lower side of the arm section 760. One of the first suction units 720 arranged in double rows can suction one side of the electrode (S) in the left-right (x-axis) direction, and the first suction unit 720 arranged in the other row can suction the other side of the electrode (S) in the lateral (x-axis) direction.

[0225] The second suction unit 750 is positioned between the first suction units 720 with respect to the front-to-back (y-axis) direction of the electrode (S). Therefore, the second suction unit 750 can suction different regions of the electrode (S) with respect to the front-to-back (y-axis) direction of the electrode (S) and the first suction unit 720.

[0226] The second suction unit 750 and the first suction unit 720 are aligned so as to overlap the electrode (S) in the vertical (z-axis) direction and be located inside the electrode (S).

[0227] Figures 20 to 26 are illustrative diagrams depicting the process of preventing the formation of two electrodes (S).

[0228] Referring to Figures 20 to 26, as the second suction unit 750 enters the work area (SB), the suction section 710 has the function of lifting one electrode (S) to a predetermined height and knocking down any other electrodes (S) that may be stuck.

[0229] First, as shown in Figure 20, the first suction unit 720 of the suction section 710 is positioned above the electrode (S). The first suction unit 720 is in a released state. Then, as shown in Figure 20, the first suction unit 720 can descend and come into contact with the electrode (S).

[0230] Next, as shown in Figure 22, only the outermost of the multiple first suction units 720, the first suction unit 720a, begins suction. As shown in Figure 22, the suction tip of the first suction unit 720 that contacts the electrode (S) remains expanded by the elastic force of an internal elastic member when suction is released (OFF). When suction is set (ON), the elastic force of the elastic member is overcome, and the suction tip is reduced while the first suction unit 720 is lifted upward. If the suction is switched to the OFF state while the suction tip is reduced, the suction tip expands due to the elastic force of the elastic member.

[0231] If only the outermost first suction unit 720a begins suction, both ends of the electrode (S) are lifted upward. Because the first suction unit 720a lifts both ends of the electrode (S) first, it is possible to prevent other electrodes (S) from sticking to the bottom of the electrode (S).

[0232] As shown in Figure 24, the suction section 710 can be configured to include a push bar 780. When the first suction unit 720 descends, the push bar 780 also descends and can come into contact with the electrode (S). The push bar 780 is positioned adjacent to the inside of the outermost first suction unit 720.

[0233] As the outermost first suction unit 720a rises, the push bar 780 supports the electrode (S), allowing both ends of the electrode (S) to be more easily bent and lifted.

[0234] Next, as shown in Figure 25, the first suction units 720 all move upward.

[0235] Next, as shown in Figure 26, the first suction unit 720, excluding the outermost first suction unit 720a, is also switched to the ON state, and the central part of the electrode (S) is lifted, causing the electrode (S) to be lifted to a flat state.

[0236] Figure 27 is an illustrative diagram of a vibrator according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0237] Referring to Figure 27, the electrode (S) is shown being lifted by the first suction unit 720, and vibration is being applied in the vertical direction through the vibrator 790.

[0238] As shown in Figure 27, the vibrator 790 is connected to the outermost first suction unit 720a. The vibrator 790 has the function of reciprocating the outermost first suction unit 720a in the vertical direction, thereby separating the lower electrode (S) that is stuck to the upper electrode (S).

[0239] Figure 28 is an illustrative diagram of a vibrator according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0240] Referring to Figure 28, another state is depicted in which the electrode (S) is lifted by the first suction unit 720 and vibration is applied in the vertical direction through the vibrator 790 and suction control.

[0241] As shown in Figure 12, the outermost first suction unit 720a reciprocates vertically while the suction is held by the vibrator 790. Simultaneously, the first suction units 720a, excluding the outermost first suction unit 720a, reciprocate vertically while the suction is switched on and off.

[0242] Figure 29 is an illustrative diagram of a vibrator according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0243] Referring to Figure 29, another state is depicted in which the electrode (S) is lifted by the first suction unit 720 and vibration is applied in the vertical direction through the vibrator 790.

[0244] As shown in Figure 29, the vibrator 790 is connected to the first suction unit 720 located in the center. The vibrator 790 has the function of causing the first suction unit 720 located in the center to reciprocate in the vertical direction, thereby causing the lower electrode (S) that is stuck to the upper electrode (S) to fall down. In this process, all first suction units 720 maintain a suction state.

[0245] Figure 30 is an illustrative diagram showing the positions of the electrodes and the push portion.

[0246] Referring to Figure 30, the push bar 780 contacts the electrode (S) between the suction regions (K) of the first suction unit 720 with respect to the front-rear (y-axis) direction, but it can contact one side with respect to the center of the length of the electrode (S).

[0247] Figure 31 is an illustrative diagram showing other positions of the electrodes and the push portion.

[0248] Referring to Figure 31, the push bar 780 contacts the electrode (S) between the suction regions (K) of the first suction unit 720 with respect to the longitudinal direction (y-axis) of the electrode (S), but it can also contact one side with respect to the center of the length of the electrode (S).

[0249] Figure 32 is an illustrative diagram of a blower according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0250] Referring to Figure 32, the process by which the first suction unit lifts the electrodes with the blower in place is depicted.

[0251] Referring to Figure 32, as shown in Figure 32(a), the outermost first suction unit 720a is positioned at an angle to the central first suction unit 720. This is to make it easier to lift both ends of the electrode (S) when suctioning and lifting the electrode (S). The blower 260 is positioned adjacent to the outermost first suction unit 720a.

[0252] As shown in Figure 32(b), the first suction unit 720 descends, and the outermost first suction unit 720a, the centrally located first suction unit 720, and the push bar 780 each come into contact with the electrode (S).

[0253] Thereafter, as shown in Figure 32(c), when the outermost first suction unit 720a suctions the electrode (S), both ends of the electrode (S) are lifted. With both ends of the electrode (S) lifted, the blower 742 blows air toward the electrode (S). In this way, by blowing air toward the electrode (S) with both ends of the electrode (S) lifted, the double-layer phenomenon is effectively prevented.

[0254] Next, as shown in Figure 32(d), the first suction unit 720a rises, and the electrode (S) is lifted.

[0255] In this way, the suction section 710 prevents the double-layer phenomenon, and with the electrode (S) lifted, the second suction unit 750 enters the work area (SB).

[0256] Figure 33 is an illustrative diagram of the first suction unit and the second suction unit.

[0257] Referring to Figure 33, the shape is depicted in which the second suction unit 750 enters the working area (SB) and is aligned with the first suction unit 720.

[0258] Referring to Figures 18 and 33, the suction unit 710 is located in a working area (SB) at the top of the magazine (M). The second suction unit 750 is positioned to move back and forth within the working area (SB). Here, the working area (SB) is the upper area of ​​the magazine (M) and refers to the area in which the second suction unit 750 or the first suction unit 720 suctions and lifts the electrodes (S) loaded in the magazine (M).

[0259] The suction device 700 has an arm section 760 that rotates around a shaft section (C), allowing the second suction unit 750 to enter or move back and forth within the working area (SB). When the arm section 760 rotates and is positioned within the working area (SB), the second suction unit 750 is positioned between the first suction units 720 with respect to the front-to-back (y-axis) direction.

[0260] However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the suction device 700 may be implemented such that the second suction unit 750 moves back and forth in a straight line within the working area (SB).

[0261] Figure 34 is an illustrative diagram of the first suction unit and the second suction unit.

[0262] Referring to Figure 34, the second suction unit 750 and the first suction unit 720 are shown in an aligned state.

[0263] Referring to Figures 19 and 34, when the second suction unit 750 enters the working area (SB), it aligns itself to a different position from the first suction unit 720 with respect to the front-to-back (y-axis) direction. Therefore, with respect to the width (x-axis) direction of the electrode (S), the suction area of ​​the second suction unit 750 and the suction area of ​​the first suction unit 720 are different.

[0264] The second suction unit 750 and the first suction unit 720 are aligned and positioned with respect to the front-to-back (y-axis) direction.

[0265] When viewed with reference to the left-right (x-axis) direction, the second suction unit 750 and the first suction unit 720 are arranged adjacent to each other to form a pair. This is to ensure stable holding of the electrode (S) when the second suction unit 750 and the first suction unit 720 alternately suction the electrode (S).

[0266] Using the left-right (x-axis) direction as a reference, the first suction unit 720 is positioned further out than the second suction unit 750. Specifically, using the left-right (x-axis) direction of the electrode (S) as a reference, the outermost of the multiple first suction units 720 is positioned further out than the outermost of the multiple second suction units 750.

[0267] Furthermore, when viewed with reference to the left-right (x-axis) direction, the second suction unit 750 and the first suction unit 720 are arranged adjacent to each other to form a pair, and of the pair of second suction units 750 and first suction units 720, the first suction unit 720 is positioned closer to the left-right (x-axis) end.

[0268] The second suction unit 750 and the first suction unit 720 can alternately suction the electrode (S).

[0269] Figures 35 to 37 are exemplary diagrams depicting the loading process of the electrode (S).

[0270] As shown in FIG. 35, when the second suction unit 750 of the suction device 700 enters the working area (SB) and the second suction unit 750 and the first suction unit 720 are aligned, first, the first suction unit 720 descends to suction and lift the electrode (S) located at the uppermost layer. At this time, the second suction unit 750 is in a state separated from the electrode (S), and only the first suction unit 720 holds the electrode (S). The first suction unit 720 can lift the electrode (S) to an appropriate height so that the electrode (S) does not touch the second suction unit 750.

[0271] Next, as shown in FIG. 36, with the suction of the second suction unit 750 set, the second suction unit 750 descends to suction and contact the electrode (S). Then, the suction of the first suction unit 720 is released.

[0272] Next, as shown in FIG. 37, when the second suction unit 750 descends downward from the first suction unit 720 while holding the suction with the first suction unit 720 released, the electrode (S) is separated from the first suction unit 720. Therefore, the electrode (S) is held only by the second suction unit 750.

[0273] In the process of the second suction unit 750 descending to push out the electrode (S) so that the first suction unit 720 and the electrode (S) are separated, the lower electrode attached to the upper electrode is separated.

[0274] The second suction unit 750 that has descended and holds the electrode (S) can rotate and put the held electrode (S) into the process.

[0275] In this way, first, in the suction section 710, after lifting the electrode (S), the suction of the suction section 710 is released, and by holding the electrode (S) using the suction of the second suction unit 750, while preventing the double-sheet phenomenon, the loading process of the electrode (S) can proceed quickly and can correspond to the increasing speed of the overall process.

[0276] FIG. 38 is an exemplary view of the first suction unit.

[0277] Referring to FIG. 38, a state in which the wrinkles of the electrode are stretched is depicted by the first suction unit.

[0278] On the other hand, when the suctioned electrode (S) is vibrated up and down through the vibrator 790, there is a risk of wrinkles occurring in the electrode (S). If wrinkles occur in the electrode (S), there is a problem that the electrode (S) transported to the alignment stage through the second suction unit 750 does not adhere closely to the upper surface of the alignment stage. That is, the alignment stage also sucks the electrode (S) using suction to correct the position of the electrode (S) placed on the upper surface of the alignment stage. However, when the electrode (S) is placed on the alignment stage with wrinkles in the electrode (S), due to the wrinkles of the electrode (S), the electrode (S) cannot be completely adhered to the upper surface of the alignment stage.

[0279] In this way, if the electrode (S) does not adhere closely to the upper surface of the alignment stage, there is a problem that an alarm occurs during the suction process of the alignment stage, or the alignment accuracy is reduced because the dimensions on the plane of the electrode (S) change due to the wrinkles of the electrode (S).

[0280] As a result, as shown in Figure 38, if the first suction unit 720 suctions the electrode (S) and then shakes the suctioned electrode (S) up and down, and then the vibrator 790 is moved slightly horizontally, the wrinkles in the electrode (S) that occur when the suctioned electrode (S) is shaken up and down can be smoothed out.

[0281] Because the second suction unit 750 transports the electrode (S) to the alignment stage with the wrinkles smoothed out, the electrode (S) is firmly attached and fixed to the upper surface of the alignment stage, preventing the occurrence of a suction failure alarm and offering the advantage of improving alignment accuracy.

[0282] Furthermore, since the second suction unit 750 and the first suction unit 720 are separated and operate independently, and the wrinkles in the electrode (S) are smoothed out by the first suction unit 720 rather than the second suction unit 750, there is an advantage that the speed at which the second suction unit 750 supplies the electrode (S) to the alignment stage is not affected at all, and the operation to smooth out the wrinkles in the electrode (S) is performed.

[0283] The stacking method (step S100) performed by the stacking device 1 will be described below.

[0284] Figure 39 is a flowchart of a stacking method according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0285] Referring to Figure 39, the stacking method (step S100) can be configured to include the steps of: guiding the separator (SP) into the stacking region (ST) (step S110); stacking the first electrode (S1) and the second electrode (S2) in the stacking region (ST) (step S130); and stacking the separator (SP) between the first electrode (S1) and the second electrode (S2) (step S150). The first electrode (S1) is stacked on the separator (SP) that is stacked for the first time, then another separator (SP) is stacked on top of that, then the second electrode (S2) is stacked on top of that, and so on, with the separator (SP), first electrode (S1), separator (SP), and second electrode (S2) being stacked repeatedly several times.

[0286] During stacking, the stacking region (ST) is in a stationary state, and the separator stacking device 100 is positioned above the stacking region (ST).

[0287] First, the separator stacking apparatus 100 guides the continuously supplied sheet-shaped separators (SP) into the stacking area (ST) (step S110). To guide the separators (SP) into the stacking area (ST), the separator stacking apparatus 100 may be equipped with stacking rollers 141 at the top of the stacking area (ST), and may further be equipped with a mid-roller 145, an upper roller 147, and a denser 170.

[0288] Next, the separator stacking apparatus 100 can stack separators (SP) so as to be inserted between the first electrode (S1) and the second electrode (S2), which are stacked in a sheet-like manner within the stacking region (ST) (step S130). Here, the separator stacking apparatus 100 can control the reciprocating motion of the separators (SP) before stacking in the vertical (z-axis) and horizontal (x-axis) directions. Here, the reciprocating motion is controlled by the drive unit 120 and the guider 150. Further details regarding the configuration are described in the description with reference to Figures 1 to 13.

[0289] FIG. 40 is a flowchart of a stacking method according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0290] Referring to FIG. 40, the step of laminating the first electrode (S1) and the second electrode (S2) (step S130) can be configured to include: a step of adsorbing the first electrode (S1) and the second electrode (S2) (step S131); a step of moving the first electrode (S1) and the second electrode (S2) to the lamination region (ST) (step S135); and a step of releasing the first electrode (S1) and the second electrode (S2) in the lamination region (ST) (step S137).

[0291] FIG. 41 is a flowchart of a stacking method according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0292] Referring to FIG. 41, the step of adsorbing the first electrode (S1) and the second electrode (S2) (step S131) can be configured to include: a step of preventing the adsorption of two or more electrodes using vibration (step S132); a step of preventing the adsorption of two or more electrodes using wind (step S133); and a step of preventing the adsorption of two or more electrodes using a physical tool (step S134). Steps S132 to S134 are described in detail in the description of the suction device 700.

[0293] Thus, according to an embodiment of the present invention, when laminating the electrode and the separator, the separator can tightly wrap the electrode.

[0294] Also, the electrode can move the separator in a stopped state to manufacture an electrode pack.

[0295] Also, in electrode lamination, the time required for transporting the electrode is minimized, increasing the process speed.

[0296] Also, the adsorption of two or more electrodes is prevented during electrode transportation.

[0297] Although various desirable embodiments of the present invention have been described above with some examples, the descriptions of the various and diverse embodiments described in the "Specific Details for Carrying Out the Invention" section are merely illustrative, and those skilled in the art will understand that they can implement the present invention in various modified ways or implement it in an equivalent manner based on the above description.

[0298] Furthermore, since the present invention can be embodied in a variety of other forms, it should be noted that the present invention is not limited by the foregoing description, and the foregoing description is provided to make the disclosure of the present invention complete and to fully inform those skilled in the art of the scope of the present invention, and the present invention is defined only by the claims of the patent. [Industrial applicability]

[0299] This invention is used in the field of secondary battery manufacturing equipment.

Claims

1. An electrode stacking apparatus that stacks the first electrode and the second electrode alternately and continuously on a stacking region using a first rotating body for carrying the first electrode and a second rotating body for carrying the second electrode, It includes a control unit that controls the driving of the electrode stacking apparatus, The first axis of the first rotating body and the second axis of the second rotating body form the same center. The control unit, A stacking device configured to control the stacking of the first electrode through the rotation of the first rotating body and the stacking of the second electrode through the rotation of the second rotating body in the fixed stacking region.

2. The first rotating body is It includes a first arm that, through rotation of the first axis, attracts the first electrode positioned on the first stage and transports it to the stacking region, The aforementioned second rotating body is The stacking device according to claim 1, further configured to include a second arm that, through rotation of a second axis, attracts the second electrode positioned on the second stage and transports it to the stacking region.

3. The stacking device according to claim 2, wherein the first rotating body includes a third arm portion that transports the first electrode, which is disposed in a first magazine, to the first stage through simultaneous rotation with the first arm portion, and the second rotating body includes a fourth arm portion that transports the second electrode, which is disposed in a second magazine, to the second stage through simultaneous rotation with the third arm portion.

4. The stacking device according to claim 3, wherein the first arm portion and the third arm portion and the second arm portion and the fourth arm portion are configured to be connected to the first axis or the second axis, respectively, at acute angles with respect to each other.

5. The control unit, The stacking device according to claim 4, wherein the first rotating body is configured to control the first rotating body and the second rotating body so that they can rotate within a range of 90° or less between the stacking region and the first magazine, and between the stacking region and the second magazine.

6. The control unit, It is configured to control the operation of the separator stacking apparatus, which stacks separators in a zigzag pattern while reciprocating along the left and right edges of the stacking region. The separator sequentially wraps one side and the top surface of the first electrode on which the separators are stacked, and after the second electrode is stacked on the separators, the separator sequentially wraps the other side and the top surface of the second electrode. The stacking device according to claim 5, wherein the separator stacking device is configured to control reciprocating motion along a two-dimensional trajectory in the vertical (z-axis) and horizontal (x-axis) directions.

7. It further includes a gripper section for grasping and transporting the completed electrode pack, The control unit, The stacking device according to claim 2, configured to control the movement of the gripper portion into the stacking region and the avoidance movement of the first stage or the second stage so as not to interfere with the gripper portion.

8. The apparatus further includes a separator stacking device for stacking separators that are connected together between the first electrode and the second electrode, and between the second electrode and the first electrode, The control unit, The stacking device according to claim 1, wherein, with the stacking region fixed, the separator stacking device is configured to control the operation of stacking the separators by drawing a two-dimensional trajectory in the vertical (z-axis) direction and the horizontal (x-axis) direction.

9. The separator stacking apparatus is A frame provided in the aforementioned stacking region, A drive unit is connected to the frame via a first rotation axis and uses a cam to cause reciprocating motion of the frame in the vertical (z-axis) and horizontal (x-axis) directions, A roller that is coupled to the frame and guides the separator into the stacking region, A denser that is coupled to the frame and adjusts the elasticity of the separator, A guider coupled to the frame and guiding the reciprocating motion of the frame to control the stacking trajectory of the rollers, The stacking device according to claim 8, configured to include the following:

10. The aforementioned frame is A lever connected to the aforementioned drive unit, A roller bracket that connects to the lever using a second rotating shaft and to the roller, The stacking device according to claim 9, configured to include the following:

11. The aforementioned lever is A power transmission unit connected to the drive unit through the first rotating shaft, A first trajectory center that determines the trajectory center of the lever, A moving part that connects to the roller bracket, The stacking device according to claim 10, configured to include the following:

12. The aforementioned guider, The stacking device according to claim 10, further comprising a first guider that is slidably coupled to the roller bracket and guides the two-dimensional trajectory of the roller bracket in the vertical (z-axis) and horizontal (x-axis) directions.

13. The aforementioned guider, The stacking device according to claim 11, further comprising a second guider for guiding the position of the center of the first trajectory.

14. The aforementioned roller bracket is The second trajectory center, which is connected to the other end of the lever through the second rotation axis, A guider coupling portion that slides with the first guider, A roller coupling portion that connects to the aforementioned roller, The stacking device according to claim 12, configured to include the following:

15. The aforementioned roller is The lamination roller includes a lamination roller that stacks the separators in the lamination region, The laminated roller includes a lower laminated roller and an upper laminated roller. The control unit, The stacking device according to claim 12, configured to control the motion trajectory of the roller bracket so that the lower stacking roller and the upper stacking roller are arranged vertically.

16. The first guider said, A vertical guider that guides the roller in the vertical direction, A horizontal guider that guides the roller in the horizontal direction, An inner rail plate connecting the vertical guider and the horizontal guider, An outer rail plate for fixing the vertical rail of the aforementioned vertical guider, The stacking device according to claim 12, configured to include the following:

17. The control unit, The guider coupling portion moves along the first guider, The stacking device according to claim 14, wherein the movement trajectory of the roller coupling is controlled so that the roller reciprocates within the stacking region, tracing an arc-shaped two-dimensional trajectory in the vertical (z-axis) and horizontal (x-axis) directions.

18. The aforementioned second guider, A base equipped with a third rotation axis, A rotating rail that rotates in conjunction with the aforementioned third rotation axis, A slider that moves along the aforementioned rotating rail, The stacking device according to claim 13, configured to include the following:

19. The system further includes a suction device that performs suction on the first and second electrodes, which are waiting in the suction region, before stacking the first and second electrodes. The suction device is A suction unit that uses a first suction unit to suction one electrode among the electrodes loaded in the magazine by controlling its movement in the vertical (z-axis) direction within the suction region, A second suction unit is coupled to the first and second rotating bodies and replaces the first suction unit in suctioning the electrodes, The stacking device according to claim 1, configured to include:

20. The control unit, At the time of the exchange between the first suction unit and the second suction unit, The first rotating body and the second rotating body are driven, which are coupled to the second suction unit. The stacking device according to claim 19, configured to control the downward movement of the second suction unit while setting the suction of the second suction unit and releasing the suction of the first suction unit.

21. The stacking device according to claim 19, wherein the second suction unit is positioned above the first suction unit so as to alternate with the electrodes above the electrodes.

22. The first suction unit and the second suction unit are provided in multiple quantities. The stacking device according to claim 19, wherein the first suction unit located on the outside of the first suction unit is configured to be inclined with respect to the vertical direction.

23. The control unit, The stacking device according to claim 22, wherein the second suction unit is configured to control the movement of different first suction units between them.

24. The system further includes a blower arranged around the outer first suction unit, The stacking device according to claim 22, wherein the control unit is configured to control the first suction unit to blow air horizontally toward the lower surface of the electrode while the electrode is adsorbed.

25. The first suction unit further includes a vibrator coupled to at least some of the first suction units, The stacking device according to claim 22, wherein the control unit is configured to control the vibration of the vibrator in the vertical (z-axis) direction.

26. The control unit, The stacking device according to claim 25, configured to control the vibration of a first suction unit not coupled to the vibrator in the vertical (z-axis) direction through ON / OFF control of the suction.

27. The control unit, The stacking device according to claim 25, wherein the vibrator is configured to vibrate horizontally to control the removal of wrinkles that have formed on the electrode during suction of the first suction unit.

28. A method performed by a stacking device provided in a stacking region, The steps include: guiding the continuously supplied sheet-like separators into the stacking region; The steps include alternately stacking multiple first electrodes and second electrodes in the aforementioned stacking region, The process includes the step of stacking the separator between the plurality of first electrodes and the second electrodes, The step of stacking the separators is as follows: The step of controlling the rollers so that the separator at the point where stacking begins moves back and forth in the left-right (x-axis) direction, The steps include controlling the separator at the point where the stacking begins to reciprocate in the upward (+z axis) and downward (-z axis) directions between the motion in the rightward (-x axis) direction and the motion in the leftward (+x axis) direction, A stacking method configured to include [something].

29. The step of stacking the electrodes is: An electrode adsorption step in which the first electrode and the second electrode placed in the storage area are adsorbed, An electrode transport step of moving the adsorbed first electrode and the second electrode to the stacked region, An electrode release step in which the first electrode and the second electrode are lowered in the stacked region, The stacking method according to claim 28, configured to include the following:

30. The electrode adsorption step is, The stacking method according to claim 29, comprising the step of preventing the attraction of two or more electrodes by static electricity using at least one of a method that utilizes vibration, a method that utilizes wind, and a method that utilizes a physical tool.

31. The electrode transport step is, The stacking method according to claim 29, characterized in that the first electrode and the second electrode are transported using a rotating body that rotates within an acute angle range.

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