Unit cell transfer apparatus for secondary battery, manufacturing apparatus comprising same, and secondary battery manufacturing method

Abstract

The present invention relates to a unit cell transfer apparatus and a stacking apparatus and, more specifically, to a unit cell transfer apparatus capable of transferring and stacking a unit cell in a stable manner, and to a secondary battery manufacturing apparatus comprising same. A unit cell transfer apparatus for a secondary battery, according to one embodiment of the present invention, may be provided, comprising: a plurality of suction modules for suctioning a unit cell; a circulation track along which the suction modules circulate; a pusher module for moving the suction modules downward with respect to the circulation track; and a controller for releasing the suction of the suction modules after the suction modules move downward, such that the unit cell is separated from the suction modules and stacked.

Description

Secondary battery unit cell transport device and manufacturing device including the same and secondary battery manufacturing method

[0001] The present invention relates to a unit cell transport device and a stacking device, and more specifically, to a unit cell transport device capable of stably transporting and stacking unit cells, and a secondary battery manufacturing device and manufacturing method including the same.

[0002] With the widespread adoption of small, portable electronic devices, development of new types of secondary batteries, such as nickel-metal hydride batteries and lithium secondary batteries, is rapidly progressing. Recently, lithium secondary batteries are being widely used not only in power tools but also in automobiles.

[0003] A lithium secondary battery is a battery that uses carbon such as graphite as an anode active material, an oxide containing lithium as an anode material, and a non-aqueous solvent as an electrolyte.

[0004] These secondary batteries are manufactured in the form of a battery assembly, with the electrode assembly, in which the positive electrode, separator, and negative electrode are sequentially measured, housed in an outer packaging such as a pouch or cylindrical can. Subsequently, an electrolyte is injected into the battery assembly using an electrolyte injection device.

[0005] There are many different methods for stacking electrode assemblies. Representative examples include jelly-roll electrode assemblies, which are formed by rolling up long sheet-shaped anodes and cathodes with a separator interposed therebetween; stacked electrode assemblies, in which a plurality of anodes, a plurality of separators, and a plurality of cathodes cut into units of a predetermined size are sequentially stacked; and stacked / folded electrode assemblies, in which unit anodes or cathodes are stacked on a long sheet-shaped separator and then the separator is repeatedly folded.

[0006] The stacked electrode assembly may be formed by repeatedly stacking a unit anode, a unit separator, and a unit cathode multiple times, or may be formed by stacking a unit cell shape and then stacking a plurality of unit cells. In this case, the unit cell refers to a shape in which a unit separator and a unit anode and / or a unit cathode are stacked, and may also be referred to as a semi-finished product.

[0007] For example, a unit cell in which a unit separator, a unit anode, a unit separator, and a unit cathode are laminated may be called a mono-cell, and a unit cell in which a unit separator, a unit anode, and a unit separator are laminated may be called a half-cell. Of course, the stacking order of the anode and cathode in the mono-cell may be changed, and a cathode may be laminated instead of an anode in the half-cell. First, a mono-cell and a half-cell may be manufactured, and then multiple mono-cells may be laminated, and finally, a half-cell may be laminated to manufacture an electrode assembly.

[0008] When a plurality of unit cells are stacked after manufacturing such a unit cell, there is an advantage in that sufficient adhesive strength can be provided between the separator and the anode and between the separator and the cathode, and there is an advantage in that stacking efficiency and stacking reliability can be improved.

[0009] Figure 1 illustrates an example of a conventional unit cell transport device (10).

[0010] The manufactured unit cells are fed through a conveyor belt (1) and then transported. The conveyor belt (1) may be provided to transport the unit cells (5) by adsorbing them. The unit cells (5) adsorbed on the upper portion of the conveyor belt (1) are flipped upside down as they are transported and transported to a stacking position. That is, when the unit cells (5) are positioned on the upper portion of the pallet (P) on which the unit cells (5) are stacked, the pusher (pusher, 2) pushes the unit cells (5) from the upper portion to the lower portion. The pushers (2) are provided on both sides in the width direction of the conveyor belt (1) to directly strike both ends of the unit cells (5) that are not in contact with the conveyor belt (1).

[0011] The unit cell struck by the pusher falls freely, and through repetition of this free fall, multiple unit cells are sequentially stacked to manufacture an electrode assembly. Therefore, there is a problem that the process capability is reduced due to the distortion of the unit cell, etc. This is because the unit cell may be displaced or distorted from its original position due to the impact during the landing process after being dropped. In addition, there is a problem that the defective unit cell cannot be discharged after the defective unit cell is stacked during the stacking process. This is because there is no means to recover and discharge the defective stacked unit cell that has fallen from the conveyor belt (1). Therefore, if the unit cell is stacked defectively, the entire final electrode assembly cannot help but be defective, which may reduce the process efficiency.

[0012] Accordingly, there is a need to provide a unit cell transport device capable of effectively and continuously performing a pick-up process for receiving unit cells, a stacking process for stacking unit cells, and a discharge process for returning defective unit cells, as well as a stacking device or manufacturing device including the same. In addition, there is a need to provide an effective manufacturing method using such a device.

[0013] The present invention aims to solve the problem of unit cells being stacked by dropping.

[0014] Through one embodiment of the present invention, it is intended to provide a unit cell transport device and manufacturing device capable of lowering unit cells to a stacking position and then stacking them.

[0015] Through one embodiment of the present invention, it is intended to provide a unit cell transport device and manufacturing device capable of picking up and discharging a defective unit cell immediately after lamination.

[0016] Through one embodiment of the present invention, it is intended to provide a unit cell transport device and manufacturing device capable of continuously performing pickup and stacking by picking up unit cells to be stacked in a pickup area and stacking the unit cells in a stacking area.

[0017] Through one embodiment of the present invention, it is intended to provide a manufacturing method for manufacturing a secondary battery effectively and efficiently by eliminating the dropping of unit cells during lamination.

[0018] In order to achieve the above-described purpose, according to one embodiment of the present invention, a unit cell transport device for a secondary battery may be provided, including: a plurality of adsorption modules for adsorbing unit cells; a circulation track along which the adsorption modules are circulated; a pusher module for moving the adsorption modules downward with respect to the circulation track; and a control unit for releasing adsorption of the adsorption modules so that the unit cells are separated from the adsorption modules and stacked after the downward movement of the adsorption modules.

[0019] The above unit cell transport device may be a part of a unit cell stacking device and may be a part of a secondary battery manufacturing device.

[0020] The above plurality of adsorption modules may be arranged to move along the circular track at regular intervals.

[0021] The above plurality of adsorption modules can be controlled to move along the circular track simultaneously and stop simultaneously.

[0022] The above pusher module may be provided to move only a specific adsorption module among a plurality of adsorption modules downward.

[0023] The above pusher modules are provided in multiple numbers, and their positions can be fixed. That is, only the suction module moved to the position where the pusher module is provided can be operated to move downward.

[0024] It is preferable that the above control unit individually controls the absorption and absorption release of the plurality of absorption modules.

[0025] The above-mentioned circular track may be composed of an upper linear section and a lower linear section facing each other in the direction of gravity, and left and right curved sections connecting the upper linear section and the lower linear section. In other words, the circular track may be provided in a form in which the lower linear section is erected at a 90-degree angle to form a floor surface.

[0026] The above-mentioned circular track may include a track-shaped main body, a rail formed on the main body, and a moving device moving along the rail.

[0027] The above-mentioned adsorption module may include a connecting member connected to the moving device and moving integrally with the moving device. As the moving device moves, the adsorption module also moves, and when the moving device stops, the adsorption module may also move. Accordingly, the adsorption module may repeat movement and stopping at a predetermined pitch.

[0028] The above adsorption module may include an adsorption plate having an adsorption surface formed on the lower surface to vacuum-adsorb the upper surface of the unit cell. The adsorption plate may move downward from the upper portion of the unit cell to adsorb the unit cell. In addition, the adsorption plate may release the adsorption of the unit cell after moving downward.

[0029] It is preferable that the above suction plate be positioned so as to extend further to both sides in the thickness of the main body of the above circulation track.

[0030] It is preferable that an opening is formed penetrating the main body, and the pusher module is positioned on both sides of the opening to press both sides of the suction module.

[0031] The above adsorption module may include a transparent extension plate provided at both ends of the adsorption plate to cover both ends of the unit cell. Accordingly, both ends of the unit cell covered by the transparent extension plate can be photographed from above using a vision.

[0032] The above adsorption module preferably includes a guide plate connected to the connecting member, and a lifting guide is provided between the guide plate and the adsorption plate to guide uniform lifting of both ends of the adsorption plate.

[0033] The above pusher module may be provided on both sides of the suction module to push the suction module downward. At this time, the two ends of the suction module may not move downward evenly. Therefore, the two ends of the suction module can be moved downward evenly through the lifting guide.

[0034] The above pusher module may include a rotary cam, a rotary shaft of the rotary cam, and a driving motor for driving the rotary shaft.

[0035] It is preferable that the above-mentioned rotary cams are provided on both sides of the rotary shaft to simultaneously press the above-mentioned suction module downward from the upper sides of the above-mentioned suction module.

[0036] In order to achieve the above-described purpose, according to one embodiment of the present invention, a stacking device or manufacturing device including the unit cell transport device can be provided.

[0037] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a secondary battery manufacturing device may be provided, including a unit cell manufacturing device for manufacturing a unit cell with a positive electrode, a separator, and a negative electrode; a unit cell stacking device for manufacturing an electrode assembly by stacking unit cells manufactured from the unit cell manufacturing device; and a unit cell input device for transporting the unit cells manufactured from the unit cell manufacturing device and inputting them into the unit cell stacking device.

[0038] The unit cell input device may be provided between the unit cell manufacturing device and the unit cell stacking device.

[0039] The unit cell stacking device may include a circulation track in which a plurality of adsorption modules are circulated and a stacking area is preset in a lower linear section; a pusher module that moves the adsorption module downward in the stacking area; and a control unit that releases the adsorption of the adsorption module so that the unit cell is separated from the adsorption module and stacked after the downward movement of the adsorption module.

[0040] It is preferable that the above-mentioned circular track be composed of the lower linear section, the upper linear section facing the lower linear section, and the left and right curved sections connecting the lower linear section and the upper linear section.

[0041] The above plurality of adsorption modules may be arranged to move at equal intervals along the circular track.

[0042] A pickup area (location) distinct from the stacking area (location) may be preset in the lower linear section of the above-mentioned circular track. A stacking process may be performed through an adsorption module located in the stacking area, and a pickup process may be performed through an adsorption module located in the pickup area.

[0043] A discharge area, distinct from the stacking area and the pickup area, may be preset in the lower linear section of the above-mentioned circular track. The discharge process may be performed when an adsorption module that adsorbs the unit cell to be discharged is positioned in the discharge area.

[0044] The above pusher modules may be provided in multiple numbers, each of which may be provided in the stacking area and the pickup area. A pusher module may also be provided in the discharge area. Similar to the stacking process, the pusher module may lower the adsorption module, and after the adsorption is released, the unit cell may be discharged.

[0045] It is preferable that the above unit cell input device be provided so as to extend to the pickup area of ​​the circulation track, which is inside the above unit cell stacking device.

[0046] It is preferable that a discharge area, a stacking area, and a pickup area are sequentially preset along the direction of movement of the adsorption module in the lower linear section of the above-mentioned circular track, or that a pickup area, a stacking area, and a discharge area are preset.

[0047] In order to achieve the above-described object, according to one embodiment of the present invention, a method for manufacturing a secondary battery may be provided, comprising: an adsorption step in which an adsorption module moving along a circular track adsorbs a unit cell at an adsorption position; and a stacking step in which the adsorption module adsorbing the unit cell moves along the circular track and stacks the unit cells at a stacking position, wherein in the stacking step, the adsorption module descends to stack the adsorbed unit cells, then releases the adsorption and rises to complete the stacking.

[0048] The above-mentioned adsorption step is a step for picking up the unit cells that are the target of lamination, and thus can be referred to as a pickup step. The step for picking up defective unit cells after lamination can also be referred to as a pickup step. Therefore, the two can be divided into the unit cell pickup step and the defective cell pickup step. Furthermore, the defective cell pickup step can also be referred to as a re-adsorption step or a re-adsorption process.

[0049] The above-mentioned circular track is equipped with a plurality of adsorption modules, and it is preferable that the entire plurality of adsorption modules move and stop repeatedly at a constant pitch.

[0050] Movement of the adsorption module may refer to movement of the adsorption module to a pickup position, a stacking position, and a discharge position, and it is preferable that specific steps or processes be performed at specific locations. Accordingly, movement of the entire adsorption module may be referred to as a transfer step, and stopping of the entire adsorption module may be referred to as a stop step. In the stop step, the adsorption step, the stacking step, the re-adsorption step, and the discharge step may be performed simultaneously in a designated area.

[0051] In addition, it is preferable that during the stationary phase, the adsorption module does not move along the circular track, but rather moves upward or downward relative to the circular track. For example, the downward movement of the adsorption module may be performed for adsorption, re-adsorption, or stacking, and then the adsorption module may be raised for returning to the original position. In addition, it is preferable that the vacuum adsorption timing, adsorption maintenance period, and adsorption release timing in each adsorption module be appropriately controlled according to the position and time of the adsorption module.

[0052] Therefore, the adsorption and lamination steps can be performed simultaneously based on a single circular track. Furthermore, unit cells with lamination defects can be picked up immediately after the lamination step, and then discharged from the discharge location.

[0053] Through one embodiment of the present invention, a unit cell transport device and manufacturing device capable of lowering unit cells to a stacking position and then stacking them can be provided.

[0054] Through one embodiment of the present invention, a unit cell transport device and manufacturing device capable of picking up and discharging a defective unit cell immediately after lamination can be provided.

[0055] Through one embodiment of the present invention, a unit cell transport device and manufacturing device can be provided that can continuously perform pickup and lamination by picking up unit cells to be laminated in a pickup area and laminating the unit cells in a lamination area.

[0056] Through one embodiment of the present invention, a manufacturing method for manufacturing a secondary battery effectively and efficiently by eliminating the dropping of unit cells during lamination can be provided.

[0057] Figure 1 illustrates an example of a conventional unit cell transport device (stacking device).

[0058] Figure 2 illustrates an example of a unit cell transport device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0059] Figure 3 is a side view of a unit cell transport device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] Figure 4 is an enlarged side view of the adsorption module of the unit cell transport device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0061] FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of the pressing structure of a unit cell transport device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0062] Figure 6 is a bottom view of the suction surface of a unit cell transport device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0063] Figure 7 is a simplified plan view of a unit cell stacking device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0064] Figure 8 is a simplified front view of a unit cell stacking device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0065] Hereinafter, a unit cell transport device according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0066] Figure 2 illustrates an example of a unit cell transport device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0067] The transport device (100) may include a circulation track (110), an adsorption module (120), and a pusher module (130).

[0068] The circular track (110) includes a main body (111), and the circular track and the main body can be formed in a track shape.

[0069] The above-described circular track (110) may be formed by including two straight sections (111a, 111b) facing each other and two curved sections (111c, 111d). The straight sections may include an upper linear section (111a) and a lower linear section (111b), and the curved sections may include a left curved section (111c) and a right curved section (111d) connecting the straight sections. The straight sections and the curved sections are continuously connected to each other to form a single track shape. That is, the circular track (110) is preferably formed in a shape in which the two straight sections are erected facing each other from above and below. That is, the circular track (110) is not arranged horizontally but vertically.

[0070] A rail (112) may be formed on the above body (111). That is, the rail (112) may be formed on the thick portion of the body. Accordingly, the rail itself may also be formed in a track shape.

[0071] An opening (113) may be formed in the center of the main body. That is, an empty space may be formed so that the main body (111) may have a track-shaped donut shape with an empty center. A pusher module (130) may be provided through the opening (113).

[0072] The above-mentioned circulation track (110) may be equipped with a plurality of adsorption modules (120). The adsorption modules (112) may be equipped to move along the circulation track (110). More specifically, they may be equipped to move along the rails of the circulation track (110). The plurality of adsorption modules may be equipped to have a predetermined interval or pitch from each other.

[0073] Each adsorption module (120) may include a suction plate (121). The suction plate (121) is provided to adsorb and fix a unit cell. That is, the suction plate (121) adsorbs and fixes the unit cell to transport it to a specific location, and the corresponding process can be performed at the specific location.

[0074] The above suction plate (121) may be formed smaller than the unit cell. For example, if the unit cell has a rectangular shape with long left and right sides, the suction plate (121) may also have a rectangular shape with long left and right sides. Here, it is preferable that the unit cell is adsorbed and fixed at the center of the suction plate (121), but it is preferable that the left and right length of the suction plate (121) is shorter than the left and right length of the unit cell. Since a vacuum tube configuration is provided inside the suction plate (121), it is not easy to make the suction plate (121) entirely transparent. Therefore, it is preferable that transparent extension plates (121a) are provided at both ends of the suction plate (121).

[0075] The transparent extension plate (121a) is not provided with an adsorption function, but can only perform the function of pressing down both ends of the unit cell when stacking. In addition, the transparent extension plate (121a) can be provided to cover both ends of the unit cell, particularly a portion of the terminal ends of the electrodes and the terminal ends of the electrode tabs. In other words, a portion of the terminal ends of the electrodes and the electrode tabs can be visibly exposed from the upper portion of the transparent extension plate (121a). As described below, the appropriateness of stacking the unit cells can be determined through this transparent extension plate (121a).

[0076] The above adsorption module (120) has its adsorption surface facing downward when moving in the lower linear section (111b), and its adsorption surface facing upward when moving in the upper linear section (111a). Of course, as the adsorption module (120) moves in the two curved sections (111c, 111d), it can be said that the adsorption surface is flipped upside down and the unit cell is also flipped upside down.

[0077] The above adsorption module (120) moves circulating along the above circulation track and performs a specific process at a specific location.

[0078] The unit cell transport device (100) according to the present embodiment can perform multiple processes.

[0079] First, the unit cell transport device can perform a pick-up process for capturing the unit cell. The pick-up process is a process for receiving the unit cell for performing the lamination process. Here, the pick-up process can be said to be a process for actively or proactively capturing the unit cell rather than passively receiving the unit cell. The unit cell can be moved to the transport device through the pick-up process. The pick-up process can be performed by the adsorption module (120) moving to the pick-up position and then adsorbing and fixing the unit cell.

[0080] The unit cell transport device can perform a transport process of moving an adsorption module (120). That is, after picking up a unit cell through a specific adsorption module (120), the unit cell can be transported to a location where another process is performed. This transport process can be performed by moving the adsorption module (120) along a circular track.

[0081] The unit cell transport device can perform a stacking process of stacking unit cells. After the unit cells are transported to the stacking position, the unit cells can be separated from the adsorption module (120) and stacked.

[0082] The unit cell transport device can perform a re-adsorption process to pick up defective unit cells as well as pick up unit cells for lamination. Here, since re-adsorption is performed after lamination, the re-adsorption position and the lamination position may be the same.

[0083] Finally, the unit cell transport device can perform a discharge process of discharging the re-adsorbed defective unit cells from a discharge location.

[0084] Finally, according to the present embodiment, the adsorption module (120) moves along the circular track and can sequentially perform the process at the pickup position, discharge position, and stacking position (re-adsorption position).

[0085] The above-described adsorption module (120) may be provided to be movable in the normal direction of the circulation track (110). In particular, the adsorption module (120) may be provided to be movable downward in the lower linear section (111b). Of course, the connection between the adsorption module (120) and the circulation track (110) is maintained while the adsorption module (120) may be moved vertically downward away from the main body (111).

[0086] Here, the movement of the adsorption module (120) along the circular track (110) can be referred to as linear movement or circular movement, and the movement of the adsorption module (120) away from the circular track (110) can be referred to as downward movement.

[0087] A moving device (113, see FIG. 4), such as a belt, chain, wire, or gear, is provided to move on the rail of a circular track (110), and as the moving device moves, an adsorption module (120) connected to the moving device moves together with the moving device, thereby enabling linear or circular movement of the adsorption module (120). Depending on the shape of the moving device, the connection structure between the moving device and the adsorption module (120) can be modified in various ways.

[0088] The above-described downward movement can be performed in specific cases at specific locations. The means for causing this downward movement may be referred to as a pusher module (130). The pusher module (130) pushes or presses the suction module (120), thereby causing the suction module (120) to move downward.

[0089] The downward movement of the above-described adsorption module (120) can be performed in various processes. The adsorption module can be equipped to adsorb and fix the unit cell through vacuum pressure. Therefore, the adsorption module (120) can move vertically in the pickup process. That is, the adsorption module (120) moves vertically toward the unit cell located at a position spaced apart from the adsorption module (120), and after the adsorption module (120) and the unit cell come into contact, the unit cell can be adsorbed and fixed to the adsorption module (120) through vacuum adsorption. After the pickup, the adsorption module (120) returns to its original position and moves along the circulation track (110).

[0090] If the unit cell after stacking is defective or the unit cell is not stacked in the correct position, the adsorption module (120) may also be moved downward during the re-adsorption process for re-adsorbing the unit cell. In the pickup process and the re-adsorption process, the adsorption module (120) performs adsorption after being moved downward.

[0091] After the unit cell after pickup has moved to the stacking position, the adsorption module (120) may be moved downward. At this time, the adsorption is maintained, and the adsorption may be released after the unit cell comes into contact with the stacking pallet or the upper surface of the previously stacked unit cell. In other words, the unit cell may be moved to the stacking height through the downward movement. This can be said to be a stacking by contact rather than a stacking by free fall of the unit cell. Therefore, distortion during stacking can be minimized, and the stacking shock can be minimized.

[0092] The adsorption module (120) may also be moved downward during the discharge process for discharging the re-adsorbed unit cells. In the stacking process and the discharge process, the adsorption module (120) performs adsorption release after the downward movement. Of course, the downward movement may be omitted in the discharge process. In addition, the adsorption module may be moved upward after the downward movement to return to its original position.

[0093] Meanwhile, the aforementioned pickup process, re-adsorption process, stacking process, and discharge process can all be performed when the corresponding adsorption module (120) is located in the lower linear section (111b). That is, the pickup position, re-adsorption position, stacking position, and discharge position can be preset along the lower linear section (111b). Of course, the re-adsorption position can be the same as the stacking position.

[0094] Here, the pusher module (130) that causes the downward movement of the above-mentioned suction module (120) may be in the form of a cylinder or a cam. The pusher module (130) may be configured to supply force and displacement to move the suction module (120) from its original position to a separated position.

[0095] In the case of a cylindrical pusher module, the force or displacement provided while the adsorption module (120) moves from the original position to the separation position may be constant. Accordingly, when the unit cell adsorbed on the adsorption module (120) reaches the separation position, a large force may be applied to the unit cell.

[0096] On the other hand, in the case of a cam-shaped pusher module, the force or displacement provided while the adsorption module (120) moves from the original position to the separation position may change. In particular, the adsorption module (120) can ensure that the unit cells are stacked very smoothly and stably just before and when the adsorbed unit cells reach the separation position.

[0097] Therefore, it is preferable that the pusher module (130) according to the present embodiment be provided in the form of a cam.

[0098] Hereinafter, the structure or mechanism for the downward movement of the adsorption module (120) will be described in more detail with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4.

[0099] The adsorption module (120) includes a suction plate (121) that adsorbs unit cells, and the unit cells (5) are fixed by being adsorbed on the lower surface of the suction plate (121). That is, the lower surface of the suction plate (121) can be referred to as an adsorption surface. The suction plate (121) can be provided so as to correspond to the planar shape of the unit cells (5).

[0100] A transparent extension plate (121a7) is provided at both ends of the suction plate (121), and the transparent extension plate (121a) covers a portion of the end (shoulder portion) of the unit cell (5) and the electrode tab (6). A vision device (136) may be provided on the upper portion of the transparent extension plate (121a). The electrode tabs (6) and the corners of the unit cell (5) on both sides can be photographed through the vision device (136). That is, an image can be obtained through the vision device (136) by passing through the transparent extension plate (121a). Through the obtained image, it can be determined using the vision device (136) whether the unit cell (5) has been suctioned at a desired position and / or stacked at a desired position.

[0101] The adsorption module (120) may include a connecting member (123). The connecting member (123) may be a configuration that connects the circulation track (110) and the adsorption module (120). A portion of the connecting member (123) may be connected to the circulation track (110), and another portion may be directly or indirectly connected to the adsorption plate (121).

[0102] One side wall (123a) of the above connecting member (123) is inserted into the inside of the rail (112) which is positioned in a groove shape in the thickness portion of the above-mentioned circulation track (111), and the other side wall (123c) may be provided to surround a portion of the outer side of the circulation track body (111). The one side wall (123a) and the other side wall (123c) of the above-mentioned connecting member (123) are connected through the connecting wall (123b), so that the above-mentioned connecting member (123) may have an overall channel shape. The connecting member (123) may be connected to the suction plate (121) through the connecting portion (123b).

[0103] A connecting roller (114) is provided on one side wall (123a) of the above connecting member (123), and the connecting roller (114) can be connected to a moving device (113) such as a wire. Therefore, when the moving device (113) is driven, the connecting roller (114) and the adsorption module (120) can move as one.

[0104] The central axis of the above-mentioned connecting roller (114) can move up and down on one side wall (123a) of the connecting member (123). For example, a slot (123d) is formed in the one side wall (123a) of the connecting member (123) in the up and down direction, and the central axis (114a) of the connecting roller (114) can move up and down along the slot (123d). A spring (not shown) is provided inside the slot, and when the one side wall (123a) of the connecting member (123) is forced downward and moves, the central axis (114a) of the connecting roller (114) overcomes the elastic force of the spring and moves along the slot (123d). Then, when the force pushing the connecting member (123) downward disappears, the spring is restored so that the connecting member (123) can rise and return to its original position. Accordingly, when the adsorption module (120) moves downward, the connecting member (123) moves downward as a unit with the adsorption module (120). In other words, the connecting roller (123d) does not move downward, and the adsorption module including the connecting member (123) moves downward as a unit.

[0105] Through this, the connecting member (123) can move stably along the circulation track (111), and, if necessary, the adsorption module (120) can move downward with respect to the circulation track (111).

[0106] The above connecting member (123) may be directly connected to the suction plate (121), but a guide plate (124) may be interposed between the two. An elevation guide (125) may be provided between the guide plate (124) and the suction plate (121). The elevation guide is provided in the form of a pin and may be referred to as a guide pin. The elevation guide (125) may be provided on both sides of the guide plate (124), so that the suction plate (124) may be elevated uniformly throughout without any deviation on either side.

[0107] A roller bearing block (122) may be provided on the upper sides of both ends of the above guide plate (124). The roller bearing block (122) is pressed downward by a cam (135) of the pusher module (130).

[0108] An elastically supported stopper (125) may be provided at the bottom of the roller bearing block (122). The roller bearing block (122) may include a roller bearing (122a) so that friction may be minimized when pressed downward. When the roller bearing block (122) is pressed downward and moves, the stopper (125) is also pressed downward and moves. Thereafter, when the roller bearing block (122) is further pressed downward and moves, the stopper (125) is no longer pressed downward. That is, at this time, the stopper (125) pushes the guide plate (124) downward, which ultimately causes the suction plate (124) to move downward.

[0109] That is, the roller bearing block (122) is continuously moved downward by the cam (135) of the pusher module (130). During the initial downward movement of the roller bearing block (122), only the stopper (125) moves downward and the suction plate (125) does not move downward. Thereafter, as the roller bearing block (122) moves further downward, the suction plate (125) moves downward together with the stopper (125).

[0110] The above stopper (125) is elastically supported by a spring, and the initial force that presses the roller bearing block (122) downward can be buffered by the spring.

[0111] The above-described adsorption module (120) may include a position sensor (126). The position sensor (126) may be provided in each of a plurality of adsorption modules. For example, each adsorption module (120) may have a unique number. Accordingly, the position sensor (126) may sense the position of the corresponding adsorption module (120).

[0112] As described above, multiple adsorption modules (120) move cyclically along the circulating track (110), and specific processes must be performed at specific locations. These specific processes may include lowering the adsorption modules. Accordingly, if an adsorption module is positioned at a general location rather than a specific location, the adsorption module can be controlled not to lower.

[0113] For example, if the number of adsorption modules (120) is 20, and adsorption modules 1 and 2 are in the pickup area (position), the corresponding position sensor (126) can sense that they are there. This sensing result is transmitted to the control unit (460) described below, and the control unit (460) can control the corresponding pusher module and vacuum adsorption / release. Accordingly, the process can be controlled to be performed only through the corresponding adsorption module through the position sensor (126) individually provided in each adsorption module.

[0114] Below, with reference to Fig. 5, the structure in which the suction plate (121) moves downward through the stopper (125) is described in more detail.

[0115] As the cam (135) rotates, the roller bearing block (122) moves downward. At this time, the cam (135) applies a force that pushes the roller bearing block (122) downward as well as a force that pushes it in the normal direction of the rotational direction. Therefore, it is preferable that the block, which is a component that directly receives force through the cam (135), apply a roller bearing so that it receives force applied not only downward but also forward or rearward.

[0116] Specifically, when the cam (135) rotates clockwise to pressurize the roller bearing block (122), the entire roller bearing block (122) can move downward and forward at the same time. Through a rail structure not shown, the roller bearing block (122) can move forward and return to its original position when the pressurization by the cam (135) is released.

[0117] The roller bearing (122a) of the roller bearing block (122) rotates to press the stopper (125) downward. The stopper (125) may be formed in a “T” shape and may be elastically supported by a spring (125a). When the roller bearing block (122) is initially pressed, only the stopper (125) moves downward, and at this time, the spring (125a) is pressed. Thereafter, when the roller bearing block (122) further presses the stopper (125) downward, the stopper (125) presses the guide plate (124) downward through the spring (125a), resulting in the suction plate (121) moving downward.

[0118] Accordingly, the downward movement displacement of the suction plate (121) can be formed nonlinearly through the pressurizing structure by the cam (135) and the buffering structure by the stopper (125). For example, the downward movement displacement of the suction plate (121) can be relatively small in the initial and final stages of pressurization and relatively large in the middle stage of pressurization. Through this, the lifting and lowering of the suction plate (121) can be performed stably.

[0119] Figure 6 shows the suction plate (121) as viewed from below.

[0120] The suction plate (121) may be formed into a rectangular shape (long horizontally and short vertically) to match the shape of the unit cell, and transparent extension plates (121a) may be provided at both ends of the suction plate (121). Here, it is preferable that the horizontal and vertical lengths of the suction plate be shorter than the horizontal and vertical lengths of the unit cell. This is because it is possible to confirm that the unit cell protrudes along the perimeter of the suction plate (121) through the upper portion of the suction plate (121), so it is possible to intuitively confirm that the suction and transfer of the unit cell are properly performed.

[0121] A plurality of suction holes (121b) are formed on the lower surface of the suction plate (121), and vacuum suction can be performed through the suction holes.

[0122] Hereinafter, a secondary battery manufacturing device to which a unit cell transfer device according to an embodiment of the present invention is applied will be described in more detail with reference to FIGS. 7 and 8.

[0123] Fig. 7 illustrates a top view (lay out) of a secondary battery manufacturing device, and Fig. 8 illustrates a front view (lay out) of a secondary battery manufacturing device. For convenience of explanation, the longitudinal direction of the manufacturing device is referred to as the x direction, the width direction as the y direction, and the height direction as the z direction.

[0124] Here, the secondary battery manufacturing device may include a unit cell manufacturing device, a unit cell input device, and a unit cell stacking device.

[0125] The unit cell manufacturing device (200) can be said to be a device that manufactures a unit cell through an anode, a separator, and a cathode. A unit cell (5) manufactured through the unit cell manufacturing device (200) can be transferred to a unit cell stacking device (400) through a unit cell input device (300).

[0126] The unit cell input device (300) may include a conveyor, and unit cells (5) may be transferred from the unit cell manufacturing device (200) to the unit cell stacking device (400) at a predetermined interval on the upper surface of the conveyor. Of course, each unit cell may be placed on each pallet, and the pallet may be transferred through an LMS (linear movement system).

[0127] The unit cell stacking device (400) may be a device that picks up the unit cells fed from the unit cell feeding device (300) and stacks the unit cells. The unit cell stacking device (400) may include the unit cell transport device (100) described above. Here, the unit cell transport device (100) may be a device that stacks the transported unit cells rather than a device that simply transports the unit cells.

[0128] Specifically, the unit cell stacking device (400) includes a frame (410) that forms an outer shape. A unit cell transfer device (100) is provided inside the frame (410). A transfer device frame (420) that supports the unit cell transfer device (100) may be provided inside the frame (410). In addition, a stacking device (430) for stacking unit cells may be provided below the unit cell transfer device (100).

[0129] The circular track (110) of the above unit cell transport device (100) is equipped with a plurality of adsorption modules (120), and the adsorption modules (120) can move along the circular track (110) in a clockwise direction. Of course, they can also move in a counterclockwise direction.

[0130] A pickup area (401), a stacking area (402), and a discharge area (403) may be preset along the lower linear section of the above-mentioned circular track (110). The stacking areas may be multiple and may be preset continuously.

[0131] When the adsorption module (120) moves counterclockwise along the circulation track (110), the adsorption module can move in the order of the pickup area, the stacking area, and the discharge area along the lower linear section.

[0132] When the adsorption module (120) moves clockwise along the circulation track (110), the adsorption module can move in the order of the stacking area, discharge area, and pickup area along the lower linear section.

[0133] The above pickup area (401) may be set closest to the unit cell input device (300), and the discharge area (403) may be set farthest from the unit cell input device (300). A stacking area (402) may be set between the pickup area (401) and the discharge area (403). Of course, a discharge area may be provided between the pickup area and the stacking area.

[0134] The unit cell input device (300) can be positioned so as to extend to the lower portion of the above pickup area (401). That is, the unit cell input device (300) can extend through one side of the frame (410) to the inside of the unit cell stacking device (400).

[0135] In the above pickup area (401), the adsorption module (120) adsorbs the unit cell, and then the adsorbed unit cell moves along the circulation track (100).

[0136] A stacking device (430) may be provided at the bottom of the above-mentioned stacking area (402). The stacking device (430) is provided with a pallet on which unit cells are stacked, and the unit cells may be stacked on the pallet. When stacking is completed, the pallet moves in the y direction, i.e., in the width direction of the stacking device (400). A plurality of stacking devices (430) may be provided.

[0137] Meanwhile, if lamination is performed incorrectly in the lamination area (402), the unit cell can be picked up again. The adsorption module (120) that adsorbs the defective unit cell can move cyclically along the circulation track (110) and reach the discharge area (403). A tray (440) may be provided at the bottom of the discharge area (403). Accordingly, the defective unit cell discharged to the discharge area (403) can be stored in the tray (440).

[0138] The above frame (410) can be equipped with a plurality of visions (450). The above visions (450) can be equipped in multiple numbers and can perform different functions depending on the mounting position.

[0139] For example, the vision (450) corresponding to the pickup area (401) can perform a function of determining whether the unit cell is accurately adsorbed to the adsorption module (120). The vision (450) corresponding to the mounting area (402) can determine whether the unit cell is accurately adsorbed to the adsorption module (120), and can also perform a function of determining whether the unit cells are accurately stacked.

[0140] The secondary battery manufacturing device or unit cell stacking device (400) may include a control unit (460).

[0141] The above control unit (460) may be provided to control the transport speed of the adsorption module (120) through the circulation track (110).

[0142] The above control unit (460) can control the adsorption module (120) to move at a certain interval or pitch and then stop.

[0143] The above control unit (460) can control the operation of the aforementioned pusher module (130). When a specific adsorption module reaches a specific position, the corresponding pusher module (130) can be controlled to operate.

[0144] The control unit (460) may be configured to independently control the adsorption and release of multiple adsorption modules. For example, a specific adsorption module may be configured to adsorb after being lowered. This may be performed during the pick-up process. A specific adsorption module may be configured to release adsorption after being lowered. This may be performed during the stacking process.

[0145] As illustrated, according to the secondary battery manufacturing device according to the present embodiment, the manufacturing of unit cells, the insertion of unit cells, and the stacking of unit cells can be performed continuously. In particular, the pickup process, stacking process, and discharge process of the unit cells can be performed through the unit cell transport device (100). Therefore, in case of a defective stacking, the defect can be immediately resolved, enabling re-stacking.

[0146] According to the present embodiment, unit cell pickup, unit cell stacking, and unit cell discharge are performed while a plurality of adsorption modules move cyclically along a circular track. A specific adsorption module picks up a unit cell while moving cyclically along the circular track, and then stacks the unit cell at a specific location after moving. Therefore, a specific adsorption module repeatedly performs unit cell pickup and stacking.

[0147] The pickup of the unit cell can be performed by the suction module descending toward the unit cell, making contact with the unit cell, and then vacuum suction. The stacking of the unit cell can be performed by the suction module descending while adsorbing the unit cell, making contact with the unit cell, and then releasing the vacuum suction. In other words, since the ascent and descent based on the unit cell are performed while it is adsorbed by the suction module, damage to the unit cell can be prevented in advance during the pickup and stacking process of the unit cell.

[0148] Additionally, the circular track can be divided into multiple sections, allowing for simultaneous pickup, discharge, and stacking in multiple sections. In particular, the process of picking up and discharging defective unit cells can be performed simultaneously with the pickup, discharge, and stacking processes, rather than using a separate device or process.

[0149] As described in the detailed description of the invention.

Claims

1. A plurality of adsorption modules for adsorbing unit cells; A circular track along which the above adsorption modules move cyclically; a pusher module for moving the above adsorption module downward relative to the above circulation track; and A secondary battery unit cell transport device including a control unit that releases the adsorption of the adsorption module so that the unit cells are separated from the adsorption module and stacked after the downward movement of the adsorption module.

2. In paragraph 1, A secondary battery unit cell transport device characterized in that the control unit controls the plurality of adsorption modules to individually enable adsorption and adsorption release.

3. In paragraph 2, A secondary battery unit cell transport device characterized in that the above-mentioned circular track is composed of an upper linear section and a lower linear section facing each other in the direction of gravity, and left and right curved sections connecting the upper linear section and the lower linear section.

4. In paragraph 2, A secondary battery unit cell transport device characterized in that the above-mentioned circular track includes a track-shaped main body, a rail formed on the main body, and a moving device moving along the rail.

5. In paragraph 4, A secondary battery unit cell transport device characterized in that the above adsorption module includes a connecting member that is connected to the moving device and moves integrally with the moving device.

6. In paragraph 5, A secondary battery unit cell transport device, characterized in that the above adsorption module includes an adsorption plate having an adsorption surface formed on the lower surface and vacuum-adsorbing the upper surface of the unit cell.

7. In paragraph 6, A secondary battery unit cell transport device characterized in that the above suction plate is positioned so as to extend further to both sides in the thickness plane of the main body of the above circulation track.

8. In paragraph 7, A secondary battery unit cell transport device characterized in that an opening penetrating the main body is formed, and the pusher modules are positioned on both sides of the opening and are provided to press both sides of the adsorption module.

9. In paragraph 6, A secondary battery unit cell transport device, characterized in that the above adsorption module includes a transparent extension plate provided at both ends of the adsorption plate and provided to cover both ends of the unit cell.

10. In paragraph 6, A secondary battery unit cell transport device characterized in that the above-mentioned absorption module includes a guide plate connected to the above-mentioned connecting member, and an elevation guide is provided between the guide plate and the absorption plate to guide uniform elevation of both ends of the absorption plate.

11. In paragraph 2, A secondary battery unit cell transport device, characterized in that the above pusher module includes a rotating cam, a rotating shaft of the rotating cam, and a driving motor for driving the rotating shaft.

12. In paragraph 11, A secondary battery unit cell transport device characterized in that the above-mentioned rotating cams are provided on both sides of the rotating shaft to simultaneously press the above-mentioned suction module downward from the upper sides of both sides of the above-mentioned suction module.

13. Unit cell manufacturing device for manufacturing a unit cell with an anode, a separator, and a cathode; A unit cell stacking device for stacking unit cells manufactured from the above unit cell manufacturing device to manufacture an electrode assembly; and It includes a unit cell input device that transfers the unit cell manufactured in the unit cell manufacturing device and inputs it into the unit cell stacking device. The above unit cell stacking device is, A circulation track having a plurality of adsorption modules arranged to circulate and having a stacking area preset in the lower linear section; A pusher module for moving the adsorption module downward in the above-mentioned stacking area; and A secondary battery manufacturing device characterized by including a control unit that releases the adsorption of the adsorption module so that the unit cells are separated from the adsorption module and stacked after the downward movement of the adsorption module.

14. In paragraph 13, A secondary battery manufacturing device characterized in that the above-mentioned circular track is composed of the lower linear section, the upper linear section facing the lower linear section, and the left and right curved sections connecting the lower linear section and the upper linear section.

15. In paragraph 14, A secondary battery manufacturing device characterized in that the plurality of adsorption modules are arranged to move at equal intervals along the circular track.

16. In paragraph 15, A secondary battery manufacturing device characterized in that a pickup area, which is distinguished from the stacking area, is preset in the lower linear section of the above-mentioned circular track.

17. In paragraph 16, A secondary battery manufacturing device characterized in that a discharge area is preset in the lower linear section of the above-mentioned circular track, which is separated from the above-mentioned stacking area and pickup area.

18. In paragraph 17, A secondary battery manufacturing device characterized in that the above pusher modules are provided in multiple numbers and are respectively provided in the stacking area and the pickup area, and the unit cell input device is provided so as to extend to the pickup area of ​​the circulation track which is inside the unit cell stacking device.

19. In Article 18, A secondary battery manufacturing device characterized in that a discharge area, a stacking area, and a pick-up area are sequentially set along the movement direction of the adsorption module in the lower linear section of the above-mentioned circular track, or a pick-up area, a stacking area, and a discharge area are sequentially set.

20. An adsorption step in which an adsorption module moving along a circular track adsorbs a unit cell at an adsorption location; and The adsorption module that adsorbs the unit cell moves along the circular track and includes a stacking step for stacking the unit cell at the stacking position. A secondary battery manufacturing method characterized in that, in the above-mentioned lamination step, the adsorption module descends to laminate the adsorbed unit cells, then releases the adsorption and rises to complete the lamination.

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