Electrode sheet manufacturing method and electrode sheet manufacturing device

Abstract

Provided in the present application are an electrode sheet manufacturing method and an electrode sheet manufacturing device. The method comprises: step S100: providing a current collector; step S200: coating the current collector with a first slurry; step S250: conveying the current collector by means of a roller clamping mechanism, which comprises a first roller and a second roller, wherein the first roller comprises a first roller section and a second roller section, the first roller section and the second roller section being arranged in the axial direction of the first roller, the diameter of the second roller section being greater than that of the first roller section, the second roller section and the second roller being configured to be in contact with the part of the current collector not coated with the first slurry, so as to collaboratively convey the current collector, and the first roller section being spaced apart from the first slurry; and step S300: coating the current collector with a second slurry to make the second slurry and the first slurry be arranged in the direction of width of the current collector. Step S200 precedes step S300. Using the manufacturing method is conducive to reducing the manufacturing cost of an electrode sheet.

Description

Electrode manufacturing method and electrode manufacturing apparatus

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to Chinese patent application (application number: 2024104889456) entitled “Method and apparatus for manufacturing electrode”, filed on April 23, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This application relates to the field of batteries, and more specifically, to an electrode manufacturing method and an electrode manufacturing apparatus. Background Technology

[0004] Batteries are widely used in the new energy field, such as in electric vehicles and new energy vehicles, which have become a new trend in the automotive industry. A battery includes electrode components, which are the parts in the battery where electrochemical reactions occur. Electrode components are mainly composed of positive and negative electrode sheets wound or stacked.

[0005] During electrode manufacturing, an insulating slurry and an active material slurry need to be coated onto the current collector. After drying, the insulating slurry forms an insulating layer, which reduces the risk of contact between the positive and negative electrodes when the tabs are folded. Currently, the coating process involves extruding both the active material slurry and the insulating layer slurry together at the coating head of the coating machine. The distance between the coating head and the current collector prioritizes the coating thickness of the active material slurry, resulting in a larger gap between the insulating slurry extrusion port and the current collector. This leads to a thicker insulating slurry coating, increasing slurry consumption and consequently, higher electrode manufacturing costs.

[0006] Summary of the Invention

[0007] The purpose of this application is to provide an electrode manufacturing method and an electrode manufacturing apparatus, which aim to improve the problem of high manufacturing cost of electrodes in related technologies.

[0008] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide an electrode manufacturing method, the electrode manufacturing method comprising: step S100: providing a current collector; step S200: coating the current collector with a first slurry; step S250: conveying the current collector through a roller clamping mechanism, the roller clamping mechanism comprising a first roller body and a second roller body, the first roller body comprising a first roller segment and a second roller segment, the second roller segment and the first roller segment being arranged along the axial direction of the first roller body, the diameter of the second roller segment being larger than the diameter of the first roller segment, the second roller segment and the second roller body being used to contact the uncoated portion of the current collector to cooperate in conveying the current collector, the first roller segment and the first slurry being spaced apart; step S300: coating the current collector with a second slurry, such that the second slurry and the first slurry are arranged in the width direction of the current collector; wherein, before step S300, in step S200, one of the first slurry and the second slurry is an active material slurry, and the other of the first slurry and the second slurry is an insulating slurry.

[0009] In the above technical solution, when manufacturing the electrode using this electrode manufacturing method, an insulating slurry can be coated onto the current collector first, followed by an active material slurry, or vice versa. This allows for separate coating of the insulating and active material slurries, without interference between them, improving the coating quality and facilitating precise control of their thickness, thus reducing electrode manufacturing costs. Furthermore, electrode assemblies manufactured using this method can be easily housed, reducing the risk of tab redundancy and improving the reliability of the battery cell. Both the second roller section and the second roller body can contact the uncoated portion of the current collector, thus cooperating in conveying the current collector. Neither the first nor the second roller body comes into contact with the first slurry coated on the current collector, minimizing damage and improving coating quality and thickness control. In addition, conveying the current collector through the roller clamping mechanism can reduce the risk of the current collector shaking, making it easier to apply the second slurry on the current collector and improving the coating quality of the second slurry.

[0010] As an optional technical solution in this application embodiment, the first slurry is the insulating slurry, and the second slurry is the active material slurry; the step S300 includes: step S310: coating the active material slurry on the current collector, and making the active material slurry cover a portion of the insulating slurry.

[0011] In the above technical solution, when manufacturing the electrode sheet, an insulating slurry is first coated on the current collector, and then an active material slurry is coated on the current collector. In this way, when coating the active material slurry, the active material slurry can cover part of the insulating slurry, reducing the risk of the current collector being exposed.

[0012] As an optional technical solution in an embodiment of this application, step S200 includes: step S210: coating a plurality of the first slurry onto the current collector so that the plurality of the first slurry are arranged along the width direction of the current collector; step S300 includes: step S320: coating a second slurry between two adjacent first slurries.

[0013] In the above technical solution, by coating multiple first slurries on the current collector and coating a second slurry between two adjacent first slurries, multiple electrode sheets can be produced at one time after die cutting, which helps to improve the production efficiency of electrode sheets and reduce the production cost of electrode sheets.

[0014] As an optional technical solution in an embodiment of this application, step S210 includes: step S211: simultaneously coating multiple first slurries on the current collector.

[0015] In the above technical solution, since multiple first slurries are spaced apart along the width direction of the current collector, by simultaneously coating multiple first slurries on the current collector, it is not only beneficial to improve production efficiency and reduce production costs, but also the coating of multiple first slurries is not sequential, and they are not likely to affect each other during coating, which is beneficial to improving the coating quality of the first slurries.

[0016] As an optional technical solution in this application embodiment, step S200 includes: step S220: applying the insulating slurry onto the current collector using a gravure roller.

[0017] In the above technical solution, the insulating slurry is coated on the current collector by a gravure roller, which facilitates ultra-thin coating and enables the insulating slurry to have a high degree of thickness consistency.

[0018] As an optional technical solution in this application embodiment, after step S300, the electrode manufacturing method further includes: step S400: drying the first slurry and the second slurry.

[0019] In the above technical solution, the first slurry and the second slurry are dried to form an insulating layer and an active material layer on the current collector.

[0020] Secondly, embodiments of this application also provide an electrode manufacturing apparatus, comprising an unwinding mechanism, a first coating mechanism, a roller clamping mechanism, and a second coating mechanism. The unwinding mechanism is used to unwind a current collector. The first coating mechanism is disposed downstream of the unwinding mechanism and is used to coat the current collector with a first slurry. The roller clamping mechanism is disposed downstream of the first coating mechanism and includes a first roller body and a second roller body. The first roller body includes a first roller segment and a second roller segment. The second roller segment and the first roller segment are arranged along the axial direction of the first roller body. The diameter of the second roller segment is larger than that of the first roller segment. The second roller segment and the second roller body are used to contact the uncoated portion of the current collector to facilitate the transport of the current collector. The first roller segment and the first slurry are spaced apart. The second coating mechanism is located downstream of the roller clamping mechanism. The second coating mechanism is used to coat the current collector with a second slurry. The second slurry and the first slurry are arranged in the width direction of the current collector. One of the first slurry and the second slurry is an active material slurry, and the other is an insulating slurry. Both the second roller segment and the second roller body can contact the uncoated portion of the current collector to facilitate the transport of the current collector. Neither the first roller body nor the second roller body will contact the first slurry coated on the current collector, thus reducing the risk of damage to the first slurry and improving the coating quality and thickness control of the first slurry. In addition, transporting the current collector through the roller clamping mechanism reduces the risk of vibration and facilitates the coating of the second slurry, further improving the coating quality of the second slurry.

[0021] In the above technical solution, when manufacturing electrodes using this electrode manufacturing apparatus, an insulating slurry can be applied to the current collector first, followed by an active material slurry, or vice versa. This allows for separate application of the insulating and active material slurries, without interference between them. This improves the coating quality of both slurries, facilitates precise control of their thickness, and helps reduce electrode manufacturing costs. Furthermore, electrode assemblies manufactured using this method can be easily packaged, reducing the risk of tab redundancy and improving the reliability of individual battery cells.

[0022] As an optional technical solution in this application embodiment, the plane containing the axis of the first roller and the axis of the second roller is parallel to the vertical plane.

[0023] In the above technical solution, by making the plane containing the axis of the first roller and the axis of the second roller parallel to the vertical plane, the risk of wrinkling of the current collector after passing through the roller clamping mechanism can be reduced.

[0024] As an optional technical solution in this application embodiment, the roller clamping mechanism further includes a first driving member, which is connected to the second roller body and is used to drive the second roller body to rotate.

[0025] In the above technical solution, by setting the first driving component to drive the second roller to rotate actively, it is convenient for the second roller to cooperate with the first roller to transport the current collector, so that the roller clamping mechanism forms a tension isolation between the first coating mechanism and the second coating mechanism, thereby making the tension of the current collector balanced during the transportation process.

[0026] As an optional technical solution in this application embodiment, the second coating mechanism includes a coating head, and there is a first gap between the coating head and the second roller body. The first gap is used for the current collector to pass through, and the coating head is used to coat the second slurry on the current collector.

[0027] In the above technical solution, a first gap exists between the coating head and the second roller, allowing the electrode sheet to pass through. As the electrode sheet passes through the first gap, the coating head can coat the current collector with a second slurry. This electrode manufacturing apparatus utilizes the second roller to support the current collector, thereby facilitating the coating head's application of the active material slurry onto the current collector. The second roller can both cooperate with the first roller to transport the current collector and support it; one component performs multiple functions, simplifying the structure of the electrode manufacturing apparatus and reducing its cost.

[0028] As an optional technical solution in this application embodiment, the first coating mechanism includes a storage container and a gravure roller. The storage container is used to store the first slurry. The gravure roller is rotatably connected to the storage container and is used to coat the first slurry in the storage container onto the current collector.

[0029] In the above technical solution, the gravure roller is rotatably disposed within the storage container, with one part of the roller located outside the container and the other part inside. During the rotation of the gravure roller, it can pick up the first slurry from the storage container and apply it to the current collector. Applying the insulating slurry to the current collector using the gravure roller facilitates ultra-thin coating and ensures a high degree of uniformity in the thickness of the insulating slurry.

[0030] As an optional technical solution in this application embodiment, the first coating mechanism further includes a second driving member, which is connected to the gravure roller and is used to drive the gravure roller to rotate.

[0031] In the above technical solution, by setting a second driving component to drive the gravure roller to rotate actively, the linear velocity at any point on the outer circumference of the gravure roller can be greater than the conveying speed of the current collector, which is beneficial to improving the coating effect of the first slurry.

[0032] As an optional technical solution in this application embodiment, the diameter of the gravure roller is D, which satisfies: 100mm≤D≤300mm.

[0033] In the above technical solution, by ensuring D ≤ 300mm, the diameter of the gravure roller is relatively small, which helps to control the consistency of the coating thickness of the first slurry and allows for a thinner coating. By ensuring D ≥ 100mm, the diameter of the gravure roller is not too small, ensuring sufficient strength and reducing the risk of roller breakage. Therefore, when 100mm ≤ D ≤ 300mm, both the strength of the gravure roller and the coating effect can be balanced.

[0034] As an optional technical solution in this application embodiment, 120mm≤D≤160mm.

[0035] In the above technical solution, by making D≤160mm, the diameter of the gravure roller is smaller, which is more conducive to controlling the consistency of the coating thickness of the first slurry and can make the first slurry coating thinner. By making D≥120mm, the diameter of the gravure roller is not too small, so that the gravure roller has sufficient strength and reduces the risk of gravure roller breakage. Therefore, when 120mm≤D≤160mm, both the strength of the gravure roller and the coating effect can be taken into account.

[0036] As an optional technical solution in this application embodiment, the first slurry is the insulating slurry, and the second slurry is the active substance slurry; the first coating mechanism includes a plurality of gravure rollers, which are spaced apart along the width direction of the current collector, and the gravure rollers are used to coat the insulating slurry onto the current collector.

[0037] In the above technical solution, by setting multiple gravure rollers and spacing them apart along the width direction of the current collector, multiple insulating slurries can be coated on the current collector simultaneously, thereby improving the production efficiency of the electrode sheet and reducing the production cost of the electrode sheet.

[0038] As an optional technical solution in this application embodiment, the first slurry is the insulating slurry, and the second slurry is the active material slurry; the electrode manufacturing apparatus includes a plurality of first coating mechanisms, the plurality of first coating mechanisms are arranged along the width direction of the current collector, and each first coating mechanism includes a gravure roller, the gravure roller being used to coat the insulating slurry onto the current collector.

[0039] In the above technical solution, by setting up multiple first coating mechanisms and arranging them along the width direction of the current collector, multiple insulating pastes can be coated on the current collector simultaneously, thereby improving the production efficiency of the electrode sheet and reducing the production cost of the electrode sheet.

[0040] As an optional technical solution in this application embodiment, the first coating mechanism includes a pressure roller, which is used to press the current collector onto the gravure roller.

[0041] In the above technical solution, by setting a pressure roller to press the current collector onto the gravure roller, the gravure roller can stably coat the first slurry onto the current collector, which is beneficial to improving the consistency of the first slurry coating.

[0042] As an optional technical solution in this application embodiment, pressure rollers are provided both upstream and downstream of the gravure roller.

[0043] In the above technical solution, by setting pressure rollers both upstream and downstream of the gravure roller, the effect of pressing the current collector onto the gravure roller is improved, so that the gravure roller can more stably coat the first slurry onto the current collector, which is beneficial to improving the consistency of the first slurry coating.

[0044] As an optional technical solution in this application embodiment, the first coating mechanism includes an adjustment structure connected to the pressure roller, the adjustment structure being used to adjust the position of the pressure roller along the thickness direction of the current collector.

[0045] In the above technical solution, by setting an adjustment structure to adjust the position of the pressure roller along the thickness direction of the current collector, the contact length between the gravure roller and the current collector can be adjusted, that is, the feed amount of the current collector in contact with the gravure roller can be adjusted. By adjusting the feed amount of the current collector in contact with the gravure roller, the risk of incomplete coating can be reduced.

[0046] As an optional technical solution in this application embodiment, the first coating mechanism further includes a scraper, which is used to scrape off excess first slurry on the gravure roller.

[0047] In the above technical solution, by setting a doctor blade to scrape off the excess first slurry on the gravure roller, it is beneficial to control the coating thickness and coating consistency of the first slurry.

[0048] As an optional technical solution in this application embodiment, the position of the first coating mechanism is adjustable along the width direction of the current collector.

[0049] In the above technical solution, by making the position of the first coating mechanism adjustable along the width direction of the current collector, the position of the first coating mechanism in the width direction of the current collector can be adjusted as needed to meet the manufacturing requirements of different electrode sheets, which is beneficial to improving the adaptability of the electrode manufacturing device to manufacturing different types of electrode sheets.

[0050] As an optional technical solution in this application embodiment, the electrode manufacturing apparatus includes a guide member that extends along the width direction of the current collector, and the first coating mechanism is guided and cooperated with the guide member.

[0051] In the above technical solution, a guide component is set to guide the first coating mechanism to move along the width direction of the collector, thereby reducing the risk of the first coating mechanism deviating when adjusting its position.

[0052] As an optional technical solution in this application embodiment, the electrode manufacturing apparatus further includes a drying mechanism, which is disposed downstream of the second coating mechanism, and is used to dry the first slurry and the second slurry.

[0053] In the above technical solution, a drying mechanism is set up to dry the first slurry and the second slurry in order to form an insulating layer and an active material layer on the current collector. Attached Figure Description

[0054] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. It should be understood that the following drawings only show some embodiments of this application and should not be regarded as a limitation of the scope. For those skilled in the art, other related drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0055] Figure 1 is a schematic block diagram of an electrode manufacturing method provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0056] Figure 2 is a schematic block diagram of an electrode manufacturing method provided in some other embodiments of this application;

[0057] Figure 3 is a schematic block diagram of an electrode manufacturing method provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0058] Figure 4 is a schematic block diagram of an electrode manufacturing method provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0059] Figure 5 is a schematic block diagram of an electrode manufacturing method provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0060] Figure 6 is a schematic block diagram of an electrode manufacturing method provided in some other embodiments of this application;

[0061] Figure 7 is a schematic block diagram of an electrode manufacturing method provided in some other embodiments of this application;

[0062] Figure 8 is a schematic block diagram of an electrode manufacturing apparatus provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0063] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electrode manufacturing apparatus provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0064] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the roller clamping mechanism provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0065] Figure 11 is a schematic block diagram showing the connection between the second roller and the first drive member according to some embodiments of this application;

[0066] Figure 12 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first coating mechanism provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0067] Figure 13 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first coating mechanism provided in some other embodiments of this application;

[0068] Figure 14 is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electrode manufacturing apparatus provided in some other embodiments of this application;

[0069] Figure 15 is a schematic diagram of the connection between the pressure roller and the adjustment structure provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0070] Figure 16 is a structural schematic diagram of the first coating mechanism provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0071] Figure 17 is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electrode manufacturing apparatus provided in some embodiments of this application.

[0072] Icons: 10-Electrode manufacturing method; 20-Electrode manufacturing apparatus; 210-Unwinding mechanism; 220-First coating mechanism; 221-Gravure roller; 222-Store; 223-Second drive component; 224-Doctor; 2241-Front doctor blade; 2242-Side doctor blade; 225-Guide component; 230-Second coating mechanism; 231-Coating head; 240-Roll clamping mechanism; 241-First roller body; 2411-First roller segment; 2412-Second roller segment; 242-Second roller body; 243-First drive component; 251-Passing roller; 252-Rewinding mechanism; 261-Pressure roller; 262-Adjusting structure; 2621-Adjusting handle; 2622-First mounting base; 2623-Lead screw; 263-Second mounting base; 270-Drying mechanism; 31-Current collector; 32-Insulating slurry. Detailed Implementation

[0073] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0074] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used in this application have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application pertains; the terminology used in the description of this application is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the application; the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, in the description, claims, and accompanying drawings of this application are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. The terms "first," "second," etc., in the description, claims, or accompanying drawings of this application are used to distinguish different objects, not to describe a specific order or hierarchy.

[0075] In this application, the reference to "embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment of this application. The appearance of this phrase in various places in the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it a separate or alternative embodiment that is mutually exclusive with other embodiments.

[0076] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "attachment" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal communication between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0077] In this application, the term "and / or" is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, or B existing alone. Additionally, in this application, the character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.

[0078] In the embodiments of this application, the same reference numerals denote the same components, and for the sake of brevity, detailed descriptions of the same components are omitted in different embodiments. It should be understood that the thickness, length, width, and other dimensions of various components in the embodiments of this application shown in the accompanying drawings, as well as the overall thickness, length, width, and other dimensions of the integrated device, are merely illustrative and should not constitute any limitation on this application.

[0079] In this application, "multiple" means two or more (including two).

[0080] In this application, the battery cell may include lithium-ion secondary batteries, lithium-ion primary batteries, lithium-sulfur batteries, sodium-lithium-ion batteries, sodium-ion batteries, or magnesium-ion batteries, etc., and the embodiments of this application are not limited to these. The battery cell may be cylindrical, flat, cuboid, or other shapes, etc., and the embodiments of this application are not limited to these. Battery cells are generally divided into three types according to their packaging method: cylindrical battery cells, square battery cells, and pouch battery cells, and the embodiments of this application are not limited to these.

[0081] The battery mentioned in the embodiments of this application refers to a single physical module comprising one or more battery cells to provide higher voltage and capacity. For example, the battery mentioned in this application may include a battery module or a battery pack. A battery generally includes a housing for encapsulating one or more battery cells. The housing can, to a certain extent, prevent liquids or other foreign matter from affecting the charging or discharging of the battery cells.

[0082] A battery cell includes an electrode assembly and an electrolyte. The electrode assembly consists of a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator. The battery cell primarily functions by the movement of metal ions between the positive and negative electrodes. The positive electrode includes a positive current collector and a positive active material layer. The positive active material layer is coated on the surface of the positive current collector. The uncoated positive current collector protrudes from the coated positive current collector and serves as the positive electrode tab. Taking a lithium-ion battery as an example, the positive current collector can be made of aluminum, and the positive active material can be lithium cobalt oxide, lithium iron phosphate, ternary lithium, or lithium manganese oxide, etc. The negative electrode includes a negative current collector and a negative active material layer. The negative active material layer is coated on the surface of the negative current collector. The uncoated negative current collector protrudes from the coated negative current collector and serves as the negative electrode tab. The negative current collector can be made of copper, and the negative active material can be carbon or silicon, etc. To ensure that a large current can pass through without melting, multiple positive tabs and multiple negative tabs are stacked together. The separator can be made of PP (polypropylene) or PE (polyethylene), etc. Furthermore, the electrode assembly can be a wound structure or a stacked structure; the embodiments of this application are not limited to these.

[0083] Currently, judging from market trends, battery applications are becoming increasingly widespread. Batteries are not only used in energy storage systems such as hydropower, thermal power, wind power, and solar power plants, but also extensively in electric vehicles such as electric bicycles, electric motorcycles, and electric cars, as well as in military equipment and aerospace. With the continuous expansion of battery applications, market demand is also constantly increasing.

[0084] A battery includes electrode assemblies, which are the components in the battery where electrochemical reactions occur. Electrode assemblies are mainly composed of positive and negative electrode sheets wound or stacked. Currently, the manufacturing cost of electrode sheets is relatively high.

[0085] During electrode manufacturing, an insulating slurry and an active material slurry need to be coated onto the current collector. After drying, the insulating slurry forms an insulating layer, which reduces the risk of contact between the positive and negative electrodes when the tabs are folded. Current coating processes involve extruding the active material slurry and insulating layer slurry together at the coating head of the coating machine. The distance between the coating head and the current collector prioritizes the coating thickness of the active material slurry, resulting in a larger gap between the insulating slurry extrusion port and the current collector. This leads to a thicker insulating slurry coating, increasing slurry consumption and thus higher electrode manufacturing costs. Furthermore, the thicker insulating slurry makes it difficult to install electrode assemblies manufactured using this method into housings. Even if installation is successful, it can easily lead to tab redundancy, causing a series of reliability issues.

[0086] In view of this, embodiments of this application provide an electrode manufacturing method, the electrode manufacturing method comprising: step S100: providing a current collector; step S200: coating a first slurry onto the current collector; step S300: coating a second slurry onto the current collector, such that the second slurry and the first slurry are arranged in the width direction of the current collector. Wherein, before step S300, one of the first slurry and the second slurry is an active material slurry, and the other of the first slurry and the second slurry is an insulating slurry.

[0087] When manufacturing electrodes using this method, an insulating slurry can be applied to the current collector first, followed by an active material slurry, or vice versa. This allows for separate coating of the insulating and active material slurries, ensuring that the coating processes do not interfere with each other. This improves the coating quality of both slurries, facilitates precise control of their thickness, and helps reduce manufacturing costs. Furthermore, electrode assemblies manufactured using this method can be easily integrated into the battery casing, reducing the risk of tab redundancy and improving the reliability of individual cells.

[0088] The technical solutions described in the embodiments of this application are applicable to the manufacture of electrode sheets and can reduce the manufacturing cost of electrode sheets.

[0089] Please refer to Figure 1, which is a schematic block diagram of an electrode manufacturing method 10 provided in some embodiments of this application. This application provides an electrode manufacturing method 10, which includes:

[0090] Step S100: Provide current collector 31;

[0091] Step S200: Apply the first slurry to the current collector 31;

[0092] Step S300: Apply a second slurry to the current collector 31, such that the second slurry and the first slurry are arranged in the width direction of the current collector 31;

[0093] In step S200, prior to step S300, one of the first slurry and the second slurry is an active material slurry, and the other of the first slurry and the second slurry is an insulating slurry 32.

[0094] One of the first slurry and the second slurry is an active material slurry, and the other of the first slurry and the second slurry is an insulating slurry 32. When the first slurry is an insulating slurry 32, the second slurry is an active material slurry. The first slurry and the second slurry coated on the current collector 31 are arranged along the width direction of the current collector 31.

[0095] Steps S200 and S300 are performed sequentially; specifically, step S200 is performed first, followed by step S300. For example, when the first slurry is an insulating slurry 32 and the second slurry is an active material slurry, the insulating slurry 32 is first applied to the current collector 31, and after the insulating slurry 32 is applied, the active material slurry is applied to the current collector 31. Similarly, when the first slurry is an active material slurry and the second slurry is an insulating slurry 32, the active material slurry is first applied to the current collector 31, and after the active material slurry is applied, the insulating slurry 32 is applied to the current collector 31.

[0096] When manufacturing an electrode using this electrode manufacturing method 10, an insulating slurry 32 can be coated onto the current collector 31 first, followed by an active material slurry, or vice versa. This allows for separate coating of the insulating slurry 32 and the active material slurry, without interference between the two processes. This improves the coating quality of both materials, facilitates precise control of their thickness, and helps reduce manufacturing costs. Furthermore, electrode assemblies manufactured using this method can be easily packaged, reducing the risk of tab redundancy and improving the reliability of individual battery cells.

[0097] Please refer to Figure 2, which is a schematic block diagram of an electrode manufacturing method 10 provided in some other embodiments of this application. In some other embodiments, the first slurry is an insulating slurry 32, and the second slurry is an active material slurry.

[0098] Step S300 includes:

[0099] Step S310: Apply an active material slurry to the current collector 31 and make the active material slurry cover a portion of the insulating slurry 32.

[0100] The first slurry is an insulating slurry 32, and the second slurry is an active material slurry. During manufacturing, the insulating slurry 32 is first coated onto the current collector 31. After the insulating slurry 32 is coated, the active material slurry is then coated onto the current collector 31. When coating the active material slurry, the active material slurry covers the side of the insulating slurry 32 along the width direction of the current collector 31 closest to the active material slurry.

[0101] When manufacturing the electrode, an insulating slurry 32 is first coated on the current collector 31, and then an active material slurry is coated on the current collector 31. In this way, when coating the active material slurry, the active material slurry can cover part of the insulating slurry 32, reducing the risk of the current collector 31 being exposed.

[0102] Please refer to Figure 3, which is a schematic block diagram of an electrode manufacturing method 10 provided in some embodiments of this application. In some embodiments, before step S300 and after step S200, the electrode manufacturing method 10 further includes:

[0103] Step S250: The current collector 31 is conveyed through the roller clamping mechanism 240;

[0104] The roller clamping mechanism 240 includes a first roller body 241 and a second roller body 242. The first roller body 241 includes a first roller segment 2411 and a second roller segment 2412. The second roller segment 2412 and the first roller segment 2411 are arranged along the axial direction of the first roller body 241, and the diameter of the second roller segment 2412 is larger than the diameter of the first roller segment 2411. The second roller segment 2412 and the second roller body 242 are used to contact the uncoated portion of the current collector 31 to facilitate the conveying of the current collector 31. The first roller segment 2411 is spaced apart from the first slurry.

[0105] After the first slurry is applied to the current collector 31 and before the second slurry is applied to the current collector 31, the electrode manufacturing method 10 further includes conveying the current collector 31 through the roller clamping mechanism 240.

[0106] The roller clamping mechanism 240 includes a first roller body 241 and a second roller body 242. The first roller body 241 includes a first roller segment 2411 and a second roller segment 2412 arranged axially thereon. The diameter of the first roller segment 2411 is smaller than the diameter of the second roller segment 2412. A second gap exists between the second roller segment 2412 and the second roller body 242, allowing the portion of the current collector 31 not coated with the first slurry to pass through. Both the second roller segment 2412 and the second roller body 242 are used to contact the uncoated portion of the current collector 31, thereby conveying the current collector 31. A third gap exists between the first roller segment 2411 and the second roller body 242, allowing the portion of the current collector 31 coated with the first slurry to pass through. The width of the third gap is greater than the width of the second gap, creating a gap between the first roller segment 2411 and the first slurry, meaning the first roller segment 2411 does not contact the first slurry coated on the current collector 31.

[0107] It should be noted that the first roller body 241 may include a plurality of second roller segments 2412, and the first roller segments 2411 and the second roller segments 2412 are alternately arranged along the axial direction of the first roller body 241.

[0108] Both the second roller section 2412 and the second roller body 242 can contact the uncoated portion of the current collector 31, thereby cooperating in conveying the current collector 31. Neither the first roller body 241 nor the second roller body 242 will contact the first slurry coated on the current collector 31, thus minimizing damage to the first slurry and improving the coating quality of the first slurry, making it easier to control the coating thickness. Furthermore, conveying the current collector 31 via the roller clamping mechanism 240 reduces the risk of vibration in the current collector 31, facilitating the coating of the second slurry on the current collector 31 and further improving the coating quality of the second slurry.

[0109] Please refer to Figure 4, which is a schematic block diagram of an electrode manufacturing method 10 provided in some embodiments of this application. In some embodiments, step S200 includes:

[0110] Step S210: Apply a plurality of first slurries to the current collector 31 so that the plurality of first slurries are arranged along the width direction of the current collector 31;

[0111] Step S300 includes:

[0112] Step S320: Apply a second slurry between two adjacent first slurries.

[0113] When the first slurry is an insulating slurry 32 and the second slurry is an active material slurry, multiple insulating slurries 32 are coated on the current collector 31, such that the multiple insulating slurries 32 are spaced apart along the width direction of the current collector 31. After drying, multiple insulating layers spaced apart along the width direction of the current collector 31 can be formed. An active material slurry is coated between two adjacent insulating slurries 32, and after drying, an active material layer can be formed between the two adjacent insulating layers.

[0114] By coating multiple first slurries on the current collector 31 and coating a second slurry between two adjacent first slurries, multiple electrode sheets can be produced at once after die cutting, which helps to improve the production efficiency of electrode sheets and reduce the production cost of electrode sheets.

[0115] Please refer to Figure 5, which is a schematic block diagram of an electrode manufacturing method 10 provided in some embodiments of this application. In some embodiments, step S210 includes:

[0116] Step S211: Simultaneously apply multiple first slurries onto the current collector 31.

[0117] Since multiple first slurries are spaced apart along the width direction of the current collector 31, simultaneously coating multiple first slurries on the current collector 31 not only helps to improve production efficiency and reduce production costs, but also the coating of multiple first slurries is not sequential, so they are less likely to affect each other during coating, which helps to improve the coating quality of the first slurries.

[0118] Please refer to Figure 6, which is a schematic block diagram of an electrode manufacturing method 10 provided in some other embodiments of this application. In some other embodiments, step S200 includes:

[0119] Step S220: Apply insulating slurry 32 to current collector 31 using gravure roller 221.

[0120] The gravure roller 221 is a roller structure. The outer circumferential surface of the gravure roller 221 can be engraved with continuous mesh patterns that enable the insulating paste 32 to be evenly and densely coated on the current collector 31.

[0121] The insulating slurry 32 is applied to the current collector 31 by the gravure roller 221, which facilitates ultra-thin coating and ensures high uniformity of the thickness of the insulating slurry 32.

[0122] Please refer to Figure 7, which is a schematic block diagram of an electrode manufacturing method 10 provided in some other embodiments of this application. In some other embodiments, after step S300, the electrode manufacturing method 10 further includes:

[0123] Step S400: Dry the first slurry and the second slurry.

[0124] The first and second slurries are dried to form an insulating layer and an active material layer on the current collector 31.

[0125] Please refer to Figures 8 and 9. Figure 8 is a schematic block diagram of an electrode manufacturing apparatus 20 provided in some embodiments of this application. Figure 9 is a structural schematic diagram of an electrode manufacturing apparatus 20 provided in some embodiments of this application. This application also provides an electrode manufacturing apparatus 20, which includes an unwinding mechanism 210, a first coating mechanism 220, and a second coating mechanism 230. The unwinding mechanism 210 is used to unwind a current collector 31. The first coating mechanism 220 is located downstream of the unwinding mechanism 210 and is used to coat a first slurry onto the current collector 31. The second coating mechanism 230 is located downstream of the first coating mechanism 220 and is used to coat a second slurry onto the current collector 31. The second slurry and the first slurry are arranged in the width direction of the current collector 31. One of the first slurry and the second slurry is an active material slurry, and the other of the first slurry and the second slurry is an insulating slurry 32.

[0126] The unwinding mechanism 210 is a mechanism for unwinding the current collector 31. The unwinding mechanism 210 may include an unwinding roller, which is used to set the current collector roll. By rotating the unwinding roller, the current collector roll is driven to unwind.

[0127] Along the conveying direction of the current collector 31, the first coating mechanism 220 is located downstream of the unwinding mechanism 210 and upstream of the second coating mechanism 230. The first coating mechanism 220 is used to coat the current collector 31 with a first slurry. Along the conveying direction of the current collector 31, the second coating mechanism 230 is located downstream of the first coating mechanism 220. The second coating mechanism 230 is used to coat the current collector 31 with a second slurry, such that the second slurry and the first slurry are arranged along the width direction of the current collector 31. When the first slurry is an insulating slurry 32 and the second slurry is an active material slurry, the first coating mechanism 220 is used to coat the current collector 31 with the insulating slurry 32, and the second coating mechanism 230 is used to coat the current collector 31 with the active material slurry. When the first slurry is an active material slurry and the second slurry is an insulating slurry 32, the first coating mechanism 220 is used to coat the active material slurry on the current collector 31, and the second coating mechanism 230 is used to coat the insulating slurry 32 on the current collector 31.

[0128] When manufacturing electrodes using this electrode manufacturing apparatus 20, an insulating slurry 32 can be coated onto the current collector 31 first, followed by an active material slurry, or vice versa. This allows for separate coating of the insulating slurry 32 and the active material slurry, without interference between the two processes. This improves the coating quality of both materials and facilitates precise control of their thickness, thus reducing electrode manufacturing costs. Furthermore, electrode assemblies manufactured using this method can be easily packaged, reducing the risk of tab redundancy and improving the reliability of individual battery cells.

[0129] In some embodiments, the electrode manufacturing apparatus 20 further includes a guide roller 251 and a winding mechanism 252. The guide roller 251 is used to wind the current collector 31 to support it. The winding mechanism 252 is located downstream of the second coating mechanism 230 and is used to wind up the current collector 31.

[0130] Please refer to Figures 8, 9, and 10. Figure 10 is a schematic diagram of the roller clamping mechanism 240 provided in some embodiments of this application. In some embodiments, the first slurry is an insulating slurry 32, and the second slurry is an active material slurry. The electrode manufacturing apparatus 20 includes a roller clamping mechanism 240, which is disposed downstream of the first coating mechanism 220 and upstream of the second coating mechanism 230. The roller clamping mechanism 240 includes a first roller body 241 and a second roller body 242. The first roller body 241 includes a first roller segment 2411 and a second roller segment 2412. The second roller segment 2412 and the first roller segment 2411 are arranged along the axial direction of the first roller body 241. The diameter of the second roller segment 2412 is larger than the diameter of the first roller segment 2411. The second roller segment 2412 and the second roller body 242 are used to contact the uncoated portion of the current collector 31 to facilitate the transport of the current collector 31. The first roller segment 2411 and the insulating slurry 32 are spaced apart.

[0131] The first slurry can be an insulating slurry 32, and the second slurry can be an active material slurry. The first coating mechanism 220 is used to coat the insulating slurry 32 onto the current collector 31, and the second coating mechanism 230 is used to coat the active material slurry onto the current collector 31.

[0132] Along the conveying direction of the current collector 31, the roller clamping mechanism 240 is located downstream of the first coating mechanism 220 and upstream of the second coating mechanism 230. The current collector 31 passes through the first coating mechanism 220, the roller clamping mechanism 240, and the second coating mechanism 230 in sequence.

[0133] The roller clamping mechanism 240 includes a first roller body 241 and a second roller body 242. The first roller body 241 includes a first roller segment 2411 and a second roller segment 2412 arranged axially thereon. The diameter of the first roller segment 2411 is smaller than the diameter of the second roller segment 2412. A second gap is provided between the second roller segment 2412 and the second roller body 242 for the passage of the uncoated portion of the current collector 31. Both the second roller segment 2412 and the second roller body 242 are used to contact the uncoated portion of the current collector 31, thereby conveying the current collector 31. A third gap is provided between the first roller segment 2411 and the second roller body 242 for the passage of the portion of the current collector 31 coated with insulating slurry 32. The width of the third gap is greater than the width of the second gap, so that there is a gap between the first roller segment 2411 and the insulating slurry 32, that is, the first roller segment 2411 does not contact the insulating slurry 32 coated on the current collector 31. It should be noted that the first roller body 241 may include a plurality of second roller segments 2412, and the first roller segments 2411 and the second roller segments 2412 are alternately arranged along the axial direction of the first roller body 241.

[0134] Both the second roller section 2412 and the second roller body 242 can contact the uncoated portion of the current collector 31, thereby cooperating in conveying the current collector 31. Neither the first roller body 241 nor the second roller body 242 comes into contact with the insulating slurry 32 coated on the current collector 31, thus minimizing damage to the slurry and improving the coating quality of the insulating slurry 32, making it easier to control the coating thickness. Furthermore, conveying the current collector 31 via the roller clamping mechanism 240 reduces the risk of vibration in the current collector 31, facilitating the coating of the active material slurry onto the current collector 31 and improving the coating quality of the active material slurry.

[0135] Referring to Figures 9 and 10, in some embodiments, the plane containing the axis of the first roller 241 and the axis of the second roller 242 is parallel to the vertical plane.

[0136] "The plane containing the axis of the first roller 241 and the axis of the second roller 242 is parallel to the vertical plane" means that the plane containing the axis of the first roller 241 and the axis of the second roller 242 is approximately parallel to the vertical plane. The angle between the plane containing the axis of the first roller 241 and the axis of the second roller 242 and the vertical plane is less than or equal to 5°.

[0137] By making the plane containing the axis of the first roller 241 and the axis of the second roller 242 parallel to the vertical plane, the risk of wrinkling of the current collector 31 after passing through the roller clamping mechanism 240 can be reduced.

[0138] Please refer to Figures 9, 10, and 11. Figure 11 is a schematic block diagram showing the connection between the second roller 242 and the first drive member 243 according to some embodiments of this application. In some embodiments, the roller clamping mechanism 240 further includes a first drive member 243, which is connected to the second roller 242 and is used to drive the second roller 242 to rotate.

[0139] The first driving element 243 may include a rotary driving element connected to the second roller 242, which drives the second roller 242 to rotate. The rotary driving element can be an electric motor, an internal combustion engine, etc. The first driving element 243 may also include a linear driving element and a transmission mechanism. The linear driving element is connected to the second roller 242 via the transmission mechanism, which converts the linear motion output by the linear driving element into the rotational motion of the second roller 242. The linear driving element can be a linear electric cylinder, a linear pneumatic cylinder, a linear hydraulic cylinder, etc. The transmission mechanism can be a crank-rocker mechanism, a worm gear mechanism, etc.

[0140] By setting the first driving component 243 to drive the second roller 242 to rotate actively, the second roller 242 and the first roller 241 cooperate to transport the current collector 31, so that the roller clamping mechanism 240 forms a tension isolation between the first coating mechanism 220 and the second coating mechanism 230, thereby making the tension of the current collector 31 balanced during the transport process.

[0141] Referring to Figures 9, 10, and 11, in some embodiments, the second coating mechanism 230 includes a coating head 231 with a first gap between the coating head 231 and the second roller 242. The first gap allows the current collector 31 to pass through, and the coating head 231 is used to coat the current collector 31 with a second slurry.

[0142] The coating head 231 is arranged opposite to the second roller 242. The second roller 242 can support the current collector 31, and the coating head 231 can coat the second slurry on the current collector 31 supported by the second roller 242.

[0143] A first gap exists between the coating head 231 and the second roller 242, allowing the electrode sheet to pass through. As the electrode sheet passes through this gap, the coating head 231 can coat the current collector 31 with a second slurry. This electrode manufacturing apparatus 20 utilizes the second roller 242 to support the current collector 31, facilitating the coating head 231's application of the active material slurry onto the current collector 31. The second roller 242 both cooperates with the first roller 241 to transport the current collector 31 and supports it; this single component performs multiple functions, simplifying the structure of the electrode manufacturing apparatus 20 and reducing its cost.

[0144] Please refer to Figures 9 and 12. Figure 12 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a first coating mechanism 220 provided in some embodiments of this application. In some embodiments, the first coating mechanism 220 includes a storage container 222 and a gravure roller 221. The storage container 222 is used to store a first slurry. The gravure roller 221 is rotatably connected to the storage container 222, and the gravure roller 221 is used to coat the first slurry in the storage container 222 onto the current collector 31.

[0145] The storage container 222 is a container for storing the first slurry. The storage container 222 can be a storage bin, storage tank, storage box, etc. The gravure roller 221 is rotatably disposed in the storage container 222, with a portion of the roller 221 located outside the storage container 222 and another portion located inside. During its rotation relative to the storage container 222, the gravure roller 221 coats the first slurry within the storage container 222 onto the collector 31.

[0146] The insulating slurry 32 is applied to the current collector 31 by the gravure roller 221, which facilitates ultra-thin coating and ensures high uniformity of the thickness of the insulating slurry 32.

[0147] Referring to Figures 9 and 12, in some embodiments, the first coating mechanism 220 further includes a second driving member 223, which is connected to the gravure roller 221 and is used to drive the gravure roller 221 to rotate.

[0148] The second driving component 223 may include a rotary driving component connected to the gravure roller 221, which drives the gravure roller 221 to rotate. The rotary driving component can be an electric motor, an internal combustion engine, etc. The second driving component 223 may also include a linear driving component and a transmission mechanism. The linear driving component is connected to the gravure roller 221 through the transmission mechanism, which converts the linear motion output by the linear driving component into the rotational motion of the gravure roller 221. The linear driving component can be a linear electric cylinder, a linear pneumatic cylinder, a linear hydraulic cylinder, etc. The transmission mechanism can be a crank-rocker mechanism, a worm gear mechanism, etc.

[0149] By setting a second driving component 223 to drive the gravure roller 221 to rotate actively, the linear velocity at any point on the outer circumference of the gravure roller 221 can be greater than the conveying speed of the current collector 31, which is beneficial to improving the coating effect of the first slurry.

[0150] Referring to Figures 9 and 12, in some embodiments, the diameter of the gravure roller 221 is D, which satisfies: 100mm≤D≤300mm.

[0151] The diameter of the gravure roller 221 can be: D = 100mm, 120mm, 140mm, 160mm, 180mm, 200mm, 220mm, 240mm, 260mm, 280mm, 300mm, etc.

[0152] By ensuring that D ≤ 300 mm, the diameter of the gravure roller 221 is relatively small, which helps to control the consistency of the coating thickness of the first slurry, allowing for a thinner coating. By ensuring that D ≥ 100 mm, the diameter of the gravure roller 221 is not too small, ensuring that the gravure roller 221 has sufficient strength and reducing the risk of breakage. Therefore, when 100 mm ≤ D ≤ 300 mm, both the strength of the gravure roller 221 and the coating effect can be balanced.

[0153] Optionally, 120mm≤D≤160mm.

[0154] The diameter of the gravure roller 221 can be: D = 120mm, 125mm, 130mm, 135mm, 140mm, 145mm, 150mm, 155mm, 160mm, etc.

[0155] By making D ≤ 160mm, the diameter of the gravure roller 221 is smaller, which is more conducive to controlling the consistency of the coating thickness of the first paste and allows for a thinner coating. By making D ≥ 120mm, the diameter of the gravure roller 221 is not too small, ensuring that the gravure roller 221 has sufficient strength and reducing the risk of breakage. Therefore, when 120mm ≤ D ≤ 160mm, both the strength of the gravure roller 221 and the coating effect can be balanced.

[0156] Please refer to Figures 9 and 13. Figure 13 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first coating mechanism 220 provided in some embodiments of this application. In some embodiments, the first slurry is an insulating slurry 32, and the second slurry is an active material slurry. The first coating mechanism 220 includes a plurality of gravure rollers 221, which are spaced apart along the width direction of the current collector 31. The gravure rollers 221 are used to coat the insulating slurry 32 onto the current collector 31.

[0157] The first coating mechanism 220 includes multiple gravure rollers 221, which share a single feeder 222. The multiple gravure rollers 221 are spaced apart along the width direction of the current collector 31.

[0158] By setting multiple gravure rollers 221 and spacing them along the width direction of the current collector 31, multiple insulating pastes 32 can be coated on the current collector 31 simultaneously, thereby improving the production efficiency of the electrode sheet and reducing the production cost of the electrode sheet.

[0159] In other embodiments, the first slurry is an insulating slurry 32, and the second slurry is an active material slurry. The electrode manufacturing apparatus 20 includes a plurality of first coating units 220 arranged along the width direction of the current collector 31. Each first coating unit 220 includes a gravure roller 221 for coating the insulating slurry 32 onto the current collector 31.

[0160] The first coating mechanism 220 includes a gravure roller 221 and a storage container 222. The gravure roller 221 is rotatably connected to the storage container 222. A portion of the gravure roller 221 is located inside the storage container 222, and another portion of the gravure roller 221 is located outside the storage container 222.

[0161] The electrode manufacturing apparatus 20 includes a plurality of first coating mechanisms 220 arranged along the width direction of the current collector 31 to coat a plurality of insulating pastes 32 in the width direction of the current collector 31.

[0162] By setting up multiple first coating mechanisms 220 and arranging them along the width direction of the current collector 31, multiple insulating pastes 32 can be coated on the current collector 31 simultaneously, thereby improving the production efficiency of the electrode and reducing the production cost of the electrode.

[0163] Please refer to Figure 14, which is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electrode manufacturing apparatus 20 provided in some other embodiments of this application. In some embodiments, the first coating mechanism 220 includes a pressure roller 261, which is used to press the current collector 31 onto the gravure roller 221.

[0164] The pressure roller 261 is a roller body used to press the current collector 31 onto the gravure roller 221. The pressure roller 261 can be disposed upstream and / or downstream of the gravure roller 221.

[0165] By setting the pressure roller 261 to press the current collector 31 onto the gravure roller 221, the gravure roller 221 can stably coat the first slurry onto the current collector 31, which is beneficial to improving the consistency of the first slurry coating.

[0166] In some embodiments, pressure rollers 261 are provided upstream and downstream of the gravure roller 221.

[0167] Along the conveying direction of the current collector 31, the gravure roller 221 is located between the two pressure rollers 261.

[0168] By setting pressure rollers 261 upstream and downstream of gravure roller 221, the effect of pressing the current collector 31 onto gravure roller 221 is improved, so that gravure roller 221 can more stably coat the first slurry onto current collector 31, which is beneficial to improving the consistency of the first slurry coating.

[0169] Please refer to Figures 14 and 15. Figure 15 is a schematic diagram of the connection between the pressure roller 261 and the adjusting structure 262 provided in some embodiments of this application. In some embodiments, the first coating mechanism 220 includes the adjusting structure 262, which is connected to the pressure roller 261. The adjusting structure 262 is used to adjust the position of the pressure roller 261 along the thickness direction of the current collector 31.

[0170] The adjusting structure 262 is used to adjust the position of the pressure roller 261 along the thickness direction of the current collector 31. Optionally, the adjusting structure 262 includes an adjusting handle 2621, a first mounting base 2622, a lead screw 2623, and a second mounting base 263. The first mounting base 2622 and the second mounting base 263 are slidably connected along the thickness direction of the current collector 31. The second mounting base 263 is used to mount the pressure roller 261. The lead screw 2623 is rotatably disposed on the first mounting base 2622. The second mounting base 263 is threadedly engaged with the lead screw 2623. The adjusting handle 2621 is connected to the lead screw 2623 and is used to drive the lead screw 2623 to rotate. When it is necessary to adjust the position of the pressure roller 261 along the thickness direction of the current collector 31, the adjustment handle 2621 is rotated, which drives the lead screw 2623 to rotate. Since the second mounting seat 263 and the first mounting seat 2622 are slidably connected along the thickness direction of the current collector 31, the rotation of the second mounting seat 263 is restricted. The second mounting seat 263 is also threadedly connected to the lead screw 2623. Therefore, the second mounting seat 263 will move relative to the first mounting seat 2622 along the thickness direction of the current collector 31 under the drive of the lead screw 2623, so as to realize the adjustment of the position of the pressure roller 261.

[0171] By adjusting the position of the pressure roller 261 along the thickness direction of the collector 31 using the adjustment structure 262, the contact length between the gravure roller 221 and the collector 31 can be adjusted, which means adjusting the feed amount of the collector 31 in contact with the gravure roller 221. By adjusting the feed amount of the collector 31 in contact with the gravure roller 221, the risk of incomplete coating can be reduced.

[0172] Please refer to Figure 16, which is a schematic diagram of the structure of a first coating mechanism 220 provided in some embodiments of this application. In some embodiments, the first coating mechanism 220 further includes a doctor blade 224, which is used to scrape off excess first slurry on the gravure roller 221.

[0173] The scraper 224 can be disposed in the accumulator 222. The scraper 224 is located on the side where the gravure roller 221 first rotates out of the accumulator 222. The scraper 224 is used to scrape off the outer surface of the gravure roller 221, thereby removing excess first paste.

[0174] By using a scraper 224 to remove excess first slurry from the gravure roller 221, it is beneficial to control the coating thickness and coating consistency of the first slurry.

[0175] Optionally, the doctor blade 224 may include a positive doctor blade 2241, the blade of which is tangential to the outer peripheral surface of the gravure roller 221. The positive doctor blade 2241 is used to scrape off excess first paste from the outer peripheral surface of the gravure roller 221. In addition, the positive doctor blade 2241 can also block the first paste, reducing the probability of the first paste being ejected from the reservoir 222, reducing the risk of the first paste splashing, and making it less likely for the first paste to be thrown onto the collector 31.

[0176] The doctor blade 224 may also include a side doctor blade 2242, the blade of which contacts the end face of the gravure roller 221. The side doctor blade 2242 is used to scrape off excess first slurry from the end face of the gravure roller 221. Additionally, the side doctor blade 2242 can also block the first slurry, reducing the probability of it being ejected from the reservoir 222, reducing the risk of splattering, and preventing it from being thrown onto the collector 31. The doctor blade 224 may include two side doctor blades 2242, which are respectively disposed at both ends of the gravure roller 221. The two side doctor blades 2242 are used to scrape off excess first slurry from the two end faces of the gravure roller 221.

[0177] In some embodiments, the position of the first coating mechanism 220 is adjustable along the width direction of the current collector 31.

[0178] The first coating mechanism 220 is configured to change its position in the width direction of the current collector 31. Optionally, the electrode manufacturing apparatus 20 includes a frame on which the first coating mechanism 220 is adjustablely positioned along the width direction of the current collector 31.

[0179] By making the position of the first coating mechanism 220 adjustable along the width direction of the current collector 31, the position of the first coating mechanism 220 in the width direction of the current collector 31 can be adjusted as needed to meet the manufacturing requirements of different electrodes, which is beneficial to improving the adaptability of the electrode manufacturing apparatus 20 to manufacturing different types of electrodes.

[0180] Please refer to Figure 16, which is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first coating mechanism 220 provided in some embodiments of this application. In some embodiments, the electrode manufacturing apparatus 20 includes a guide 225, which extends along the width direction of the current collector 31, and the first coating mechanism 220 is guided and engaged with the guide 225.

[0181] The guide member 225 is a component used to guide the first coating mechanism 220 to move in the width direction of the current collector 31. In some embodiments, the guide member 225 is a guide rail, and the first coating mechanism 220 is connected to the guide member 225, allowing the first coating mechanism 220 to slide relative to the guide rail, thereby changing the position of the first coating mechanism 220 in the width direction of the current collector 31. In other embodiments, the guide member 225 is a guide rod.

[0182] By setting guide member 225 to guide the first coating mechanism 220 to move along the width direction of the current collector 31, the risk of the first coating mechanism 220 running off-center when adjusting the position of the first coating mechanism 220 is reduced.

[0183] Please refer to Figure 17, which is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electrode manufacturing apparatus 20 provided in some embodiments of this application. In some embodiments, the electrode manufacturing apparatus 20 further includes a drying mechanism 270, which is disposed downstream of the second coating mechanism 230. The drying mechanism 270 is used to dry the first slurry and the second slurry.

[0184] Along the conveying direction of the current collector 31, the drying mechanism 270 is located downstream of the second coating mechanism 230. The current collector 31 passes sequentially through the unwinding mechanism 210, the first coating mechanism 220, the roller clamping mechanism 240, the second coating mechanism 230, the drying mechanism 270, and the winding mechanism 252.

[0185] The first and second slurries are dried by setting up the drying mechanism 270 to form an insulating layer and an active material layer on the current collector 31.

[0186] Please refer to Figures 1 to 17 for some embodiments of this application.

[0187] This application provides an electrode manufacturing method 10, which includes:

[0188] Step S100: Provide current collector 31;

[0189] Step S200: Apply the first slurry to the current collector 31;

[0190] Step S300: Apply a second slurry to the current collector 31, such that the second slurry and the first slurry are arranged in the width direction of the current collector 31;

[0191] In step S200, prior to step S300, one of the first slurry and the second slurry is an active material slurry, and the other of the first slurry and the second slurry is an insulating slurry 32.

[0192] When manufacturing an electrode using this electrode manufacturing method 10, an insulating slurry 32 can be coated onto the current collector 31 first, followed by an active material slurry, or vice versa. This allows for separate coating of the insulating slurry 32 and the active material slurry, without interference between the two processes. This improves the coating quality of both materials, facilitates precise control of their thickness, and helps reduce manufacturing costs. Furthermore, electrode assemblies manufactured using this method can be easily packaged, reducing the risk of tab redundancy and improving the reliability of individual battery cells.

[0193] The first slurry is an insulating slurry 32, and the second slurry is an active material slurry; step S300 includes:

[0194] Step S310: Apply an active material slurry to the current collector 31, ensuring that the active material slurry covers a portion of the insulating slurry 32. When manufacturing the electrode, the insulating slurry 32 is applied to the current collector 31 first, followed by the active material slurry. This ensures that the active material slurry covers a portion of the insulating slurry 32 during application, reducing the risk of the current collector 31 being exposed.

[0195] Before step S300 and after step S200, the electrode manufacturing method 10 further includes: step S250: conveying the current collector 31 through a roller clamping mechanism 240. The roller clamping mechanism 240 includes a first roller body 241 and a second roller body 242. The first roller body 241 includes a first roller segment 2411 and a second roller segment 2412. The second roller segment 2412 and the first roller segment 2411 are arranged axially along the first roller body 241. The diameter of the second roller segment 2412 is larger than the diameter of the first roller segment 2411. The second roller segment 2412 and the second roller body 242 are used to contact the uncoated insulating slurry 32 portion of the current collector 31 to facilitate the conveying of the current collector 31. The first roller segment 2411 and the insulating slurry 32 are spaced apart. Both the second roller segment 2412 and the second roller body 242 can contact the uncoated insulating slurry 32 portion of the current collector 31, thereby facilitating the conveying of the current collector 31. Neither the first roller 241 nor the second roller 242 comes into contact with the insulating slurry 32 coated on the current collector 31, thus minimizing damage to the slurry and improving the coating quality of the insulating slurry 32. This also facilitates control over the coating thickness of the insulating slurry 32. Furthermore, the roller clamping mechanism 240 reduces the risk of vibration in the current collector 31, making it easier to coat the current collector with the active material slurry and further improving the coating quality.

[0196] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present application and is not intended to limit the present application. Various modifications and variations are possible for those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, or improvements made within the spirit and principles of the present application shall be included within the scope of protection of the present application.

Claims

1. A method for manufacturing an electrode, wherein, include: Step S100: Provide a current collector; Step S200: Apply the first slurry onto the current collector; Step S250: The current collector is conveyed by a roller clamping mechanism, the roller clamping mechanism including a first roller body and a second roller body, the first roller body including a first roller segment and a second roller segment, the second roller segment and the first roller segment being arranged along the axial direction of the first roller body, the diameter of the second roller segment being larger than the diameter of the first roller segment, the second roller segment and the second roller body being used to contact the uncoated portion of the current collector to cooperate in conveying the current collector, the first roller segment being spaced apart from the first slurry; Step S300: Apply a second slurry to the current collector, such that the second slurry and the first slurry are arranged in the width direction of the current collector; Before step S300, in step S200, one of the first slurry and the second slurry is an active material slurry, and the other of the first slurry and the second slurry is an insulating slurry.

2. The electrode manufacturing method according to claim 1, wherein, The first slurry is the insulating slurry, and the second slurry is the active substance slurry; Step S300 includes: Step S310: Apply the active material slurry onto the current collector and make the active material slurry cover a portion of the insulating slurry.

3. The electrode manufacturing method according to claim 2, wherein, Step S200 includes: Step S210: Coat a plurality of the first slurry onto the current collector, such that the plurality of the first slurry are arranged along the width direction of the current collector; Step S300 includes: Step S320: Apply the second slurry between two adjacent first slurries.

4. The electrode manufacturing method according to claim 3, wherein, Step S210 includes: Step S211: Simultaneously apply multiple copies of the first slurry onto the current collector.

5. The electrode manufacturing method according to any one of claims 2-4, wherein, Step S200 includes: Step S220: Apply the insulating paste to the current collector using a gravure roller.

6. The electrode manufacturing method according to any one of claims 1-5, wherein, After step S300, the electrode manufacturing method further includes: Step S400: Dry the first slurry and the second slurry.

7. An electrode manufacturing apparatus, wherein, include: Unwinding mechanism, used for unwinding the current collector; A first coating mechanism is located downstream of the unwinding mechanism, and the first coating mechanism is used to coat the current collector with a first slurry. A roller clamping mechanism is disposed downstream of the first coating mechanism. The roller clamping mechanism includes a first roller body and a second roller body. The first roller body includes a first roller segment and a second roller segment. The second roller segment and the first roller segment are arranged along the axial direction of the first roller body. The diameter of the second roller segment is larger than the diameter of the first roller segment. The second roller segment and the second roller body are used to contact the uncoated portion of the current collector to cooperate in conveying the current collector. The first roller segment and the first slurry are separated by a gap. The second coating mechanism is located downstream of the roller clamping mechanism. The second coating mechanism is used to coat the current collector with a second slurry. The second slurry and the first slurry are arranged in the width direction of the current collector. One of the first slurry and the second slurry is an active material slurry, and the other of the first slurry and the second slurry is an insulating slurry.

8. The electrode manufacturing apparatus according to claim 7, wherein, The plane containing the axis of the first roller and the axis of the second roller is parallel to the vertical plane.

9. The electrode manufacturing apparatus according to claim 7 or 8, wherein, The roller clamping mechanism further includes a first driving member, which is connected to the second roller body and is used to drive the second roller body to rotate.

10. The electrode manufacturing apparatus according to any one of claims 7-9, wherein, The second coating mechanism includes a coating head, and a first gap is provided between the coating head and the second roller body for the current collector to pass through. The coating head is used to coat the second slurry onto the current collector.

11. The electrode manufacturing apparatus according to any one of claims 7-10, wherein, The first coating mechanism includes: A storage container for storing the first slurry; A gravure roller is rotatably connected to the storage container, and the gravure roller is used to coat the first slurry in the storage container onto the current collector.

12. The electrode manufacturing apparatus according to claim 11, wherein, The first coating mechanism further includes a second driving member, which is connected to the gravure roller and is used to drive the gravure roller to rotate.

13. The electrode manufacturing apparatus according to claim 11 or 12, wherein, The diameter of the gravure roller is D, which satisfies the following condition: 100mm≤D≤300mm.

14. The electrode manufacturing apparatus according to claim 13, wherein, 120mm≤D≤160mm.

15. The electrode manufacturing apparatus according to any one of claims 11-14, wherein, The first slurry is the insulating slurry, and the second slurry is the active substance slurry; The first coating mechanism includes a plurality of gravure rollers, which are spaced apart along the width direction of the current collector. The gravure rollers are used to coat the insulating paste onto the current collector.

16. The electrode manufacturing apparatus according to any one of claims 11-15, wherein, The first slurry is the insulating slurry, and the second slurry is the active substance slurry; The electrode manufacturing apparatus includes a plurality of first coating mechanisms arranged along the width direction of the current collector. Each first coating mechanism includes a gravure roller for coating the insulating slurry onto the current collector.

17. The electrode manufacturing apparatus according to any one of claims 11-16, wherein, The first coating mechanism includes a pressure roller for pressing the current collector against the gravure roller.

18. The electrode manufacturing apparatus according to claim 17, wherein, The pressure rollers are provided upstream and downstream of the gravure roller.

19. The electrode manufacturing apparatus according to claim 17 or 18, wherein, The first coating mechanism includes an adjustment structure connected to the pressure roller, the adjustment structure being used to adjust the position of the pressure roller along the thickness direction of the current collector.

20. The electrode manufacturing apparatus according to any one of claims 11-19, wherein, The first coating mechanism further includes a doctor blade for scraping off excess first slurry from the gravure roller.

21. The electrode manufacturing apparatus according to any one of claims 7-20, wherein, The position of the first coating mechanism is adjustable along the width direction of the current collector.

22. The electrode manufacturing apparatus according to claim 21, wherein, The electrode manufacturing apparatus includes a guide member that extends along the width direction of the current collector, and the first coating mechanism is guided and engaged with the guide member.

23. The electrode manufacturing apparatus according to any one of claims 7-22, wherein, The electrode manufacturing apparatus further includes a drying mechanism located downstream of the second coating mechanism, the drying mechanism being used to dry the first slurry and the second slurry.

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