Damage prevention electrode assembly, manufacturing device for damage prevention electrode assembly, and manufacturing method for damage prevention electrode assembly

Abstract

According to an embodiment of the present invention, there may be provided an electrode assembly manufacturing apparatus including: a supplying unit that supplies a packaging separator having a packaging length corresponding to a length of an electrode assembly; a packaging unit that folds the packaging separator so that the folding area is placed on an opposite side of the electrode assembly that faces the reference surface of the electrode assembly, and a sealing unit that seals the packaging separator located on the opposite side to the electrode assembly after folding the packaging separator.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an electrode assembly for preventing damage, the outer surface of which is wrapped with a packaging separator, an apparatus for manufacturing the electrode assembly for preventing damage, and a method for manufacturing the electrode assembly for preventing damage. [Background technology]

[0002] Secondary batteries are attracting attention as a power source for electric vehicles (EVs), hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), and parallel hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), which have been proposed as a solution to air pollution caused by conventional gasoline and diesel vehicles that use fossil fuels. However, due to the need for high output and large capacity in medium- to large-sized devices such as automobiles, medium- to large-sized battery modules, which electrically connect multiple battery cells, are used.

[0003] However, since it is preferable that medium- to large-sized battery modules are manufactured as small and light as possible, prismatic batteries and pouch-shaped batteries, which can be charged with a high degree of integration and are light in comparison with their capacity, are mainly used as battery cells for medium- to large-sized battery modules.

[0004] An electrode assembly is housed inside the battery cell case, and battery cells are generally classified according to the structure of the electrode assembly, which generally has a positive electrode / separator / negative electrode structure.

[0005] Representative examples include jelly roll (wound) electrode assemblies, which are made by winding long sheet-like positive and negative electrodes with a separator interposed therebetween; stacked (layered) electrode assemblies, in which a number of positive and negative electrodes cut into predetermined sizes are stacked in order with a separator interposed therebetween; and stacked / folded electrode assemblies.

[0006] The stack / folded electrode assemblies disclosed in the applicant's Korean Patent Publication Nos. 2001-0082058, 2001-0082059, and 2001-0082060 have a full cell structure in which a positive electrode, a separator, and a negative electrode are sequentially stacked as a unit cell, and are manufactured by repeatedly winding up a separator sheet by a unit length with a plurality of full cells arranged on the separator sheet.

[0007] In such a stacked / folded type electrode assembly, the outer corners of all pull cells are surrounded by the separator sheet, so that the relative positions of the layers constituting the electrode assembly are fixed.

[0008] The stacked electrode assembly is formed by stacking a positive electrode, a separator, and a negative electrode in order. The separator is disposed between the positive electrode and the negative electrode to prevent electrical short circuits due to physical contact between the positive electrode and the negative electrode.

[0009] In the case of such a stacked electrode assembly, the separator is typically manufactured to have a width and length wider than the electrodes, and the stacked electrode assembly is manufactured by repeatedly stacking the separator in a magazine or jig having a width corresponding to the width or length of the separator, and then stacking the electrodes on top of the separator.

[0010] Unlike stacked / folded electrode assemblies, the relative positions of the electrodes and separator are not fixed, so the sides of the electrode assembly are taped with tape to fix the relative positions of each layer. As shown in Figure 1, conventionally, a strip of tape T surrounds the stacked electrode assembly 10.

[0011] When manufacturing a pouch-type secondary battery, the stacked electrode assembly 10 is finished with tape T and then transferred to the next process. The tape T is intended to fix the stacked electrode assembly 10, not to protect the stacked electrode assembly 10, and the exposed parts of the stacked electrode assembly 10 may be damaged during transportation and subsequent processes. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0012] The present invention aims to solve the problems of conventional electrode assemblies.

[0013] According to an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a damage-preventing electrode assembly, in which the outer surface of the electrode assembly is wrapped with a packaging separator, which can prevent foreign matter from entering the electrode assembly and damage to the separator of the electrode assembly, an apparatus for manufacturing the damage-preventing electrode assembly, and a method for manufacturing the damage-preventing electrode assembly.

[0014] According to one embodiment of the present invention, an apparatus and method are provided that can easily package the outer surface of an electrode assembly with a packaging separator. [Means for solving the problem]

[0015] According to one embodiment of the present invention, there may be provided an electrode assembly manufacturing apparatus including: a supplying unit that supplies a packaging separator having a packaging length corresponding to the length of an electrode assembly; a packaging unit that suction-attaches the packaging separator supplied from the supplying unit to a folding region and a reference region where a reference surface of the electrode assembly is attached, and folds the packaging separator so that the folding region is positioned on an opposite side of the electrode assembly that faces the reference surface of the electrode assembly; and a sealing unit that seals the packaging separator positioned on the opposite side to the electrode assembly after folding the packaging separator.

[0016] The folding region of the packaging separator may be a region that covers the side and the opposite side of the electrode assembly when the packaging separator is folded.

[0017] It is preferable that adhesion to the folded region covering the side surface of the electrode assembly is eliminated.

[0018] The suction of the folding region is preferably maintained until the folding of the packaging separator is completed.

[0019] The packaging unit may include an adsorption bed having a reference adsorption surface that adsorbs the reference region of the packaging separation membrane, an adsorption member having a folded adsorption surface that adsorbs the folding region of the packaging separation membrane at a predetermined distance from the adsorption bed, and a vacuum pressure applying unit that applies vacuum pressure to the reference adsorption surface and the folded adsorption surface.

[0020] The suction bed may be of a fixed configuration and the suction member may be of a moving configuration, i.e. the suction member may be adapted to move between an unfolded position and a folded position.

[0021] The folding suction surface is preferably positioned on the same plane as the reference suction surface in the unfolded position, and is elevated and rotated to face the reference suction surface above the reference suction surface in the folded position.

[0022] The adsorption member may include a first adsorption member and a second adsorption member provided on both sides of the adsorption bed, respectively.

[0023] The first and second suction members are preferably provided symmetrically to each other and are adapted to move symmetrically to each other, and of course, are preferably folded in opposite directions.

[0024] The folding of the packaging separator via the first adsorption member and the folding of the packaging separator via the second adsorption member may be performed sequentially.

[0025] By folding the packaging separator via the first and second suction members, both ends of the packaging separator can overlap with the opposite surface of the electrode assembly.

[0026] The folding of the packaging separator via the first adsorption member and the folding of the packaging separator via the second adsorption member may be performed simultaneously.

[0027] By folding the packaging separator via the first and second suction members, both ends of the packaging separator may be spaced apart from each other on the opposite surface of the electrode assembly.

[0028] The apparatus may include an actuation shaft connected to the suction member and configured to raise and rotate the suction member at a predetermined angle.

[0029] A motor may be included to provide a driving force for the actuation shaft.

[0030] The packaging unit may include a first packaging unit including a first side surface of the electrode assembly and wrapping a portion of the opposite side folded toward the top of the first side surface and a portion of the reference side folded toward the bottom of the first side surface with a first packaging separator; and a second packaging unit including a second side surface of the electrode assembly opposite the first side surface and wrapping a portion of the opposite side folded toward the top of the second side surface and a portion of the reference side folded toward the bottom of the second side surface with a second packaging separator.

[0031] It is preferable that the packaging separation film attached by suction to the first packaging unit and the packaging separation film attached by suction to the second packaging unit are supplied through the supply unit while being separated from each other.

[0032] The sealing part may include a lower sealing part that seals the packaging separator to the electrode assembly after folding the packaging separator and that is located on the opposite side of the packaging separator.

[0033] The first and second packaging parts may be provided symmetrically with respect to the lower sealing part and may be provided to move symmetrically with respect to each other, although the folding directions may be opposite.

[0034] It is preferable that both ends of the packaging separator are spaced apart from each other on the opposite side of the electrode assembly by folding the packaging separator through the first packaging part and the second packaging part.

[0035] It is preferable that the folding of the packaging separator through the first packaging part and the folding of the packaging separator through the second packaging part are performed simultaneously. [Effects of the Invention]

[0036] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a damage-preventing electrode assembly is manufactured in which the outer surface of the electrode assembly is wrapped with a packaging separator, thereby preventing damage to the separator constituting the electrode assembly and preventing the intrusion of foreign matter into the electrode assembly.

[0037] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the damage-preventing electrode assembly includes a packaging separator that encases the outer surface of the electrode assembly, excluding the tab, to prevent damage to the separator constituting the electrode assembly and also to prevent foreign matter from entering the electrode assembly. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0038] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a diagram schematically illustrating a front view of an electrode assembly. [Figure 2] 1 is a diagram schematically illustrating a configuration of a manufacturing apparatus for a damage prevention electrode assembly according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a view illustrating a process in which a separation membrane is supplied from a supply unit to a packaging unit in the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] 3 is a view showing an electrode assembly attached to a packaging part in the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. [Figure 5] 1 is a schematic perspective view of a packaging unit according to a first embodiment of the present invention; FIG. [Figure 6] 3A to 3C are diagrams schematically illustrating an operating state of a packaging unit according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] 3A to 3C are diagrams schematically illustrating an operating state of a packaging unit according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] 3A to 3C are diagrams illustrating the operation of a sealing section in the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] 1 is a view illustrating a damage prevention electrode assembly manufactured according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] 10A and 10B are diagrams schematically illustrating an operating state of a packaging unit according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] 10A and 10B are diagrams schematically illustrating an operating state of a packaging unit according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] 10A and 10B are diagrams schematically illustrating an operating state of a sealing portion in the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] 10A and 10B are views for explaining a damage prevention electrode assembly manufactured according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a diagram schematically illustrating the configuration of a manufacturing apparatus for a damage prevention electrode assembly according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15] 10A and 10B are diagrams schematically illustrating an operating state of a packaging unit according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 16] 10A and 10B are diagrams schematically illustrating an operating state of a packaging unit according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 17] 10A and 10B are diagrams schematically illustrating an operating state of a sealing portion in the third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 18] 10A and 10B are views for explaining a damage prevention electrode assembly manufactured according to a third embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0039] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, a manufacturing apparatus for an electrode assembly for preventing damage, a manufacturing method for an electrode assembly for preventing damage, and an electrode assembly for preventing damage according to preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0040] However, the attached drawings are for illustrative purposes only, and the scope of the manufacturing apparatus for a damage prevention electrode assembly, the manufacturing method for a damage prevention electrode assembly, and the damage prevention electrode assembly of the present application is not limited by the attached drawings.

[0041] 2 to 5, a manufacturing apparatus 100 for an electrode assembly for preventing damage according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention may include a supply unit 110, a packaging unit 130, and a sealing unit 140. This embodiment may include a cutting unit 120 and a conveying unit 150.

[0042] The supply unit 110 supplies the packaging separator 20 .

[0043] The packaging separator 20 may be provided with a width W1 that is larger than the circumference of the electrode assembly 10. The packaging separator 20 preferably has a packaging length L1 that corresponds to the length L2 of the electrode assembly.

[0044] The circumference of the electrode assembly 10 is the sum of the width W2 of the reference surface 11 of the electrode assembly 10, the height h of the first side surface 13, the width W2 of the opposite surface 12 and the height h of the second side surface 14.

[0045] Here, the reference surface 11 of the electrode assembly 10 refers to one surface of the electrode assembly 10 that is placed on the reference suction surface 131a of the packaging part 130, which will be described later. The opposite surface 12 of the electrode assembly 10 refers to a surface that is parallel to and spaced apart from the reference surface 11.

[0046] The first side surface 13 of the electrode assembly 10 is a surface connecting the reference surface 11 and the opposite surface 12, and has a length L2 of the electrode assembly. The second side surface 14 of the electrode assembly 10 is spaced apart from the first side surface 13 and is a surface connecting the reference surface 11 and the opposite surface 12.

[0047] The packaging unit 130 is a device that packages the electrode assembly 10 with the packaging separator 20. In this embodiment, the packaging unit 130 may wrap the outer surface of the electrode assembly 10 by overlapping one end of the packaging separator 20 with the other end of the packaging separator 20.

[0048] The packaging separator supplied through the supply unit 110 may be divided into a reference region and a folding region. Of course, such division may be based on the position where the packaging separator is attached to the packaging unit 130, or may be based on the fixed region and the moving region for packaging.

[0049] The packaging unit 130 can separate and adsorb different regions of one surface of the packaging separator 20, causing the packaging separator 20 to surround the outer surface of the electrode assembly 10. The packaging separator 20 can be divided or segmented into a base region A0, a first folding region A1, and a second folding region A2.

[0050] The divided reference area A0 and the folding areas A1 and A2 can be separated from each other and attached to the packaging unit 130 by suction.

[0051] The reference area A0 is an area that contacts the reference surface 11 of the electrode assembly 10. The first folding area A1 extends to one side of the reference area A0 and can be said to be an area that includes one end of the packaging separator 20. The second folding area A2 extends to the other side of the reference area A0 and can be said to be an area that includes the other end of the packaging separator 20.

[0052] The wrapping unit 130 folds the electrode assembly so that the folding areas A1 and A2 are located on the opposite side of the electrode assembly that faces the reference surface.

[0053] Specifically, the packaging unit 130 may include a suction bed 131, a first suction member 132, a first operating shaft 134, a second suction member 133, a second operating shaft 136, and a vacuum pressure applying unit 139. The vacuum pressure applying unit 139 can apply a vacuum pressure P to the reference suction surface 131a, the first folding suction surface 132a, and the second folding suction surface 133a. The packaging separation film can be tightly and fixed to the suction bed and the suction member by the vacuum suction. That is, the suction fixation prevents the packaging separation film from coming off during the folding process.

[0054] The first and second actuating shafts 134 and 136 are configured to move the first and second attracting members 132 and 133 for folding. A first motor 135 and a second motor 137 may be provided to generate a driving force.

[0055] The first operating shaft 134 may be connected to the first suction member 132 to lift and rotate the first suction member 132. Similarly, the second operating shaft 136 may be connected to the second suction member 133 to lift and rotate the second suction member 132.

[0056] The adsorption bed 131 is provided with a reference adsorption surface 131a. The reference adsorption surface 131a is a surface to which a vacuum pressure P is applied. A packaging separation membrane 20 is placed on the reference adsorption surface 131a. The electrode assembly 10 is attached to the reference adsorption surface 131a with the packaging separation membrane 20 sandwiched therebetween.

[0057] When vacuum pressure P is applied, the reference adsorption surface 131a adsorbs the reference area A0 of the packaging separator 20, which contacts the reference surface 11 of the electrode assembly 10. As described above, the reference area A0 is the area that contacts the reference surface 11 of the electrode assembly 10.

[0058] The first suction member 132 may be provided at a predetermined distance from one side of the suction bed 131. The first suction member 132 may be connected to the suction bed 131 by a first operating shaft 134. The first operating shaft 134 may be provided between the suction bed 131 and the first suction member 132.

[0059] The predetermined gap between the first suction member 132 and the suction bed 131 is for covering one side of the electrode assembly after folding the packaging separator. That is, the packaging separator positioned at the predetermined gap is preferably a part of the first folding region A1 or a part that is not suctioned.

[0060] The first operating shaft 134 may be provided so that the first suction member 132 rotates and rises at a predetermined angle relative to the suction bed 131. The first motor 135 is coupled to the first operating shaft 134 and can provide a driving force to the first operating shaft 134.

[0061] The first suction member 132 is provided with a first folding suction surface 132a that suctions the first folding region A1 including one end of the packaging separator 20. The first folding suction surface 132a suctions the first folding region A1 of the packaging separator 20 that is not in contact with the reference surface 11 of the electrode assembly 10.

[0062] When the vacuum pressure P is applied, the first suction member 132 suctions the first folded region A1 of the packaging separation membrane 20 such that the first folded suction surface 132a is flush with the reference suction surface 131a.

[0063] The first attraction member 132 rotates and rises in a first direction R1 such that the first folding attraction surface 132a faces the reference attraction surface 131a, and operates to fold the packaging separator 20 so that the first folding area A1 contacts the opposite surface 12 of the electrode assembly 10. That is, the first attraction member 132 can move from the unfolded position to the folded position. Of course, once folding is complete, the first attraction member 132 can move from the folded position to the unfolded position, or can move back to its original position.

[0064] Accordingly, the first folding region A1 of the packaging separator 20 covers the first side surface 13 of the electrode assembly 10 and a portion of the opposite side surface 12 extending from the first side surface 13, based on the reference region A0.

[0065] When the vacuum pressure P is released, the first suction member 132 is separated from the packaging separation membrane 20. The first suction member 132 rotates and rises in a second direction R2 opposite to the first direction R1, and unfolds so that the first folded suction surface 132a is positioned on the same plane as the reference suction surface 131a.

[0066] The second suction member 133 is rotatably provided at a predetermined angle on the other side of the suction bed 131. That is, the second suction member 133 is positioned symmetrically to the first suction member 132 and can operate symmetrically at the same time.

[0067] The second actuating shaft 136 is provided so that the second suction member 133 rotates and rises at a predetermined angle relative to the suction bed 131, thereby moving the second suction member 133 from the unfolded position to the folded position. The second motor 137 is coupled to the second actuating shaft 136 and can provide a driving force to the second actuating shaft 136.

[0068] The second suction member 133 is provided with a second folding suction surface 133a that suctions the second folding region A2 including the other end of the packaging separator 20. The second folding suction surface 133a suctions the second folding region A2 of the packaging separator 20 that is not in contact with the reference surface 11 of the electrode assembly 10.

[0069] When the vacuum pressure P is applied, the second suction member 133 suctions the second folded region A2 of the packaging separation membrane 20 such that the second folded suction surface 133a is flush with the reference suction surface 131a.

[0070] The second suction member 133 rotates in a second direction R2 such that the second folding suction surface 133a faces the reference suction surface 131a, and operates to fold the packaging separator 20 so that the second folding area A2 contacts the opposite surface 12 of the electrode assembly 10.

[0071] Accordingly, the second folding region A2 of the packaging separator 20 covers the second side surface 14 of the electrode assembly 10 and a portion of the opposite side surface 12 extending from the second side surface 14, based on the reference region A0.

[0072] When the vacuum pressure P is released, the second suction member 133 is separated from the packaging separation membrane 20. The second suction member 133 rotates in the first direction R1 and unfolds so that the second folded suction surface 133a is positioned on the same plane as the reference suction surface 131a.

[0073] Meanwhile, the above-described operating shaft configuration and motor configuration are merely examples for moving the attraction member between the unfolded position and the folded position, and can be applied to various drive mechanisms.

[0074] The sealing part 140 is provided on the upper part of the electrode assembly 10 placed on the adsorption bed 131. The sealing part 140 moves downward from the upper part of the electrode assembly 10 and is positioned so as to abut against the opposite surface 12 of the electrode assembly 10.

[0075] The sealing unit 140 generates heat at a temperature at which the packaging separator 20 is heat-sealed to the separator of the electrode assembly 10. The sealing unit 140 applies heat to the packaging separator 20 that is in contact with the separator of the electrode assembly 10, thereby sealing the packaging separator 20 to the electrode assembly 10. After sealing the packaging separator 20 to the electrode assembly 10, the sealing unit 140 returns to its original position.

[0076] The sealing unit 140 may heat seal only the overlapping portion of the packaging separator 20 on the electrode assembly 10. Therefore, the packaging separator 20 can be firmly fixed to the electrode assembly 10 even if the packaging separator 20 is not directly heat sealed to the separator of the electrode assembly 10.

[0077] The cutting unit 120 can cut the packaging separator 20 unwound from the supply unit 110 to a packaging length L1. The conveying unit 150 can convey the electrode assembly 10 to the suction bed 131 of the packaging unit 130.

[0078] The process of wrapping the packaging separator 20 on the outer surface of the electrode assembly 10 will be described below with reference to FIGS.

[0079] 6(b), the packaging separation membrane 20 can be attached to the reference adsorption surface 131a, the first folded adsorption surface 132a, and the second folded adsorption surface 133a. As described above, the packaging separation membrane 20 can be supplied from the supply unit 110 to the packaging unit 130.

[0080] Referring to (c) of Figure 6, when vacuum pressure P is applied to the adsorption bed 131, the first adsorption member 132, and the second adsorption member 133, the packaging separation membrane 20 is vacuum-adsorbed to the reference adsorption surface 131a, the first folded adsorption surface 132a, and the second folded adsorption surface 133a.

[0081] 6(d), the electrode assembly 10 is placed on the adsorption bed 131 that adsorbs the packaging separator 20. The reference surface 11 of the electrode assembly 10 is placed in the reference area A0 of the packaging separator 20.

[0082] 7(a), the first suction member 132 rotates in the first direction R1 while ascending and is folded so that the first folded suction surface 132a faces the reference suction surface 131a. During the folding operation of the first suction member 132, the first folded region A1 of the packaging separation membrane 20 is suctioned to the first folded suction surface 132a.

[0083] When the first suction member 132 is folded, the first folding area A1 of the packaging separator 20 covers the first side 13 of the electrode assembly 10 and a portion of the opposite side 12 extending from the first side 13, based on the reference area A0.

[0084] When the first suction member 132 completes the folding operation of the packaging separator 20 in the first folding region A1, the vacuum pressure applied to the first folding suction surface 132a is released.

[0085] As shown in (b) of Figure 7, the first suction member 132 rotates and descends in a second direction R2 opposite to the first direction R1, and is unfolded so that the first folded suction surface 132a is positioned on the same plane as the reference suction surface 131a.

[0086] If the width W1 of the packaging separator 20 is larger than the circumference of the electrode assembly 10, the second attracting member 133 performs the folding and unfolding operation after the operation of the first attracting member 132. After the operation of the first attracting member 132, the second attracting member 133 performs the folding operation on the second folding region A2 of the packaging separator 20.

[0087] Referring to FIG. 7(c), when a vacuum pressure P is applied, the second suction member 133 suctions the second folded region A2 of the packaging separator 20 with the second folded suction surface 133a flush with the reference suction surface 131a.

[0088] The second suction member 133 rotates and rises in a second direction R2 in which the second folded suction surface 133a faces the reference suction surface 131a, and operates to fold the packaging separator 20 so that the second folding area A2 contacts the opposite surface 12 of the electrode assembly 10.

[0089] Accordingly, the second folding region A2 of the packaging separator 20 covers the second side surface 14 of the electrode assembly 10 and a portion of the opposite side surface 12 extending from the second side surface 14, based on the reference region A0.

[0090] The second folding region A2 of the packaging separator 20 covers a part of the opposite surface 12 of the electrode assembly 10 and a part of the first folding region A1 while the other end 22 of the packaging separator overlaps with one end 21 of the packaging separator.

[0091] When the folding operation of the second folding region A2 of the packaging separator 20 by the second suction member 133 is completed, the vacuum pressure P applied to the second folding suction surface 133a is released.

[0092] 7(d), when the vacuum pressure P is released, the second suction member 133 is separated from the packaging separation membrane 20. The second suction member 133 rotates and descends in the first direction R1, and unfolds so that the second folded suction surface 133a is positioned on the same plane as the reference suction surface 131a.

[0093] Once the folding operation of the packaging unit 130 is completed, the sealing unit 140 operates. As shown in Fig. 8, the sealing unit 140 moves down from the top of the electrode assembly 10 to abut against the opposite surface 12 of the electrode assembly 10. The sealing unit 140 generates heat at a temperature at which the packaging separator 20 is heat-sealed to the separator of the electrode assembly 10.

[0094] The sealing unit 140 applies heat to the packaging separator 20 in contact with the separator of the electrode assembly 10 to seal the packaging separator 20 to the electrode assembly 10. After sealing the packaging separator 20 to the electrode assembly 10, the sealing unit 140 returns to its original position.

[0095] The packaging separator 20 seals one end 21 and the other end 22 of the packaging separator to the electrode assembly 10 by the sealing part 140, and encloses the entire outer surface of the electrode assembly 10.

[0096] If the width W1 of the packaging separator 20 is larger than the circumference of the electrode assembly 10, the electrode assembly 10 must be packaged with the packaging separator 20 so that the other end 22 of the packaging separator overlaps one end 21 of the packaging separator, and therefore, it is preferable that the second suction member 133 be unfolded after the folding operation of the first suction member 132 is completed.

[0097] When the overlap is sealed, the sealing area is small, allowing for very efficient packaging and fixing. However, the first and second suction members 132 and 133 must be operated sequentially, which may increase the packaging process time. Also, since packaging is not performed on both sides simultaneously, if packaging is performed on one side, a separate mechanism is required to fix the electrode assembly so that it does not move.

[0098] 9 shows the electrode assembly 30 for preventing damage manufactured by the above process. Referring to FIG. 9(a), the electrode assembly 30 for preventing damage is surrounded on its outer surface by a packaging separator 20.

[0099] 9(b) is a rear view of the electrode assembly looking at the reference surface 11. Referring to FIG. 9(b), the reference area A0 of the packaging separator 20 surrounds the entire reference surface 11 of the electrode assembly.

[0100] 9(c) is a front view of the opposite surface 12 of the electrode assembly 10. Referring to FIG. 9(c), the first folded region A1 of the packaging separator 20 covers a portion of the opposite surface 12 of the electrode assembly 10. The second folded region A2 of the packaging separator 20 overlaps a portion of the first folded region A1 and covers the remaining area of the opposite surface 12 of the electrode assembly 10.

[0101] The damage-preventing electrode assembly 30 is configured by wrapping the outer surface of the electrode assembly 10, excluding the tab, with a packaging separator 20, thereby preventing damage to the separator constituting the electrode assembly 10 and also preventing the intrusion of foreign matter into the electrode assembly 10.

[0102] [Mode for carrying out the invention] The above-described embodiments can be said to relate to an apparatus and method for packaging by folding a packaging separator from both sides of the electrode assembly based on a reference surface of the electrode assembly to form an overlap on the opposite surface of the electrode assembly.

[0103] On the other hand, the overlap of the packaging separator may be eliminated, i.e., the overlap may be eliminated on the opposite surface of the electrode assembly, or on the opposite surface and the reference surface.

[0104] Hereinafter, an embodiment in which overlapping is eliminated will be described. Since the features of fixing and folding the separator for packaging by adsorption are the same or similar, the description of the overlapping points will be omitted.

[0105] The manufacturing apparatus 100 for a damage prevention electrode assembly according to the second embodiment of the present invention may have a difference in that no overlap is formed on opposite surfaces of the electrode assembly, unlike the above-described embodiments.

[0106] The manufacturing apparatus 100 according to this embodiment may similarly include a supply section 110 , a packaging section 130 and a sealing section 140 , and may further include a cutting section 120 and a conveying section 150 .

[0107] The configuration of the manufacturing apparatus 100 for a damage prevention electrode assembly according to this embodiment is the same as the components of the first embodiment described above. In this embodiment, to avoid repetition of explanation, the explanations of the supply unit 110, cutting unit 120, conveying unit 150, and sealing unit 140 will be omitted.

[0108] Compared to the first embodiment described above, this embodiment describes the operation of the packaging unit 130 when the width W1' of the packaging separator 20' is equal to or smaller than the circumference of the electrode assembly 10. Each component of the packaging unit 130 is the same as that of the first embodiment described above, and therefore, a description thereof will be omitted.

[0109] When the width W1' of the packaging separator is equal to or smaller than the circumference of the electrode assembly 10, the first and second attracting members 132 and 133 simultaneously perform the folding operation.

[0110] The first suction member 132 rotates and rises in a first direction R1 based on the suction bed 131 so that the first folded region A1 of the packaging separator 20' wraps around one side of the electrode assembly 10. The second suction member 133 rotates and rises in a second direction R2 based on the suction bed 131 so that the second folded region A2 of the packaging separator 20' wraps around the other side of the electrode assembly 10.

[0111] After the folding operation is completed, the first suction member 132 and the second suction member 133 can be simultaneously unfolded. The first suction member 132 rotates and descends in the second direction R2 based on the suction bed 131, and is unfolded so that the first folded suction surface 132a is placed on the same plane as the reference suction surface 131a. The second suction member 132 rotates and descends in the first direction R1 based on the suction bed 131, and is unfolded so that the second folded suction surface 133a is placed on the same plane as the reference suction surface 131a.

[0112] In this embodiment, for convenience of explanation, a process of packaging the electrode assembly 10 using a packaging separator 20' whose width W1' is smaller than the circumference of the electrode assembly 10 will be described.

[0113] As shown in FIG. 10(b), the packaging separation membrane 20' is attached to the reference adsorption surface 131a, the first folded adsorption surface 132a, and the second folded adsorption surface 133a.

[0114] As shown in (c) of Figure 10, when vacuum pressure P is applied to the adsorption bed 131, the first adsorption member 132, and the second adsorption member 133, the packaging separation membrane 20' is vacuum-adsorbed to the reference adsorption surface 131a, the first folded adsorption surface 132a, and the second folded adsorption surface 133a.

[0115] 10(d), the electrode assembly 10 is attached to an adsorption bed 131. The electrode assembly 10 is placed on a packaging separator 20'.

[0116] Referring to (a) of Figure 11, the first suction member 132 and the second suction member 133 simultaneously fold so that the first folding area A1 and the second folding area A2 of the packaging separator 20' come into contact with the opposite surface 12 of the electrode assembly 10.

[0117] The first suction member 132 rotates and rises in the first direction R1 with the first folding region A1 of the packaging separator 20' attached to the first folding suction surface 132a, so that the first folding region A1 of the packaging separator 20' comes into contact with the opposite surface 12 of the electrode assembly 10.

[0118] The second suction member 133 rotates and rises in the second direction R2 with the second folding region A2 of the packaging separator 20' attached to the second folding suction surface 133a, so that the second folding region A2 of the packaging separator 20' comes into contact with the opposite surface 12 of the electrode assembly 10.

[0119] Referring to FIG. 11(b), the vacuum pressure P applied to the first suction member 132 and the second suction member 133 during the deployment operation is released.

[0120] The first attraction member 132 rotates and descends in the second direction R2, and is unfolded so that the first folded attraction surface 132a is positioned on the same plane as the reference attraction surface 131a. The second attraction member 133 rotates and descends in the first direction R1, and is unfolded so that the second folded attraction surface 133a is positioned on the same plane as the reference attraction surface 131a.

[0121] Next, as shown in FIG. 12, the sealing portion 140 is moved downward toward the opposite surface of the electrode assembly 10 and comes into contact with the opposite surface 12 of the electrode assembly 10 .

[0122] The sealing unit 140 contacts the packaging separator 20' placed on the opposite side 12 of the electrode assembly 10 and provides heat to the packaging separator 20'. The sealing unit 140 generates heat at a temperature at which the packaging separator 20' is heat-sealed to the separator of the electrode assembly 10.

[0123] The sealing unit 140 applies pressure and heat to the packaging separator 20' against the opposite surface 12 of the electrode assembly, thereby sealing the packaging separator 20' to the opposite surface 12 of the electrode assembly.

[0124] The packaging separator 20' seals one end 21 and the other end 22 of the packaging separator to the electrode assembly 10 by the sealing portion 140, and encloses the entire outer surface of the electrode assembly 10.

[0125] If the width W1' of the packaging separator is equal to or smaller than the circumference of the electrode assembly 10, the other end 22 of the packaging separator does not overlap with one end 21 of the packaging separator, and the first and second suction members 132 and 133 can be folded and then unfolded simultaneously. This reduces the packaging process time and eliminates the need for a separate structure for fixing the electrode assembly 10 during the packaging process. However, the lack of overlap may increase the number of seals or the sealing area.

[0126] The electrode assembly 30a for preventing damage manufactured through the above process is shown in Figure 13. Referring to Figure 13(a), the electrode assembly 30a for preventing damage has the entire base surface 11 and part of the opposite surface 12 of the electrode assembly wrapped in a packaging separator 20'.

[0127] 13(b) is a rear view of the electrode assembly looking at the reference surface 11. Referring to FIG. 13(b), the reference area A0 of the packaging separator 20' surrounds the entire reference surface 11 of the electrode assembly.

[0128] 13(c) is a front view of the opposite surface 12 of the electrode assembly 10. Referring to FIG. 13(c), the first folded region A1 of the packaging separator 20' covers a portion of the opposite surface 12 of the electrode assembly 10. The second folded region A2 of the packaging separator 20' is spaced apart from the first folded region A1 and covers the remaining area of the opposite surface 12 of the electrode assembly 10.

[0129] The damage-preventing electrode assembly 30a surrounds the reference surface 11, the first side 13, the second side and a portion of the opposite side 12 of the electrode assembly with a packaging separator 20', thereby preventing the separator from being damaged when the separator is folded at the first side 13 and the second side of the electrode assembly 10.

[0130] Hereinafter, an embodiment will be described in which, unlike the above-described embodiment, overlaps are not formed on both the reference surface and the opposite surface of the electrode assembly, i.e., sealing is performed on both the reference surface and the opposite surface of the electrode assembly.

[0131] The manufacturing apparatus 200 for an electrode assembly for preventing damage according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention may include a supply unit 210, packaging units 230a and 230b, and sealing units 240a and 240b. This embodiment may further include a cutting unit 220 and a conveying unit 250.

[0132] The configuration of the manufacturing apparatus 200 for a damage prevention electrode assembly according to this embodiment is the same as the components of the first embodiment described above. In this embodiment, to avoid repetition of explanation, the explanation of the supply unit 210, the cutting unit 220, and the transport unit 250 will be omitted.

[0133] In this embodiment, the first packaging separator 20a and the second packaging separator 20b have a packaging length L1 corresponding to the length L2 of the electrode assembly 10, but the sum of the width W3 of the first packaging separator 20a and the width W4 of the second packaging separator 20b is smaller than the circumference of the electrode assembly 10. In other words, the packaging separators in this embodiment are not a single separator, but can be said to be separated from each other.

[0134] The first packaging part 230a separates and adsorbs different regions of one side of the first packaging separator 20a, and uses the first packaging separator 20a to package one side of the electrode assembly 10. The first packaging separator 20a is divided into a first reference region A11 that contacts the reference surface 11 and a first folding region A12 that does not contact the reference surface 11.

[0135] In this embodiment, for ease of explanation, the region of the first packaging separation membrane 20a that contacts the first reference adsorption surface 231a1 is referred to as the "first reference region A11." The region of the first packaging separation membrane 20a that contacts the first folded adsorption surface 232a is referred to as the "first folding region A12." The first folding region A12 is an area extending from the first reference region A11 and including one end 21a of the first packaging separation membrane.

[0136] The first packaging part 230a operates to fold the first folding region A12 at a predetermined angle relative to the first reference region A11. As a result, the first packaging separator 20a includes the first side surface 13 of the electrode assembly 10 and encloses a portion of the opposite side 12 folded to the upper side of the first side surface 13 and a portion of the reference surface 11 folded to the lower side of the first side surface 13.

[0137] The first packaging unit 230a includes a first suction bed 231a, a first suction member 232, a first operating shaft 234, a first motor 235, and a first vacuum pressure applying unit 239a. The first vacuum pressure applying unit 139 applies a vacuum pressure P to the first reference suction surface 131a and the first folding suction surface 232a.

[0138] The first suction bed 231a is provided with a first reference suction surface 231a1. When a vacuum pressure is applied to the first reference suction surface 231a1, the first reference area A11 of the first packaging separator 20a is attracted to the first reference suction surface 231a1. The electrode assembly 10 is placed on the first suction bed 231a and the second suction bed 231b.

[0139] The first suction member 232 is provided with a first folding suction surface 232a that suctions the first folding area A12. The first suction member 232 can be provided by a first operating shaft 234 so as to be rotatable and movable up and down at a predetermined angle relative to the first suction bed 231a.

[0140] The first operating shaft 234 rotates and lifts the first suction member 232 at a predetermined angle with respect to the first suction bed 231a between the first suction bed 231a and the first suction member 232. A first motor 235 may be coupled to the first operating shaft 234.

[0141] The first motor 235 rotates and lifts the first operating shaft 234 in a first direction R1 during a folding operation of the first attracting member 232. The first motor 235 rotates and lifts the first operating shaft 234 in a second direction R2 during an unfolding operation of the first attracting member 232.

[0142] As shown in FIG. 15(c), the first suction member 232 suctions one side of the first packaging separation membrane 20a with the first folded suction surface 232a being flush with the first reference suction surface 231a1.

[0143] The first suction member 232 is folded relative to the first suction bed 231a while rotating in a first direction R1 and ascending by the first operating shaft 234. The first suction member 232 is unfolded relative to the first suction bed 231a while rotating in a second direction R2 and descending by the first operating shaft 234.

[0144] As shown in (d) of Figure 15, in the first reference area A11, one side of the first packaging separation membrane 20a contacts the first reference adsorption surface 231a1 of the first adsorption bed 231a, and the other side of the first packaging separation membrane 20a contacts the reference surface 11 of the electrode assembly.

[0145] When the electrode assembly 10 is attached to the first suction bed 231a with the first packaging separator 20a sandwiched therebetween (see (d) of Figure 15), as shown in (a) of Figure 16, the first suction member 232 performs a folding operation in which the first folded suction surface 232a rotates in the first direction R1 toward the opposite surface 12 of the electrode assembly.

[0146] During the folding operation, the first attraction member 232 is operated so that the first folding attraction surface 232a faces the first reference attraction surface 231a1 with the electrode assembly 10 sandwiched therebetween.

[0147] When the first folded adsorption surface 232a is positioned opposite the first reference adsorption surface 231a1, the first folded area A12 of the first packaging separator 20a adsorbed to the first folded adsorption surface 232a covers the first side 13 of the electrode assembly 10 and a portion of the opposite side 12 extending from the first side 13.

[0148] Next, as shown in FIG. 16(b), the first attachment member 232 performs a deployment operation in which it rotates and descends in a second direction R2 opposite to the first direction R1.

[0149] During the unfolding operation, the vacuum pressure P applied to the first suction member 232 is released, and the first suction member 232 is separated from the first packaging separation membrane 20a and is operated so that the first folded suction surface 232a is placed on the same plane as the first reference suction surface 231a1.

[0150] The second packaging part 230b includes the second side 14 of the electrode assembly 10 and operates to wrap a portion of the opposite side 12 folded toward the upper side of the second side 14 and a portion of the reference side 11 folded toward the lower side of the second side 14 with the second packaging separator 20b. The second side 14 is opposite the first side 13.

[0151] The second packaging unit 230b may include a second suction bed 231b, a second suction member 233, a second operating shaft 236, and a second motor 237. That is, the second packaging unit may be provided symmetrically with the first packaging unit and configured to operate symmetrically.

[0152] The second suction bed 231b is provided with a second reference suction surface 231b1. The second suction bed 231b supports the reference surface 11 of the electrode assembly with the second packaging separator 20b sandwiched therebetween. The second suction member 233 is provided with a second folded suction surface 233a.

[0153] In this embodiment, for ease of explanation, the region of the second packaging separation membrane 20b that contacts the second reference adsorption surface 231b1 is referred to as the "second reference region A21." The region of the second packaging separation membrane 20b that contacts the second folding adsorption surface 233a is referred to as the "second folding region A22." The second folding region A22 is an area extended from the second reference region A21 and includes one end 21b of the second packaging separation membrane.

[0154] 15(c), the second suction member 233 divides and adsorbs one side of the second packaging separator 20b such that the second folded adsorption surface 233a is flush with the second reference adsorption surface 231b1. The second suction member 233 may be configured to rotate and move up and down at a predetermined angle relative to the second suction bed 231b by a second actuating shaft 236.

[0155] The second suction member 233 is folded relative to the second suction bed 231b while rotating in the second direction R2 and ascending by the second operating shaft 236. The second suction member 233 is unfolded relative to the second suction bed 231b while rotating in the first direction R1 and descending by the second operating shaft 236.

[0156] The second operating shaft 236 is connected to one side of the second suction bed 231b and the second suction member 233, and rotates and raises and lowers the second suction member 233 at a predetermined angle based on the second suction bed 231b. A second motor 237 is connected to the second operating shaft 236.

[0157] The second motor 237 rotates and raises and lowers the second operating shaft 236 in the second direction R2 during the folding operation of the second attracting member 233. The second motor 237 rotates and lowers the second operating shaft 236 in the first direction R1 during the unfolding operation of the second attracting member 233.

[0158] As shown in (d) of Figure 15, in the second reference area A21, one side of the second packaging separation membrane 20b contacts the second reference adsorption surface 231b1 of the second adsorption bed 231b, and the other side of the second packaging separation membrane 20b contacts the reference surface 11 of the electrode assembly.

[0159] When the electrode assembly 10 is attached to the second suction bed 231b with the second packaging separator 20b sandwiched therebetween (see FIG. 15(d)), the second suction member 233 performs a folding operation in which the second folded suction surface 233a rotates in the second direction R2 toward the opposite surface 12 of the electrode assembly, as shown in FIG. 16(a). During the folding operation, the second suction member 233 is operated so that the second folded suction surface 233a faces the second reference suction surface 231b1 with the electrode assembly 10 sandwiched therebetween.

[0160] When the second folded adsorption surface 233a is positioned opposite the second reference adsorption surface 231b1 across the electrode assembly 10, the second folded area A22 of the second packaging separator 20b adsorbed to the second folded adsorption surface 233a covers the second side 14 of the electrode assembly 10 and a portion of the opposite side 12 extending from the second side 14.

[0161] 16(b), the second suction member 233 performs an unfolding operation by rotating in the first direction R1. During the unfolding operation, the vacuum pressure P applied to the second suction member 233 is released, and the second suction member 233 is separated from the second packaging separation membrane 20b, and the second folded suction surface 233a is placed on the same plane as the second reference suction surface 231b1.

[0162] 17, the upper sealing part 240a abuts against the opposite surface 12 of the electrode assembly, sandwiching the first and second packaging separators 20a and 20b, and provides heat to the first and second packaging separators 20a and 20b. The lower sealing part 240b abuts against the reference surface 11 of the electrode assembly, sandwiching the first and second packaging separators 20a and 20b, and provides heat to the first and second packaging separators 20a and 20b.

[0163] The upper sealing part 240a and the lower sealing part 240b generate heat at a temperature at which the first packaging separator 20a and the second packaging separator 20b are heat-sealed to the separator of the electrode assembly 10.

[0164] Here, the lower sealing portion 240b may be provided between the first packaging portion and the second packaging portion, and the first packaging portion and the second packaging portion may be symmetrical with respect to the lower sealing portion 240b.

[0165] The lower sealing part 240b may be configured to pressurize the electrode assembly simultaneously with the upper sealing part 240a. That is, the lower sealing part 240b may be configured to move up and down in the same manner as the upper sealing part 240a. In this case, it is preferable that the first and second packaging parts are disposed sufficiently apart so that the movement of the lower sealing part 240b does not interfere with each other.

[0166] Figure 18 shows a damage prevention electrode assembly 30b manufactured by the above process. Figure 18(a) is a cross-sectional view of the damage prevention electrode assembly 30b. Figure 18(b) is a rear view of the electrode assembly looking at the reference surface 11. Figure 18(c) is a front view of the electrode assembly looking at the opposite surface 12.

[0167] The damage-preventing electrode assembly 30b is configured such that one side of the electrode assembly 10, including the first side surface 13 of the electrode assembly 10, is wrapped with a first packaging separator 20a.

[0168] The first packaging separator 20a covers the first side 13 of the first electrode assembly 10, a portion of the reference surface 11 extending to the lower part of the first side 13, and a portion of the opposite surface 12 extending to the upper part of the first side 13.

[0169] One end 21a of the first packaging separator contacts the reference surface 11 of the electrode assembly, and the other end 22a of the first packaging separator contacts the opposite surface 12 of the electrode assembly.

[0170] The damage-preventing electrode assembly 30b is wrapped around the other side of the electrode assembly 10, including the second side surface 14 of the electrode assembly 10, by a second packaging separator 20b.

[0171] The second packaging separator 20b covers the second side 14 of the second electrode assembly 10, a portion of the reference surface 11 extending to the lower part of the second side 14, and a portion of the opposite surface 12 extending to the upper part of the second side 14.

[0172] One end 21b of the second packaging separator contacts the reference surface 11 of the electrode assembly, and the other end 22b of the second packaging separator contacts the opposite surface 12 of the electrode assembly.

[0173] The present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the following embodiments. However, the scope of the present invention is not limited to the following embodiments. The preferred embodiments of the present invention described above have been disclosed for illustrative purposes, and those skilled in the art with ordinary skill in the art may make various modifications, changes, and additions within the spirit and scope of the present invention. Such modifications, changes, and additions should be considered to fall within the scope of the following claims. [Industrial Applicability]

[0174] This is described in the detailed description of the invention.

Claims

1. a supply unit for supplying a packaging separator having a packaging length corresponding to the length of the electrode assembly; a packaging unit configured to fold the packaging separator supplied from the supply unit so that the packaging separator is attached to a folding region and a reference region where a reference surface of the electrode assembly is attached, by dividing and adsorbing the packaging separator, and the folding region is placed on an opposite surface of the electrode assembly that faces the reference surface of the electrode assembly; a sealing unit that seals the packaging separator located on the opposite side to the electrode assembly after folding the packaging separator.

2. 2 . The electrode assembly manufacturing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the folding region of the packaging separator is a region that covers the side surface and the opposite surface of the electrode assembly when the packaging separator is folded.

3. The electrode assembly manufacturing apparatus of claim 2 , wherein suction to a region of the folding region that covers the side surface of the electrode assembly is eliminated.

4. 4. The apparatus for manufacturing an electrode assembly according to claim 3, wherein the suction force of the folding region is maintained until the folding of the packaging separator is completed.

5. The packaging unit includes: an adsorption bed provided with a reference adsorption surface that adsorbs the reference area of the packaging separation membrane; an adsorption member having a folding adsorption surface that adsorbs the folding region of the packaging separation membrane at a predetermined distance from the adsorption bed; The electrode assembly manufacturing apparatus according to claim 1 , further comprising: a vacuum pressure applying unit that applies vacuum pressure to the reference suction surface and the folded suction surface.

6. 6. The electrode assembly manufacturing apparatus of claim 5, wherein the folding suction surface is positioned flush with the reference suction surface in the unfolded position, and is elevated and rotated to face the reference suction surface above the reference suction surface in the folded position.

7. 7. The electrode assembly manufacturing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the suction members include a first suction member and a second suction member provided on both sides of the suction bed, respectively.

8. The electrode assembly manufacturing apparatus of claim 7 , wherein the first and second suction members are provided symmetrically to each other and move symmetrically to each other.

9. 9. The electrode assembly manufacturing apparatus of claim 8, wherein the folding of the packaging separator via the first suction member and the folding of the packaging separator via the second suction member are performed sequentially.

10. 10. The electrode assembly manufacturing apparatus of claim 9, wherein both ends of the packaging separator overlap with the opposite surface of the electrode assembly by folding the packaging separator via the first suction member and the second suction member.

11. 9. The electrode assembly manufacturing apparatus of claim 8, wherein the folding of the packaging separator via the first suction member and the folding of the packaging separator via the second suction member are performed simultaneously.

12. 12. The electrode assembly manufacturing apparatus of claim 11, wherein both ends of the packaging separator are spaced apart from each other on the opposite surface of the electrode assembly by folding the packaging separator via the first suction member and the second suction member.

13. 6. The electrode assembly manufacturing apparatus according to claim 5, further comprising an operating shaft connected to the suction member for lifting the suction member and rotating the suction member by a predetermined angle.

14. The electrode assembly manufacturing apparatus according to claim 13 , further comprising a motor for providing a driving force for the actuation shaft.

15. The packaging unit includes: a first packaging part including a first side surface of the electrode assembly, the first packaging part packaging a portion of an opposite side bent toward an upper portion of the first side surface and a portion of a reference side bent toward a lower portion of the first side surface with a first packaging separator; 5. The electrode assembly manufacturing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: a second packaging unit including a second side surface of the electrode assembly opposite to the first side surface, and wrapping a portion of the opposite side surface folded toward the upper portion of the second side surface and a portion of the reference side surface folded toward the lower portion of the second side surface with a second packaging separator.

16. 16. The electrode assembly manufacturing apparatus of claim 15, wherein the packaging separator attached by suction to the first packaging unit and the packaging separator attached by suction to the second packaging unit are supplied separately from each other through the supply unit.

17. 16. The electrode assembly manufacturing apparatus of claim 15, wherein the sealing unit includes a lower sealing unit that seals the packaging separator located on the opposite side to the electrode assembly after folding the packaging separator.

18. 18. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the first packaging unit and the second packaging unit are arranged symmetrically with respect to the lower sealing unit and are configured to move symmetrically with respect to each other.

19. 19. The electrode assembly manufacturing apparatus of claim 18, wherein both ends of the packaging separator are spaced apart from each other on the opposite surface of the electrode assembly by folding the packaging separator through the first packaging part and the second packaging part.

20. 20. The electrode assembly manufacturing apparatus of claim 19, wherein folding of the separator for packaging through the first packaging unit and folding of the separator for packaging through the second packaging unit are performed simultaneously.

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