Electrode tab scrap collecting apparatus and electrode tab scrap collecting method using same

Abstract

An electrode tab scrap collecting apparatus related to an embodiment of the present invention includes: a negative pressure pump provided to generate negative pressure to perform suctioning; a separation unit including an introduction port provided to allow scraps to be introduced thereinto from the outside and a discharge port provided to discharge the introduced scraps; a suction pipe connected to the negative pressure pump, having a suction port provided to suction air, and inserted into the separation unit; a cover unit connected to a lower portion of the separation unit and communicating with the discharge port; a collection container provided to store the scraps and provided to be capable of being coupled to or separated from the cover unit; and a mounting lever provided to couple or separate the collection container to or from the cover unit.

Description

Electrode tab scrap collection device and electrode tab scrap collection method using the same

[0001] The present invention relates to an electrode tab scrap collection device and an electrode tab scrap collection method using the same, and more specifically, to a device capable of efficiently performing a process of collecting electrode tab scrap.

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0032201, filed March 6, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] Recently, rechargeable secondary batteries have been widely used as a power source for wireless mobile devices. Furthermore, secondary batteries are also attracting attention as a potential energy source for electric and hybrid electric vehicles, which are being proposed as a solution to air pollution caused by existing gasoline and diesel vehicles that use fossil fuels. Consequently, the applications that utilize secondary batteries are diversifying significantly due to their advantages, and it is expected that secondary batteries will be applied to a wider range of fields and products in the future.

[0004] A secondary battery of this type includes an electrode assembly in which electrodes and separators are alternately laminated, and a case that accommodates the electrode assembly, and the electrode assembly has a structure in which a plurality of electrodes and a plurality of separators are alternately laminated.

[0005] In addition, the secondary battery includes an electrode manufacturing process for manufacturing electrodes, an electrode assembly assembly process for assembling an electrode assembly by laminating the manufactured electrodes and separators, and a process for manufacturing a secondary battery by accommodating the manufactured electrode assembly in a case.

[0006] Additionally, secondary batteries are composed of a positive electrode, a negative electrode, a separator, and an electrolyte. The positive and negative electrodes are each connected to an external circuit through metal components called electrode tabs. The electrode tabs can be attached to the surface of the electrode using an adhesive or formed as an integral part of the electrode. The electrode tabs can be connected to electrode leads protruding from the outside of the secondary battery cell.

[0007] Additionally, the manufacturing process for electrode tabs is as follows. First, the electrode is punched and cut using a slitter to fit the cell specifications. Through this punching, electrode tabs can be formed at the edges of the electrode, or separate electrode tabs can be attached. Additionally, a separate cutter may be provided to shape the electrode tabs.

[0008] Furthermore, defective scrap generated during the punching process and scrap left after cutting can cause environmental pollution and safety hazards. Therefore, it is necessary to collect and dispose of scrap promptly and accurately.

[0009] Figure 1 is a partial cross-sectional view schematically showing the internal appearance of a general scrap collection device (10).

[0010] Referring to Fig. 1, a conventional electrode tab scrap collection device (10) is composed of a combination of a cyclone (1) and a collection container (2). The cyclone (1) is provided with a suction pipe (5) connected to a negative pressure pump (7), so that scraps (20) are introduced through an inlet pipe (3) from a scrap generation location (40) through a hose (6) by the suction air of the suction pipe (5). The introduced scraps (20) are rotated together with the air, and the scraps (20) can be separated from the air current by the difference between gravity and centrifugal force. The cyclone (1) can discharge the separated scraps (20) into a collection container (2) connected through an outlet at the bottom of the cyclone (1) while falling due to gravity. At this time, the collection container (2) is sealed at the top by a cover part (4) connected to the bottom of the cyclone (1). In addition, the electrode tab scrap collection device (10) is connected to a dust collector (30). Here, the dust collector (30) is a device for collecting dust in the sucked air.

[0011] These devices perform the role of collecting and discharging scrap (20), but have the following problems.

[0012] In a conventional scrap collection device, scraps discharged from a cyclone are separated into a collection bin, and when the scraps accumulate and the collection bin becomes full, the collection bin is separated from the cyclone, the collected scraps are discharged from the collection bin to an external disposal site or recycling site, and the process of combining the emptied collection bin with the cyclone is repeated.

[0013] However, the conventional scrap collection device has the following problems that occur during the process of separating and re-installing the collection bin from the cyclone.

[0014] First, the efficiency of separation and assembly tasks is reduced due to the difficulty for workers in separating and reassembling the collection bin and cyclone. For example, if temporary fasteners such as bolts or nuts are used to connect the collection bin and the cyclone, the worker spends a lot of time and effort disassembling and reassembling these fasteners. Furthermore, if the collection bin is not fully inserted, resulting in an unstable or defective connection between the collection bin and the cyclone, air leakage may occur between the collection bin and the cyclone, reducing the suction power of the scrap or causing the scrap to flow backward.

[0015] Additionally, since the scrap collection device is linked to other devices, such as the electrode tab cutter, to collect scrap, if the operator's ability to quickly separate and reassemble the collection bin is not achieved, the cutter's operation will also be halted or slowed. This can negatively impact the efficiency and productivity of not only the scrap collection device but also other devices.

[0016] Therefore, a conventional scrap collection device is required that enables separation and combination of the collection bin and the cyclone to be performed easily and stably, thereby enabling efficient separation and combination of the collection bin.

[0017] The present invention aims to solve problems that occur in the process of discharging and collecting scraps generated during conventional electrode manufacturing.

[0018] Through one embodiment of the present invention, it is intended to provide an electrode tab scrap collection device and an electrode tab scrap collection method that enable a worker to easily and quickly perform the separation and combination work of the cover part and the collection container by including a mounting lever provided to combine or separate the collection container from the cover part.

[0019] In addition, the present invention aims to provide an electrode tab scrap collection device and an electrode tab scrap collection method that can improve the efficiency and productivity of electrode tab scrap collection work.

[0020] In order to achieve the above-described object, according to one embodiment of the present invention, there is provided an electrode tab scrap collection device, comprising: a separation unit including an outlet through which scraps are introduced from the outside and through which the introduced scraps are discharged; a cover unit connected to a lower portion of the separation unit and communicated with the outlet; a collection container provided to store the scraps and capable of being coupled to or separated from the cover unit; and a mounting lever provided to couple or separate the collection container from the cover unit.

[0021] In addition, an electrode tab scrap collection device related to one embodiment of the present invention includes a negative pressure pump configured to generate negative pressure and suction, a separation unit including an inlet for introducing scraps from the outside and an outlet for discharging the introduced scraps, a suction pipe connected to the negative pressure pump and having an inlet for sucking air and inserted into the separation unit, a cover unit connected to a lower portion of the separation unit and communicating with the outlet, a collection container configured to store the scraps and capable of being coupled to or detached from the cover unit, and a mounting lever configured to couple or detach the collection container from the cover unit.

[0022] For example, the mounting lever may include a handle portion having an elongated bar shape, and a first lever portion and a second lever portion that extend in a bar shape from each of the two ends of the handle portion toward the collection bin. In addition, the mounting lever may include a handle portion having a bar shape that extends in both directions, and a first lever portion and a second lever portion that extend in a bar shape from each of the two ends of the handle portion toward the collection bin.

[0023] The above collection box may be provided with a first hook projection and a second hook projection that are arranged to protrude in both directions from both sides so as to be coupled to the first lever portion and the second lever portion, respectively.

[0024] Additionally, each of the first lever portion and the second lever portion may have a first insertion groove and a second insertion groove provided to insert the first hook projection and the second hook projection, respectively.

[0025] In addition, the electrode tab scrap collection device may include a frame provided to fix the separating portion, and a first mounting guide member and a second mounting guide member coupled to the frame and provided with a first engaging groove portion and a second engaging groove portion, respectively, into which the first engaging protrusion and the second engaging protrusion are inserted. For example, the first mounting guide member and the second mounting guide member may be provided with a first engaging groove portion and a second engaging groove portion, respectively, provided so that the collection container is coupled to a fixed position of the cover portion when the first engaging protrusion and the second engaging protrusion are inserted.

[0026] In addition, each of the first and second hooking grooves may be provided with a downwardly bent downwardly bent portion, and the lower portion of the downwardly bent portion may be chamfered so that the width decreases as it goes downward.

[0027] In addition, when the handle part moves downward, the first lever part and the second lever part can push up the first and second catch projections, respectively, and insert the first and second catch projections into the first and second catch grooves, respectively. For example, when the handle part moves downward, the first and second lever parts can push up the first and second catch projections, respectively, and insert them into the first and second catch grooves, respectively.

[0028] For example, each of the first and second lever portions may be provided with a first guide protrusion and a second guide protrusion having a shape protruding outward.

[0029] In addition, each of the first mounting guide member and the second mounting guide member may be provided with a first support member and a second support member that are positioned at the lower portion of each of the first and second engaging grooves and guide the movement of the first guide protrusion and the second guide protrusion of the first and second lever portions. For example, each of the first and second mounting guide members may be provided with a first support member and a second support member that are positioned at the lower portion of each of the first and second engaging grooves and have a shape that is extended in a horizontal direction so that the first guide protrusion and the second guide protrusion of the first and second lever portions move along the outer surface.

[0030] The depth of each of the first and second catch grooves may be equal to or deeper than the distance between the lower portions of the first and second catch grooves and the first and second supports, respectively.

[0031] Each of the first mounting guide member and the second mounting guide member may include a first insertion guide member and a second insertion guide member provided to guide movement for coupling the cover member and the collection container.

[0032] Each of the first insertion guide portion and the second insertion guide portion may have a step structure extending downward from each of the first catch groove portion and the second catch groove portion and bent toward the collection container.

[0033] In addition, the collection container can be moved upwards while in contact with the first insertion guide portion and the second insertion guide portion by the pressure of the first lever portion and the second lever portion. For example, the collection container can be moved upwards along the outer surface of the step structure of each of the first insertion guide portion and the second insertion guide portion by the pressure of the first lever portion and the second lever portion.

[0034] In addition, the separation unit may include a cylindrical body having a shape in which the diameter gradually decreases in a downward direction, a cap portion provided to cover the upper portion of the cylindrical body, and a connecting port formed in the center of the cap portion and provided to insert the suction pipe connected to the negative pressure pump.

[0035] In addition, an electrode tab scrap collection device related to one embodiment of the present invention may include an inlet pipe provided to communicate with the inlet port and a connecting hose inserted into and connected to the inside of the inlet pipe and having a passage through which scraps can move from the outside to the inlet pipe.

[0036] The inner diameter of the above inlet pipe may be equal to or larger than the outer diameter of the above connecting hose.

[0037] Additionally, an electrode tab scrap collection device related to one embodiment of the present invention may include a fixing member configured to fix the connecting hose to the inlet pipe.

[0038] In order to achieve the above-described object, according to one embodiment of the present invention, a method for collecting electrode tab scraps generated in the process of manufacturing a secondary battery using a scrap collection device including a separator, a cover portion, a collection container, and a mounting lever is provided, the method including a scrap temporary storage step in which electrode tab scraps introduced into the separation portion are moved to the collection container through an outlet of the separation portion, a collection container separation step in which the collection container is separated from the cover portion by moving the mounting lever when a predetermined amount of scraps discharged to the collection container has been collected, an external discharge step in which the separated collection container is moved to the outside to discharge the scraps inside to the outside, and a collection container mounting step in which the emptied collection container is mounted on the cover portion using the mounting lever.

[0039] As described above, the electrode tab scrap collection device and electrode tab scrap collection method related to one embodiment of the present invention have the following effects.

[0040] By including a mounting lever designed to attach or detach the collection bin to the cover, the operator can easily and quickly detach and attach the cover and collection bin. This also improves the efficiency and productivity of scrap collection operations.

[0041] Figure 1 is a partial cross-sectional view schematically showing the internal appearance of a typical scrap collection device.

[0042] Figure 2 is a conceptual diagram conceptually illustrating the configurations of a scrap collection device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] Figure 3 is a front view schematically showing the appearance of a scrap collection device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] Fig. 4 is a partial cross-sectional view schematically showing the internal appearance of a scrap collection device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] FIG. 5 is a partial cross-sectional view schematically showing a part of a scrap collection device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] Figure 6 is a side view schematically showing a scrap collection device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] Fig. 7 is a side view schematically showing a scrap collection device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] FIGS. 8 to 11 are partial schematic diagrams schematically showing some components of a scrap collection device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] Figure 12 is a flowchart showing steps of a scrap collection method according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] Hereinafter, an electrode tab scrap collection device and an electrode tab scrap collection method according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0051] In addition, regardless of the drawing symbol, identical or corresponding components are given identical or similar reference numbers and redundant descriptions thereof are omitted, and for the convenience of explanation, the size and shape of each component depicted may be exaggerated or reduced.

[0052] FIG. 2 is a conceptual diagram schematically illustrating the configuration of a scrap collection device (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a front view schematically illustrating a scrap collection device (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a partial cross-sectional view schematically illustrating the internal appearance of a scrap collection device (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a partial cross-sectional view schematically illustrating a part of a scrap collection device according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a side view schematically illustrating a scrap collection device according to an embodiment of the present invention. And, FIG. 7 is another side view schematically illustrating a scrap collection device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] Referring to FIGS. 2 to 7, a scrap collection device (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention is a device for collecting scraps generated in the process of manufacturing an electrode tab.

[0054] For example, the electrode tab scrap collection device (100) of the present invention may include a negative pressure pump (110). Here, the negative pressure pump (110) may be configured to generate negative pressure and suction. Specifically, the negative pressure pump (110) may suction and discharge air through a suction opening (not shown) and a discharge opening (not shown) installed inside the pump body.

[0055] In addition, the electrode tab scrap collection device (100) of the present invention may include a separation unit (120). The separation unit (120) may be provided with a connection port (122) connected to a negative pressure pump (110). The separation unit (120) may be provided with an inlet (124) through which electrode tab scraps are introduced from the outside. The separation unit (120) may be provided with an outlet (126) through which separated electrode tab scraps are discharged. The method by which the introduced scraps of the separation unit (120) are separated is not limited to a specific method, and for example, a method in which scraps are separated by gravity, a separation method using the principle of rotating at different speeds by inertial force, a separation method using magnetic force, etc. may be used.

[0056] In addition, the separation unit (120) may use a separation method utilizing centrifugal force. For this purpose, the separation unit (120) may have a cylindrical body (121). The separation unit (120) may cause electrode tab scraps that rotate by suction of a suction pipe (127) inside the cylindrical body (121) to collide with the inner surface (123) of the cylindrical body (121). In addition, the separation unit (120) may be provided so that the scraps are moved to the discharge port (126) by gravity.

[0057] In addition, the cylindrical body (121) of the separation unit (120) may have a shape in which the diameter gradually decreases in the downward direction. The cylindrical body (121) of this shape is advantageous in inducing particles to descend to the bottom of the cylinder by gravity while rotating along the inner wall of the cylinder under centrifugal force.

[0058] Additionally, the separation unit (120) may be provided with a cap unit (129) designed to cover the upper portion of the cylindrical body (121). The cap unit (129) may be coupled to the upper portion of the cylindrical body (121). A gasket (not shown) may be provided between the cap unit (129) and the cylindrical body (121) for sealing.

[0059] In addition, the separating part (120) may be provided with a connection port (122) connected to the negative pressure pump (110). The connection port (122) may be formed in the center of the cap part (129). The separating part (120) may be provided with an inlet port (124) through which electrode tab scraps are introduced from the outside. The inlet port (124) may be formed on the side of the cylindrical body (121). The outlet port (126) may be formed on the lower part of the cylindrical body (121).

[0060] In addition, the electrode tab scrap collection device (100) related to one embodiment of the present invention may include a suction pipe (127). The suction pipe (127) may be connected to a negative pressure pump (110) and configured to suck air from a suction port (127a). The suction pipe (127) may be configured to allow fluid to move. The suction pipe (127) may be inserted into a connection port (122) of the separating unit (120). The distal end of the suction pipe (127) may be spaced apart from the discharge port (126) by a predetermined distance. For example, the degree of separation between the suction port (127a) of the suction pipe (127) and the discharge port (126) may be spaced apart by a distance of about 50% to 80% of the total height of the internal space of the separating unit (120). Therefore, by this configuration, the electrode tab scrap collection device of the present invention can prevent scraps from getting caught between the suction pipe (127) and the discharge port (126) and blocking the discharge passage.

[0061] Referring to FIGS. 2 to 5, the electrode tab scrap collection device (100) of the present invention may include a connecting hose (160). The connecting hose (160) may be inserted into and connected to the inside of the inlet pipe (128). The connecting hose (160) may be provided with a passage through which scraps may move from the outside where scraps are generated to the inlet pipe (128). At this time, the scraps may be moved from the place where scraps are generated to the inlet pipe (128) by the negative pressure generated by the negative pressure pump (110). The connecting hose (160) may be formed of a durable and flexible material. For example, the connecting hose (160) may be formed of polyethylene (PE), polyurethane (PU), rubber, or the like.

[0062] In addition, the electrode tab scrap collection device (100) of the present invention may include an inlet pipe (128). The inlet pipe (128) may be connected to the separator (120) so as to communicate with the inlet port (124). The inlet pipe (128) may be provided so that a connection hose (160) is connected to the end of the pipe.

[0063] Additionally, the inner diameter (d1) of the inlet pipe (128) may be larger than the length of the electrode tab scrap. This inlet pipe (128) may prevent scraps from getting caught inside. For example, the inner diameter of the inlet pipe (128) may be larger than the length of the longest width portion of the electrode tab scrap.

[0064] In addition, one end of the connecting hose (160) may be connected to a location where scraps are generated (e.g., an electrode tab cutting device). Here, the scrap generation location refers to a location where electrode tab scraps are generated while shaping an electrode or electrode tab. The connecting hose (160) may be arranged so that the other end is inserted into the pipe end of the inlet pipe (128). That is, the connecting hose (160) functions as a passage so that scraps can be moved from the scrap generation location to the inlet pipe (128) by the negative pressure of the negative pressure pump (110).

[0065] In addition, as shown in FIG. 5, the end of the connecting hose (160) may have a structure in which the inner diameter gradually decreases toward the distal end. The structure in which the inner diameter decreases can minimize the phenomenon of scrap jamming or scrap blockage at the connection portion of the inlet pipe (128) and the connecting hose (160). The connecting hose (160) may be provided with a nozzle (162) at the end to be inserted into the inside of the inlet pipe (128). The inlet pipe (128) allows scraps to be introduced from a scrap generation location through the connecting hose (160). The inner diameter (d1) of the inlet pipe (128) is equal to or larger than the inner diameter (d2) of the connecting hose (160). That is, the outer diameter (d2) of the end (162a) of the connecting hose (160) may be formed to be equal to or smaller than the inner diameter (d1) of the inlet pipe (128). That is, the present invention can minimize the phenomenon of scrap jamming or scrap blockage by not forming a step structure that may cause scrap interference in the moving passage of the connecting portion of the inlet pipe (128) and the connecting hose (160).

[0066] In addition, the electrode tab scrap collection device (100) may include a fixing member (170) provided to fix the connecting hose (160) to the inlet pipe (128). The fixing member (170) may be provided to fix the end of the connecting hose (160) while being inserted into the inside of the inlet pipe (128).

[0067] Additionally, the fixing member (170) may be provided to pressurize and fix the outer surfaces of each of the end of the connecting hose (160) and the end of the inlet pipe (128). For example, the fixing member (170) may be provided so that its inner surface can wrap around the outer surfaces of the connecting hose (160) and the inlet pipe (128).

[0068] In addition, the fixing member (170) may be provided with a pressure fixing portion (176) at the bottom. The pressure fixing portion (176) may be provided to pressure-fix the connecting hose (160). For example, the pressure fixing portion (176) may have a ring shape. For example, the pressure fixing portion (176) may be provided with a pressure fixing protrusion on the inner circumferential surface of the ring shape.

[0069] In addition, the electrode tab scrap collection device (100) of the present invention may include a collection bin (150). The collection bin (150) may be provided to temporarily store scraps.

[0070] In addition, the electrode tab scrap collection device (100) of the present invention may include a cover part (130). The cover part (130) may be connected to the lower part of the separation part (120). The cover part (130) may be connected to the discharge port (126). That is, the cover part (130) may have a centrally opened shape so as to be connected to the discharge port (126). The cover part (130) may be provided to cover the upper part of a collection container (150) described below. At this time, the cover part (130) may be provided with a gasket interposed at the joint between the cover part (130) and the collection container (150) so as to seal the collection container (150).

[0071] The above collection container (150) may be provided so as to be coupled or separated from the cover portion (130). The collection container (150) may have, for example, a cylindrical shape with an open top and a closed bottom.

[0072] In addition, the electrode tab scrap collection device (100) of the present invention may include a mounting lever (180) provided to couple or separate the collection bin (150) from the cover part (130). More specifically, the mounting lever (180) may be provided to be connected to a side of the collection bin (150). The mounting lever (180) is to be held and moved by a worker's hand, and the mounting lever (180) may be provided to stably connect the collection bin (150) and the cover part (130), or to easily separate the collection bin (150) and the cover part (130). That is, the collection bin (150) may be mounted to the cover part (130) through the mounting lever (180), or the collection bin (150) may be separated from the cover part (130), and the separated collection bin (150) may be removed from the device (100).

[0073] Accordingly, the electrode tab scrap collection device (100) of the present invention includes a mounting lever (180) provided to couple or separate the collection container (150) from the cover portion (130), and through the mounting lever (180), a worker can easily and quickly perform the separation and combination work of the cover portion (130) and the collection container (150), thereby having the effect of improving the efficiency and productivity of the scrap collection work.

[0074] Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, the mounting lever (180) may include a handle portion (182). For example, the handle portion (182) may have a bar shape that extends in both directions. The mounting lever (180) may be provided so that a worker can hold the handle portion (182) by hand and move it up and down. For example, the downward direction, which is the extension direction of the suction pipe (127) of FIG. 4, may be parallel to the Z-axis direction. For example, the insertion direction in which the inlet pipe (128) of FIG. 6 is inserted into the inlet (124) may be parallel to the Y-axis direction. In addition, the X-axis direction of FIG. 6 may be a direction perpendicular to a plane formed by the Z-axis and the Y-axis.

[0075] In addition, the mounting lever (180) may include a first lever portion (183) and a second lever portion (184). Each of the first lever portion (183) and the second lever portion (184) may have a bar shape that extends long from each end of the handle portion (182) toward the collection container (150). That is, the first lever portion (183) and the second lever portion (184) have a shape that extends long in the Y-axis direction.

[0076] In addition, the collection container (150) may be provided with a first catch protrusion (151) and a second catch protrusion (152). The first catch protrusion (151) and the second catch protrusion (152) may be provided to protrude in both directions from both sides so as to be engageable with the ends of the first lever portion (183) and the second lever portion (184), respectively. For example, the collection container (150) may be provided with a first catch protrusion (151) and a second catch protrusion (152) protruding outward on both sides in the X-axis direction. A cylindrical head having a larger diameter than the extended body may be provided at the end in the protruding direction of the first catch protrusion (151) and the second catch protrusion (152).

[0077] Figures 8 to 11 are partial schematic diagrams schematically showing some components of a scrap collection device (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0078] Referring to FIGS. 3 to 11, the first lever portion (183) may be provided with a first insertion groove (187) at an end extending from the handle portion (182) (see FIG. 8). In addition, the second lever portion (184) may be provided with a second insertion groove (188) at an end extending from the handle portion (182) (see FIG. 10).

[0079] In addition, the first insertion groove (187) may be provided so that the first catch protrusion (151) may be inserted. The second insertion groove (188) may be provided so that the second catch protrusion (152) may be inserted. Each of the first insertion groove (187) and the second insertion groove (188) may be an arc-shaped groove. The first insertion groove (187) is provided so that the first catch protrusion (151) can be inserted or removed as the operator moves the handle portion (182). In addition, the second insertion groove (188) is provided so that the second catch protrusion (152) can be inserted or removed as the operator moves the handle portion (182).

[0080] For example, when the handle part (182) is moved downward, the first catch projection (151) inserted into the first insertion groove (187) of the first lever part (183) may be moved to be inserted into the first catch groove part (193). Similarly, when the handle part (182) is moved downward, the second catch projection (152) inserted into the second insertion groove (188) of the second lever part (184) may be moved to be inserted into the second catch groove part (194).

[0081] In addition, as shown in FIG. 3, the electrode tab scrap collection device (100) may include a frame (140) designed to fix the separating unit (120). For example, the frame (140) may be provided with pillars (141, 142) extending in the vertical direction on both sides centered on the separating unit (120). A connecting unit (143) designed to be connected to the separating unit (120) may be provided. A support unit (144) may be formed at the bottom of the frame (140). The support unit (144) may be provided with a moving wheel (145) at the bottom.

[0082] In addition, the electrode tab scrap collection device (100) may include a first mounting guide member (191) and a second mounting guide member (192). The first mounting guide member (191) and the second mounting guide member (192) may be provided to be coupled to the frame (140). The first mounting guide member (191) and the second mounting guide member (192) may each be provided with a first catching groove (193) and a second catching groove (194). The first catching groove (193) and the second catching groove (194) may each be provided to allow a first catching protrusion (151) and a second catching protrusion (152) to be inserted therein. Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, the first engaging groove (193) may be provided so that the collection container (150) is engaged at the correct position (engaging position) of the cover portion (130) when the first engaging protrusion (151) is inserted. Each of the second engaging grooves (194) may be provided so that the collection container (150) is engaged at the correct position of the cover portion when the second engaging protrusion (152) is inserted.

[0083] Additionally, each of the first engaging groove (193) and the second engaging groove (194) may be provided with a downwardly bent downwardly bent portion (bottom of the side wall). Each of the first engaging groove (193) and the second engaging groove (194) may be chamfered so that the width (w1) decreases as the lower portion of the downwardly bent portion is directed downward.

[0084] In addition, when the handle part (182) is moved downward so that the collection container (150) is coupled to the fixed position (coupling position) of the cover part (130), the first lever part (183) may be provided so that it pushes up the first hooking projection (151) and is inserted into the first hooking groove part (193). When the handle part (182) is moved downward, the second lever part (184) may be provided so that it pushes up the second hooking projection (152) and is inserted into each of the second hooking groove parts (194).

[0085] Conversely, when the handle portion (182) is moved upward, the collection container (150) is lowered, and the collection container (150) can be separated from the cover portion (130).

[0086] In addition, the first lever part (183) may be provided with a first guide protrusion (185) having a shape protruding outward at the end. In addition, the second lever part (184) may be provided with a second guide protrusion (186) having a shape protruding outward at the end.

[0087] In addition, the first lever part (183) may be provided with a first guide protrusion (185). The second lever part (184) may be provided with a second guide protrusion (186). The first guide protrusion (185) may be provided at an end in the extension direction of the first lever part (183). The second guide protrusion (186) may be provided at an end in the extension direction of the second lever part (184). The first guide protrusion (185) and the second guide protrusion (186) may have a shape that protrudes outward (in both directions of the X-axis). The first guide protrusion (185) may be arranged to move along the outer surface of the first support (195) according to the movement of the handle part (182). The second guide protrusion (186) may be arranged to move along the outer surface of the second support (196) according to the movement of the handle portion (182). The first guide protrusion (185) and the second guide protrusion (186) may be provided with a cylindrical head having a diameter larger than the body extended at the end in the protruding direction.

[0088] In addition, the depth of the groove (193h) of the first hooking groove (193) can be set to be the same as the distance between the lower end of the first hooking groove (193) and the first support (195). The depth of the groove (194h) of the second hooking groove (194) can be set to be the same as the distance between the lower end of the second hooking groove (194) and the second support (196).

[0089] Alternatively, the depth of the first catch groove (193) may be set deeper than the distance between the lower end of the first catch groove (193) and the first support (195). The depth of the second catch groove (194) may be set deeper than the distance between the lower end of the second catch groove (194) and the second support (196).

[0090] Accordingly, the present invention can maintain a stable engagement state of the collection container (150) by preventing the first catch projection (151) and the second catch projection (152) inserted into the first catch groove (193) and the second catch groove (194), respectively, from easily coming off from the first catch groove (193) and the second catch groove (194).

[0091] Referring to FIGS. 3, 8, and 10, each of the first mounting guide member (191) and the second mounting guide member (192) may include a first insertion guide portion (197) and a second insertion guide portion (198). Each of the first insertion guide portion (197) and the second insertion guide portion (198) may be provided to guide the movement of the collection container (150) for coupling the cover portion (130) and the collection container (150).

[0092] Specifically, each of the first insertion guide portion (197) and the second insertion guide portion (198) may have a step structure. The step structure of the first insertion guide portion (197) may have a shape extending downward from the first catch groove portion (193). The step structure of the second insertion guide portion (198) may have a shape extending downward from the second catch groove portion (194). At this time, the step structure may have a structure that is bent so as to protrude toward the collection container (150).

[0093] In addition, the collection container (150) may be arranged to move upward in a state of contact along the outer surface of the step structure of each of the first insertion guide portion (197) and the second insertion guide portion (198) by the pressure of the first lever portion (183) and the second lever portion (184).

[0094] FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the steps of a scrap collection method according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0095] Referring to FIG. 12 together with FIG. 2 to FIG. 11, the present invention provides a scrap collection method according to an embodiment of the present invention. The scrap collection method of the present invention is a method for collecting electrode tab scraps generated during the process of manufacturing a secondary battery. The scrap collection method of the present invention can use a scrap collection device (100) including a separator (120), a cover (130), a collection container (150), and a mounting lever (180).

[0096] In addition, the scrap collection method of the present invention includes a scrap temporary storage step (M01). In the scrap temporary storage step (M01), the electrode tab scraps introduced into the separation unit (120) can be moved to the collection container (150) through the discharge port (126) of the separation unit (120).

[0097] In addition, the scrap collection method of the present invention includes a collection bin separation step (M02). The collection bin separation step (M02) may be a step of moving the mounting lever (180) to separate the collection bin (150) from the cover part (130) when a predetermined amount of scraps discharged into the collection bin (150) have been collected.

[0098] In addition, the scrap collection method of the present invention includes an external discharge step (M03). The external discharge step (M03) can move the separated collection bin (150) to the outside to discharge the scraps inside to the outside.

[0099] In addition, the scrap collection method of the present invention includes a collection bin mounting step (M04). The collection bin mounting step (M04) is a step of mounting an emptied collection bin (150) to a cover part (130) using a mounting lever (180).

[0100] Accordingly, the scrap collection method of the present invention can mount or detach the collection bin (150) from the cover part (130) using the scrap collection device (100) including the mounting lever (180), so that the worker can easily and quickly perform the separation and attachment work of the cover part (130) and the collection bin (150), thereby improving the work efficiency and productivity of the scrap collection device.

[0101] The preferred embodiments of the present invention described above are disclosed for the purpose of illustration, and those skilled in the art having ordinary knowledge of the present invention will be able to make various modifications, changes, and additions within the spirit and scope of the present invention, and such modifications, changes, and additions should be considered to fall within the scope of the following claims.

[0102] According to an electrode tab scrap collection device and an electrode tab scrap collection method related to one embodiment of the present invention, a worker can easily and quickly perform the separation and combination work of the cover part and the collection container.

Claims

1. A device for collecting scraps generated during the process of manufacturing electrode tabs. A negative pressure pump designed to generate negative pressure and suction; A separation unit including an inlet for allowing scraps to be introduced from the outside and an outlet for discharging the introduced scraps; A suction pipe connected to the negative pressure pump and having a suction port designed to suck in air, the suction pipe being inserted into the separator; A cover part connected to the lower part of the above separation part and communicating with the discharge port; A collection bin provided to store the above scraps and capable of being combined or separated from the cover; and An electrode tab scrap collection device characterized by including a mounting lever configured to couple or separate the collection container to or from the cover part.

2. In paragraph 1, The above mounting lever comprises a handle having a long, extended bar shape; and An electrode tab scrap collection device characterized by including a first lever portion and a second lever portion extending in a bar shape from each end of the handle portion toward the collection container.

3. In paragraph 2, An electrode tab scrap collection device characterized in that the above collection container has a first hook projection and a second hook projection that are provided to protrude from both sides so as to be coupled to the first and second lever portions, respectively.

4. In paragraph 3, Each of the above first lever part and second lever part, An electrode tab scrap collection device characterized by having a first insertion groove and a second insertion groove into which the first and second catch protrusions are respectively inserted.

5. In paragraph 3, A frame provided to fix the above separation part; and An electrode tab scrap collection device comprising: a first mounting guide member and a second mounting guide member, each of which is coupled to the frame and has a first engaging groove portion and a second engaging groove portion into which the first engaging protrusion and the second engaging protrusion are inserted; 6. In paragraph 5, An electrode tab scrap collection device characterized in that when the handle part is moved downward, the first lever part and the second lever part each push up the first hooking projection and the second hooking projection, and insert the first hooking projection and the second hooking projection into the first hooking groove part and the second hooking groove part, respectively.

7. In paragraph 5, Each of the first lever and the second lever, An electrode tab scrap collection device having a first guide protrusion and a second guide protrusion having an outwardly protruding shape.

8. In paragraph 7, Each of the first mounting guide member and the second mounting guide member, An electrode tab scrap collection device characterized in that it comprises a first support member and a second support member positioned at the lower portion of each of the first and second catch groove members and guiding the movement of the first guide projection and the second guide projection of the first and second lever members.

9. In paragraph 5, Each of the first mounting guide member and the second mounting guide member, An electrode tab scrap collection device characterized by including a first insertion guide part and a second insertion guide part provided to guide movement for combining the cover part and the collection container.

10. In paragraph 9, Each of the first insertion guide portion and the second insertion guide portion, An electrode tab scrap collection device characterized by having a step structure extending downward from each of the first and second catch grooves and bent toward the collection container.

11. In paragraph 10, An electrode tab scrap collection device characterized in that the collection container is moved upward in contact with the first insertion guide portion and the second insertion guide portion by the pressure of the first lever portion and the second lever portion.

12. In paragraph 11, The separation unit is, A cylindrical body having a shape in which the diameter gradually decreases in a downward direction; A cap portion provided to cover the upper portion of the cylindrical body; and It includes a connecting port formed in the center of the cap portion and provided for inserting a suction pipe connected to the negative pressure pump, An electrode tab scrap collection device characterized in that the above discharge port is formed at the lower part of the cylindrical body.

13. In paragraph 12, An inlet pipe provided to communicate with the above inlet; and An electrode tab scrap collection device characterized in that it further includes a connecting hose that is inserted into and connected to the inside of the above inlet pipe and has a passage through which scraps can move from the outside to the inlet pipe.

14. In paragraph 13, An electrode tab scrap collection device, characterized in that the inner diameter of the inlet pipe is equal to or larger than the outer diameter of the connecting hose.

15. In paragraph 13, An electrode tab scrap collection device characterized in that it further includes a fixing member provided to fix the above connecting hose to the above inlet pipe.

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