Substrate transport system and coating system that implements the substrate transport system

Abstract

The substrate transport system includes a drive roller (1) capable of driving the substrate (S) to move it in the substrate transport direction, a first auxiliary roller group (2, 3) including a first roller (2) and a second roller (3), a second auxiliary roller group (7, 10) including a third roller (10) and a fourth roller (7), and a buffer double roller component (6) including a first buffer roller (61) and a second buffer roller (62). The buffer double roller component (6) is also movable relative to its original position so that the portion of the substrate (S) between the first roller (2) and the fourth roller (7) can reciprocate in the substrate transport direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] (Cross - reference to related applications) This application claims the benefit of Chinese Patent Application No. 202321583388.3, filed on June 20, 2022, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety as if fully set forth herein for all purposes.

[0002] (Field of disclosure) The present disclosure relates to a substrate conveyance system and a coating system implementing the substrate conveyance system.

Background Art

[0003] Electric vehicles are the current development direction of automotive technology. In this regard, durability or range is typically an important parameter characterizing the performance of electric vehicles. The range of an electric vehicle depends in part on the performance of the electric vehicle (EV) battery.

[0004] In this regard, the manufacture of EV batteries typically involves the use of a slitter / rewinder. Specifically, the slitter / rewinder used in the manufacture of the positive and negative electrodes of an electric vehicle battery generally has a high line speed (up to 100 m / min (meters per minute)) or more. Also, hot melt adhesive coating is used instead of an insulation protection process and needs to operate at a corresponding speed.

[0005] Due to the effectiveness and inherent properties of electrode substrates formed by laser cutting, the thickness of the adhesive being transported is generally required to be around 10-20 μm (microns). Exceeding this specified range is not permitted. The start-stop connection section must also meet the requirements. Regarding the quality of one and / or multiple adhesive patterns, the electrode substrate must be bonded uniformly and consistently. In this regard, adhesive leakage and improper application are unacceptable. Due to the strict regulations for electrode manufacturing, exposure of the metal to which the adhesive is to be applied to the atmosphere is intolerant (zero tolerance). Furthermore, improper application at hammer joints must be avoided.

[0006] By using high-precision metering pumps (VCPs) and other auxiliary devices, one and / or multiple adhesive patterns can be continuously applied according to customer specifications. However, start-stop operations are unavoidable during operation. The adhesive pattern at the start-stop connection point is affected by factors such as waiting time, adhesive viscosity, material roll tension, and instantaneous changes in the state of the shut-off valve. Therefore, achieving a thickness of 10-20 μm at the start-stop connection point without application defects such as adhesive leakage requires the management and adjustment of many complex parameters and systems, and is thus difficult.

[0007] To improve the start-up and shutdown performance of coating systems, a method is known in which the substrate is retracted before restarting the coating system. This is done by reversing the motor that transports the substrate. Subsequently, a secondary coating is applied to the retracted portion of the substrate. However, this method involves operating almost the entire substrate transport system, which accelerates equipment aging and increases energy consumption. Currently, many attempts are being made to improve the system's start-up and shutdown performance, but there is still a gap between the required performance and the actual performance.

[0008] Therefore, there is a need to improve the startup and shutdown performance of the coating system. [Overview of the project]

[0009] In one embodiment, the substrate conveying system includes a drive roller configured to drive the substrate and move it in the substrate conveying direction. The substrate conveying system also includes a first auxiliary roller group, which includes a first roller and a second roller, and the first auxiliary roller group is located downstream of the drive roller in the substrate conveying direction. Furthermore, the substrate conveying system includes a second auxiliary roller group, which includes a third roller and a fourth roller, and the second auxiliary roller group is located downstream of the first auxiliary roller group in the substrate conveying direction. The substrate conveying system also includes a double buffer roller component, which includes a first buffer roller and a second buffer roller, where the first buffer roller is located between the first and second rollers of the first auxiliary roller group in the substrate conveying direction, and the second buffer roller is located between the third and fourth rollers of the second auxiliary roller group in the substrate conveying direction. Furthermore, the double buffer roller component is configured to be movable relative to its original position so that a portion of the substrate between the first and fourth rollers can reciprocate in the substrate conveying direction.

[0010] In one embodiment, the substrate conveying system includes a drive roller capable of moving the substrate in the substrate conveying direction. The substrate conveying system also includes a first auxiliary roller group, which includes a first roller and a second roller, and the first auxiliary roller group is positioned downstream of the drive roller in the substrate conveying direction. Furthermore, the substrate conveying system includes a second auxiliary roller group, which includes a third roller and a fourth roller, and the second auxiliary roller group is positioned downstream of the first auxiliary roller group in the substrate conveying direction. The substrate conveying system also includes a double buffer roller component, which includes a first buffer roller and a second buffer roller, with the first buffer roller positioned between the first and second rollers of the first auxiliary roller group in the substrate conveying direction, and the second buffer roller positioned between the third and fourth rollers of the second auxiliary roller group in the substrate conveying direction. Furthermore, the double buffer roller component is configured to be movable relative to its original position, thereby allowing a portion of the substrate between the first and fourth rollers to reciprocate in the substrate conveying direction.

[0011] Aspects of this disclosure can provide a substrate transport system that can apply and / or spray a fluid such as an adhesive to the start-stop connection portion of a substrate with high precision, thereby achieving an extremely thin, adhesive-free coating. Furthermore, this disclosure provides a coating system equipped with the substrate transport system.

[0012] The present disclosure provides a substrate transport system comprising: a drive roller capable of driving a substrate to move the substrate in a substrate transport direction; a first auxiliary roller group including a first roller and a second roller, located downstream of the drive roller in the substrate transport direction; a second auxiliary roller group including a third roller and a fourth roller, located downstream of the first auxiliary roller group in the substrate transport direction; and a buffer double roller component including a first buffer roller and a second buffer roller, wherein the first buffer roller is located between the first and second rollers of the first auxiliary roller group in the substrate transport direction, and the second buffer roller is located between the second auxiliary roller group in the substrate transport direction. Between the third and fourth rollers, the buffer double roller component is configured to be movable relative to its original position, thereby allowing a portion of the substrate between the first and fourth rollers to reciprocate in the substrate transport direction.

[0013] In this way, the substrate can be easily and energy-efficiently retracted, and furthermore, an adhesive and / or adhesive pattern tailored to customer specifications can be continuously applied to the start-stop connection of the substrate using a coating device. This makes it easy to realize a start-stop connection tailored to customer specifications. By overlapping the coating at the start and end of adjacent coatings, the occurrence of fluid deficiency and / or slippage can be eliminated and / or significantly reduced. Convenience for field applications is ensured while simplifying the setting of numerous parameters. The structure of the substrate transport system includes a start-stop buffer structure characterized by a simple layout that does not take up excessive installation space. In addition, the reciprocating motion of the buffer double roller component ensures the long-term stability of the entire system.

[0014] In some embodiments, the substrate transport system includes a lifting member for raising and lowering a buffer double roller component. This allows for automatic control of the raising and lowering of the buffer double roller component.

[0015] In some embodiments, the lifting member includes an electric motor. This allows for the adoption of a simple structure.

[0016] In some embodiments, the double-roller buffer component includes a support that connects the respective roller axes of the first and second buffer rollers of the double-roller buffer component to each other. This allows for the realization of the double-roller buffer component with a simple structure and enables the movement of the double-roller buffer component to be controlled by only one motor.

[0017] In some embodiments, the double-roller buffer component is movable vertically relative to its original position, and, if necessary, horizontally relative to its original position. This facilitates the movement of the double-roller buffer component and simplifies the system's configuration.

[0018] In some embodiments, the substrate conveying system has a first spool and a second spool for the substrate, the first spool being positioned upstream of the drive roller in the substrate conveying direction, and the second spool, located on the substrate, being positioned downstream of the fourth roller in the substrate conveying direction. This allows for the production of finished products and is convenient for improving assembly efficiency.

[0019] Furthermore, this disclosure provides a coating system comprising a coating device and the above-described substrate transport system. The coating device is positioned between the second roller of the first auxiliary roller group and the third roller of the second auxiliary roller group in the substrate transport direction, and the coating device applies a fluid to the substrate as the substrate transport system transports the substrate by passing it through the coating device.

[0020] In this way, the type and / or pattern of adhesive according to customer specifications can be continuously applied to the start-stop connection section of the substrate. This makes it easy to realize a start-stop connection section according to customer specifications. By overlapping the coating at the start and end sections of adjacent coatings, the occurrence of fluid deficiency / adhesive leakage is prevented. Convenience for field applications is ensured while simplifying the setting of numerous parameters. The structure of the substrate transport system is characterized by a start-stop buffer structure that has a simple layout and does not occupy installation space. In addition, the reciprocating motion of the buffer double roller component ensures the long-term stability of the entire system.

[0021] In some embodiments, the coating apparatus comprises a nozzle and a support rod with protrusions facing each other, and the coating apparatus applies a fluid as the substrate is conveyed between the nozzle and the support rod. This appropriately applies tension to the substrate below the nozzle, thereby improving the coating quality.

[0022] In some embodiments, the dispensing system includes a metering component in the form of a VCP pump, which allows for precise fluid discharge.

[0023] In some embodiments, the coating system includes a tension-applying device for applying tension to the substrate. This allows for proper tension to be applied to the substrate.

[0024] In some embodiments, the tensioning device is positioned between the coating device and the third roller of the second auxiliary roller group in the conveying direction of the substrate. This allows for appropriate tension to be applied to the substrate, particularly to the retractable portion of the substrate.

[0025] In some embodiments, the coating apparatus is equipped with a shut-off valve upstream of the nozzle of the coating apparatus. This eliminates the need for a coating hammer.

[0026] The present disclosure also includes a method of applying a fluid to a substrate using the above-described coating system. The method of applying a fluid to a substrate includes one or more of the following steps.

[0027] S1: Start the coating system to convey the substrate, apply the fluid to the substrate, and stop the coating system while the nozzle is rising relative to the substrate.

[0028] S2: Move the buffer double roller part downward to retract the substrate by a specific distance.

[0029] S3: Lower the nozzle to press the substrate.

[0030] S4: Rotate the drive roller to convey the substrate, apply the fluid to the substrate by the coating device, and raise the buffer double roller part while the fluid is being applied to the substrate.

[0031] S5: Stop the coating system and repeat steps S2 - S5.

[0032] In some embodiments, the coating agent flow rate of the coating device in step S4 is gradually increased before the substrate at a distance completely passes the nozzle.

[0033] Thus, certain aspects of the present disclosure have been fairly broadly outlined so that the detailed description herein can be better understood and the contribution to the art can be better appreciated. Of course, there are additional aspects of the present disclosure that are described below and form the subject matter of the claims appended hereto.

[0034] In this regard, before describing in detail at least one aspect of the Disclosure, it should be understood that the Disclosure is not limited in its application to the details of the configuration and arrangement of the components described or shown in the drawings below. The Disclosure can be implemented and performed in a variety of ways in addition to the aspects described. It should also be understood that the wording, terminology, and summaries used in the Disclosure are for illustrative purposes only and should not be considered limiting.

[0035] Therefore, those skilled in the art will understand that the concepts on which this disclosure is based can be readily used as a basis for designing other structures, methods, and systems to accomplish some of the purposes of this disclosure. It is therefore important that the claims be deemed to include such equivalent structures, as long as they do not deviate from the spirit and scope of this disclosure.

[0036] These and other purposes and advantages of this disclosure will become more readily apparent from the following description relating to the accompanying drawings, where the same reference numerals are used throughout the drawings to indicate identical or similar parts. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0037] [Figure 1] A left front view showing a coating system including a substrate transport system in this disclosure. [Figure 2] A right front view showing a coating system including a substrate transport system in this disclosure. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0038] Embodiments relating to this disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the description of each drawing, the same or corresponding parts will be denoted by the same reference numerals and symbols, and redundant descriptions will be omitted. In the following description, the directional terms “up,” “down,” “front,” “back,” “top,” and “bottom” (if any) are used solely to describe the accompanying drawings and do not substantially limit this disclosure. Other embodiments may be used and other modifications may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject matter presented in this disclosure. The aspects of this disclosure generally described in this disclosure and illustrated in the accompanying drawings may be arranged, substituted, combined, and designed in a variety of different configurations, each of which is clearly intended and forms part of this disclosure.

[0039] Where an element or a variation thereof is referred to as “connected,” “joined,” or “attached” to another element, it may be directly connected, joined, or attached to the other element, or there may be an intervening element, i.e., it may be indirectly connected, joined, or attached to the other element. Conversely, where an element or a variation thereof is referred to as “directly connected,” “directly joined,” or “directly attached” to another element, there is no intervening element. Similar reference figures refer to similar elements throughout. Where used in this disclosure, the singular forms “one” and “it” are intended to include the plural forms unless the context explicitly indicates otherwise. Well-known functions or structures may not be described in detail for the sake of brevity and / or clarity. The terms “and / or” and their abbreviation “ / ” include any and all combinations of one or more related enumerations.

[0040] Figure 1 is a left front view showing a coating system including a substrate transport system according to the present disclosure. Direction X in the figure indicates the longitudinal direction of the coating system, direction Y indicates the transverse direction of the coating system, and direction Z indicates the vertical direction of the coating system. In this disclosure, the longitudinal direction, transverse direction, and vertical direction of the coating system may be simply referred to as the longitudinal direction, transverse direction, and vertical direction, respectively.

[0041] As shown in Figure 1, the coating system may include a drive roller 1, a first roller 2, a first buffer roller 61, a second roller 3, a coating device 4, a third roller 10, a second buffer roller 62, a fourth roller 7, etc. These components may be arranged sequentially in the substrate transport direction. The first buffer roller 61 and the second buffer roller 62 may constitute a buffer double roller component 6. Furthermore, the coating system may further include a first reel 101 on which the substrate S is wound, and a second reel 102 on which the fluid-coated substrate is wound. Instead of the first and second reels, it will be understood that the coating system may have supports for mounting the first and second reels. When using the coating system, the first and second reels on which the substrate is wound may be mounted to the corresponding supports of the coating system.

[0042] Where the term “roller” is used in this disclosure, it generally refers to the corresponding roller component, including the roller and its mounting components, as well as the roller itself. Unless otherwise specified, for example, the buffer double roller component 6 is described as including the roller, the corresponding roller shaft, and the support.

[0043] The type of coating device 4 is not limited and may be any known type of coating device. The coating device 4 may include a fluid source for containing and / or supplying fluid. The fluid source may be, for example, a cartridge that directly contains the fluid or a hose connected to a fluid supply source. The cylinder may be a cylinder of various specifications, such as 300 cc (cubic centimeters), 500 cc and / or similar cylinders. Instead of using a cartridge, a hose or other connecting tube may be used. This hose or other connecting pipe may be connected directly and / or indirectly to another metering system. The hose may be connected to a melter. High-temperature fluids, such as hot glue, are supplied to the coating device 4 by a connection between the melter and the hose or by a direct connection between the melter and the glue cartridge. Cartridges or hoses as alternative fluid supply means are very convenient to implement and thereby increase the adaptability of the coating system to the fluid source.

[0044] In some examples, the fluid may be an adhesive such as a polyurethane adhesive, thermoplastic hot melt, pressure-sensitive adhesive, or another adhesive having sufficient cohesive strength and "open time" as described in this disclosure, but other materials are also possible. The adhesive may be an insulating adhesive, a conductive adhesive, and / or similar. Generally, conductive adhesives contain a conductive substance that promotes conductivity after being applied to the surface of the substrate. The fluid suitable for dispensing is not limited to adhesives and may be a variety of other fluid materials in the spraying process.

[0045] The coating device 4 may include a movement control module 5. The movement control module 5 may be used to control the movement of at least the nozzle portion of the coating device 4. The coating device 4 may be movable vertically and horizontally to approach or move away from the substrate S being transported. As the substrate S is transported through the coating device 4, the coating device 4 may apply a fluid to the substrate.

[0046] In some embodiments, the coating apparatus 4 may be provided with a support rod for the protrusion. The support rod for the protrusion may be positioned opposite the nozzle of the coating apparatus 4. The coating apparatus 4 may apply a fluid to the substrate while the substrate S is being transported between the nozzle and the support rod for the protrusion.

[0047] The coating apparatus 4 may include a metering component, which may be in the form of a positive displacement pump (VCP). In this regard, small positive displacement and / or gear pumps can deliver very small amounts of adhesive per tooth while rotating, and can control the fluid outflow rate with relatively high precision, allowing for the delivery of very precise amounts. The rotational speed of the metering component can be precisely controlled so that the gear pump can provide a stable outflow rate. This metering component allows for accurate and appropriate delivery of the fluid to the substrate. Measuring components in the form of gear pumps play an important role in the preparation of coating fluid films of the micron scale, such as adhesive films, and can be a key element in obtaining coating performance of the micron scale.

[0048] The coating device 4 can be equipped with a shut-off valve located upstream of the nozzle in the direction of fluid flow. In some forms, the shut-off valve may be a pneumatic shut-off valve. When the valve stem of the shut-off valve contacts the valve seat in the flow path, the coating device 4 stops coating the fluid, and the valve stem retracts to draw in the fluid. This effectively removes hammerheads that tend to form during fluid coating.

[0049] In some embodiments, the coating system may be provided with a tension-applying device 9, such as a tension-applying wheel, for applying tension to the substrate. The tension-applying device 9 may be positioned between the coating device 4 and the third roller 10 of the second auxiliary roller group in the substrate transport direction. It will be understood that the specific position of the tension-applying device 9 is not limited as long as it can apply tension to the substrate.

[0050] As shown in Figure 1, the drive roller 1 may be a roller that drives the substrate S to move it in the substrate transport direction. The rolling roller may be positioned at the front in the substrate transport direction and directly receive the substrate S from outside the system. If the coating system includes a first reel 101, the drive roller 1 may be positioned to receive the substrate S unwound from the first reel 101. If necessary, one or more rollers may be provided between the first reel 101 and the drive roller 1 to control the transport direction of the substrate S.

[0051] The first roller 2 and the second roller 3 may be implemented as auxiliary rollers. Note that "auxiliary rollers" refer to rollers not necessary for conveying the base material S. The first roller 2 and the second roller 3 may constitute the first group of auxiliary rollers. The third roller 10 and the fourth roller 7 may also be auxiliary rollers. The third roller 10 and the fourth roller 7 may constitute the second group of auxiliary rollers. In this case, the main function of the auxiliary rollers is to support the double-roller buffer component 6, which will be described later.

[0052] In some embodiments, the double-roller buffer component 6 has a one-piece structure. The double-roller buffer component 6 may be positioned in the space between a first group of auxiliary rollers and a second group of auxiliary rollers. The double-roller buffer component 6 has a first buffer roller 61 and a second buffer roller 62 that are connected or not connected to each other. The first buffer roller may be positioned between the first roller 2 and the second roller of the first group of auxiliary rollers in the conveying direction of the substrate, and the second buffer roller may be positioned between the third roller 10 and the fourth roller 7 of the second group of auxiliary rollers in the conveying direction of the substrate. The double-roller buffer component 6 is configured to be movable relative to its original position, and the portion of the substrate S between the first roller 2 and the fourth roller 7 is configured to be reciprocally movable in the conveying direction of the substrate.

[0053] The first buffer roller 61 and the second buffer roller 62 are rotatably mounted on their respective roller shafts. The double buffer roller component 6 also includes a support body 63 that supports the roller shafts of the first buffer roller 61 and the second buffer roller 62, thereby supporting the first buffer roller 61 and the second buffer roller 62. The support body 63 is U-shaped, and the roller shafts are installed in the U-shaped internal space of the support body 63.

[0054] By placing one roller of the double-roller buffer component 6 between the first group of auxiliary rollers and the other roller between the second group of auxiliary rollers, the portion of the base material between the first and second groups of auxiliary rollers can be configured to reciprocate in the base material's transport direction when the double-roller buffer component moves away from the base material's transport direction. The drive mode of the double-roller buffer component 6 is not limited and may be manually driven.

[0055] In some embodiments, a lifting member 8 may be provided for driving the double-roller buffer component 6. The type of lifting member 8 is not limited. In some embodiments, the lifting member 8 may be an electric motor. The output shaft of the lifting member 8 may be driven and connected to the double-roller buffer component 6, in particular to the support 63 of the double-roller buffer component 6. This allows the double-roller buffer component 6 to be moved vertically in some embodiments when the lifting member 8 is driven. Depending on the system configuration, it is readily apparent that the double-roller buffer component 6 may be moved in other directions, for example, horizontally.

[0056] Furthermore, if the first buffer roller 61 and its corresponding roller shaft and the second buffer roller 62 and its corresponding roller shaft are not connected to each other, i.e., are separated from each other, two electric motors may be provided to drive the first buffer roller 61 and the second buffer roller 62, respectively.

[0057] The drive roller 1, the first auxiliary roller group including the first roller 2 and the second roller 3, the second auxiliary roller group including the third roller 10 and the fourth roller 7, and the buffer double roller component 6 constitute the substrate transport system of this disclosure. When the substrate transport system is in operation, the portion of the substrate S between the first auxiliary roller group and the second auxiliary roller group can be reciprocated in the substrate transport direction by moving the buffer double roller component 6. The remaining portion of the substrate S does not move in the substrate transport direction.

[0058] The substrate transport system, i.e., its start-stop buffer structure and coating device 4, may be integrated with the electrode substrate slitter / winding machine.

[0059] Figure 2 is a right front view showing a coating system including the substrate transport system of the present disclosure. In Figure 2, the direction of movement of the substrate S, i.e., the path of movement, is indicated by an arrow. Specifically, when the substrate transport system described above operates and the substrate S is transported, the substrate S from the first reel 101 sequentially passes over the drive roller 1, the first roller 2 of the first auxiliary roller group, and the buffer double roller component 6. The substrate S passes over the first buffer roller 61, the second roller 3 of the first auxiliary roller group, the coating device 4, the third roller 10 of the second auxiliary roller group, the second buffer roller 62 of the buffer double roller component, and the fourth roller 7 of the second auxiliary roller group, and is finally wound onto the second reel 102. The substrate is coated with fluid as it passes over the coating device 4. During transport, tension is applied to the substrate by the tensioning device 9.

[0060] Typically, the start-up and stop-down operations of a coating system are performed during the coating process, i.e., when a portion of the substrate has already been coated with fluid. In conventional technology, when the coating system is stopped and then restarted, directly advancing the substrate to apply the fluid can lead to adhesive leakage or uneven coating at the start-stop connection point, potentially resulting in substrate defects. There is also a known technique to avoid adhesive leakage and uneven coating problems by first reversing the motor to move the substrate backward when restarting the coating system after it has stopped, and then driving the substrate forward to apply the fluid to the substrate, thereby repeatedly applying the fluid at the start-stop connection point. However, this technique involves operating almost the entire substrate transport system, accelerating equipment deterioration and increasing energy consumption.

[0061] In contrast, by using the substrate transport system and coating system of this disclosure, improvements in the start-stop coating performance of the coating system, that is, improvements in coating quality at the start-stop connection portion of the substrate, can be obtained.

[0062] The operating principles of the substrate transport system and coating system of this disclosure will be explained below with reference to Figure 2.

[0063] Specifically, according to this disclosure, if it becomes necessary to restart the operation of the slitter / reel machine / coating system after the system has stopped, the user can start the system by pressing a start button for the start-stop control of the coating system. Subsequently, the substrate transport system, i.e., the start-stop buffer system (including the buffer double roller component 6 and the lifting member 8), transmits a start signal to instruct the buffer double roller component 6 of the start-stop buffer system to move downward (indicated by a double arrow). The lifting member 8 executes the downward movement command and, in accordance with this command, lowers the buffer double roller component 6 by approximately 3-5 cm, causing the portion of the electrode substrate between the first auxiliary roller group and the second auxiliary roller group to retract / pull back by approximately 6-10 cm. Since coating was previously performed on the previous portion of the substrate, the nozzle or coating lip of the coating device 4 is positioned above the electrode substrate to which a fluid such as adhesive has already been applied.

[0064] After confirming that the retraction of the substrate S is complete, the movement control module 5 of the coating device 4, specifically its Z-axis movement module, drives the coating device 4 downward (indicated by double arrows) to press the electrode substrate S against the convex support rod, i.e., the support rod, that is, to press the electrode substrate S between the nozzle and the back rod of the coating device 4. After the nozzle has finished pressing the electrode substrate S, the drive roller 1 starts to rotate, and the electrode substrate S starts moving forward again, moving towards the metering component of the coating device 4. Subsequently, the VCP module receives an open signal and starts conveying the fluid. The retracted portion of the electrode substrate S passes through the nozzle again, forming the start-stop section of the electrode substrate S.

[0065] During the initial acceleration phase of the substrate transport system, the VCP module slowly transports the fluid flow by controlling the air pressure. This prevents the fluid from being immediately ejected upon opening. Otherwise, the coating would experience a hammering effect and exceed the specified thickness. Simultaneously, the buffer double roller component 6, driven by the lifting member 8, slowly rises, i.e., returns, and can retract to its initial position before starting at a speed lower than the travel line speed of the substrate S. This ensures that the downward buffering action of the buffer double roller component 6 is reliably performed at the start of the next start-stop control. In some embodiments, the VCP module controls the fluid flow rate so that the flow rate gradually increases from zero to a normal flow rate between the time the start-stop section of the electrode substrate S moves forward again and the time the start-stop section has completely passed the nozzle.

[0066] Once the return of the double buffer roller component 6 is complete, the start-stop portion of the substrate S can pass through the nozzle almost completely. Subsequently, the coating device 4 can perform a normal coating operation on the substrate S.

[0067] If it is necessary to stop the coating system again, the user can stop the coating system by, for example, pressing a stop button on the coating system or the substrate transport system. This sends a stop signal to the start-stop buffer system. The drive roller 1 can then begin to decelerate. In some embodiments, the real-time line speed of the substrate S can be measured by an encoder. When it is detected that the transport of the electrode substrate S is about to stop, the VCP module of the coating device 4 can be closed in advance. In some embodiments, the distance in advance may be 0.5 cm or less relative to the substrate. After the VCP module of the coating device 4 is closed, the coating device 4 may be moved upward along the Z axis under the control of the Z axis movement control module (indicated by double arrows). If necessary, the coating device 4 may be moved along the Y axis away from the substrate S under the control of the Y axis movement control module.

[0068] If the coating system needs to be restarted afterward, the user may, for example, press the start button for the start-stop control of the coating system again to send a start signal to the start-stop buffer system, start the coating system, and then repeat the subsequent operations to start and stop the coating connection.

[0069] According to this disclosure, the start-stop buffer structure retracts the electrode substrate by a predetermined distance at the start. There is a coating area where the end of the previous bead and the start of the next bead overlap, thickening the coating. This makes it easier to find the precise connection point during coating. The actual parameters that need to be adjusted to start and stop the connection are greatly simplified. During the operating process, the overlapping portion of the beads, the operating connection, is recoated by the applicator (coating machine) lip. At the same time, a VCP pump is used to control the amount of adhesive that can be used. Thus, according to the coating system of this disclosure, coating that satisfies the customer's thickness specifications can be achieved.

[0070] The cushioned overlap reduces the need for leakage at the beginning and end of multiple beads. Even with 6-10 cm overlaps, there may be some leakage, but the substrate will be completely covered when the second overlap is applied. Based on this, the application parameters between the start and end of the stop can be adjusted more flexibly to ensure that the coating thickness at the start-stop connection reaches approximately 10-20 μm.

[0071] This disclosure, firstly, ensures high-precision coating thickness in the start-stop connection process. Its simple operation and wide range of parameter adjustments significantly reduce the time required for adhesive technicians or customers to correct defects during the application process on-site. It also ensures long-term operational stability. Furthermore, the overall structure is simplified, occupies minimal space, and can be easily integrated into a substrate slitter / roller.

[0072] Specific embodiments of this disclosure are described in detail above with reference to the accompanying drawings. It is anticipated that various changes and modifications may be made to this disclosure without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure as defined by the accompanying claims.

[0073] List of reference symbols 1 Drive roller 2. The first role 3. The Second Laura 4. Coating device 5. Movement control module 6. Double-layered buffer roller component 61 First buffer roller 62 Second buffer roller 63 Support 7. The Fourth Roll 8 Lifting Member 9. Tension-applying device 10 The Third Laura 101 First Reel 102 Second Reel S base material

[0074] The following are some non-limiting examples of the aspects of this disclosure.

[0075] As an example, a substrate conveying system includes a drive roller (1) configured to drive a substrate (S) and move the substrate (S) in the substrate conveying direction. Furthermore, the substrate conveying system includes a first auxiliary roller group (2, 3) including a first roller (2) and a second roller (3), and the first auxiliary roller group (2, 3) is located downstream of the drive roller in the substrate conveying direction. Furthermore, the substrate conveying system includes a second auxiliary roller group (7, 10) including a third roller (10) and a fourth roller (7), and the second auxiliary roller group (7, 10) is located downstream of the first auxiliary roller group in the substrate conveying direction. Furthermore, the substrate transport system includes a double-buffer roller component (6) which includes a first buffer roller (61) and a second buffer roller (62). The first buffer roller is positioned between the first roller (2) and the second roller (3) of the first auxiliary roller group in the substrate transport direction, and the second buffer roller is positioned between the third roller (10) and the fourth roller (7) of the second auxiliary roller group in the substrate transport direction. In addition, the double-buffer roller component (6) in the substrate transport system is configured to move relative to its original position so that the portion of the substrate (S) between the first roller (2) and the fourth roller (7) reciprocates in the substrate transport direction.

[0076] The above example may further include any one or more combinations of the following examples. The substrate transport system in the above example includes a lifting member (8) for raising and lowering a double-roller buffer component (6). In the substrate transport system in the above example, the lifting member (8) includes an electric motor. In the substrate transport system in the above example, the double-roller buffer component (6) includes a support (63). In the substrate transport system in the above example, the first buffer roller (61) and the second buffer roller (62) of the double-roller buffer component (6) each have roller shafts connected to each other via the support. In the coating system in the above example, the coating system includes a coating device (4), which is positioned between the second roller (3) of the first auxiliary roller group (2, 3) and the third roller (10) of the second auxiliary roller group (7, 10) in the substrate transport direction, and the coating device (4) applies a fluid to the substrate when the substrate transport system transports the substrate (S) and passes through the coating device (4). In the coating system of the above example, the coating device (4) comprises nozzles and a support rod for the protrusions facing each other. In the coating system of the above example, the coating device (4) applies fluid to the substrate when the substrate is transported between the nozzles and the support rod for the protrusions. In the coating system of the above example, the coating device (4) comprises nozzles and a support rod for the protrusions facing each other, and the coating device (4) applies fluid to the substrate when the substrate is transported between the nozzles and the support rod for the protrusions. In the coating system of the above example, the coating device (4) comprises a metering component including a high-precision metering pump (VCP). In the coating system of the above example, the coating system comprises a tensioning device (9) for applying tension to the substrate. In the coating system of the above example, the tensioning device (9) is positioned between the coating device (4) and the third roller (10) of the second auxiliary roller group in the substrate transport direction. In the coating system of the above example, the coating device (4) is equipped with a shut-off valve upstream of the nozzle of the coating device (4). In the substrate transport system of the above example, the double buffer roller component (6) includes a support (63), and the first buffer roller (61) and the second buffer roller (62) of the double buffer roller component (6) have their respective roller shafts connected to each other via the support.In the substrate transport system of the above example, the double buffer roller component (6) is configured to be movable vertically relative to its original position. In the substrate transport system of the above example, the double buffer roller component (6) is configured to be movable horizontally relative to its original position. In the substrate transport system of the above example, the substrate transport system has a first reel (101) and a second reel (102) for the substrate (S). In the substrate transport system of the above example, the first reel (101) is located upstream of the drive roller (1) in the substrate transport direction. In the substrate transport system of the above example, the second reel (102) is located downstream of the fourth roller (7) in the substrate transport direction. In the substrate transport system of the above example, the substrate transport system comprises a first reel (101) and a second reel (102) for the substrate (S), wherein the first reel (101) is located upstream of the drive roller (1) in the substrate transport direction, and the second reel (102) is located downstream of the fourth roller (7) in the substrate transport direction.

[0077] As an example, a substrate conveying system includes a drive roller (1) that drives the substrate (S) to move it in the substrate conveying direction. Furthermore, the substrate conveying system includes a first auxiliary roller group (2, 3) including a first roller (2) and a second roller (3), and the first auxiliary roller group (2, 3) is positioned downstream of the drive roller in the substrate conveying direction. Furthermore, the substrate conveying system includes a second auxiliary roller group (7, 10) including a third roller (10) and a fourth roller (7), and the second auxiliary roller group (7, 10) is positioned downstream of the first auxiliary roller group in the substrate conveying direction. In addition, the substrate conveying system includes a buffer double roller component (6) including a first buffer roller (61) and a second buffer roller (62), where the first buffer roller is positioned between the first roller (2) and the second roller (3) of the first auxiliary roller group in the substrate conveying direction, and the second buffer roller is positioned between the third roller (10) and the fourth roller (7) of the second auxiliary roller group in the substrate conveying direction. In a substrate transport system, the double-roller buffer component (6) may be configured to be movable relative to its original position, thereby allowing the portion of the substrate (S) between the first roller (2) and the fourth roller (7) to reciprocate in the substrate transport direction.

[0078] The above example may further include any one or more of the following examples. The substrate transport system of the above example is characterized by comprising a lifting member (8) used to raise and lower the buffer double roller component (6). The substrate transport system of the above example is characterized in that the lifting member (8) includes an electric motor. The substrate transport system of the above example is characterized in that the buffer double roller component (6) includes a support (63), and the first buffer roller (61) and the second buffer roller (62) of the buffer double roller component (6) have respective roller shafts connected to each other via the support. In the coating system of the above example, the coating device (4) is positioned between the second roller (3) of the first auxiliary roller group (2, 3) and the third roller (10) of the second auxiliary roller group (7, 10) in the substrate transport direction, and the coating device (4) applies fluid to the substrate when the substrate transport system transports the substrate (S) and passes it through the coating device (4). In the coating system of the above example, the coating device (4) is equipped with nozzles and a convex support rod facing each other, and the coating device (4) applies fluid to the substrate when the substrate is conveyed between the nozzles and the convex support rod. The coating system of the above example is characterized in that the coating device (4) is equipped with a metering component in the form of a VCP pump. The coating system of the above example is characterized in that it is equipped with a tension-applying device (9) that applies tension to the substrate. The coating system of the above example is characterized in that the tension-applying device (9) is positioned between the coating device (4) and the third roller (10) of the second auxiliary roller group in the substrate conveying direction. In the coating system of the above example, the coating device (4) is equipped with a shut-off valve positioned upstream of the nozzle of the coating device (4). In the substrate conveying system of the above example, the buffer double roller component (6) is configured to move vertically relative to the original position of the buffer double roller component (6). In the substrate conveying system of the above example, the buffer double roller component (6) is configured to move horizontally relative to the original position of the buffer double roller component (6).The substrate transport system in the above example has a first reel (101) and a second reel (102) for the substrate (S), wherein the first reel (101) is positioned upstream of the drive roller (1) in the substrate transport direction, and the second reel (102) is positioned downstream of the fourth roller (7) in the substrate transport direction.

[0079] In this disclosure, various elements may be described using terms such as "first," "second," etc., but these terms should not be used to limit these elements. These terms are used solely to distinguish one element from another. For example, without departing from the scope of the disclosure, the first element may be called the second element, and similarly, the second element may be called the first element. As used in this disclosure, the terms "and / or" include any one of the listed related items and all combinations of one or more of them.

[0080] When an element such as a layer, region, or substrate is described as being "on top of" or "extending upward" of another element, it will be understood that it may be directly on top of or directly extending upward of the other element, or an intervening element may be present. In contrast, when an element is described as being "directly on top of" or "directly extending upward" of another element, no intervening element exists. Similarly, when an element such as a layer, region, or substrate is described as being "above" or "extending upward" of another element, it will be understood that it may be directly above or directly extending upward of the other element, or an intervening element may be present. In contrast, when an element is described as being "directly above" or "directly extending upward" of another element, no intervening element exists. When an element is described as being "connected" or "bonded" to another element, it will be understood that it may be directly connected or bonded to the other element, or an intervening element may be present. In contrast, when an element is described as being "directly connected" or "directly bonded" to another element, no intervening element exists.

[0081] In this disclosure, relative terms such as “down,” “up,” “above,” “downward,” “horizontal,” or “vertical” may be used to describe the relationship between one element, layer, or region and another, as shown in the figures. It will be understood that these terms and the terms described above are intended to encompass different orientations of the apparatus in addition to the orientation shown in the figures.

[0082] The terms used in this disclosure are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the disclosure. As used in this disclosure, the singular form is intended to include the plural form unless the context explicitly indicates otherwise. As used in this disclosure, the terms “equipped,” “equipped,” “contains,” and / or “contains” identify the presence of a described feature, integer, step, action, element, and / or part, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, actions, elements, and / or groups thereof.

[0083] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used in this disclosure (including technical and scientific terms) have the same meaning as generally understood by those skilled in the art to which this disclosure belongs. Terms used in this disclosure should be construed to have meanings consistent with their meanings in the context of this specification and related art, and it will be further understood that they should not be construed in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly defined so in this disclosure.

[0084] Many of the features and advantages of this disclosure are evident from the detailed specification, and therefore the attached claims are intended to cover all such features and advantages of this disclosure that are in the true spirit and scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, since numerous modifications and variations are readily apparent to those skilled in the art, it is undesirable to limit this disclosure to the exact configuration and operation illustrated and described, and therefore all suitable modifications and equivalents can rely on those within the scope of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A drive roller (1) configured to drive the substrate (S) in order to move the substrate (S) in the substrate transport direction, A first group of auxiliary rollers (2, 3) includes a first roller (2) and a second roller (3), and is positioned downstream of the drive roller in the substrate transport direction, A second group of auxiliary rollers (7, 10) includes a third roller (10) and a fourth roller (7), and is located downstream of the first group of auxiliary rollers in the substrate transport direction. A double-roller buffer component (6) including a first buffer roller (61) and a second buffer roller (62), Equipped with, The first buffer roller is positioned between the first roller (2) and the second roller (3) of the first auxiliary roller group in the substrate transport direction, and the second buffer roller is positioned between the third roller (10) and the fourth roller (7) of the second auxiliary roller group in the substrate transport direction. A substrate conveying system characterized in that the buffer double roller component (6) is configured to move relative to its original position so that the portion of the substrate (S) between the first roller (2) and the fourth roller (7) reciprocates in the substrate conveying direction.

2. The substrate conveying system according to claim 1, further comprising a lifting member (8) configured to raise and lower the buffer double roller component (6).

3. The substrate transport system according to claim 2, characterized in that the lifting member (8) includes an electric motor.

4. The substrate transport system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the buffer double roller component (6) includes a support (63).

5. The substrate conveying system according to claim 4, characterized in that the first buffer roller (61) and the second buffer roller (62) of the buffer double roller component (6) each have a roller shaft, and the respective roller shafts are connected to each other via the support.

6. The aforementioned double-roller buffer component (6) includes a support (63), The substrate conveying system according to claim 4, characterized in that the first buffer roller (61) and the second buffer roller (62) of the buffer double roller component (6) each have a roller shaft, and the respective roller shafts are connected to each other via the support.

7. The substrate conveying system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the buffer double roller component (6) is configured to move vertically with respect to the original position of the buffer double roller component (6).

8. The substrate conveying system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the buffer double roller component (6) is configured to move horizontally relative to the original position of the buffer double roller component (6).

9. The substrate conveying system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that it comprises a first reel (101) and a second reel (102) for the substrate (S).

10. The substrate conveying system according to claim 9, characterized in that the first reel (101) is positioned upstream of the drive roller (1) in the substrate conveying direction.

11. The substrate conveying system according to claim 9, characterized in that the second reel (102) is positioned downstream of the fourth roller (7) in the substrate conveying direction.

12. The substrate transport system comprises a first reel (101) and a second reel (102) for the substrate (S), The first reel (101) is positioned upstream of the drive roller (1) in the substrate transport direction. The substrate conveying system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the second reel (102) is positioned downstream of the fourth roller (7) in the substrate conveying direction.

13. A coating system comprising the substrate transport system according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the coating system is Coating apparatus (4) Furthermore, The coating apparatus (4) is positioned in the substrate transport direction between the second roller (3) of the first auxiliary roller group (2, 3) and the third roller (10) of the second auxiliary roller group (7, 10). The coating apparatus (4) is a coating system characterized in that it applies a fluid to the substrate when the substrate transport system transports the substrate (S) and passes it through the coating apparatus (4).

14. The coating system according to claim 13, characterized in that the coating device (4) comprises nozzles facing each other and a support rod for the protrusion.

15. The coating system according to claim 14, characterized in that the coating apparatus (4) applies a fluid to the substrate when the substrate is transported between the nozzle and the convex support rod.

16. The coating apparatus (4) comprises opposing nozzles and a support rod for the protruding portion, The coating system according to claim 13, characterized in that the coating apparatus (4) applies a fluid to the substrate when the substrate is transported between the nozzle and the support rod for the protrusion.

17. The coating system according to claim 13 or 16, characterized in that the coating apparatus (4) comprises a metering component including a high-precision metering pump (VCP).

18. The coating system according to claim 13 or 16, characterized in that it comprises a tension-applying device (9) for applying tension to the substrate.

19. The coating system according to claim 18, characterized in that the tension-applying device (9) is positioned between the coating device (4) and the third roller (10) of the second auxiliary roller group in the substrate transport direction.

20. The coating system according to claim 13 or 16, characterized in that the coating device (4) is provided with a shut-off valve located upstream of the nozzle of the coating device (4).

21. A drive roller (1) capable of driving the substrate (S) to move the substrate (S) in the substrate transport direction, A first group of auxiliary rollers (2, 3) includes a first roller (2) and a second roller (3), and is positioned downstream of the drive roller in the substrate transport direction, A second group of auxiliary rollers (7, 10) includes a third roller (10) and a fourth roller (7), and is located downstream of the first group of auxiliary rollers in the substrate transport direction. A double-roller buffer component (6) including a first buffer roller (61) and a second buffer roller (62), Equipped with, The first buffer roller is positioned between the first roller (2) and the second roller (3) of the first auxiliary roller group in the substrate transport direction, and the second buffer roller is positioned between the third roller (10) and the fourth roller (7) of the second auxiliary roller group in the substrate transport direction. A substrate conveying system characterized in that the buffer double roller component (6) is configured to move relative to its original position so that the portion of the substrate (S) between the first roller (2) and the fourth roller (7) reciprocates in the substrate conveying direction.

22. The substrate conveying system according to claim 21, further comprising a lifting member (8) used for raising and lowering the buffer double roller component (6).

23. The substrate transport system according to claim 22, characterized in that the lifting member (8) includes an electric motor.

24. The aforementioned double-roller buffer component (6) includes a support (63), The substrate conveying system according to any one of claims 21 to 23, characterized in that the first buffer roller (61) and the second buffer roller (62) of the buffer double roller component (6) each have a roller shaft, and the respective roller shafts are connected to each other via the support.

25. The substrate conveying system according to any one of claims 21 to 23, characterized in that the buffer double roller component (6) is configured to move vertically with respect to the original position of the buffer double roller component (6).

26. The substrate conveying system according to any one of claims 21 to 23, characterized in that the buffer double roller component (6) is configured to move horizontally relative to the original position of the buffer double roller component (6).

27. The substrate conveying system comprises a first reel (101) and a second reel (102) for the substrate (S), wherein the first reel (101) is positioned upstream of the drive roller (1) in the substrate conveying direction, and the second reel (102) is positioned downstream of the fourth roller (7) in the substrate conveying direction, as described in any one of claims 21 to 23.

28. Coating device (4), A substrate transport system according to any one of claims 21 to 27, Equipped with, The coating apparatus (4) is positioned in the substrate transport direction between the second roller (3) of the first auxiliary roller group (2, 3) and the third roller (10) of the second auxiliary roller group (7, 10). The coating apparatus (4) is a coating system characterized in that it applies a fluid to the substrate when the substrate transport system transports the substrate (S) and passes it through the coating apparatus (4).

29. The coating system according to claim 28, wherein the coating apparatus (4) comprises nozzles and a support rod for protrusions facing each other, and the coating apparatus (4) applies a fluid to the substrate when the substrate is transported between the nozzles and the support rod for protrusions.

30. The coating system according to claim 28 or 29, characterized in that the coating device (4) comprises a metering component in the form of a VCP pump.

31. The coating system according to claim 28 or 29, characterized in that it comprises a tension-applying device (9) for applying tension to the substrate.

32. The coating system according to claim 31, characterized in that the tension-applying device (9) is positioned between the coating device (4) and the third roller (10) of the second auxiliary roller group in the substrate transport direction.

33. The coating system according to claim 28 or 29, characterized in that the coating device (4) is provided with a shut-off valve located upstream of the nozzle of the coating device (4).

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