Apparatus and method for applying end plates to internal assemblies, preferably for electrochemical cells in the manufacture of batteries

Abstract

An apparatus and a method for applying an end plate (T) to an internal assembly of an electrochemical cell, which is transported along a work path (C), on a target end thereof, comprising, extracting from a store (93) a single end plate (T) by an extractor device (84); a step wherein a transfer plier (163) locks said end plate (T) in said predefined position, and transfers it, keeping it locked, to a release configuration (S3) thereof, wherein the end plate (T) is released to a clamping device in an application position in proximity to said target end, by moving the end plate (T) on a single application plane.

Description

[0001] Apparatus and method for applying end plates to internal assemblies, preferably for electrochemical cells in the manufacture of batteries

[0002] The present invention has as its object an apparatus for applying end plates to an internal assembly which, in particular, can be an electrochemical cell used for the manufacture of batteries as secondary batteries, for example lithium-ion batteries, which will be referred to hereinafter without losing generality.

[0003] The present invention also concerns a method for applying end plates to an internal assembly, which can be adopted in the context of the manufacture of batteries as specified above.

[0004] As known, the manufacture of electrochemical cells involves, in wider terms:

[0005] - a step of packaging the electrochemical cell, wherein an internal assembly of conductor elements (one for the anode and one for the cathode) and separator elements is made and in which said internal assembly is inserted into an outer protective casing,

[0006] - a step of filling the electrochemical cell with an electrolytic solution that is placed in contact with the internal assembly, and finally,

[0007] - a step of formation of the electrochemical cell that allows to make it suitable for delivering and / or storing electrical energy.

[0008] In particular, the packaging step let the conductor elements and the separator elements be coupled together according to a predefined structure, for example by superimposing them in alternating flat layers, as in the case of prismatic batteries, or by winding in a spiral alternating layers of conductor tapes and separator tapes to form a coil, as in the case of cylindrical batteries.

[0009] In any case, the structures of conductor elements and of separator elements, generically indicated with the expression "internal assemblies", obtained by the coupling of conductor elements alternated to separator elements, before being introduced into the outer protective casing, are attached at the opposing axial ends to special electrical collectors, each of which, by connecting the different elements of the same type of conductor (for example the anode or the cathode) together, forms one of the two electrical poles of the electrochemical cell.

[0010] In the present disclosure, as well as in the accompanying claims, certain terms and expressions are deemed to have, unless otherwise expressly indicated, the meaning expressed in the following definitions.

[0011] The term "internal assembly" of an electrochemical cell generically refers to the structure wherein the conductor elements and the separator elements are combined within the electrochemical cell. Such a structure may be composed of alternated layers superimposed on top of each other.

[0012] This superimposition can be obtained through substantially flat layers, i.e. by means of "stacking" type superimposition techniques, with several flat elements stacked on top of each other for each type of layer, or of the "Z-folding" type, with a single flat element folded several times for each type of layer.

[0013] Alternatively, in the pertinent technical field, it is known to combine conductor tapes and separator tapes in layers, to form an anode and cathode structure, obtaining a superposition thereof by winding in the form of a coil, for making an electrochemical cell itself.

[0014] The term "coil" is intended to mean any structure with a spiral cross-section, formed by winding a tape, a strip or more generally a tape-like article, around a winding axis, a flat surface or another winding structure. Depending on the structure around which the tape-like article is wound, the overall shape of the coil may be substantially cylindrical rather than crushed or otherwise conformed.

[0015] As mentioned above, the coil can be applied not only in the electrochemical cell sector but also in other sectors, such as for example in the sector of the capacitors and so- called supercapacitors, within which coil-shaped structures can likewise be used.

[0016] An example of apparatus and of method for making batteries by winding conductor tapes and separator tapes is described in International Application No. WO 2023 / 119180 Al of the same Applicant.

[0017] Subsequently, to one or both ends of the coil and possibly after adequate preparation, end plates are applied, which close the end of the coil to which the plate is applied.

[0018] The plate can then perform the closing function, and, in the context of battery manufacturing, it can operate as an electrical collector as a part thereof.

[0019] An electrical collector is a conductor element configured to electrically join single portions of a conductor element, i.e. single portions of distinct conductor elements, albeit of the same type. The electrical collector is preferably attached to an axial end of the internal assembly. Preferably, the electrical collector has a shape of the axial end of the internal assembly to which it is attached. For example, in the case of coilshaped internal assembly the electrical collector typically has a disc shape. Preferably, the portions of conductor element that are joined by the electrical collector are tabs protruding from the axial end of the internal assembly.

[0020] An electrical collector is "attached" or "applied" to an internal assembly of an electrochemical cell when they are in a fixed condition of mutual contact.

[0021] The internal assembly of an electrochemical cell, and the coil in particular, comprises a pair of opposite ends defining an axis of the internal assembly, i.e. of the coil, joining said ends, and which may be an axis of symmetry or a winding axis. Such ends are the preferred position the for the electrical collectors in an electrochemical cell, in turn connected to anode and cathode.

[0022] The term "target end" is intended to mean one or both ends of a coil on which any operation configured to vary its nature, function or shape is carried out, such as for example the application and attaching of an end plate.

[0023] The term "closed path" is intended to mean a path along which a winding head, a turntable or carousel structure or other element run, wherein the initial point and the end point of the path substantially coincide. The shape of the path can be any: it can have rectilinear stretches that form a polygonal line, a curved line with or without rectilinear stretches, an oval or circular line.

[0024] The term "in continuous", referred to an expression of motion, is intended to mean an operation that takes place seamlessly, without there being a stop or an interruption in the operation in question. In particular, with reference to the movement of a tape, a wheel or other element, the term "in continuous" indicates that the movement is without pauses or stops and it is never stopped except to interrupt the overall operation.

[0025] In the "continuous movement" the linear or angular speed of a movable element may be substantially constant, or it may have a variable profile, with accelerations and slowdowns.

[0026] The term "substantially constant" referred to a measure or quantity, such as for example the speed of displacement of an object, is intended to mean that said measure or quantity maintains, over time, a value which preferably varies by a maximum of ±10%, preferably by a maximum of ±5%, preferably by a maximum of ±2%.

[0027] The term "ratcheted" referred to an expression of motion such as for example rotation, is intended to mean an operation that takes place in steps, therefore in a discontinuous way, interspersed with stops.

[0028] The term "integral" referred to the movement of two or more elements, is intended to mean that these elements perform substantially the same movement and substantially simultaneously. In other words, two integral elements move together, as a single body, although they are not necessarily joined or constrained to each other. It can in fact be provided that the respective systems of movement of the two elements are coordinated in such a way as to move, when necessary, the two elements together, i.e. in an integral manner. Furthermore, it may be provided for the use of a temporary constraint between the two elements which, for example, joins them to each other in some steps, causing them to move together, and separates them again, making them movable independently of each other.

[0029] It should also be specified that the expression "to displace an object between a first position and a second position" is intended to mean both the displacement from the first position to the second position and the displacement from the second position to the first position.

[0030] This definition applies in an analogous way to similar expressions of motion, such as for example to transfer or to move a generic object between two positions or between two zones or even between two different operating configurations.

[0031] The term "turntable system" or "carousel system" is intended to mean a rotating structure, a drum or wheel, on which rotatable devices are mounted with an axis of rotation that is dragged in rotation by the rotating structure. The rotatable devices, which can therefore rotate or oscillate, are equally distanced with a constant pitch at the perimeter or in any case at a circular line determined on the rotating structure. The turntable or carousel systems rotate according to a direction of constant rotation, and the devices or members dragged by them therefore create a closed path. The rotation can be in continuous or ratcheted, and in the latter case the step of the jerk coincides with the step of separation between devices that are mounted on the rotating structure.

[0032] The term "conveyor" system or structure, instead of turntable or carousel one, is intended to mean a rotating structure consisting of a closed belt conveyor element, which is dragged by one or more motor wheels, with the help of one or more driven wheels between which the conveyor element extends with a shape that depends on the position of said wheels, forming transport segments that may have a rectilinear extension. Although such a system is particularly suitable for the transport of articles, it can be arranged for the transport, along a closed path, of a plurality of operating devices that run along said closed path; such devices may in turn be rotating and / or oscillating and possibly provided with their own actuating members.

[0033] The Applicant, in the context of the constant need to increase the performance and efficiency of its manufacture processes, has previously observed how, in a manufacture line for the assembly of internal assemblies, in particular for the manufacture of batteries, the application and attaching of end plates is not exempt from numerous operational problems that, on the one hand, are linked to the speed of manufacture and, on the other, are connected to the extreme precision required in the assembly to obtain an article free of manufacturing defects, which can be certified for the intended uses.

[0034] However, the Applicant has observed that the known assembly processes were not sufficiently adequate for the intended purposes, and in particular, the end plates are connected to their target end without the necessary accuracy, relying on subsequent processes to check the suitability of the final product.

[0035] To increase the accuracy in attaching the end plates, the Applicant has therefore perceived that this can be achieved with a more stringent control of the position of each end plate throughout the entire application process.

[0036] The Applicant has also noted that a further improvement of the performance of this process can be obtained by treating each end plate individually, from extraction from a store up to the application in proximity to the target end of the internal assembly.

[0037] The Applicant therefore further perceived that, in the event that both these expedients were applied, it was possible to obtain significant improvements in the performance of the process, and also a substantial reduction in the articles to be discarded due to lack of technical suitability.

[0038] The Applicant also had the opportunity to observe that the use of suction cup systems for grabbing the plates, in addition to increasing the complexity of the equipment used, would have rendered ineffective the use of plates provided with holes, notches, or surface irregularities.

[0039] The Applicant has therefore noted that the use of pliers could have ensured effective control of the position of the plates during the assembly steps, in particular their angular position, only if the movement of the plates was carried out with only translations and without rotations and the associated dynamic stresses.

[0040] Finally, the Applicant has found how it is possible to insert all these expedients into an apparatus and a method for assembling internal assemblies, creating, in this context, an apparatus for applying end plates capable of obtaining the improvements previously perceived.

[0041] Thanks to these features, the subsequent operations for attaching the end plates can take place with considerable certainty about their success, also managing to simplify the subsequent check operations.

[0042] In a first aspect thereof, therefore, the present invention is directed to an apparatus for applying an end plate to an internal assembly of an electrochemical cell that is transported along a work path, on a target end thereof.

[0043] Preferably said apparatus comprises a store, for dispensing end plates.

[0044] In addition, it also comprises an extractor device that is configured to extract at least one single end plate from the aforesaid store, then transporting it on a plane that defines a single application plane, and continuing this movement until said at least one single end plate reaches a predefined position, in which it continues to lie on the same single application plane.

[0045] Preferably, the apparatus further comprises at least one transfer plier which performs the task of receiving said end plate from said extractor device.

[0046] This transfer plier is configured to be movable from a grabbing configuration, in which it receives and locks said end plate in said predefined position.

[0047] The transfer plier can then reach a release configuration where the end plate is released.

[0048] In this configuration, in which the end plate is located in proximity to said target end, a clamping device that locks the plate for subsequent operations related to attaching the plate itself intervenes.

[0049] Preferably, during the movement imparted by the aforesaid at least one plier, said at least one end plate is transported lying, i.e. continuing to lie, on said single application plane.

[0050] Thanks to these features, it is possible to ensure that the position of the plate, when it is locked in proximity to its target end, is that prescribed by the purposes of the assembly process, with a wide margin of safety, and the position of the plate in space, in particular the angular position, with changes during its transfer.

[0051] In other words, in addition to achieving a simplification of the process and an optimization of the spaces, the lowest possible stresses to the end plate are guaranteed, which could result in its incorrect positioning.

[0052] In a second aspect thereof, the present invention concerns a method for applying an end plate to an internal assembly of an electrochemical cell, such as for example coils.

[0053] Preferably, said method comprises a step of extracting, from a special store, a single end plate which is transported thereby moving it on a single application plane until a predefined position is reached.

[0054] Subsequently, the method comprises a step wherein said single end plate is locked in said predefined position, at the exit from said store.

[0055] Preferably, the method then comprises a step of transferring the single end plate until it reaches a release position, causing it to describe a trajectory in which it is locked in said predefined position.

[0056] The method then comprises a step of releasing the single end plate, which is then clamped at a target end of an internal assembly, for subsequent attaching operations.

[0057] Preferably, in said transfer and release steps, the end plate moves lying on said single application plane.

[0058] Also based on this aspect, it is possible to achieve the same advantages described in relation to the previous aspect.

[0059] In a third aspect thereof, the present invention concerns an apparatus for assembling internal assemblies for respective electrochemical cells, i.e. obtained by assembling an internal assembly, such as a coil, with one or two end plates on its target ends, then performing some checks.

[0060] Preferably, said apparatus comprises an apparatus for applying an end plate to a coil as specified in said first aspect.

[0061] In a fourth aspect thereof, the present invention again concerns an apparatus for assembling internal assemblies of respective electrochemical cells, which preferably comprises an apparatus for applying an end plate to a coil performing the method for applying an end plate to a coil, as specified in said second aspect.

[0062] In a fifth aspect thereof, the present invention concerns an apparatus for manufacturing coil articles, in particular batteries, comprising an apparatus for assembling internal assemblies, in particular coil articles, as specified in said third aspect.

[0063] In a sixth aspect thereof, the present invention concerns an apparatus for manufacturing coil articles, in particular batteries, comprising an apparatus for assembling internal assemblies, in particular coil articles, as specified in said fourth aspect.

[0064] In a seventh aspect thereof, the present invention concerns an apparatus for manufacturing coil articles, in particular batteries, further comprising an apparatus for making coils by winding a plurality of tapes, and an intermediate transfer device supplying an assembly apparatus as specified in one of the third and fourth aspect.

[0065] The present invention, in at least one of the aforesaid aspects, may have at least one of the further preferred features set forth below. Preferably, the apparatus for applying an end plate provides that at least one transfer plier is mounted on a rotatable actuator which rotates, thereby moving it from the grabbing configuration to the release configuration, and back to the grabbing configuration, in particular by making a whole round.

[0066] Thanks to this feature, no changes of direction in the apparatus are envisaged which might make its structure and operation more complicated.

[0067] Preferably, in the apparatus for applying an end plate, said rotatable actuator comprises a plurality of transfer pliers.

[0068] In addition, the rotatable actuator contains inside the operating devices for synchronously opening and clamping the transfer pliers.

[0069] In this way, a single actuator device can preside over the transfer of a plurality of insertion plates, speeding up the process.

[0070] Preferably, in the apparatus for applying an end plate, the rotatable actuator comprises a first set of transfer pliers on one face thereof, and a second set of transfer pliers on the opposite face thereof.

[0071] This expedient allows to a single rotatable actuator to ensure that the transfer pliers of different sets operate for applying end plates (on opposite target ends of coils, optimizing the application process on coils that each require a pair of end plates).

[0072] Preferably, the apparatus for applying an end plate provides for each transfer plier to have a pair of plier arms extending from a proximal end thereof.

[0073] Furthermore, on the rotatable actuator a fulcrum is provided with respect to which each plier arm rotates in opposite directions, causing these rotations to lie on parallel planes, and it being provided that the two plier arms of said pair are staggered with respect to each other but with a common axis of oscillation that is perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the rotatable actuator.

[0074] Thanks to this feature, the locking of the end plates takes place in a simple and effective way.

[0075] Preferably, the apparatus for applying an end plate provides that each plier arm has, at a respective distal end thereof, a grabbing element.

[0076] Preferably, the grabbing element is configured to co-operate with the grabbing element of the other plier arm, to lock the transfer plate in said predefined position.

[0077] In particular, the clamping elements are configured to lock the end plate by pressing it at its centre, but leaving the borders of the end plate substantially free so that a further clamping device that operates in the subsequent attaching steps can act on these borders.

[0078] Preferably, the apparatus for applying an end plate provides that said store comprises at least one linear guide, or possibly a pair of linear guides, one for each end of single receiving coils. In this way, the end plates can be pushed so that they translate without varying their respective angular position up to an outlet end of the respective linear guide, wherein the end plates are locked, one by one, in said predefined position by a transfer plier, at the outlet end of the linear guide.

[0079] This ensures even greater control of the position of the end plates in this application process.

[0080] Preferably, the apparatus for applying an end plate provides that the linear guide is formed by two guide elements each having a longitudinal groove.

[0081] These guide elements are positioned in such a way that their grooves face each other.

[0082] In this way, the edges of the end plates can be inserted into the facing grooves, so that they can be translated by sliding without their respective starting positions being varied.

[0083] Preferably, in the apparatus for applying an end plate, it is provided that, at the outlet end of the store of the end plates, the above-mentioned extractor device comprises an extractor wheel, configured to be rotated in steps.

[0084] The extractor wheel has, at its edge, multiple curved indentations, that is, shaped to co-operate with the circular edge of the end plates.

[0085] Preferably, the apparatus for applying an end plate provides that, at each indentation, an extraction slot is provided in the thickness of the extractor wheel; it is provided for capturing a lower edge of the end plate.

[0086] This extraction slot has, at its ends, a respective stop pin so that, when the end plate is captured in said predefined position, it is comprised between the stop pins and the extraction slot, and thus this predefined position is more easily maintained.

[0087] Preferably, the method for applying an end plate provides that, in its above steps, the end plate moves lying on a single application plane.

[0088] This allows, in addition to a simplification of the process and an optimization of the spaces, to guarantee the lowest possible stresses to the end plate, which could result in its incorrect positioning.

[0089] It should be specified that some steps of the methods described above may be independent of the order of execution reported. In addition, some steps may be optional. In addition, some steps of the methods may be performed repetitively, or may be performed in series or in parallel with other steps of the method.

[0090] The present invention will be hereinafter described according to a preferred embodiment thereof, which is provided for illustrative and non-limiting purposes with reference to the enclosed drawings wherein:

[0091] * figure 1 shows a schematic perspective view of an apparatus for manufacturing batteries including an apparatus for winding coil-formed electrochemical cells and an apparatus for assembling batteries, including an apparatus for applying an end plate to a coil according to the present invention; * figure 2 shows a side view of an apparatus for assembling batteries and of the apparatus for applying an end plate to a coil of figure 1;

[0092] * figure 2A shows an enlarged perspective view of the detail in box A of figure 2;

[0093] * figure 3 shows a detailed side perspective view of the apparatus for applying an end plate of the previous figures;

[0094] * figure 3A shows an enlarged perspective view of a detail of a transfer plier for applying the aforementioned end plate;

[0095] * figure 4 shows a detailed perspective view from below of the apparatus for applying an end plate of the previous figures;

[0096] * figure 5 shows an enlarged side view illustrating a step of applying an end plate in the apparatus for applying an end plate of the preceding figures;

[0097] * figures 6A, 6B, 6C and 6D show respective perspective views illustrating different steps of application and check of an end plate; and

[0098] * figure 7 shows a side view of an apparatus for assembling batteries and an apparatus for attaching end plates to a coil of figure 1.

[0099] With reference initially to figure 1, 100 indicates overall an apparatus for manufacturing coil articles, in particular batteries, which includes an apparatus for making coils 200 by winding a plurality of tapes, for forming a coil B, on the left in figure 1. The apparatus for manufacturing batteries 100 also comprises an assembly apparatus 300 for coil articles such as, for example, electrochemical batteries, on the right in figure 1, starting from said coils B, which are transferred from the apparatus for manufacturing coils 200 by an intermediate transfer device 400 between the two apparatuses.

[0100] As outlined above, the coil articles are a particular example of internal assembly of an electrochemical cell, and are made by winding operations.

[0101] It is intended that the present invention be incorporated into an assembly apparatus for coil articles that includes an apparatus for applying and attaching one or two end plates to one or both of the target ends of a single coil, and such apparatus will be described with reference to the devices composing it.

[0102] The assembly apparatus that will be described below may therefore exist independently of the apparatus for manufacturing coil articles which, in the present embodiment example, comprises it, and it may therefore be supplied by any coil dispenser for the manufacture of coil articles, which therefore replaces the aforementioned transfer device 400.

[0103] Furthermore, the assembly apparatus may, more generally, be intended for assembling internal assemblies of respective electrochemical cells, obtained by superimposing alternated layers to the winding, and the present invention concerns this more general aspect, although, in the following, the apparatus will be described with reference to the assembly of coil articles or, more briefly, coils, and inserted in an apparatus for manufacturing coil articles.

[0104] The apparatus for manufacturing coil articles 100 is therefore intended, in this preferred embodiment, to initially perform winding of a tape-like article N which, by way of example, is intended for the manufacture of electrochemical cells which are subsequently further processed and assembled in respective batteries.

[0105] It is however understood that this represents only one possible embodiment example, and that the apparatus 100 according to the present invention may be intended for winding articles that include a coil of wound tape-like elements also intended for different uses, and in fields other than those related to the manufacture of electrochemical cells.

[0106] For example, again in the field of energy storage, the present invention may find application in the manufacture of other components intended for batteries or supercapacitors.

[0107] In some embodiments, such as for example the one illustrated in figure 1, the apparatus 100 may be used within a line for the manufacture of coil for electrochemical cells, wherein the tape-like article N is made by a combination of multiple tapes Nl, N2, N3, N4, preferably overlapped into layers.

[0108] Such tapes advantageously comprise at least two conductor tapes Nl, N3 and two separator layers N2, N4, which are arranged alternately to form the tape-like article N.

[0109] In this way the separator layers N2, N4 can allow to keep the two conductor tapes Nl and N3 electrically separated from each other when they are wound in a spiral, forming the coil intended for the electrochemical cell.

[0110] In preferred embodiments, the tapes Nl, N2, N3, N4 are provided by special dispensing devices that can be formed by large-sized coils wherein the tape is collected so as to be unwound and therefore provided during the operation of the apparatus.

[0111] The tapes are then provided to a feed unit 2 which, in preferred embodiments, takes care of combining the tapes between them in such a way as to form the tape-like article N, before it is wound by a relative winding unit 1, the features of which will be described in detail below.

[0112] It will be appreciated that the tapes, before being provided to the feed unit 2 can pass through further units for example intended to carry out preliminary processing on the tapes. For example, the conductor tapes Nl, N3 can be subjected to preliminary etching operations to form a relative outer edge to favour the connections with the further conductor portions within the electrochemical cell.

[0113] In this case, the respective outer borders of the conductor tapes Nl, N3 will be formed by a succession of protruding tabs, obtained from the thickness of the tape by means of incisions transverse to the development of the tape, located on the border. In this embodiment, it is provided that the tapes Nl, N2, N3, N4 are advanced along different directions to converge towards a coupling roller, on which they are all partially wound so that, downstream of said tape, there is a single multilayer structure forming the tape-like article N.

[0114] In preferred embodiments, the tapes Nl, N2, N3, N4 are fed continuously into the feed unit 2.

[0115] In other words, each tape, or possibly one or more of the aforesaid tapes, is introduced into the feed unit 2 without ever stopping, proceeding with a speed greater than zero and, preferably, substantially constant.

[0116] In some embodiments the presence of a plier 26, or other similar holding element, acting on the tape at the time when it is required to be stopped or slowed down may be provided to slow down the movement of such a part of tape.

[0117] The plier 26 can advantageously be movable, whereby the advancement speed of the relative tape is adjusted by controlling its movement.

[0118] The plier 26 can also be associated with a relative knife 27 which, if necessary, cuts one of the tapes, to create an interruption in the continuity of said tape within the overall tape-like article N.

[0119] With reference to figure 1, the apparatus for manufacturing coil articles 100 comprises, immediately downstream of the feed unit 2, a winding unit 1 receiving the tape-like article N formed by the feed unit 2.

[0120] In preferred embodiments, the winding unit 1 comprises a plurality of winding heads 10, each of which allows the tape-like article N to be wound according to manners described in greater detail below.

[0121] The winding heads 10 are movable within a work path that is preferably closed, and the movement of the winding heads 10 is achieved by means of a respective movement device 3 by means of which it is possible to make each head run along the respective work path.

[0122] In some embodiments, such as the one illustrated in figure 1, the movement device 3 comprises a rotatable body 30 that can rotate around a first axis of rotation X. It supports a plurality of extendable arms 31 which, preferably, are hinged at a proximal end thereof to the rotatable body 30 so that they can oscillate with respect to said end and, at the respective opposite distal end, a respective winding head 10 is in turn supported.

[0123] The rotatable body 30 is conformed like a cylindrical drum, with a lateral cylindrical surface and a flat operating surface 32 on which all the hinges of the aforementioned proximal ends lie, at a certain distance from the centre and from the circular edge of the operating surface 32 itself.

[0124] Advantageously, the combination of the rotatable body 30 and of the extendable and oscillating arms 31, whose extension is varied during the rotation of the rotatable body 30, allows the winding heads to make the necessary displacements to follow the intended work path and, in preferred embodiments, this results in that the winding heads 10 move according to a trajectory that includes at least an overall rotation around the first axis of rotation X of the movement device 3, and also a translation and / or a rotation around a further axis, distinct from said first axis of rotation X.

[0125] It can therefore be observed how the rotation around this further axis is achieved by the oscillation of the arms 31 around the axis passing through their respective proximal end connected to the rotatable body 30.

[0126] However, it is evident that different combinations of such movements can also be provided which can be performed both simultaneously and one in succession to the other.

[0127] In some embodiments, the rotatable body 30 is also advantageously movable, in addition to around its first axis of rotation X, also in a lateral displacement direction along which said rotatable body 30 and, in general, the movement device 3, can be displaced.

[0128] In some embodiments, each winding head 10 supports a gripping device that is configured to grab a portion of said tape-like article N.

[0129] The winding of the tape-like article N can thus be obtained by rotating the gripping devices themselves around their winding axis. By grabbing an end of the tape-like article N or, more generally, a portion thereof, and by rotating said end or portion, it is in fact possible to wind the tape-like article N obtaining a spiral configuration that forms the coil B.

[0130] The path of each winding head 10 is such that it intercepts the tape-like article in a first position Pl, and subsequently it moves away, by means of an anticlockwise oscillation of the respective extendable arm 31 extending the tapes that form the tape-like element and winding them.

[0131] Subsequently, the winding head displaces itself to a second position P2 where there is provided, in some embodiments, a folding device 60 which is configured to fold the two opposite axial ends of the coil. In fact, it can be provided that the conductor tapes each protrude axially, the one-on-one side and the other on the other side and are folded in such a way as to form a single conductor portion intended to be connected to an anode / cathode end in the electrolytic cell, when it will be assembled.

[0132] In some embodiments, the application of a closing element of the coil B can also be provided, which closing element is configured in such a way as to prevent it from unwinding once it is unloaded by the winding head 10. Such a closing element may for example be represented by a tape applied circumferentially to the coil to close the terminal flap of the tape-shaped element.

[0133] Subsequently, the winding head 10 and the respective coil B is moved closer to an unloading zone P3, where it is captured by the transfer device 400.

[0134] These displacements, which correspond to segments of the path of each winding head 10, are caused by oscillating and extending or retracting the respective extendable arm 31; once the coil B is released, the operating head 10 completes the path by approaching again said first position Pl.

[0135] The transfer device 400 is conformed like a turntable and comprises a first rotating drum 41, of cylindrical shape, configured to rotate about a respective second axis of rotation Y which is parallel to the first axis of rotation X of the rotatable body 30. It has a cylindrical edge on which a plurality of oscillating arms 42 are rotatably mounted, each provided with its own proximal end driven in rotation to oscillate the oscillating arm with an oscillation that occurs, in this embodiment, in a clockwise direction (figure 1), i.e. in accordance with the direction of rotation of the first rotating drum 41.

[0136] The oscillating arms 42 comprise, at their proximal end, a gripping member 43 that grabs a single coil B in said unloading zone P3. The subsequent oscillation of the oscillating arm 42 allows the insertion of the coil B in the assembly apparatus 300, present in this embodiment described herein.

[0137] With reference to figures 1, 2, and 2A, the assembly apparatus 300 includes at least one work path C along which the coils B, exiting the transfer device 400, transit, to be subjected to different assembly steps in corresponding workstations.

[0138] In some embodiments, the work path C is closed and, in some preferred embodiments, it is circular, being constituted on a turntable structure 51, which comprises a respective second rotating drum 52, which is induced to rotate with a ratcheted motion, around a respective main axis of rotation A of the assembly apparatus 300 which, in the present example, is parallel, going backwards in the present description, with the second axis of rotation T of the first rotating drum 41 and with the first axis of rotation X of the rotatable body 30.

[0139] It will be noted that, in the present embodiment of the apparatus for manufacturing coil articles 100, the rotatable body and the drums 41, 52 will be mounted on a common frame which provides the apparatus with all the actuating devices for causing the synchronised rotations of these rotatable elements.

[0140] It is also understood that the work path C, preferably closed, may be built on a conveyor structure instead of a turntable one, which may comprise a plurality of rotatable devices installed on a closed rotatable ring placed in rotation by special wheels. In this case, the following description, referred to a complex turntable structure, can be easily adapted to a conveyor structure without departing from the inventive concepts that will be described below.

[0141] With reference to figure 2, the assembly apparatus 300 comprises a control unit 150 that governs the operations that are carried out on the coils B. This control unit 150 can possibly govern the entire operation of the whole apparatus for manufacturing coil articles 100, by means of special sensors and the actuation of special sensors.

[0142] A control interface 180 will be connected to the control unit 150, to allow an operator to manage the entire apparatus.

[0143] The second rotating drum 52 has a cylindrical shape and supports, at a flat face thereof, a crown 53 defining a cylindrical edge 54 of the turntable structure 51, which has a thickness of amplitude similar to the longitudinal extension of the coils.

[0144] It is understood that, in some embodiments, the crown 53 could be rotatable on the fixed drum 52.

[0145] At the cylindrical edge, the turntable structure 51 comprises multiple first jaws 55, which are provided with pairs of jaws, controlled by a single axis actuated by a respective first actuator shaft 56. The turntable structure 51 comprises a plurality of such pairs of first jaws 55, equally distributed along the cylindrical edge 54, each first jaw 55 having a pair of gripping ends 57 protruding from said cylindrical edge 54, i.e. from intermediate positions in its thickness, to grab the coils B in at least two clamping, so as to ensure that the coils B in the first jaws and the turntable structure 51 are integral until the first jaws are opened.

[0146] In this regard, the gripping ends 57 of each pair of first jaws 55 form a corresponding recess arranged to accommodate a respective coil B which is inserted by an oscillating arm 42 with which the turntable structure 51 co-operates.

[0147] With reference to figure 2A, a loading zone P4 of the structure of the assembly apparatus 300 is described, wherein, while the transfer device 400 induces a clockwise rotation of the oscillating arms 42, which in turn rotate in a direction concordant with that of the transfer device, the gripping member 43 penetrates in the direction of the cylindrical edge 54 inserting a single coil B into the target recess.

[0148] When the coil B has been deposited, the first jaws 55 grab the coil and hold it in a predefined position with respect to the cylindrical edge in the target recess, with the ends of the coil B laterally facing the cylindrical edge 54.

[0149] Simultaneously, the gripping member 43 releases the coil B, while the respective rotatable arm 42 continues its path, thus starting an oscillation in the direction opposite to the previous one, i.e. counterclockwise in this example, to prepare itself to receive a new coil in the unloading zone P3.

[0150] Therefore, from the loading zone P4, the work path C of the coils B begins, which in the present embodiment example follows a counterclockwise direction, which ends in a picking zone P5 from which the coils, provided with at least one end plate T, are extracted from the turntable structure 51.

[0151] Along the work path C, the assembly apparatus 300 comprises some work stations that perform some respective operations on the coil B: in some embodiments described herein these operations are a step of flattening the ends of the coil B, a step of inserting and applying a respective end plate T, to one or both ends of each coil B, a first step of checking the positioning of the end plate T, a step of attaching the end plate T, a second step of checking and a step of picking up the coils B from the turntable structure 51.

[0152] The above steps are performed by a flattening station 70, an application station 80, a first checking station 90, an attaching station 120, a second checking station 130 and finally a picking station 140, arranged at said picking position P5. In the following, the assembly apparatus 300 will be frequently described with reference to a side thereof, considering that, in some embodiments, the stations are present symmetrically, unless otherwise described, on both sides of the crown 53 on which the coils B are transported, so as to intervene on both ends of each coil B. It is understood that the stations can be offset or, in other embodiments, they could be present only on one side of the turntable structure 51.

[0153] In the present embodiment example, the flattening station 70 comprises a movable frame 71, actuated by an actuator synchronised with the movement 71 of the turntable structure 51; the movable frame comprises a certain number of pressers 72, four in the present example, distanced from each other and positioned at the work path C, in such a way as to be, when the coils B are stationary, on the vertical of their respective axis of symmetry or winding. In this configuration, the movable frame 71 is lowered by pushing the pressers 72 against the ends of the coils B, flattening them.

[0154] This operation is necessary in particular if the conductor tapes N1 and N3 are conformed with notched tabs that need to be pressed against each other to ensure the necessary electrical contact between the tapes.

[0155] It is understood that, in the example described herein, each coil end will be pressed a number of times equal to the number of pressers; this number may be chosen based on the technological needs of the manufacture of the batteries.

[0156] Upon exiting the flattening station 70, the coils B have the ends ready for the application of an end plate T in the application station 80, positioned in succession, which operates as apparatus for applying the end plates T to the target ends of the coils B according to the present invention.

[0157] In some embodiments, the plate T is disc-shaped, with a circular edge and a central hole, and a plurality of notches and / or incisions, arranged to increase the adhesion of the plate T to the end of the target coil B.

[0158] In some embodiments, such plates are intended to operate as electrodes in batteries, and for this reason they must adhere to the edges of the conductor tapes Nl, N3, i.e. to their engraved and flattened edges. In this case, they are made at least in part of a conductive material, for example in a suitably sheared and punched metal foil, so as to have an appropriate shape.

[0159] In other embodiments, the plates may constitute a cover, a seal, a cap, a closure element, and so on.

[0160] In some embodiments, the plates T have an adhesion surface, intended to be adhered and connected to the target end of the coil B, and an outer surface, intended to be visible.

[0161] One of the possible manners of attaching the plate will be described below; in general, this attaching can take place, by way of example, by gluing, by mechanical deformation, by means of special clamps, by soldering or still in other ways.

[0162] The application station 80 comprises, for each side, a linear guide 81, formed by two guide elements 82 each having a groove 83 (enlargement M in figure 4), positioned in such a way that the grooves face each other: the edges of the plates T are inserted into the grooves 83; the plates are thus pushed along the guide 81 so that they translate without varying their respective angular position, i.e. continuing to move on a plane which, as will be described below, constitutes a single application plane.

[0163] In some preferred embodiments, these two linear guides 81 constitute a store 93 for dispensing end plates T, which can be fed with a certain frequency, not strictly correlated to the operating rhythm of the assembly apparatus, but so that it can be provided that the dispensing can take place constantly.

[0164] Therefore, the linear guides 81 will extend from a loading end, not represented and realizable in conventional mode, to an unloading or extraction end, to dispense, one at a time, end plates T.

[0165] In other words, the end plates are extracted individually from the store 93, so that, in subsequent operations, they are managed individually until they are definitively attached to a target coil end.

[0166] The term "extraction" of an end plate T therefore is intended to mean the step of picking up a single plate from the set of plates contained in the store 93 to send it, along a predefined path, from a predefined position to an application area of the plate in proximity to the target end.

[0167] By performing this step, the end plates T remaining in the store 93 will be able to adapt their position therein, i.e. displace themselves by translating, to allow the subsequent plate to be dispensed.

[0168] Note that, therefore, in this store configuration, the end plates T must not follow paths with curves or other changes of direction: they move coplanar to each other up to the outlet end of the linear guides 81.

[0169] Each linear guide 81 has, at said outlet end, an extractor device 84, which generally performs the function of extracting, as described above, a single end plate T.

[0170] In the present example, for each guide 81, the extractor device 84 comprises a respective extractor wheel 85 which is rotated in a ratcheted manner; the extractor wheel 85 provides, at its edge, a multiplicity of curved indentations 86, the shape of which is such as to co-operate, according to the embodiment example described herein, with the circular edge of the end plate T at the outlet end.

[0171] The two extractor wheels 85 of the extractor device are, in the present embodiment example, connected by an intermediate shaft 87 which is rotated by an actuator not depicted, but substantially of a conventional type, about an extraction axis D, synchronously with the rotation of the turntable structure 51.

[0172] This rotation, to be conveniently synchronised, can be obtained by means of a kinematic cascade connection from the rotation of the turntable structure 51.

[0173] In some preferred embodiments, the extractor device 84 comprises two extractor wheels 85, as well as two linear guides 81, because in this way it is possible to extract an end plate T for one of the two ends of a target coil, and another one, from the other guide 81, for the target end of the same coil B. It is however understood that, if the application of a single plate per coil were required, the extractor device would comprise a plate store with a single linear guide and a single extractor wheel.

[0174] At each indentation 86 (figure 4), a continuous extraction slot 88 is provided over the entire width of the portion of the wheel that comes into contact with the end plate, in order to insert the border of the plate T into the slot 88, i.e. capturing it.

[0175] At its ends, the slot 88 provides a respective stop pin 89: in this way, the end plate T is captured in a position comprised between the stop pins 89 and the extraction slot 88.

[0176] Conveniently, the slot 88, obtained in the thickness of the extractor wheel 85, has a continuous profile, interrupted, at the tops that separate two consecutive indentations 86, by a stop pin 89 that performs its function for both slots 88 and the indentations 86 separated by it.

[0177] It should be noted that the extraction step respects the coplanarity condition of the insertion plate so that, at the outlet section of the linear guide 81, it can be more easily locked in the same angular position it had at the inlet of the store 93.

[0178] In some preferred embodiments, the application station 80 comprises, at said extractor device 84, a device for positioning 160 the end plates in an application position at the target end.

[0179] This positioning device 160 provides for first locking a single end plate T, as soon as it has been extracted, in a predefined position that is identified by said single application plane.

[0180] Subsequently, the positioning device 160 picks up this single end plate T, just extracted from its store 93, and transfers it from the extractor device 84 to the turntable structure 51 of the assembly apparatus 300.

[0181] In some embodiments, the positioning device 160 comprises a rotatable actuator 161 of substantially cylindrical shape, rotatably controlled around an auxiliary axis of rotation E, which is preferably parallel to the main axis of rotation A of the turntable structure 51.

[0182] In addition, the rotatable actuator 161 is arranged in an intermediate position between the extractor device 84 and the work path C on which the coils B transit with a ratcheted motion, i.e. from the respective target ends of the plates T.

[0183] It will be noted that, in this embodiment, by effect of the aforementioned first jaws 55, which keep the coils B in a well-defined position with respect to the turntable structure 51 while it rotates, the opposite ends of a coil move defining two respective planes, parallel to each other, which can be identified as the respective unique application planes of the end plates T.

[0184] The rotatable actuator 161 thus comprises two opposing end surfaces 162, each corresponding to one of the application planes. In some preferred embodiments, one or more transfer pliers 163 protrude from one or each of such end surfaces 162. In the present embodiment example, the pliers 163 protrude from both end surfaces 162; according to a preferred embodiment they protrude radially, i.e. so as to remain perpendicular to the auxiliary axis of rotation E during the rotation of the rotatable actuator 161.

[0185] It is understood that, in other embodiments not described, the single rotatable actuator may be replaced by two independent rotatable actuators, each acting on one side of the turntable structure 51. Similarly, the application station 80 could have two linear guides independent of each other, with respective extractor devices, each driven independently of the other.

[0186] In some preferred embodiments, the transfer pliers 163 are at least two for each end surface. The pliers 163 protruding from one end surface 162 are intended to pick up and transfer end plates T sending them to one of the two application planes run by one of the ends of the coils B, while the transfer pliers 163, possibly protruding from the other end surface 162, are intended for the application plane opposite to the previous one, in a substantially symmetrical manner.

[0187] In this way, the rotatable actuator comprises two distinct sets of transfer pliers 163: a first set of transfer pliers 163 operating on one side of the turntable structure 51, i.e. on the ends of the coils running along the work path C, and a second set of transfer pliers 163 operating on the opposite side of the turntable structure 51, i.e. on the other ends of the same coils running along the work path C.

[0188] In the present embodiment example, and with reference to the figures, four transfer pliers 163, distanced by an angle of 90° from each other, protrude radially from each end surface 162, i.e. from each of said sets.

[0189] In some preferred embodiments, each transfer plier 163 comprises, with reference to figure 3A, a pair of plier arms 164 extending substantially rectilinear from a proximal end, having a hinged fulcrum 165, and a distal end having a grabbing element 166 configured to co-operate with the grabbing element of the other plier arm 164.

[0190] The grabbing element 166 comprises a contact surface 167 which may be flat, possibly with a non-stick coating so as not to interfere with a possible adhesive layer applied on one of the surfaces of the end plates T, or it may have a complementary shape to adapt to the target surface, to improve grabbing and to keep the plate in a predefined position during the transfer path.

[0191] At the fulcrum 165, each arm 164 rotates, in opposite directions, lying on parallel planes, and in this regard the two arms 164 are staggered with respect to each other; the two fulcrums 165 of the plier 163 have a common axis of oscillation H that is perpendicular to the auxiliary axis of rotation of the rotatable actuator 161.

[0192] The rotatable actuator 161 contains inside all the operating devices for synchronously opening and clamping the transfer pliers 163.

[0193] During the entire rotation of the rotatable actuator 161, the transfer plier 163 assumes different configurations: in a first grabbing configuration SI the gripping elements 166 are clamped on an end plate T just extracted from its linear guide 81 by the extraction wheel 85; subsequently, a second clamped configuration S2 is provided wherein the transfer plate T describes a curved path from its extraction until it is positioned at the target coil end B; in the latter position, the plier 163 assumes a release configuration S3; then the plier 163 remains in an open configuration S4 wherein the gripping elements 166 are sufficiently distanced so as not to interfere with the linear guide 81 (figure 3).

[0194] Thanks to the aforesaid configurations assumed by the transfer plier 163, a method for applying the end plates T comprises the step of extracting from the store 93 a single end plate T. Subsequently, a step is provided wherein said single end plate T is locked, by clamping in the gripping elements 166, in a predefined position.

[0195] At this point, the method provides for a step of transferring said single end plate T to a release position, causing it to describe a trajectory in which it is previously locked in said predefined position.

[0196] Then, a step is provided wherein said single end plate is released, and subsequently, as will be described in more detail below, it is clamped in the position resulting from the release, without undesired rotations, at a target end of a coil.

[0197] It should be noted that, throughout this process, the single end plates T are moved lying on the same application plane identified at least from the exit position of the linear guide 81, but also inside it.

[0198] In some preferred embodiments, when the end plate T is brought into the position in proximity to the target end of the coil B, it is grabbed by a respective second jaw 50 of the turntable structure 51, integral therewith.

[0199] The second jaw 50 substantially constitutes a clamping device for locking a plate T in a predefined position.

[0200] In this regard, the turntable structure 51 provides a plurality of second jaws 50, positioned in pairs at each pair of first jaws 55: each pair provides a second jaw 50 on one face of the crown 53 and another second jaw 50 on the opposite face, so that each second jaw 50 can co-operate with a respective transfer plier 163 of the application station 80 to apply an end plate T on the target end of a coil B.

[0201] It is understood that, if only one plate T per coil were to be applied, a second jaw 50 would be provided for each pair of first jaws 55.

[0202] Each second jaw 50 extends radially with respect to the turntable structure, and is formed by a pair of branches 61, each interlocked with a respective second actuator shaft 62 in the crown 53, so that the branches 61 can be moved away from or towards each other.

[0203] The branches 61 have a substantially rectilinear extension and have, at the respective distal end, a gripping head 63 adapted to co-operate with an edge portion of the end plate T. Both the branches 61 and the respective gripping heads 63 have a flattened shape, with a thickness slightly greater than that of the end plates T: each gripping head 63 has a cavity 64 having a radius of curvature not less than that of the end plate T, or in any case of a shape such as to couple with the profile of the border of the end plate T; the cavity 64 faces the space comprised between the gripping heads 63 of the second jaw 50; the facing cavities 64 are arranged to capture the end plate T by contact with shape coupling with the border of the end plate T, so as to leave the central part of the plate T, i.e. almost the entirety of its outer surface, clear.

[0204] In this way, the gripping heads 63 identify the clamping device, consisting of the second jaws 50, of the single end plates T at the target ends.

[0205] The branches 61 are substantially coplanar and their heads 63 therefore define a gripping plane on which they move to grasp the end plate T.

[0206] It will be noted that, in some preferred embodiments, the second jaws 50 are integral with the movement of the first jaws 55 and therefore of the coils B along the work path C; in the sections of the work path C in which the end plate T is not positioned in proximity to the target end of the coil B, the second jaw 50 assumes an open configuration, wherein the branches 62 are spread apart at the maximum angle, and the gripping heads 63 are located in proximity to said target end, one on one side and the other at the other side, leaving an intermediate space wider than said target end free (figure 6A).

[0207] When the transfer plier 163 places the end plate T in the space comprised between the gripping heads 63 of the second jaw 50 (figure 6B), the gripping elements 166 of the plier 163 adhere to and occupy the central part of the plate T, because they are centred with respect thereto, in such a way as to leave the border of the plate T free; it can therefore be captured by the second jaw 50 which is clamped on this border (figures 6C).

[0208] In some preferred embodiments, said cavity comprises a slot 65 extending on the thickness of the gripping head 63 for the entire length of the cavity 64; the transverse width of the slot 65 is such that the border of the end plate T, when the second jaw is clamped, penetrates the slot 65.

[0209] In this way, when the transfer plier 163 is opened (figure 6C), and its gripping elements 166 are distanced from each other, the end plate T remains trapped between the gripping heads 63 of the branches 62 of the second jaw 50, and each movement, whether of lateral or perpendicular translation, or of rotation is prevented, and the plate T remains locked in a position at said gripping plane on which it lies, even when the subsequent rotation of the turntable structure 51 of the assembly apparatus displaces it laterally moving away from the application station 80.

[0210] In these steps of capturing and locking the end plate T, the gripping heads 63 are positioned at a predetermined distance from the target end of the coil B and, when locking is completed, the end plate is also located at that distance, on said gripping plane.

[0211] After the turntable structure 51 has performed a subsequent rotation, in this example by one step, the end plate T is brought closer to its target end, and is adhered thereto. In this regard, each second jaw 50 has, at its second actuator shaft 62, a displacement device which, by acting on said shaft 62, induces the translation of the entire second jaw 50 according to a direction G (figure 6C) facing the target end of the coil B, which in this example coincides with the axis A of the turntable structure 51, so as to cause the approach and adhesion of the plate T to said end, displacing the gripping plane of the second jaw 50 (figures 3, 4, 5 and 6C, box F).

[0212] Once this displaced configuration has been assumed, the second jaw 50 and the end plate T continue their motion with the rotation of the turntable structure 51, towards the subsequent first checking station 90.

[0213] In some preferred embodiments, the first checking station 90 comprises, on both sides of the turntable structure 51, a first image detection device 91, which in turn comprises a lens 92 facing in the direction of a predetermined position of the turntable structure 51 wherein it frames, in axis, the end of a coil B, retained by the first jaws 55, and a respective end plate T, retained by a corresponding second jaw 50 and adhered by it to the target end of the coil B. In this way, in the same station 90, both plates T are checked on the opposite ends of a single coil B.

[0214] The two first image detection devices 91 are connected, through a respective first communication line 95, to the control unit 150 of the assembly apparatus 300. They send information to the control unit 150 on the end plate T in the position identified by a light beam L illuminating the plate T in its control position.

[0215] This information may concern, by way of example, the presence of the end plate T, the correctness of its position which may be affected by any undesired rotations or inclinations, its possible deformation and so on. Here, any recognition or counting codes printed on the outer surface of the plate T can also be read. If the information collected reveals defects, the coil B can then be easily identified and discarded in a subsequent step, or possibly the first jaws 55 that retain it can be released, thus causing it to fall into a collection container placed on the vertical of the first checking station 90.

[0216] Once this check has been performed, the rotation of the turntable structure 51 continues towards the subsequent attaching station 120.

[0217] In some preferred embodiments, the attaching station 120 comprises, on both sides of the turntable structure 51, a respective attaching device 121 which is configured to induce a permanent and stable connection between the end plate T and its target end of the coil B on which the plate T is adhered, with a predetermined pressure, by the respective second jaw 50. The attaching devices 121 of each side are distinct from each other, and occupy positions offset from each other.

[0218] In some preferred embodiments, the attaching device 121 co-operates with the aforementioned possible adhesive layer spread on the adhesion surface of the plate T to perform a soldering of the plate T at its target end. Preferably, the adhesive layer is of the thermally activated type, and requires to be heated to cause said permanent connection.

[0219] Therefore, in some preferred embodiments, the attaching device 121 performs localised heating of the end plate T, which is formed of a heat-conducting material, through the emission, by an emission head 122, of a beam W of electromagnetic waves.

[0220] Preferably, the attaching device 121 is of the type emitting a laser beam and, in this regard, it is fed by a respective waveguide 123 that is connected to a focusing body 124, while the emission head 122 may comprise a shutter to activate or deactivate the emission of the beam W.

[0221] However, it is understood that the attaching device 121 may be of a different nature. By way of example only, it may comprise a presser element, equipment for the mechanical connection of the plate T, a pressure transducer for the transmission of ultrasonic frequencies and so on. The choice of the type of attaching device 120 will depend on the nature of the adhesive layer (if any) and / or the shape or function of the end plate T.

[0222] In some preferred embodiments, in the assembly apparatus 300, i.e. in its attaching station 120, the attaching devices 121 operating on the opposite sides of the work path C are offset from each other (figures 1 and 7), so as to act simultaneously on different coils B, and to act on the same coil B in different and subsequent rotation steps of the turntable structure 51. In this way, both the coil B and the turntable structure are subjected to stresses limited to a single attachment, without the assembly apparatus 300 losing efficiency.

[0223] In addition to the attaching step, in the position of the attaching station 120 any codes or indices can also be printed on the outer surface of the end plate T on which the station operates with a laser or inkjet printing system.

[0224] Once the attaching step has been performed, the rotation of the turntable structure 51 continues towards a release position R of the second jaws 50, which assume an open configuration, freeing the respective end plates from interference thereof (figures 2 and 7). In this position, or in a subsequent one, the second jaws 50 are also returned to a position distanced from the end of the coil B, which distanced position will be maintained until the subsequent grabbing of another end plate T.

[0225] After the release position R, the rotation of the turntable structure 51 continues towards the subsequent second checking station 130 which is equipped, like the first checking station 90, with a pair of second image detection devices 131 facing towards a respective coil end B on the opposite sides of the turntable structure (figures 1 and 2).

[0226] Each second image detection device 131 is connected, by means of a respective second communication line 135, to said control unit 150. In this way, they send information to the control unit 150 on the end plate T in a further control position that is subsequent to the attaching operation.

[0227] Therefore, this information may concern, by way of example, the presence of the end plate T after it has been released in the release position R, the correctness of its position which may be affected by any undesired rotations or inclinations, its possible deformation and so on. Here, any codes or indices printed in the attaching station 120 on the outer surface of the plate T can also be read. If the information collected reveals defects, the coil B can then be easily identified and discarded at a subsequent step.

[0228] Once this second check has been performed, the rotation of the turntable structure 51 continues towards the subsequent picking station 140, arranged at said picking position P5 which substantially concludes the work path C.

[0229] The picking station 140 comprises a picking wheel 141, thus arranged in proximity to the turntable structure 51, which in turn comprises a third rotating drum 142 which causes the rotation of a plurality of third jaws 143, mounted on fixed pins 144 radially oriented and protruding from said third drum 142.

[0230] The fixed pins comprise a shaft that induces the spreading apart of picking branches 145 of the third jaws 143, with an angular opening such that they, with the rotation of the picking wheel, are inserted on opposite sides of a coil B dragged at a pitch in rotation on the turntable structure 51.

[0231] Each third jaw 143 has two pairs of picking branches 145 distanced from each other, co-operating so as to grab the coil B without interfering with the branches of the first and second jaws 55, 50. In particular, in the picking position P5, the coil is for an instant retained by both the first jaws 55 and a third jaw 145; the first jaws 55 open releasing the coil B which is then retained and dragged away by the rotation of the picking wheel 141.

[0232] In proximity to the picking station 140 there is provided a transport device 170 of the linear type, with a belt conveyor 171 provided with a plurality of transport seats 172, and a pair of transport wheels 173.

[0233] The picking wheel 141, once a coil B has been picked up, continues with the collection of coils in its rotation, and the third jaws arrive in proximity to said transport device 170 where, after opening the branches of the third jaws 143, the coils B are released into the seats 172 of the belt conveyor 171 in an ordered sequence that corresponds to that with which they were produced and processed in the entire manufacturing apparatus 100, from which they exit.

[0234] In order to satisfy further and contingent needs, a person skilled in the art may make numerous further modifications and variations to the above described apparatus and method for applying an end plate of a coil, all of which are included in the scope of protection of the present invention, as defined by the attached claims.

Claims

Claims1. Apparatus for applying an end plate (T) to an internal assembly of an electrochemical cell which is transported along a work path (C), on a target end thereof, comprising:• a store (93) for dispensing end plates (T) and an extractor device (84) which is configured to extract from the store (93) at least a single end plate by transporting it on a plane defining a single application plane, until said at least a single end plate reaches a predefined position; and• at least one transfer plier (163) receiving said end plate from the extractor device (84), the transfer plier (163) being movable from a grabbing configuration (SI), wherein it is configured to receive and lock said end plate (T) in said predefined position, and a release configuration (S3), wherein the end plate (T) is released to a clamping device (50) in an application position in proximity to said target end, wherein, from extraction to release, the at least one end plate (T) is transported by said at least one plier (163) lying onto said single application plane.

2. Apparatus for applying an end plate (T) according to claim 1, wherein said at least one transfer plier (163) is mounted on a rotatable actuator (161) which rotates thereby moving it from the grabbing configuration (SI) to the release configuration (S3), and back to the grabbing configuration (SI) making a whole round.

3. Apparatus for applying an end plate (T) according to claim 2, wherein said rotatable actuator (161) comprises a plurality of transfer pliers (163), and wherein the rotatable actuator (161) contains inside the operating devices for synchronously opening and clamping the transfer pliers (163).

4. Apparatus for applying an end plate (T) according to claim 3, wherein said rotatable actuator (161) comprises a first set of transfer pliers (163) on one face (162) thereof and a second set of transfer pliers (163) on the opposite face, such that transfer pliers (163) of different sets operate for applying end plates (T) on opposite target ends of internal assemblies.

5. Apparatus for applying an end plate (T) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each transfer plier (163) comprises a pair of plier arms (164) extending from a proximal end thereof, having a fulcrum (165) with respect to which each plier arm (164) rotates, in opposite directions, lying on parallel planes, the two plier arms (164) of said pair being staggered with respect to each other and having a common axis of oscillation (H) which is perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the rotatable actuator (161).

6. Apparatus for applying an end plate (T) according to claim 5, wherein each plier arm (164) comprises, at a distal end thereof, a grabbing element (166) configured to co-operate with the grabbing element (166) of the other plier arm (164), to lock the transfer plate (T) in said predefined position.

7. Apparatus for applying an end plate (T) according to any one of the precedingclaims, wherein said store (93) comprises at least one linear guide (81) along which end plates (T) are pushed thereby they translate to an outlet end of the linear guide (81), wherein the end plates (T) are locked, one by one, in said predefined position by a transfer plier (163).

8. Apparatus for applying an end plate (T) according to claim 7, wherein the linear guide (81) is formed by two guide elements (82) each having a groove (83), positioned in such a way that the grooves (83) are facing each other; the edges of the end plates (T) being inserted into the grooves (83) so that they can be translated by sliding.

9. Apparatus for applying an end plate (T) according to claim 7 or 8, wherein, at said outlet end, said extractor device (84) comprises an extractor wheel (85) having, at its edge, curved indentations (86), shaped to co-operate with the circular edge of the end plates (T).

10. Apparatus for applying an end plate (T) according to claim 9, wherein, at each indentation (86), there is provided, in the thickness of the extractor wheel (85), an extraction slot (88), provided for capturing the lower edge of the end plate (T), said extraction slot (88), at its ends, comprising a stop pin (89) so that, when the end plate (T) is captured in said predefined position, it is comprised between the stop pins (89) and the extraction slot (88).

11. Method for applying an end plate (T) to an internal assembly of an electrochemical cell comprising the steps of:• extracting from a store (93) a single end plate (T), transporting it on a single application plane until a predefined position is reached;• locking said single end plate (T) in said predefined position;• transferring said single end plate (T) to a release position, causing it to describe a trajectory in which it is locked in said predefined position; and• releasing said single end plate (T) and clamping it at a target end of a coil (B), wherein, in said transport and release operations, the end plate (T) moves lying onto said single application plane.

12. Method for applying an end plate (T) according to claim 11, wherein the end plate (T) is locked between a pair of gripping elements (166) occupying a central part of the end plate (T), so as to leave the border of the end plate (T) free.

13. Apparatus for assembling (300) internal assemblies for electrochemical cells, comprising an apparatus for applying an end plate (T) according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

14. Apparatus for assembling (300) internal assemblies for electrochemical cells, comprising an apparatus for applying an end plate (T) performing a method for applying an end plate (T) to a coil (B) according to one of claims 11 or 12.

15. Apparatus for manufacturing (100) coil articles, in particular batteries, comprising an assembly apparatus (300) according to claim 13 or 14.

16. Apparatus for manufacturing (100) coil articles, in particular batteries, according to claim 15, further comprising an apparatus for making coils (200) by winding a plurality of tapes, and an intermediate transfer device (400) supplying said assembly apparatus (300).

Images