Taping device for electrode sheets

Abstract

The present invention relates to a taping device for electrode sheets, and one aspect of the present invention includes an electrode sheet supply unit that supplies an electrode sheet including a foil-shaped current collector and a plurality of pattern portions arranged along the longitudinal direction of the current collector on one surface of the current collector; a taping unit that forms a tape portion attached to one surface of the current collector so as to overlap with at least a portion of two adjacent pattern portions among the plurality of pattern portions; and an electrode sheet retrieval unit that retrieves the electrode sheet on which the tape portion is formed, wherein the taping unit may include a gripper that can grasp or release the tape and is movable in the width direction of the current collector, and a pressure block that can press the tape toward the current collector with an area having a width wider than the distance between the two pattern portions.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority based on Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0051566 filed on April 17, 2024, and all the contents disclosed in the corresponding Korean patent application document are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0002] The present invention relates to a taping device for an electrode sheet, and more particularly, to a taping device for an electrode sheet that can attach a tape to the outer surface of the electrode sheet.

Background Art

[0003] Secondary batteries have been applied to small fields such as mobile devices and notebook computers. Recently, their research direction has expanded to medium and large fields and is widely used in fields that require high voltage and large capacity, such as energy storage systems (ESS) and electric vehicles (EV).

[0004] Generally, a secondary battery has a structure in which an electrolytic solution and an electrode assembly are accommodated inside a case or housing. The electrode assembly can be manufactured by processing an electrode sheet in which an active material pattern is formed on the surface of a foil-shaped metal current collector. For example, the electrode assembly can be manufactured by winding the electrode sheet around a predetermined axis, folding it for each unit length, or cutting the electrode sheet into unit bodies of a predetermined size and then laminating them.

[0005] Here, the electrode sheet may undergo a further taping process. The taping process involves attaching tape to the outer surface of the current collector. In this process, the tape is attached so as to cover the edges of the active material pattern and a portion of the blank area. Here, the blank area refers to the portion of the electrode sheet's current collector where no active material pattern is formed and which is exposed to the outside. The tape attached to the current collector protects the edges of the active material pattern and prevents short circuits from occurring between active material patterns of different polarities.

[0006] On the other hand, conventional electrode sheet taping devices attached one layer of tape to each edge of the active material pattern. Specifically, with conventional devices, the tape attached to the electrode sheet covered one edge of the active material pattern, while the remaining portion covered the plain area of ​​the current collector. Such conventional devices, which are configured to attach one layer of tape individually to each active material pattern, had the problem of low productivity and efficiency.

[0007] To improve the productivity and efficiency of the taping process, a process of applying wider tape between adjacent active material patterns can be considered. Such a process allows a single layer of tape to cover the entire edge of adjacent active material patterns at once, thereby improving the efficiency and productivity of the taping process.

[0008] However, increasing the tape width came with the problem of degrading the quality of tape adhesion. This is because, as the tape width increases, the likelihood of defects such as wrinkles forming in the tape or air bubbles forming between the tape and the electrode sheet increases. Therefore, there has been an urgent need to develop an electrode sheet taping device that can adhere tape to the electrode sheet with high quality and improve the efficiency and productivity of the taping process. [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0009] The present invention was derived to solve the above-mentioned problems, and the object of the present invention is to provide an electrode sheet taping device that can attach tape covering the edges of adjacent pattern portions to the electrode sheet with high quality.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to provide an electrode sheet taping apparatus that can efficiently perform the taping process for electrode sheets.

[0011] The problems that the present invention will address are not limited to those mentioned above, and any other problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person of the art in which the present invention pertains from the following description. [Means for solving the problem]

[0012] According to one aspect of the present invention, an electrode sheet taping device is provided, comprising: an electrode sheet supply unit that supplies an electrode sheet including a foil-shaped current collector and a plurality of pattern portions arranged along the longitudinal direction of the current collector on one surface of the current collector; a taping unit that forms a tape portion attached to one surface of the current collector so as to overlap with at least a portion of two adjacent pattern portions among the plurality of pattern portions; and an electrode sheet retrieval unit that retrieves the electrode sheet on which the tape portion is formed, wherein the taping unit includes a gripper that can grasp or release the tape and is movable in the width direction of the current collector, and a pressure block that can press the tape toward the current collector with an area having a width wider than the distance between the two pattern portions.

[0013] Here, the gripper may include a first gripper portion, a grip plate portion movably coupled to one side of the first gripper portion, and a second gripper portion that is movable toward or toward the first gripper portion so as to be able to grasp or release a tape located between the grip plate portion and the grip plate portion.

[0014] Here, the grip plate portion can be rotatable about an axis parallel to the width direction of the current collector portion.

[0015] Here, the grip plate portion has a plurality of coupling holes arranged in the longitudinal direction of the electrode sheet, and the gripper may further include a rotating shaft member that is coupled to one of the plurality of coupling holes and becomes the rotation center of the grip plate portion.

[0016] Here, the pressure block may include a pressure portion extending in the width direction of the current collector and movable toward one side of the current collector, and a pressure pad portion provided on one side of the pressure portion, with an embossed pattern formed on its outer surface facing the one side of the current collector.

[0017] Here, the pressure pad portion has a predetermined width in the longitudinal direction of the current collector portion, and the length of the pressure pad portion in the width direction can be greater than the distance between adjacent pattern portions.

[0018] Here, the pressurizing block further includes a plurality of heating units provided inside the pressurizing unit for heating the pressurizing unit, and the heating units may include heating wires extending in the width direction of the current collector.

[0019] Here, the plurality of heating units can be arranged along the transport direction of the electrode sheet.

[0020] This may further include a cleaning unit for removing foreign matter adhering to the current collector.

[0021] Here, the cleaning unit can be positioned upstream of the taping unit with respect to the direction in which the electrode sheet is transported.

[0022] Here, the cleaning unit may include a cleaning main body portion that extends in the width direction of the current collecting portion and has a flow path formed therein through which air can enter and exit, and a blower portion that can inject air from the cleaning main body portion onto the one surface of the current collecting portion.

[0023] Here, the cleaning unit may further include a cleaning roller portion over which the electrode sheet can pass. The cleaning main body portion includes a recessed surface that is recessed in a concave shape so as to correspond to the outer peripheral portion of the cleaning roller portion, and the blower portion can be provided on the recessed surface.

[0024] Here, the cleaning unit may further include a suction portion that can suck in the air that is ejected from the blower portion and hits the one surface of the current collecting portion.

[0025] Here, the blower portion can be located at a subsequent stage of the suction portion with respect to the direction in which the electrode sheet is transferred.

[0026] Here, it further includes a sensor unit that can acquire information regarding the relative positions of the pattern portion and the tape portion on the one surface of the current collecting portion, and a processor that determines the presence or absence of defects in the electrode sheet based on the information acquired by the sensor unit. The sensor unit can include a sensor portion that extends in the width direction of the current collecting portion so as to be able to observe the electrode sheet from one end to the other end in the width direction.

[0027] Here, the sensor unit can further include an illumination portion that irradiates light toward the tape portion so as to be able to collect the light reflected from the substance on the outer surface of the tape portion where the sensor portion is located.

[0028] Here, it consists of a vision sensor that photographs the electrode sheet from one end to the other end in the width direction to form image data. The processor forms a plurality of divided image data obtained by photographing a plurality of divided regions into which the electrode sheet is divided in the width direction based on the image data, and can respectively determine whether or not the tape portion and the pattern portion overlap in the divided regions based on the divided image data.

[0029] Here, it can further include a transfer unit that transfers the electrode sheet from the electrode sheet supply unit toward the electrode sheet recovery unit, a chamber that provides a working space through which the electrode sheet transferred by the transfer unit passes and where the taping unit is arranged, and a circulation unit that is located above the electrode sheet transferred by the transfer unit in the working space and blows air downward.

[0030] Here, the chamber includes a chamber portion having the working space inside and a communication portion provided in the chamber portion that communicates the working space with the outside, and the communication portion can be located below the electrode sheet transferred by the transfer unit.

[0031] Here, it further includes a sensor unit capable of acquiring information regarding the relative positions of the pattern portion and the tape portion on the one surface of the current collector portion, and a processor that determines whether there is a defect in the electrode sheet based on the information acquired by the sensor unit, and the processor can be located outside the chamber.

Advantages of the Invention

[0032] According to one aspect of the present invention, the gripper of the electrode sheet taping device grasps a tape having a width wider than the distance between two adjacent pattern sections and moves it in the width direction of the electrode sheet, thereby allowing one layer of tape to be attached to the electrode sheet so as to cover the opposing edges of the two pattern sections. This allows the taping process for two adjacent pattern sections to be performed at once, improving productivity and efficiency.

[0033] According to one aspect of the present invention, by applying pressure to the electrode sheet side with a pressure block having a width wider than the distance between the two pattern sections, the generation of wrinkles in the tape and / or air bubbles trapped between the tape and the current collector can be minimized. As a result, a wider tape can be attached to the electrode sheet with high quality.

[0034] The effects of the present invention are not limited to those described above, and any effects not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains from this specification and the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0035] [Figure 1] This figure schematically illustrates how an electrode sheet taping device according to one embodiment of the present invention taps an electrode sheet. [Figure 2] This is a perspective view from above of a portion of an electrode sheet that is the target of work by a taping device for electrode sheets according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] This is a schematic perspective view of a cleaning unit for an electrode sheet taping device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] This is a schematic side view illustrating how a cleaning unit of an electrode sheet taping device according to one embodiment of the present invention cleans an electrode sheet. Here, the cleaning body of the cleaning unit is shown in cross-section. [Figure 5]This is a perspective view from above of the gripper of an electrode sheet taping device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] This is a side view of a gripper of a taping device for electrode sheets according to one embodiment of the present invention. Here, the rotating support frame is not shown, and the rotating shaft member is shown in cross-section. [Figure 7] This diagram schematically shows how a gripper of an electrode sheet taping device according to one embodiment of the present invention grasps the end of the tape. [Figure 8] This diagram schematically shows how a gripper of an electrode sheet taping device according to one embodiment of the present invention moves in the width direction of the electrode sheet while gripping the tape. [Figure 9] This is a perspective view from below of the pressure block of a taping device for electrode sheets according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] This is an enlarged view of section U in Figure 9. [Figure 11] This diagram schematically illustrates the process by which tape is attached to an electrode sheet by a pressure block in a taping device for electrode sheets according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] This is a perspective view from above of a portion of an electrode sheet taped by an electrode sheet taping device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] Figure 12 is a side view of a portion of the electrode sheet shown. [Figure 14] This is a top-down perspective view of a sensor unit of an electrode sheet taping device according to one embodiment of the present invention, observing the taped portion of the electrode sheet. [Figure 15] This is a side view of a sensor unit of an electrode sheet taping device according to one embodiment of the present invention, observing the taped portion of the electrode sheet. [Figure 16] This is a plan view schematically showing the divided regions identified by the processor of an electrode sheet taping device according to one embodiment of the present invention on an electrode sheet. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0036] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail so that they can be easily implemented by those with the necessary knowledge. However, the present invention can be realized in a variety of different forms and is not limited or restricted by the following embodiments.

[0037] For the purpose of clearly describing the present invention, detailed descriptions of relevant prior art that are irrelevant to the description or that could obscure the gist of the invention have been omitted. In this specification, when assigning reference numerals to components in the drawings, the same or similar reference numerals are used throughout the specification for components that are the same or similar.

[0038] Furthermore, the terms and words used in this specification and in the claims should not be interpreted in a manner limited to their ordinary or dictionary meanings. Rather, they should be interpreted in a manner consistent with the technical idea of ​​the present invention, in accordance with the principle that inventors may define the concepts of terms as appropriate to best describe their invention.

[0039] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing how an electrode sheet taping device according to one embodiment of the present invention taps an electrode sheet. Figure 2 is a perspective view from above of a portion of the electrode sheet being taped by the electrode sheet taping device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 1 discloses an electrode sheet taping device (hereinafter referred to as the taping device) 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The taping device 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention may be a device for forming a taped electrode sheet S_T by attaching tape to an electrode sheet S. Hereinafter, both the untaped electrode sheet S and the taped electrode sheet S_T will be referred to as electrode sheet S and S_T, and will be distinguished by the same reference numerals in the drawings.

[0041] Before describing the taping apparatus 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention, the electrode sheet S to be worked on by the taping apparatus 1 will be described. Figure 2 discloses the electrode sheet S to be worked on by the taping apparatus 1. Referring to Figure 2, the electrode sheet S may include a current collector F and a patterned portion P.

[0042] In this disclosure, the current collector F may be a portion of the electrode's current collector. As shown in the figures, the current collector F may have a foil shape extending in one direction and having a predetermined width. The current collector F may be made of a conductive metal. For example, the current collector F may be made of copper (Cu) or aluminum (Al), but is not limited thereto.

[0043] In this disclosure, the pattern portion P may be a part that provides polarity to the electrode. For this purpose, the pattern portion P may include an electrode active material. For example, the pattern portion P may include, but is not limited to, lithium cobalt oxide (LCO), lithium manganese oxide (LMO), nickel cobalt manganese (NCM), nickel cobalt aluminum (NCA), lithium iron phosphate (LFP), graphite (C), silicon (Si), etc.

[0044] In this disclosure, the pattern portion P is formed on the outer surface of the current collector portion F and may consist of a layered structure having a predetermined area. Here, the width of the pattern portion P may be smaller than the width of the current collector portion F.

[0045] Therefore, the edge portion located in the width direction (Y-axis direction) of the current collector F can be exposed to the outside without being covered by the pattern portion P. The pattern portion P may be provided on only one side of the current collector F, or it may be provided on both sides of the current collector F.

[0046] Here, the pattern section P is composed of multiple sections and can be arranged along the longitudinal direction of the current collection section F. In addition, the portion of the current collection section F between adjacent pattern sections P is not covered by the pattern section P and can be exposed to the outside.

[0047] Here, at least one of the multiple pattern sections P may have a different length from any one of the others. As shown in the figure, the multiple pattern sections P may include a first pattern section P1 having a first length L_P1 and a second pattern section P2 having a second length L_P2 shorter than the first length L_P1. Furthermore, the first pattern section P1 and the second pattern section P2 may be arranged alternately along the longitudinal direction of the current collector F.

[0048] Needless to say, if necessary, multiple pattern sections P may all have the same length, or three or more pattern sections of different lengths may be arranged in a predetermined manner.

[0049] The components of the taping device 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail below.

[0050] Figure 3 is a schematic perspective view of the cleaning unit of an electrode sheet taping device according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4 is a schematic side view showing the cleaning unit of an electrode sheet taping device according to one embodiment of the present invention cleaning an electrode sheet. Here, the cleaning body of the cleaning unit is shown in cross-section. Figure 5 is a perspective view of the gripper of an electrode sheet taping device according to one embodiment of the present invention viewed from above. Figure 6 is a side view of the gripper of an electrode sheet taping device according to one embodiment of the present invention. Here, the rotating support frame is not shown, and the rotating shaft member is shown in cross-section. Figure 7 is a schematic diagram showing the gripper of an electrode sheet taping device according to one embodiment of the present invention gripping the end of the tape. Figure 8 is a schematic diagram showing the gripper of an electrode sheet taping device according to one embodiment of the present invention moving in the width direction of the electrode sheet while gripping the tape. Figure 9 is a perspective view of the pressure block of an electrode sheet taping device according to one embodiment of the present invention viewed from below. Figure 10 is an enlarged view of portion U in Figure 9. Figure 11 is a schematic diagram showing the process by which the tape is attached to the electrode sheet by the pressure block of an electrode sheet taping device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] Referring to Figure 1, a taping apparatus 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a chamber 10. The chamber 10 may be configured to provide a workspace S_12 in which the taping process of the electrode sheet S is carried out. The electrode sheet S can be taped as it passes through the workspace S_12 from left (negative direction of the Y-axis) to right (positive direction of the Y-axis).

[0052] In this embodiment, the chamber 10 may include a chamber section 12. The chamber section 12 can be provided as a box-shaped structure with a working space S_12 inside. The chamber section 12 can separate the working space S_12 from the outside.

[0053] This allows the electrode sheet S to be protected from external contamination and impact during the taping process. Such a chamber 12 can be provided as a structure of various shapes that can partition the working space S_12 from the outside.

[0054] On the other hand, the chamber section 12 may be provided with a penetration or door section to allow an untaped electrode sheet S to enter the working space S_12, or a taped electrode sheet S_T to exit to the outside.

[0055] In this embodiment, the chamber 10 may include a communication section 14. The communication section 14 may be provided in the chamber section 12 to connect the working space S_12 with the outside. For example, the communication section 14 may consist of a window formed in the chamber section 12.

[0056] Here, a mesh-shaped structure can be installed in the window. This minimizes the entry of external foreign matter into the working space S_12 through the communication section 14. The structure and shape of such a communication section 14 are not particularly limited as long as it allows ventilation between the working space S_12 and the outside.

[0057] In this embodiment, the communication portion 14 can be located below (in the negative Z direction) the electrode sheet S passing through the working space S_12. For this reason, the communication portion 14 can be located at or near the bottom of the working space S_12. The effects of this configuration will be described later along with the circulation unit 110.

[0058] Referring to Figure 1, the taping apparatus 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention may include an electrode sheet supply unit (hereinafter referred to as the supply unit) 20. The supply unit 20 may be configured to supply electrode sheets S to the taping unit 50, which will be described later.

[0059] As shown in the illustration, the supply unit 20 may consist of an unwinding device capable of unwinding the electrode sheet S wound into a cylindrical shape. The supply unit 20 is located outside the workspace S_12 and can supply the electrode sheet S to the workspace S_12. However, the structure and location of the supply unit 20 are not particularly limited. For example, the supply unit 20 may be located in the workspace S_12.

[0060] A taping apparatus 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a transfer unit 30. The transfer unit 30 may be configured for transferring electrode sheets S, S_T. As shown in the figure, the transfer unit 30 may consist of a plurality of transfer rollers. However, the configuration of the transfer unit 30 is not particularly limited as long as it can transfer the electrode sheets S, S_T.

[0061] In this embodiment, the transfer unit 30 can transfer the electrode sheets S and S_T horizontally (in the Y-axis direction) so that they move from the supply unit 20 to the electrode sheet retrieval unit 100, which will be described later. As a result, the electrode sheets S and S_T can pass through the work space S_12 horizontally (in the Y-axis direction).

[0062] As shown in the diagram, it goes without saying that the transfer unit 30 may be configured to transfer a portion of the electrode sheets S, S_T in a direction inclined with respect to the vertical direction (Z-axis direction) or the horizontal direction (Y-axis direction).

[0063] Referring to Figures 1, 3, and 4, the taping apparatus 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a cleaning unit 40. The cleaning unit 40 may be configured to clean the outer surface of the electrode sheet S and remove foreign matter. Here, the foreign matter may be dust, metal shavings, etc.

[0064] In this embodiment, the cleaning unit 40 can be located inside the workspace S_12. Therefore, the cleaning unit 40 can be protected from external shocks and contamination by the chamber 10.

[0065] Here, the cleaning unit 40 can be positioned in the workspace S_12, prior to the taping unit 50 (described later), with reference to the transport direction of the electrode sheet S. This may be done to clean the outer surface of the electrode sheet S before it is taped, thereby improving process quality.

[0066] For this reason, in this embodiment, the cleaning unit 40 can be positioned in the left-side region (negative direction of the Y-axis) of the workspace S_12 so as to be closer to the supply unit 20 than to the taping unit 50.

[0067] In this embodiment, the cleaning unit 40 may include a cleaning body 42. The cleaning body 42 may also be configured to serve as the base for the blower 46 and suction 48, which will be described later.

[0068] The cleaning body 42 can extend in the width direction (X-axis direction) of the electrode sheet S (or current collector F). Here, the length of the cleaning body 42 can be longer than the width of the electrode sheet S. This allows the cleaning body 42 to cover the electrode sheet S completely along its width.

[0069] In this embodiment, the cleaning body 42 may be provided with flow paths L_S and L_B through which air can enter and exit. The flow paths L_S and L_B may include a blower flow path L_B through which air discharged to the blower section 46 flows, and a suction flow path L_S through which air drawn into the suction section 48 flows.

[0070] Here, the blower channel L_B and the suction channel L_S can extend in the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction) of the cleaning body 42. This allows air to be blown or sucked in along the width direction (X-axis direction) of the electrode sheet S.

[0071] On the other hand, in this embodiment, a blower tube 43_B and a suction tube 43_S can be connected to the cleaning body 42 in a way that allows fluid communication. The blower tube 43_B and the suction tube 43_S can be connected to a blower passage L_B and a suction passage L_S, respectively. A predetermined pump (not shown) can be connected to the blower tube 43_B and the suction tube 43_S. This allows air to enter and exit the cleaning body 42 at a predetermined pressure.

[0072] In this embodiment, the cleaning body portion 42 may be provided with a recessed surface 42a. The recessed surface 42a can be recessed in a concave shape on the inside of the cleaning body portion 42. This is so that the recessed surface 42a faces the outer circumference of the cleaning roller portion 44, which will be described later, at a position as close as possible.

[0073] Here, the recessed surface 42a can correspond to the outer periphery of the cleaning roller portion 44, which will be described later. Here, the statement that the recessed surface 42a corresponds to the outer periphery of the cleaning roller portion 44 means that, with respect to a cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction) of the cleaning roller portion 44, the curvature of the recessed surface 42a and the cleaning roller portion 44 are the same or slightly different.

[0074] As a result, the gap (or space) between the recessed surface 42a and the outer circumferential surface of the cleaning roller portion 44 can be formed uniformly in the circumferential direction of the cleaning roller portion 44. Furthermore, the electrode sheet S can move in and out of the gap. In other words, the electrode sheet S can move in and out between the recessed surface 42a and the cleaning roller portion 44.

[0075] If necessary, the gap in one section of the cleaning roller section 44 may have different sizes from the gap in another section in the circumferential direction, or the size of the gap in the cleaning roller section 44 may be configured to change gradually in the circumferential direction. The size of the gap is not particularly limited as long as the electrode sheet S can enter and exit.

[0076] Referring also to Figures 3 and 4, the cleaning unit 40 of the taping apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a cleaning roller section 44. The cleaning roller section 44 may be configured to transport the electrode sheet S in close contact with the recessed surface 42a of the cleaning body section 42. This allows the blower section 46 and suction section 48 provided on the recessed surface 42a to be positioned as close as possible to the electrode sheet S.

[0077] In this embodiment, the cleaning roller portion 44 can extend in the width direction (X-axis direction) of the electrode sheet S. Here, the length of the cleaning roller portion 44 may be longer than or the same as the width of the electrode sheet S. This allows the cleaning roller portion 44 to stably adhere to the electrode sheet S on the cleaning body portion 42 side.

[0078] Referring to Figures 3 and 4, the cleaning unit 40 of the taping apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a blower unit 46. The blower unit 46 may be configured to spray air toward the electrode sheet S and clean the outer surface of the electrode sheet S.

[0079] As shown in the figure, in this embodiment, the blower section 46 can be provided in the form of air injection holes formed in the recessed surface 42a. The blower section 46 can be connected to the blower flow path L_B. Therefore, high-pressure air that flows into the cleaning body section 42 via the blower tube 43_B can be injected through the blower section 46.

[0080] Here, the blower section 46 can extend long from the recessed surface 42a in the width direction (X-axis direction) of the electrode sheet S. This allows the blower section 46 to spray air evenly onto the electrode sheet S. To perform this function more effectively, the length of the blower section 46 can be made to be the same as or even longer than the width of the electrode sheet S.

[0081] On the other hand, in this embodiment, the blower section 46 can be positioned after the suction section 48, which will be described later, with reference to the transport direction of the electrode sheet S. Furthermore, the blower section 46 can be configured to inject air in a direction opposite to the transport direction of the electrode sheet S. Such a configuration can be achieved by adjusting the direction of the air injection holes that make up the blower section 46.

[0082] Here, when we say that air is injected from the blower unit 46 in a direction opposite to the transfer direction of the electrode sheet S, it may mean that the direction vector of the air injected from the blower unit 46 includes a component that points in the opposite direction to the transfer direction of the electrode sheet S.

[0083] As a result, the air sprayed from the blower unit 46 can remove foreign matter attached to (or adsorbed) the electrode sheet S with greater force. This is because the air is sprayed in the opposite direction to the transport direction, and the relative velocity between the electrode sheet S and the air can become even faster.

[0084] On the other hand, in this embodiment, the air injection holes constituting the blower section 46 can be smaller in size than the air intake holes of the suction section 48, which will be described later. This is because the injection speed of the blower section 46 is faster than the suction speed of the suction section 48.

[0085] On the other hand, in this embodiment, the air injection holes constituting the blower section 46 are shown as elongated slit shapes. However, the air injection holes can be appropriately deformed as needed. For example, the air injection holes can be provided in the form of circular holes having a predetermined diameter. Furthermore, a plurality of such circular holes can be arranged in the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction) of the cleaning body section 42.

[0086] Referring also to Figures 3 and 4, the cleaning unit 40 of the taping device according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a suction unit 48. The suction unit 48 may be configured to suck up foreign matter that has fallen off the electrode sheet S by the blower unit 46 described above. This prevents the fallen foreign matter from reattaching to or being attracted to the electrode sheet S.

[0087] In this embodiment, the suction section 48 can be provided in the form of an air intake hole formed in the recessed surface 42a. The suction section 48 can be connected to a suction channel L_S. Therefore, foreign matter and air sucked into the suction section 48 can be discharged to the outside via the cleaning body section 42 and the suction tube 43_S.

[0088] Here, the suction portion 48 can extend for a long distance from the recessed surface 42a in the width direction (X-axis direction) of the electrode sheet S. This allows the suction portion 48 to suck up foreign matter along the width direction of the electrode sheet S. To perform this function more effectively, the length of the suction portion 48 can be formed to be the same as or longer than the width of the electrode sheet S.

[0089] On the other hand, in this embodiment, the suction section 48 can be positioned prior to the blower section 46 with respect to the transport direction of the electrode sheet S. Furthermore, the suction section 48 can be configured to draw in air in a direction parallel to the transport direction of the electrode sheet S. Such a configuration can be achieved by adjusting the direction of the air intake holes that make up the suction section 48.

[0090] Here, when we say that air is drawn in from the suction unit 48 parallel to the transport direction of the electrode sheet S, it may mean that the direction vector of the air entering the suction unit 48 includes a component that points in the transport direction of the electrode sheet S. As a result, the suction unit 48 can more effectively collect foreign matter that has fallen off the electrode sheet S.

[0091] On the other hand, in this embodiment, the air intake holes constituting the suction section 48 can be larger than the air injection holes of the blower section 46 described above. This is because the suction speed of the suction section 48 is faster than the injection speed of the blower section 46, and also because foreign matter that has fallen off the electrode sheet S enters the suction section 48.

[0092] On the other hand, in this embodiment, the air intake holes constituting the suction section 48 are shown as elongated slit shapes, but the air intake holes can be appropriately deformed as needed. For example, the air intake holes can be provided in the form of circular holes having a predetermined diameter. Furthermore, a plurality of such circular holes can be arranged in the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction) of the cleaning body section 42.

[0093] As described above, according to the taping device of one embodiment of the present invention, the cleaning unit 40 can remove foreign matter that is attached to or adsorbed to the electrode sheet S, and it is possible to prevent foreign matter from being interposed between the tape and the electrode sheet S or for lifting to occur. As a result, a tape with a wide width can be attached to the electrode sheet S with high quality.

[0094] On the other hand, in this embodiment, the cleaning unit 40 is configured to clean the outer surface of the electrode sheet S by spraying and sucking air. However, the structure and cleaning method of the cleaning unit 40 are not particularly limited as long as they can clean the outer surface of the electrode sheet S. For example, the cleaning unit 40 may include a brush that can be used to slap the electrode sheet S.

[0095] Referring to Figures 1 and 5 to 7, the taping apparatus 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a taping unit 50. The taping unit 50 may be configured to attach tape T to an electrode sheet S.

[0096] In this embodiment, the taping unit 50 can be placed inside the workspace S_12. This allows the taping unit 50 to perform taping work while being protected from external contamination and impact.

[0097] In this embodiment, the taping unit 50 can be positioned downstream of the cleaning unit 40 with respect to the transport direction of the electrode sheet S. This allows the taping unit 50 to attach tape T to the electrode sheet S that has been cleaned by the cleaning unit 40.

[0098] Referring to Figures 5 to 7, the taping unit 50 of the taping apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a gripper 60. The gripper 60 may be configured to grasp or release the tape T.

[0099] In this embodiment, the gripper 60 may include a first gripper portion 62. The first gripper portion 62 may be configured to grip one side of the tape T. As shown in the figure, the first gripper portion 62 can grip the lower surface of the tape T.

[0100] For this purpose, the first gripper portion 62 can extend in the width direction (Y-axis direction) of the tape T. Here, the length of the first gripper portion 62 can be longer than the width of the tape T so that the first gripper portion 62 can stably and comprehensively grip the tape T in the width direction.

[0101] In this embodiment, a grip plate coupling groove 63 can be formed on the upper surface of the first gripper portion 62 facing the second gripper portion 68, which will be described later. The grip plate coupling groove 63 may be configured to provide a space for the grip plate portion 64, which will be described later, to be coupled.

[0102] On the other hand, the gripper 60 of the taping device according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a grip plate portion 64. The grip plate portion 64 may be configured to grip the tape T while preventing wrinkles or bends from forming in the tape T grasped by the gripper 60.

[0103] In this embodiment, the grip plate portion 64 can have the shape of a flat plate extending parallel to the first gripper portion 62. The length of the grip plate portion 64 can be longer than the width of the tape T. This allows the grip plate portion 64 to grip the tape T stably and comprehensively.

[0104] In this embodiment, the grip plate portion 64 can be movably coupled to the upper part facing the second gripper portion 68 from the first gripper portion 62. The grip plate portion 64 can be positioned in the grip plate portion coupling groove 63 described above.

[0105] In this embodiment, the grip plate portion 64 can be rotatably coupled to the first gripper portion 62. To this end, the grip plate portion 64 can be rotatably coupled to the first gripper portion 62 by a rotating shaft member 66 and a rotating support frame portion 67, which will be described later.

[0106] In this embodiment, the grip plate portion 64 can be configured to rotate around an axis C_64 parallel to the width direction (X-axis direction) of the electrode sheet S (or current collector F). In other words, the grip plate portion 64 can be configured to rotate around an axis C_64 parallel to the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction) of the tape T that is grasped by the gripper 60.

[0107] This allows the wide tape T to adhere to the electrode sheet S with high quality. The lower surface of the tape T is gripped while in contact with the upper surface of the grip plate portion 64, and as the grip plate portion 64 rotates and grips the tape T, wrinkles and bending can be minimized or prevented.

[0108] Specifically, wrinkles and kinks in the tape T can form when the tape T is gripped by the gripper 60 with uneven force or when it is subjected to strong localized force. However, in this embodiment, the grip plate portion 64 can rotate and distribute the force so that excessive gripping force is not generated in localized areas of the tape T. This minimizes the occurrence of wrinkles and kinks.

[0109] Referring to Figure 5, a coupling hole 64a can be formed on the edge side of the grip plate portion 64. The coupling hole 64a may be a hole to which a rotating shaft member 66, which becomes the rotation center of the grip plate portion 64, is coupled. Such coupling holes 64a can be formed on both sides in the width direction (X-axis direction) of the grip plate portion 64.

[0110] In this embodiment, the coupling holes 64a are composed of multiple holes and can be arranged in the longitudinal direction of the grip plate portion 64 (or the longitudinal direction of the electrode sheet S) (Y-axis direction). The rotating shaft member 66 can be selectively coupled to any one of the multiple coupling holes 64a.

[0111] This allows the rotation center of the grip plate portion 64 to move in the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) of the electrode sheet S. For example, if the rotating shaft member 66 is connected to the leftmost coupling hole 63a with reference to Figure 6, the rotation radius of the right portion of the grip plate portion 64 can be made even larger than the rotation radius of the left portion.

[0112] Thus, in this embodiment, the position of the rotational axis of the grip plate portion 64 can be adjusted as appropriate, allowing the tape T to be gripped without wrinkles or bending in a wider variety of process environments and conditions.

[0113] On the other hand, in this embodiment, a first grip pad 65 may be provided on the upper surface of the grip plate portion 64 facing the second grip portion 68. The first grip pad 65 may be made of a material having a predetermined elasticity. For example, the first grip pad 65 may be a silicone pad, but is not limited thereto.

[0114] Such a first grip pad 65 can prevent the tape T from being damaged during the process of the gripper 60 gripping or releasing the tape T. Here, although not shown, a predetermined projection can be formed on the outer surface of the first grip pad 65. The predetermined projection can prevent the tape T from slipping off the outer surface of the grip pad 65.

[0115] Furthermore, referring to Figures 5 and 6, the gripper 60 of the taping device according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a rotating shaft member 66 and a rotating support frame portion 67.

[0116] As described above, the rotating shaft member 66 may be the rotation center of the grip plate portion 64 and a member that rotatably supports it. For this purpose, the rotating shaft member 66 may extend in the width direction (X-axis direction) of the electrode sheet S (or current collector F). One end of the rotating shaft member 66 can be coupled to the coupling hole 64a of the grip plate portion 64.

[0117] In this embodiment, the rotational support frame portion 67 can extend from the side of the first gripper portion 62 in the thickness direction (Z-axis direction) of the grip plate portion 64. The other end of the rotational shaft member 66 can be rotatably supported on one side in the extension direction of the rotational support frame portion 67. This allows the grip plate portion 64 to be rotatably connected to the first gripper portion 62.

[0118] Here, the rotating shaft member 66 and the rotating support frame portion 67 are configured as a pair and can be configured on both sides of the grip plate portion 64 in the width direction (X-axis direction). As a result, the grip plate portion 64 is supported in a balanced manner and can rotate stably.

[0119] Referring to Figures 5 and 6, the gripper 60 of the taping device according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a second gripper portion 68. The second gripper portion 68 may extend parallel to the first gripper portion 62 in the width direction (Y-axis direction) of the tape T.

[0120] The second gripper portion 68 can be configured to move toward or away from the first gripper portion 62 and the grip plate portion 64 coupled thereto. Such movement can be achieved by a drive mechanism (not shown) provided in the gripper 60. This allows the tape T between the grip plate portion 64 and the second gripper portion 68 to be gripped or released.

[0121] Here, the length of the second gripper portion 68 may be longer than or equal to the width of the tape T. Therefore, the second gripper portion 68 can grip or release the entire upper surface of the tape T in the width direction.

[0122] On the other hand, in this embodiment, the second gripper portion 68 may be provided with a second grip pad 69 on its lower surface facing the grip plate portion 64. Here, the second grip pad 69 may be identical to or similar to the first grip pad 68 described above.

[0123] Referring to Figures 7 and 8, the gripper 60 of the taping device according to one embodiment of the present invention can be configured to be movable in the width direction (X-axis direction) of the electrode sheet S. Such operation can be achieved by a predetermined drive mechanism (not shown).

[0124] Therefore, when the gripper 60 grips the tape T and passes over the electrode sheet S in the width direction (X-axis direction), the tape T, which was wound in a cylindrical shape, can be unwound and extended in the width direction (X-axis direction) of the electrode sheet S. The extended tape T can be positioned to overlap the upper surface of the electrode sheet S.

[0125] In this embodiment, the width of the tape T can be wider than the distance between the first pattern portion P1 and the second pattern portion P2. The width of the tape T may be the length measured in the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) of the electrode sheet S, which is the direction in which the multiple pattern portions P are arranged.

[0126] As a result, the tape T extended by the gripper 60 can overlap with the portion F_P between the patterns located between the first pattern portion P1 and the second pattern portion P2 in the current collection section F. Furthermore, the tape T extended by the gripper 60 can also cover the opposing edge portions of the first pattern portion P1 and the second pattern portion P2.

[0127] Hereinafter, the edge portion overlapping the tape T from the first pattern portion P1 will be referred to as the first overlapping portion P1_T, and the edge portion overlapping the tape T from the second pattern portion P2 will be referred to as the second overlapping portion P2_T.

[0128] As described above, the gripper 60 of the taping device according to one embodiment of the present invention can stably grasp a wide tape T without wrinkles or bending and position it so as to overlap with the electrode sheet S. This allows the wide tape T to be attached to the electrode sheet S with high quality.

[0129] Referring to Figures 8 to 11, the taping unit 50 of the taping apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a pressure block 70. The pressure block 70 may be configured to apply pressure to the electrode sheet S side by a gripper 60 to attach the tape T, which is positioned to overlap the electrode sheet S.

[0130] In this embodiment, the pressure block 70 may include a pressure section 72 that can press the tape T while moving vertically (in the Z-axis direction) to move closer to or away from the electrode sheet S. Such operation of the pressure section 72 can be achieved by a predetermined drive mechanism (not shown).

[0131] Here, the pressurizing portion 72 can extend in the width direction (X-axis direction) of the electrode sheet S. The length of the pressurizing portion 72 can be longer than the width of the electrode sheet S. This allows the pressurizing portion 72 to apply pressure to the electrode sheet S overall along the width direction (X-axis direction).

[0132] In this embodiment, the pressurizing section 72 can pressurize the tape T on its lower surface facing the electrode sheet S. Here, the lower surface of the pressurizing section 72 can have a width wider than the distance between the first pattern section P1 and the second pattern section P2. This configuration improves process quality by ensuring that the tape T is pressed not only in the portion F_P between the patterns of the current collector section F, but also in the first and second overlapping portions P1_T and P2_T.

[0133] The pressure block 70 of the taping device according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a heating section 74. The heating section 74 may be configured to heat the pressure section 72 described above to a predetermined temperature.

[0134] For example, the heating section 74 can consist of a heating element that penetrates and connects to the pressurizing section 72 and generates heat using electrical energy. However, the configuration of the heating section 74 is not particularly limited as long as it can heat the pressurizing section 72.

[0135] In this embodiment, the heating section 74 can extend in the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction) of the pressurizing section 72. Here, the heating section 74 can be composed of multiple sections and arranged in the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) of the electrode sheet S. This allows the pressurizing section 72 to be heated uniformly throughout.

[0136] Thus, in this embodiment, the pressurizing section 72, which is heated by the heating section 74, is configured to pressurize the tape T, so that wrinkles formed in the tape T and air bubbles generated between the tape T and the electrode sheet S can be removed.

[0137] Referring to Figures 8 to 11, the pressure block 70 of the taping device according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a pressure pad portion 76. The pressure pad portion 76 may be provided on the lower surface facing the electrode sheet S from the pressure portion 72. The pressure pad portion 76 may be made of a material having a predetermined elasticity. For example, the pressure pad portion 76 may be made of silicone, but is not limited thereto.

[0138] In this embodiment, the pressure pad portion 76 can extend along the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction) of the pressure portion 72. Here, the length of the pressure pad portion 76 may be longer than or the same as the width of the electrode sheet S. This allows the pressure pad portion 76 to apply pressure to the electrode sheet S overall along the width direction (X-axis direction).

[0139] In this embodiment, the pressure pad portion 76 can have a width wider than the distance between the first pattern portion P1 and the second pattern portion P2. Therefore, the pressure pad portion 76 can apply pressure to the tape T not only to the portion F_P between the patterns of the current collector portion F, but also to the first and second overlapping portions P1_T and P2_T.

[0140] Here, an embossing pattern 76a can be formed on the outer surface of the pressure pad portion 76. Here, the outer surface of the pressure pad portion 76 may be the lower surface that pressurizes while in direct contact with the electrode sheet S. The embossing pattern 76a can improve the wrinkle and bubble removal effect of the pressure block 70.

[0141] On the other hand, in this embodiment, the embossing pattern 76a is shown to be formed by repeating square-shaped protrusions in a grid pattern. However, the shape of the embossing pattern 76a can be appropriately modified as needed. For example, the embossing pattern 76a may have a dome shape. Alternatively, the shape of the embossing pattern formed in one region of the pressure pad portion 76 may be configured to be different from the shape of the embossing pattern formed in other regions.

[0142] As described above, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the pressure block 70 can apply pressure to the tape T extended by the gripper 60 toward the electrode sheet S to remove wrinkles and air bubbles, and the tape T can be attached to the electrode sheet S with high quality.

[0143] On the other hand, referring again to Figure 1, in this embodiment, the taping unit 50 can be composed of multiple units. As shown in the figure, the taping unit 50 can be composed of eight units, four of which can be placed on the upper side and four on the lower side of the electrode sheet S.

[0144] This allows taping sections T to be formed at eight locations on the electrode sheet S, improving the efficiency and productivity of the taping process. The number of such taping units 50 can be appropriately changed considering the size of the workspace S_12, etc.

[0145] The following briefly describes the structure of a taped electrode sheet formed by the taping unit of a taping device according to one embodiment of the present invention, with reference to different drawings.

[0146] Figure 12 is a perspective view from above of a portion of an electrode sheet taped by an electrode sheet taping device according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 13 is a side view of a portion of the electrode sheet shown in Figure 12.

[0147] Referring to Figures 12 and 13, in this disclosure, the electrode sheet S_T may include a taping portion T. The taping portion T can be formed by attaching tape to the outer surface of the electrode sheet using a taping unit, as described above.

[0148] In this disclosure, the taping portion T can have a width wider than the distance between two adjacent pattern portions P, namely the first pattern portion P1 and the second pattern portion P2. As a result, the central portion of the taping portion T can cover the portion F_P between the patterns of the current collector portion F, and the edge portions provided on both sides in the width direction (Y-axis direction) of the taping portion T can cover the first overlapping portion P1_T of the first pattern portion P1 and the second overlapping portion P2_T of the second pattern portion P2, respectively.

[0149] Such taping sections T can protect the current collector section F and the pattern section P from external impacts and contamination. In particular, the taping sections T can cover the edges of the pattern section P, preventing short circuits with pattern sections of other polarities. This improves the stability of the electrode assembly formed by this electrode sheet S_T.

[0150] The following describes other configurations of a taping device according to one embodiment of the present invention, with different drawings.

[0151] Figure 14 is a top-view perspective of the sensor unit of the electrode sheet taping device according to one embodiment of the present invention observing the taped portion of the electrode sheet. Figure 15 is a side view of the sensor unit of the electrode sheet taping device according to one embodiment of the present invention observing the taped portion of the electrode sheet. Figure 16 is a schematic plan view showing the divided regions identified by the processor of the electrode sheet taping device according to one embodiment of the present invention on the electrode sheet.

[0152] Referring to Figures 1, 14, and 15, the taping apparatus 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a sensor unit 80. In this embodiment, the sensor unit 80 may be configured to acquire information regarding the relative positions of the pattern portion P and the taping portion T from the electrode sheet S_T.

[0153] For this purpose, the sensor unit 80 can be positioned downstream of the taping unit 50 with reference to the transport direction (Y-axis direction) of the electrode sheet S_T from the working space S_12. In this embodiment, the sensor unit 80 may include a sensor section 82. The sensor section 82 may be an image sensor that captures the upper surface of the electrode sheet S_T and generates image data.

[0154] In this embodiment, the sensor unit 82 can extend long in the width direction (X-axis direction) of the electrode sheet S_T (or the current collector unit F) so that it can capture images of the electrode sheet S_T from one end to the other in the width direction (X-axis direction) at once.

[0155] As a result, the sensor unit 82 can generate image data that captures the entire region where the taping portion T is formed from the electrode sheet S_T. In the drawing, the region captured by the sensor unit 82 is represented by reference numeral S_82. Such a sensor unit 82 may, but is not limited to, a bar vision sensor.

[0156] On the other hand, in this embodiment, the sensor unit 80 may include an illumination unit 84. The illumination unit 84 may be configured to irradiate the taping portion T side of the electrode sheet S_T with light L_84. The type of light L_84 is not particularly limited as long as it can be recognized by the sensor unit 82.

[0157] Light L_84 emitted from the illumination unit 84 is reflected by the electrode sheet S_T and transmitted to the sensor unit 82, where it can be captured by the sensor unit 82. In this way, the information about light L_84 collected by the sensor unit 82 can be used to identify foreign matter attached to or adsorbed onto the electrode sheet S_T.

[0158] Referring to Figures 1 and 16, the taping apparatus 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a processor 90. The processor 90 can be configured to determine whether or not the electrode sheet S_T is defective based on the information acquired by the sensor unit 80.

[0159] Here, the presence or absence of defects in the electrode sheet S_T can be determined based on the relative position between the taping portion T and the pattern portion P. For example, if the taping portion T covers the edges of the first and second pattern portions P1 and P2, forming the first and second overlapping portions P1_T and P2_T, the electrode sheet S_T can be determined to be a good product; otherwise, it can be determined to be defective. Such judgment criteria can be modified as needed.

[0160] In this embodiment, the processor 90 can divide the image data generated by the sensor unit 82 into divided image data. Here, the divided image data may be image data of multiple divided regions A1 to An (where n is a natural number) on the electrode sheet S_T, and the multiple divided regions A1 to An may be regions in which the area captured by the sensor unit 82 is divided in the width direction of the electrode sheet S.

[0161] Furthermore, the processor 90 can individually determine whether the tape portion T and the pattern portion P overlap in each divided region A1 to An based on multiple divided image data. As a result, the taping device 1 according to this embodiment can improve the speed and accuracy of determining the quality of the electrode sheet S_T.

[0162] On the other hand, the step by which the processor 90 determines whether the taping portion T and the pattern portion P overlap in each divided region A1 to An is as follows. The determination method described later can be changed as needed.

[0163] Using Figure 16 as a reference, the processor 90 measures the first interval between the upper edge line of the tape section T and the upper edge line of the first pattern section P1, and compares the first interval with a first reference value.

[0164] Here, the first reference value may be pre-stored in the processor 90. The first reference value may also be the design value of the first pattern portion P1 set in the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) of the electrode sheet S.

[0165] Next, the processor 90 determines that the product is good if the first interval is smaller than the first reference value, and defective if it is larger. This is because, when the first pattern section P is covered by the tape section T, the first interval is smaller than the first reference value.

[0166] Similarly, the processor 90 measures the second interval between the lower edge line of the tape section T and the lower edge line of the second pattern section P2, and compares the second interval with a second reference value.

[0167] Here, the second reference value may be pre-stored in the processor 90. The second reference value may also be the design value of the second pattern section P2 set in the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) of the electrode sheet S.

[0168] Next, the processor 90 determines that the product is good if the second interval is smaller than the second reference value, and defective if it is larger. This is because, when the second pattern section P is covered by the tape section T, the second interval is smaller than the second reference value.

[0169] Referring to Figure 1, the taping apparatus 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention may include an electrode sheet retrieval unit (hereinafter referred to as the retrieval unit) 100. The retrieval unit 100 may be configured to retrieve the electrode sheets S_T taped by the taping unit 50.

[0170] As shown in the diagram, the recovery unit 100 may consist of a winding device for winding the taped electrode sheet S_T into a cylindrical shape. The recovery unit 100 is located outside the work space S_12 and can recover the electrode sheet S_T as it moves away from the work space S_12.

[0171] As shown in the diagram, the recovery unit 100 can be located on the opposite side of the chamber 10 from the supply unit 20. The recovery unit 100 can be positioned at a predetermined horizontal distance (Y-axis direction) from the supply unit 20. However, the structure and position of the recovery unit 100 are not particularly limited. For example, the recovery unit 100 may be located in the work space S_12.

[0172] A taping device 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a circulation unit 110. The circulation unit 110 may be configured to circulate the air in the workspace S_12. For this purpose, the circulation unit 110 may be equipped with a fan (not shown) capable of blowing air.

[0173] In this embodiment, the circulation unit 110 can be configured to be located above (in the positive Z-axis direction) the electrode sheets S and S_T in the working space S_12 and to blow air downwards (in the negative Z-axis direction). This allows foreign matter present on the outer surface of the electrode sheets S and S_T to be cleaned. Therefore, the process quality of this taping apparatus 1 can be improved.

[0174] In this embodiment, the upper surfaces of the circulation unit 110 and the electrode sheets S and S_T can be arranged to face each other in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction) so that cleaning by the circulation unit 110 can be performed more effectively.

[0175] Here, the arrangement of the circulation unit 110 facing the electrode sheets S and S_T means that at least a portion of the airflow formed by the circulation unit 110 reaches the electrode sheets S and S_T without being blocked by other components, and can dislodge foreign matter adhering to the outer surface of the electrode sheets S and S_T.

[0176] On the other hand, as described above, in this embodiment, the circulation unit 110 is located above (in the positive direction of the Z axis) with respect to the electrode sheets S and S_T, and the communication section 14 is located below (in the negative direction of the Z axis).

[0177] With this configuration, foreign matter that falls off the electrode sheets S and S_T can move downward (in the negative direction of the Z-axis) along the airflow generated by the circulation unit 110, and then escape to the outside of the working space S_12 via the communication section 14. This prevents foreign matter from circulating within the working space S_12 and then adhering to the outer surface of the electrode sheets S and S_T again.

[0178] In this embodiment, the circulation unit 110 is composed of multiple units and can be arranged along the transport direction (Y-axis direction) of the electrode sheets S and S_T. This allows cleaning by the circulation unit 110 to be carried out throughout the entire workspace S_12.

[0179] Although the present invention has been described above with reference to limited embodiments and drawings, the present invention is not limited thereto, and various implementations are possible by persons with ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains, within the equivalent scope of the technical concept of the present invention and the following claims. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0180] 1. Taping device for electrode sheets 10 Chambers 20 Electrode Sheet Supply Unit 30 Transfer Units 40 Cleaning Units 50 Taping Units 80 Sensor Units 90 processors 100 Electrode Sheet Recovery Unit 110 Circulation Unit S electrode sheet S_T Taped electrode sheet F Current collector P Pattern Section T Tape Section

Claims

1. An electrode sheet supply unit that supplies an electrode sheet including a foil-shaped current collector and a plurality of patterned portions arranged along the longitudinal direction of the current collector on one surface of the current collector, A taping unit that forms a tape portion attached to one surface of the current collector so as to overlap with at least a portion of two adjacent pattern portions among the plurality of pattern portions, The system includes an electrode sheet recovery unit for recovering the electrode sheet on which the tape portion is formed, The aforementioned taping unit is A gripper that can grasp or release the tape and is movable in the width direction of the current collection part, A taping device for an electrode sheet, comprising a pressure block capable of applying pressure to the tape toward the current collector, having an area wider than the distance between the two patterned sections.

2. The aforementioned gripper is The first gripper section, A grip plate portion is movably connected to one side of the first gripper portion, The electrode sheet taping device according to claim 1, further comprising a second gripper portion that is movable toward or toward the first gripper portion, so as to be able to grasp or release a tape positioned between itself and the grip plate portion.

3. The electrode sheet taping device according to claim 2, wherein the grip plate portion is rotatable about an axis parallel to the width direction of the current collector portion.

4. The grip plate portion has a plurality of bonding holes arranged in the longitudinal direction of the electrode sheet. The aforementioned gripper is The electrode sheet taping device according to claim 3, further comprising a rotating shaft member that is connected to any one of the plurality of coupling holes and serves as the rotation center of the grip plate portion.

5. The aforementioned pressure block is A pressurizing portion extending in the width direction of the current collection portion and movable toward one side of the current collection portion, The pressurizing portion includes a pressurizing pad portion provided on the outer surface facing the current collecting portion, The electrode sheet taping device according to claim 1, wherein an embossing pattern is formed on the outer surface of the pressure pad portion.

6. The pressure pad portion has a predetermined width in the longitudinal direction of the current collector portion. The electrode sheet taping device according to claim 5, wherein the length in the width direction of the pressure pad portion is greater than the distance between adjacent pattern portions.

7. The aforementioned pressure block is To heat the pressurized section, the pressurized section further includes a plurality of heating sections provided inside the pressurized section. The electrode sheet taping device according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the heating portion includes a heating wire extending in the width direction of the current collector.

8. The electrode sheet taping device according to claim 7, wherein the plurality of heating units are arranged along the transport direction of the electrode sheet.

9. The electrode sheet taping device according to claim 1, further comprising a cleaning unit for removing foreign matter adhering to the current collector.

10. The electrode sheet taping apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the cleaning unit is located upstream of the taping unit with respect to the direction in which the electrode sheet is transported.

11. The cleaning unit is The cleaning body extends in the width direction of the current collection section and has a flow path formed inside that allows air to enter and exit, Taping device for electrode sheets according to claim 9 or 10, further comprising a blower unit capable of spraying air from the cleaning main body to one surface of the current collector.

12. The cleaning unit is The invention further includes a cleaning roller section that the electrode sheet can move over, The cleaning main unit is, The cleaning roller portion includes a recessed surface that is concave, corresponding to the outer periphery of the cleaning roller portion. The taping device for electrode sheets according to claim 11, wherein the blower section is provided on the recessed surface.

13. The cleaning unit is The electrode sheet taping device according to claim 11, further comprising a suction section capable of sucking in air that is sprayed from the blower section and strikes the surface of the current collector section.

14. The electrode sheet taping device according to claim 13, wherein the blower section is located downstream of the suction section with reference to the direction in which the electrode sheet is transported.

15. A sensor unit capable of acquiring information regarding the relative positions of the pattern portion and the tape portion on one surface of the current collection portion, The system further includes a processor that determines whether or not the electrode sheet is defective based on the information acquired by the sensor unit, The aforementioned sensor unit is The electrode sheet taping device according to claim 1, further comprising a sensor portion extending in the width direction of the current collector portion so that the electrode sheet can be observed from one end to the other in the width direction.

16. The aforementioned sensor unit is The electrode sheet taping apparatus according to claim 15, further comprising an illumination unit that irradiates light onto the tape portion so that the sensor unit can collect light reflected from a substance located on the outer surface of the tape portion.

17. The aforementioned sensor unit is The aforementioned electrode sheet is captured from one end to the other in the width direction by a bar vision sensor, which forms image data. The aforementioned processor, Based on the aforementioned image data, a plurality of segmented image data are formed by capturing a plurality of segmented regions divided in the width direction of the electrode sheet. The electrode sheet taping device according to claim 15 or 16, which determines whether the tape portion and the pattern portion overlap in the divided region based on the divided image data.

18. A transfer unit for transferring electrode sheets from the electrode sheet supply unit to the electrode sheet retrieval unit, A chamber for providing a workspace through which the electrode sheet transported by the transport unit passes and in which the taping unit is positioned, The electrode sheet taping apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a circulation unit located above the electrode sheet being transported by the transport unit in the aforementioned workspace and supplying air to the lower side.

19. The aforementioned chamber is A chamber section having the aforementioned workspace inside, The chamber portion includes a communication portion that connects the working space to the outside, The electrode sheet taping device according to claim 18, wherein the communication portion is located below the electrode sheet being transported by the transport unit.

20. A sensor unit capable of acquiring information regarding the relative positions of the pattern portion and the tape portion on one surface of the current collection portion, The system further includes a processor that determines whether or not the electrode sheet is defective based on the information acquired by the sensor unit, The electrode sheet taping apparatus according to claim 18 or 19, wherein the processor is located outside the chamber.

Images