Applicator device for applying a fastening element to a multilayer semi-finished product for making an internal assembly for electrochemical cells

Abstract

An applicator device for applying a fastening element to a multilayer semi-finished product for making an internal assembly comprises an applicator drum configured to rotate about a respective axis of rotation between a pick-up position and a release position of the fastening element. The applicator device comprises a shielding element that extends adjacent to the applicator drum in such a way as to define a passageway configured to allow the passage through it of the fastening element dragged by the applicator drum during its rotation between the pick-up and release positions. The shielding element is placed adjacent to the release position, at a predetermined distance from it, when the applicator drum reaches the release position. The applicator device comprises a movement device configured to move the applicator drum according to an additional movement with respect to a rotation about the axis of rotation and / or configured to move the shielding element.

Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION of the patent application having the title:

[0002] “APPLICATOR DEVICE FOR APPLYING A FASTENING ELEMENT TO A MULTILAYER SEMI-FINISHED PRODUCT FOR MAKING AN INTERNAL ASSEMBLY FOR ELECTROCHEMICAL CELLS”

[0003] The present invention relates to an applicator device for applying a fastening element to a multilayer semi-finished product for making an internal assembly, e.g. for use in electrochemical cells.

[0004] The invention also concerns an apparatus for making an internal assembly that includes a coupling device and an applicator device.

[0005] The invention further relates to a method for applying a fastening element to a multilayer semi-finished product as part of an internal assembly.

[0006] The present invention finds preferred, although not exclusive, application in the sector of the production of electrochemical cells, for the manufacture of which a multilayer semi-finished product is used, which are for example in the form of a coil or stacked.

[0007] In particular, in the pertinent technical sector, it is known to combine conductor elements and separator elements into layers in order to form an anode and cathode structure. The article manufactured by overlapping the aforementioned layers can therefore be wound in the form of a coil or coupled into layers in flat or other shape configurations, and used for manufacturing the electrochemical cell itself.

[0008] In this description as well as in the claims appended thereto, certain terms and expressions are deemed to have, unless otherwise expressly indicated, the meaning expressed in the following definitions.

[0009] The term “ribbon-like article” is intended to mean any solid product which, within an industrial production line, is presented in the form of an elongated ribbon or strip, i.e. an element in which the longitudinal extension is significantly higher than its transversal extension. The ribbon-like article can be formed by a single ribbon or strip of material, or by overlapping several ribbons arranged into layers.

[0010] The ribbon-like article also has features such that a certain bending during its advancement along a relative production line is allowed.

[0011] The ribbon-like article can for example be made by overlapping conducting and insulating layers alternated between them and be intended to form a sandwich to be wound for manufacturing a coil intended for producing electrochemical cells.

[0012] A further example can be represented by a ribbon-like article formed by an insulating ribbon that acts as a separator between conductor elements. The insulating ribbon-like article can thus be folded according to a “Z” arrangement, by interposing between one loop and another of the “Z” alternately conductor elements in the form of foils that respectively form the anode and cathode of the electrochemical cell.

[0013] The ribbon-like article can also be pre-cut, forming individual sheets intended to be stacked in a structure with a mainly vertical layout.

[0014] The term “coupling” referring to a ribbon-like article is intended to mean combining the ribbon-like article with a further element, or combining different portions of the ribbon-like article with each other, so as to obtain a structure of a different shape from the ribbon-like article, preferably with a non-ribbon-like shape, such as for example a coil or a package.

[0015] The term “to wind” referring to a ribbon-like article, indicates a preferred way of coupling the ribbon-like article, by which it is coupled into a spiral structure by rotation about an axis, to a flat surface or another structure. By winding, the ribbon-like article will form one or more turns about the axis or structure.

[0016] The term “coil” is intended to mean any spiral structure formed by winding a strip, a ribbon or more generally a ribbon-like article about an axis, a flat surface or another winding structure. Depending on the structure about which the ribbonlike article is wound, the overall shape of the coil may be substantially cylindrical rather than crushed or otherwise shaped.

[0017] As mentioned above, the coil can find application not only in the electrochemical cell sector but also in other sectors, such as for example in the conductor sector, within which coil-shaped structures can likewise be used.

[0018] The term “internal assembly” of an electrochemical cell generally refers to a structure in which conductor and separator elements are combined within an electrochemical cell. Such a structure may be a substantially flat layered structure alternating on top of one another (achieved by means of stacking or Z-folding techniques) or it may be a coil structure formed by the spiral winding of conductor and separator ribbons alternating with one another.

[0019] The term “internal assembly” means any solid product obtained by coupling a plurality of elements or a plurality of different portions of a single element. For example, the internal assembly can be formed by winding a ribbon-like article, for example in the form of a coil, or by coupling a ribbon-like article with other elements, such as for example conductor elements that can be arranged between loops of a ribbon-like article folded into a “Z” shape, and coupled to it in a folded configuration, as previously illustrated.

[0020] Yet another example is represented by stacked solutions, in which individual foils of insulating material and individual foils of conductive material are overlapped into layers, coupling them together in an alternating configuration.

[0021] The term “multilayer semi-finished product” in reference to an internal assembly refers to an intermediate product used in the production of the internal assembly. The multilayer semi-finished product includes a plurality of layers that can be represented by the successive windings of a spirally wound ribbon-like article, or by the alternating layers formed by a “Z” -folded ribbon-like article and by the conductor elements in the form of foils, or again by the foils overlapped into layers that form the stacked solutions previously illustrated. The internal assembly is made using the multilayer semi-finished product and carrying out subsequent finishing processes. The finishing operations may comprise the application of at least one ribbon capable of locking a flap or other portion of the multilayer semifinished product in order to keep the structure in the configuration obtained by winding or other type of coupling. The finishing operations of the internal assembly can of course also include other types of operations, such as marking operations, e.g. by laser, or welding and / or gluing operations, or other operations suitable for applying inserts.

[0022] The term “flap” is intended to mean any portion of the ribbon-like article, or more generally of a separator or conductor element, preferably located at an edge or an end thereof, and which defines a terminal part of the semi-finished product once formed. It should also be noted that more than one flap may also be defined on a semi-finished product.

[0023] The term “fastening element” refers to an element capable of clamping the structure of a semi-finished product, particularly a multilayer one, in an at least relatively stable form, during or at the end of a manufacturing process. The fastening element can, for example, be intended to clamp a flap of the semifinished product, or other portion thereof, in a respective configuration assumed during the manufacturing process, so that this configuration can be maintained permanently after machining, or temporarily during subsequent machining steps. The fastening element can be in the form of a flexible element, such as a ribbon, a string, a band, and can be either flat or have a structure that does not have predominant dimensions compared to the others, e.g. when it is sufficient to clamp the flap of the semi-finished product in a limited and clearly confined area in order to guarantee the required configuration stability according to the specific requirement.

[0024] The term “closed path” is intended to mean a path travelled by a winding head or other element in which the initial point and the end point of the path substantially coincide.

[0025] The term “continuously” referring to an expression of motion, is intended to mean an operation that takes place without interruption, without there being a stop or an interruption in the operation in question. In particular, with reference to the movement of a ribbon-like article, a semi-finished product, or another element, the term "continuous motion", or even “continuously” alone, indicates that the ribbon-like article / semi-finished product / element is never stopped during its movement. The movement can in any case be slowed down, as an acceleration and deceleration of the ribbon-like / semi-finished product / element is therefore envisaged without, however, this leading to a complete stop. It will be appreciated that the ribbon-like / semi-finished product / element may be expected to reach an absolute speed equal to zero, in the event that the motion provides for a reversal. In this case, however, the ribbon-like / semi-finished product / element can be subjected to a non-null acceleration at the moment when it reaches zero speed, so as to avoid stopping the movement.

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

[0027] The term “integral” referring to the movement of two or more elements, is intended to mean that these elements perform substantially the same movement and substantially in a simultaneous manner. In other words, two integral elements move together, as a single body, although they are not necessarily joined or bound to each other. It can in fact be provided that the respective movement systems of the two elements are coordinated so as to move, when necessary, the two elements together. Furthermore, it may be provided for the use of a temporary constraint between the two elements which, for example, joins them to each other in some steps, causing them to move together, and separates them again, making them movable independently of each other.

[0028] It should also be specified that the expression “to displace an object between a first position and a second position” is intended to mean both the displacement from the first position to the second position and the displacement from the second position to the first position.

[0029] This definition applies likewise to similar expressions of motion, such as for example to transfer or to move a generic object between two positions or between two zones or even between two different operating configurations.

[0030] Preferably, the term “to displace along a path between a first position and a second position, distinct from each other”, referring to a coupling device, a structure or more generally a component, is intended to mean a displacement between two distinct spatial positions, during which the centre of mass changes position along said path.

[0031] Thus such displacement excludes rotations of the coupling device / structure / component about a point substantially coincident with its centre of mass.

[0032] For example, in the case of a spiral, rotations about the axis of the spiral, which specifically is considered substantially coincident with the centre of mass of the same, will be excluded, although they may not be perfectly coincident due to the distribution of the material and the relative masses that are not necessarily uniformly distributed about the axis of the spiral.

[0033] Other movements of the spiral will instead be included in the definition of displacement along a path between a first position and a second position, distinct from each other. Therefore, for example, linear displacements, rotational- translational motions and rotations about an axis that do not coincide with the axis of the spiral, i.e. the axis about which the spiral shape is created, are included.

[0034] The Applicant, in the context of the constant need to increase the performance and the efficiency of the production processes for manufacturing internal assemblies, has preliminarily observed how the operations necessary for clamping the layers that form the internal assembly can constitute a significant element of limitation of the production capacity of the line itself.

[0035] Indeed, the Applicant observed that high speed and precision in the process of coupling the semi-finished layered product that is intended for the manufacture of the internal assembly can be frustrated by subsequent operations. In particular, the Applicant observed that the operations required to apply an element capable of locking the layers in their coupled configuration may have a relatively significant impact on the overall time required to manufacture the internal assembly, as well as causing an alteration in the structure of the semi-finished product obtained by the previous processing operations, in particular in terms of precision in the coupling of the layers.

[0036] This requirement places a limit on the productivity of the production line, as it is typically necessary to set limits on the speed at which the element used for clamping the layers of the semi-finished product is moved to be applied on the semi-finished product itself.

[0037] In the context of the need to increase the speed of application of the fastening element, the Applicant therefore perceived that a precise and controlled advancement of the fastening element along the path it takes prior to its application on the semi-finished product can allow the use of higher movement speeds.

[0038] The Applicant also noted that in the event that the semi-finished product is also subject to movement, either before, during or after the application of the fastening element, the iteration between the members for moving the semi-finished product and those for applying the fastening element may lead to inaccuracies in the application thereof.

[0039] The Applicant thus further perceived how it is possible to increase the productivity of a device for the application of fastening elements with respect to known solutions, and of the internal assembly production line on which the same is used, if the fastening element is advanced with a precise and regular trajectory, reducing the risk that the movement speed thereof and / or the movement of the device and production line components in general, lead to possible deviations from an optimal application trajectory.

[0040] The Applicant finally found that by providing a suitable shielding element to define a passageway for the fastening element in an area sufficiently adjacent to that of its application on the semi-finished product, it is possible to increase the precision with which this operation is carried out.

[0041] Thanks to these features, the fastening element can be applied at a higher speed than known solutions, without this resulting in a limitation in the application precision of the fastening element.

[0042] In its first aspect, therefore, the present invention relates to an applicator device for applying a fastening element, preferably flexible, to a multilayer semi-finished product for making an internal assembly, preferably for electrochemical cells.

[0043] Preferably said applicator device comprises an applicator drum preferably configured to rotate about a respective axis of rotation between a pick-up position of a fastening element and a release position of said fastening element. Preferably at the release position, said fastening element is applied to a respective multilayer semi-finished product forming said internal assembly.

[0044] Preferably said applicator device comprises a shielding element. Preferably the shielding element extends adjacent to the application drum in such a way as to define a passageway.

[0045] Preferably the passageway is configured to allow the passage through it of said fastening element dragged by said applicator drum. Even more preferably, the passageway is configured to allow passage through it of said fastening element dragged by said applicator drum during rotation of said drum between said pickup position and said release position.

[0046] Preferably said shielding element is placed adjacent to said release position. Preferably said shielding element is placed at a predetermined distance from said release position, when said applicator drum reaches said release position.

[0047] Preferably said applicator device comprises a movement device configured to move said applicator drum according to a movement in addition to a rotation about said axis of rotation and / or configured to move said shielding element.

[0048] Thanks to these features, the applicator device of the present invention can advance the fastening element through the applicator drum, supplying it to the semi-finished product in a protected and appropriately guided manner, thanks to the presence of the shielding element.

[0049] The gap formed by the shielding element in a position adjacent to the drum through which the fastening element passes makes it possible to avoid, or at least significantly limit, the possibility of it moving away from the applicator drum before it reaches the release position.

[0050] The relative movement between the shielding element and the applicator drum also allows the shielding element to be kept in the optimum position during the movement of the applicator drum, tracking the fastening element as it moves between the two positions of the applicator drum.

[0051] This makes it possible to operate at higher speeds than known solutions, while at the same time guaranteeing the required quality in the structure of the internal assembly, thanks to the possibility of increasing the application speed of the fastening element and the guiding and protective action provided by the shielding element.

[0052] In its second aspect, the present invention relates to an apparatus for making an internal assembly, preferably for an electrochemical cell.

[0053] Preferably said internal assembly comprises a multilayer semi-finished product and a respective fastening element, preferably flexible.

[0054] Preferably, said apparatus includes a coupling device preferably configured to make the multilayer semi-finished product by coupling a plurality of individual layers.

[0055] Preferably said apparatus comprises an applicator device for applying the fastening element to the multilayer semi-finished product.

[0056] Preferably said applicator device comprises an applicator drum preferably configured to rotate about a respective axis of rotation between a pick-up position of a fastening element and a release position of said fastening element. Preferably at the release position, said fastening element is applied to a respective multilayer semi-finished product forming said internal assembly.

[0057] Preferably said applicator device comprises a shielding element. Preferably the shielding element extends adjacent to the application drum in such a way as to define a passageway.

[0058] Preferably the passageway is configured to allow the passage through it of said fastening element dragged by said applicator drum. Even more preferably, the passageway is configured to allow passage through it of said fastening element dragged by said applicator drum during rotation of said drum between said pickup position and said release position.

[0059] Preferably said shielding element is placed adjacent to said release position. Preferably said shielding element is placed at a predetermined distance from said release position, when said applicator drum reaches said release position.

[0060] Preferably said applicator device comprises a movement device configured to move said applicator drum according to a movement in addition to a rotation about said axis of rotation and / or configured to move said shielding element.

[0061] Preferably said applicator device is coupled with said coupling device in such a manner that said fastening element is applied to said multilayer semi-finished product at least at one outer flap of said multilayer semi-finished product.

[0062] This allows the fastening element to advance through the applicator drum, supplying it to the semi-finished product in a protected and appropriately guided manner, thanks to the presence of the shielding element.

[0063] As a result, the fastening element can be precisely applied to the flap of the multilayer semi-finished product formed by the coupling device, even when operating at high advancement speeds of the fastening element, and / or when moving the semi-finished product before, after or during the application of the fastening element.

[0064] In a third aspect thereof, the present invention relates to a method for applying a fastening element to a multilayer semi-finished product.

[0065] Preferably, the method comprises supplying a multilayer semi-finished product.

[0066] Said method preferably comprises winding said fastening element onto an applicator drum.

[0067] Preferably, the method involves bringing said fastening element close to said multilayer semi-finished product. Preferably said fastening element is moved towards said multilayer semi-finished product dragged by said applicator drum. Preferably, the method comprises arranging a shielding element adjacent to said applicator drum, preferably by movement of said shielding element and / or said applicator drum, in such a manner as to define a passageway through which said fastening element passes. Preferably said shielding element is placed adjacent to said applicator drum while said fastening element is brought closer to said multilayer semi-finished product, preferably by means of said applicator drum.

[0068] Said method preferably comprises applying said fastening element to said multilayer semi-finished product, preferably at least at one outer flap of said multilayer semi-finished product.

[0069] This also allows the fastening element to be applied to the multilayer semifinished product in a protected and appropriately guided manner, thanks to the presence of the shielding element.

[0070] The presence of the shielding element adjacent to the applicator drum while the fastening element is being brought closer to the multilayer semi-finished product makes it possible to prevent it from moving away from the applicator drum before the latter reaches the release position.

[0071] In this respect, too, the invention offers the possibility of operating at higher speeds than known solutions, while guaranteeing the required quality in the structure of the internal assembly.

[0072] The present invention, in at least one of the aforementioned aspects, may have at least one of the further preferred features indicated below.

[0073] Preferably said movement device is configured to move said applicator drum according to an oscillatory movement, said oscillatory movement preferably comprising a further rotation about a respective oscillation axis.

[0074] Preferably, the method of the second aspect involves moving said applicator drum according to an oscillatory movement.

[0075] Preferably, the method of the second aspect involves moving said shielding element in a coordinated manner with said oscillatory movement.

[0076] Thanks to each of these features, it is possible to move the applicator drum closer to and further away from the release position with a cyclic movement, which is particularly well suited to be associated with any movements of the semi-finished product on which the fastening element is applied, as well as being particularly well suited to co-ordinate with the rotation carried out by the applicator drum.

[0077] Preferably, said movement device is configured in such a manner that said shielding element gradually approaches said release position, until reaching said position adjacent to said release position, while said applicator drum approaches said release position.

[0078] In this way, the shielding element can protect the advance of the fastening element, particularly when approaching the release position.

[0079] Preferably said oscillatory movement of said applicator drum comprises a cyclic movement along a trajectory between two distinct positions.

[0080] Thanks to this feature, two limit positions can be provided for the movement of the applicator drum, allowing the optimisation of the machine's dimensions and possible coordination with other moving machine components.

[0081] Applicator device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said shielding element is rotatably supported about said axis of rotation.

[0082] Preferably, the movement of said shielding element involves varying an angular position of said shielding element around said applicator drum.

[0083] This makes it possible to use a relatively small shielding element, thus making movement easier, while at the same time guaranteeing optimum guidance and protection of the fastening element along its advancement trajectory.

[0084] Preferably said movement device comprises a first mechanism, preferably a quadrilateral mechanism, configured to move said shielding element according to a respective oscillatory movement along a path comprised between said pickup position and said release position.

[0085] Each of these features helps to implement the movement of the shielding element with a robust, reliable and precise structure.

[0086] Preferably said oscillatory movement is a rotational movement, preferably about said axis of rotation of said applicator drum. Preferably, said shielding element rotates, preferably partially, while said applicator drum rotates.

[0087] In this way, the shielding element can follow the rotation movement of the applicator drum, possibly keeping the mutual distance constant. Preferably said movement device comprises a second mechanism, preferably a quadrilateral mechanism, configured to move said shielding element, said second mechanism being preferably associated with said first mechanism.

[0088] Thanks to this feature, it is possible to associate the oscillation of the shielding element with the oscillation of the applicator drum, also providing a different oscillation amplitude for the respective oscillations.

[0089] Preferably said shielding element comprises a tapered end facing said release position.

[0090] Thanks to the tapered end, the fastening element can be appropriately guided as it approaches the release position.

[0091] Preferably said shielding element has a predominantly flat layout.

[0092] Preferably said shielding element is shaped like a shovel.

[0093] Such shapes prove to be particularly suitable for implementing the guiding and protective action that the shielding element performs during the advancement of the fastening element.

[0094] Preferably said fastening element is wound onto said applicator drum by rotation of said applicator drum.

[0095] This feature simplifies the operations by which the fastening element is placed on the applicator drum for movement to the release position and / or for its application.

[0096] Preferably said fastening element is released from said applicator drum at a release position. It is preferable to place said shielding element adjacent to said release position, at a predefined distance from it, when said applicator drum reaches said release position.

[0097] In this way, the shielding element is only placed in a position close to the release position when the applicator drum is approaching the semi-finished product to apply the fastening element, thus preventing the presence of the fastening element from being an obstacle to unloading the inner assembly or other operations.

[0098] Preferably said movement device is configured in such a way that said coupling device and said applicator device are moved away from each other and brought closer together by movement of said coupling device and / or said applicator drum.

[0099] These features make it possible to make the coupling of the layers and the subsequent application of the fastening element more independent.

[0100] Preferably said movement device is configured in such a manner that said applicator drum is arranged in said release position when proximal to said coupling device, with said shielding element arranged at said predetermined distance from said applicator drum.

[0101] In this way, the movement of the shielding element is coordinated with the movement of the applicator drum towards the multilayer semi-finished product.

[0102] Preferably said apparatus comprises an additional movement device configured to move said coupling device according to a respective oscillatory movement.

[0103] Preferably said oscillatory movement of said coupling device comprises a cyclic movement along a respective rectilinear and / or curvilinear trajectory between two respective distinct positions, preferably distal and proximal to the applicator device.

[0104] It is preferably provided to move said multilayer semi-finished product in such a way as to bring it closer to said applicator drum.

[0105] Thanks to each of these features, it is possible to increase the speed at which the multilayer semi-finished product is produced, and in particular the coupling of the different layers, as it is possible to carry out this operation during the movement of the coupling device.

[0106] Preferably said coupling device comprises a movable assembly supporting a plurality of coupling heads and is configured to position each of said coupling heads cyclically at a plurality of different workstations including at least one coupling station and one application station of said fastening element.

[0107] Preferably, said movable assembly is rotatable about a respective axis of rotation.

[0108] These characteristics also allow and are particularly advantageous in combination with the ability to move the shielding element towards and moving away from the release position.

[0109] Preferably, said coupling heads are rotatable about a winding axis and are configured in such a way as to produce said multilayer semi-finished products by winding at least one strip around said winding axis.

[0110] Preferably, said multilayer semi-finished product comprises at least one separator ribbon and at least two conductor ribbons.

[0111] Preferably, said multilayer semi-finished product is coupled in coil form.

[0112] Preferably, said fastening element is substantially flat.

[0113] Preferably, said fastening element has an adhesive surface.

[0114] Preferably, said fastening element is in the form of a ribbon.

[0115] Each of these features contributes to making the device, apparatus and method according to the various aspects of the present invention particularly suitable for making electrochemical cells.

[0116] It should be specified that some steps and some characteristics of the methods described above may be independent of the order of execution reported. Furthermore, one or more steps of the methods may be performed repetitively, or may be performed in series or in parallel with other steps of the method.

[0117] The characteristics and advantages of the invention will become clearer from the detailed description of a preferred embodiment thereof, illustrated by way of nonlimiting example, with reference to the appended drawings wherein:

[0118] - Figure 1 is a partial perspective view of the applicator device according to the present invention;

[0119] - Figure 2 is a perspective view of the applicator device in Figure 1 associated with a coupling device;

[0120] - Figure 3 is a perspective view of an internal assembly including a fastening element applied by means of the applicator device of the present invention; and

[0121] - Figure 4 is a perspective view of an apparatus for making an internal assembly according to the present invention.

[0122] Referring initially to Figure 4, 1000 denotes an apparatus for making an internal assembly I, the latter illustrated in Figure 3, made in accordance with the present invention.

[0123] In some embodiments, such as the one illustrated in the attached figures, the apparatus 1000 is intended for producing coils to be used in the manufacture of electrochemical cells.

[0124] As will be described in any case in further detail below, the present invention can also find application in internal assemblies of other types, not necessarily intended for manufacturing electrochemical cells.

[0125] Preferably, the manufacture of the internal assembly I by means of the apparatus 1000 of the present invention is carried out starting from at least one ribbon-like article which, as will be illustrated in detail below, is processed so as to obtain a semi-finished product with an overlapped-layer structure S to be used for manufacturing the internal assembly itself.

[0126] In preferred embodiments, such as that illustrated in Figure 4, a plurality of ribbonlike articles are used. For example, in the case where the internal assembly I is used in the context of manufacturing an electrochemical cell, the ribbon-like articles may be formed by alternately arranging conductor ribbons and separator ribbons. These ribbons can then be suitably combined to create an overlapped- layer structure in which the anode, a first separator, the cathode and a second separator alternate. The order between anode and cathode is provided only by way of example and a sequence opposite to the one previously indicated may also be envisaged. More generally, in fact, the internal assembly may comprise an alternating sequence of conductor elements and separator elements.

[0127] In this regard, it may also be provided that a single ribbon-like article is used which, for example, may form the separator element of an electrochemical cell. Said ribbon-like article can therefore be associated with conductor elements, for example in the form of foils, always for the purpose of forming an overlapped- layer structure.

[0128] Still alternatively, the present invention may also find application in the case where both the conductor elements and the separator elements are in the form of single foils, stacked in a succession of alternating layers.

[0129] Preferably, the structure formed by the coupling of the ribbon-like articles is a multilayer structure S, in which each layer is represented by one of the ribbonlike articles. s will be explained in more detail below, the ribbon-like articles can be coupled together by winding in spiral form to form a coil structure.

[0130] In other embodiments, not illustrated in the figures, one or more ribbon-like articles can be folded into successive loops, with a substantially “Z” development and coupled, alternately, to anode elements and cathode elements in the form of foils.

[0131] In further embodiments, also not shown in the figures, the conductor elements and separator elements can be coupled in a stacked configuration.

[0132] In general, there may be at least one coupling device 6, illustrated in a preferred embodiment in Figure 4, which includes at least one coupling head 62 and is configured to couple the ribbon-like article(s), and more generally the conductor elements and separator elements, in the multilayer semi-finished product S.

[0133] For example, the coupling device 6 may be configured so that the ribbon-like articles converge thereon and, preferably, are wound into a spiral shape.

[0134] For this purpose, the coupling heads 62 can be configured to rotate about a relative winding axis A while the coupling of the ribbon-like article(s) is taking place.

[0135] As previously mentioned, in preferred embodiments, the coupling device 6 comprises more than one coupling head 62.

[0136] The coupling heads 62 can be supported on a movable assembly 61 , e.g. wheelshaped, which rotates about a respective axis of rotation X’, preferably parallel to the winding axis A, to alternate the operating position of the coupling heads 62.

[0137] This makes it possible to position each of the coupling heads 62 cyclically at a plurality of different workstations.

[0138] For example, in one of these stations the coupling of the ribbons can take place and in a further station the application of a fastening element T can take place, in a manner that will be described in more detail below.

[0139] A further station can, for example, be represented by an unloading station at which the internal assembly I is unloaded once it has been made.

[0140] Note that, in general, the execution of the coupling operation and the application of the fastening element can also take place while the gripping device(s) is / are rotating about the axis of rotation X’.

[0141] In addition to this movement, it can also be provided that the coupling device and the semi-finished product S can also move along a translation direction R, shown schematically in Figure 4.

[0142] For this purpose, the apparatus 1000 may comprise a respective movement device 7, for example in the form of a movable carriage, configured in such a way as to move the coupling device 6 according to a respective oscillatory movement along the translation direction R or more generally according to a cyclic movement along a respective straight and / or curved trajectory between two respective distinct positions.

[0143] In more detail, the movement along this path can be defined by any combination of one or more rotations and of one or more translations, or by a single movement, whether of rotation or translation, provided that it is configured to make the coupling head(s) 62 and the multilayer semi-finished product S assume two distinct spatial positions remote from each other. In other words, the movement must not be such that the coupling head(s) 62 the multilayer semi-finished product S only rotate about their axis.

[0144] Advantageously, movement along the translation direction of the winding head(s) 62, has the effect of varying the length of parallel stretches of the ribbon-like article(s).

[0145] This can allow an accumulation effect to be obtained and, by coordinating the movement in the translation direction with the winding or other type coupling operation, it is possible to form the semi-finished product in association with the movement of the winding device along the direction R. This can entail a series of advantages, in particular the possibility of increasing the manufacture speed of the semi-finished product and of avoiding or containing the onset of tension states on the ribbon-like articles during processing.

[0146] Referring now again to Figures 2 and 3, the apparatus 100 according to the present invention further comprises an applicator device 100 for applying the fastening element T to the semi-finished product S in such a way as to obtain the internal assembly B.

[0147] In preferred embodiments, the fastening element T is positioned at a flap L of the semi-finished article S. In some embodiments, it is, for example, intended to clamp a final flap of the ribbon-like article after it has been spirally wound or otherwise coupled, thus preventing it from being able to lose the structure obtained by the coupling operation.

[0148] The clamping preferably takes place by applying, by means of said applicator device 100, a fastening element T to the flap L. For example, the fastening element T can be formed by a ribbon.

[0149] The fastening element can be provided by one or more dispensing coils in which a quantity of ribbon is wound up, which is suitably sectioned before or during application to the semi-finished product.

[0150] Referring now to Figure 1 , the applicator device 100 comprises an applicator drum 2 rotating about a respective axis of rotation X.

[0151] By means of the above-mentioned rotation, two distinct positions can be defined for the applicator drum: a pick-up position of the fastening element T and a release position thereof, at which the fastening element T is applied to the respective multilayer semi-finished product T.

[0152] In addition to rotation about the axis X, the applicator drum 2 can also be configured to perform further movements.

[0153] For this purpose, the applicator device 100 comprises a movement device 3 that allows, in some embodiments, the applicator drum to oscillate with respect to an oscillation axis Y parallel to the axis X.

[0154] It should be noted that, more generally, the applicator drum 2 will be able to perform an additional movement with respect to rotation about the axis X.

[0155] Such a movement can generally allow the coupling device 6 and the applicator drum 2 to move away from and towards each other.

[0156] Such movement towards and away from each other can also be associated with the movement of the winding heads 62, and in general of the coupling device 6, along the direction R described above. The movement device 7 of the coupling device 6 can therefore be made to bring the at least one coupling head 62 closer to the applicator device 100 and, preferably, to the applicator drum 2.

[0157] The applicator device 100 further comprises a shielding element 4 which extends adjacent to the applicator drum 2 in such a way as to define a passageway 5 through which the fastening element T passes as it is pulled by the rotation of the drum 2 itself.

[0158] It should be noted that the fastening element T is applied at an outer shell 21 of the drum 2 at the pick-up position.

[0159] A suction system capable of retaining the fastening element T on the outer shell 21 can also be provided for this purpose.

[0160] The shielding element 4 prevents the fastening element T from detaching from the shell 21 , particularly when the fastening element T is moved towards the release position and is resting on the applicator drum in a downward position.

[0161] For this purpose, in some embodiments, the shielding element 4 is arranged in a lower position than the applicator drum 2 with respect to the vertical direction.

[0162] In preferred embodiments, the shielding element 4 has a predominantly flat layout and is substantially shaped like a shovel.

[0163] In addition, the shielding element 4 may have a tapered end 41 facing the release position.

[0164] As previously mentioned, the shielding element 4 is advantageously configured in such a way as to prevent detachment of the fastening element T particularly when approaching the release position. Accordingly, the shielding element 4 can be placed adjacent to the release position, at a predetermined distance from it.

[0165] In embodiments in which the shielding element 4 is movable, this position adjacent to the release position can be reached when, in turn, the applicator drum 2 reaches this release position.

[0166] In preferred embodiments, it can also be provided that the shielding element 4 gradually approaches the release position, until it reaches the adjacent position thereto, while the applicator drum 2 approaches it, i.e. a gradual approach is envisaged.

[0167] The movement of the shielding element 4 can be associated with that of the applicator drum 2, using a special mechanism.

[0168] Preferably, the movement device 3 comprises a first mechanism 31 , preferably a quadrilateral mechanism, illustrated in Figure 1 , configured to move said shielding element 4 according to a respective oscillatory movement along a path comprised between said pick-up position and said release position.

[0169] This quadrilateral mechanism comprises a pair of connecting rods, of which one connecting rod 31 B is visible in the figure, rotatably supported on the arm 30, and a rod 31 C rotatably connected to the two connecting rods.

[0170] The oscillation of the arm 30 thus causes a movement of the connecting rod 31 B according to the geometry of the mechanism 31 .

[0171] There is also preferably a second mechanism 32, preferably a quadrilateral mechanism, associated with the first mechanism 31 and configured to move the shielding element 4, advantageously imparting an oscillatory movement about the same axis X of rotation of the drum 2.

[0172] This second mechanism may also comprise a pair of connecting rods 32A, 32B and a rod 32C rotatably connected to the connecting rods.

[0173] A first connecting rod 32A is integral with the connecting rod 31 B of the first mechanism and thus oscillates following the oscillation of the arm 30.

[0174] The shielding element 4 is bound to the second connecting rod 32B and, therefore, follows an oscillation movement about the axis X driven by the connecting rod 32A and the connecting rod 32C.

[0175] In this way, the shielding element 4 performs a relative movement with respect to the arm 30 and the drum 2, a movement that it can advantageously perform during the oscillation of the arm 30.

[0176] Thus, the angular position of the shielding element 4 around the applicator drum 2 varies as the arm 30 moves and, in particular, approaches the release position as the drum 2 itself approaches that position.

[0177] According to preferred embodiments, when the applicator drum 2 reaches the release position, the shielding element 4 is at a predetermined distance from that position, so that it is sufficiently close to prevent detachment when the fastening element is moving towards the release position, but leaving sufficient space to allow contact between the drum 2, while carrying the fastening element T, and the semi-finished product S. In embodiments in which a rotation of the shielding element 4 about the axis X is provided, this predetermined distance can be defined in terms of the angular sector. For example, the shielding element 4 may be spaced apart from the release position by an angle of less than 20°, preferably less than 15°, preferably less than 10°, preferably less than 5°.

[0178] As mentioned above, the movement towards this position by the shielding element 4 is gradual and is preferably achieved by a partial rotation of the shielding element 4 while said applicator drum 2 rotates to bring the fastening element to the release position.

[0179] Once the release position is reached, the applicator drum 2 releases the fastening element T onto the semi-finished product S, stressing the fastening element against the flap L of the semi-finished product S.

[0180] Note that the fastening element T advantageously has an adhesive face T 1 which is arranged in such a way that it contacts the semi-finished product S as the applicator drum 2 pushes the fastening element against the semi-finished product S.

[0181] In preferred embodiments, the application of the fastening element T takes place by mutual rotation of the applicator drum 2 and the semi-finished product S in such a way that the fastening element T is wound, at least partially, around the semi-finished product S, resulting in the configuration illustrated in Figure 3, in which two separate parallel fastening elements are used.

[0182] When the application of the fastening element T is finished, the drum can be moved back to the pick-up position to pick up another fastening element and repeat the previously described operations in a cyclic manner.

[0183] Obviously, a person skilled in the art may, in order to meet specific and contingent application requirements, make further modifications and variants, all falling within the scope of protection as defined by the following claims.

Claims

CLAIMS1 . Applicator device (100) for applying a fastening element (T) to a multilayer semi-finished product (S) for making an internal assembly (I), preferably for electrochemical cells, said fastening element (T) being flexible, said applicator device (100) comprising:• an applicator drum (2) configured to rotate about a respective axis of rotation (X) between a pick-up position of a fastening element (T) and a release position of said fastening element (T) at which said fastening element (T) is applied to a respective multilayer semifinished product (T) forming said internal assembly (I);• a shielding element (4) extending adjacent to said applicator drum (2) in such a manner as to define a passageway (5) configured to allow the passage through it of said fastening element (T) pulled by said applicator drum (2) during its rotation between said pick-up position and said release position, said shielding element (4) being arranged in a position adjacent to said release position, at a predetermined distance therefrom, when said applicator drum (2) reaches said release position;• a movement device (3) configured to move said applicator drum (2) according to a further movement in addition to a rotation about said axis of rotation (X) and / or configured to move said shielding element (4).

2. Applicator device (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein said movement device (3) is configured to move said applicator drum (2) according to an oscillatory movement, said oscillatory movement preferably comprising a further rotation about a respective axis of oscillation (Y).

3. Applicator device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein said movement device (3) is configured in such a manner that said shielding element (4) gradually approaches said release position, until reaching said position adjacent to said release position, while said applicator drum (2) approaches said release position.

4. Applicator device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said oscillatory movement of said applicator drum (2) comprises a cyclic movement along a trajectory between two distinct positions.

5. Applicator device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said shielding element (4) is rotatably supported about said axis of rotation (X).

6. Applicator device (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein said movement device (3) comprises a first mechanism (31 ), preferably a quadrilateral mechanism, configured to move said shielding element (4) according to a respective oscillatory movement along a path provided between said pick-up position and said release position.

7. Applicator device (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein said respective oscillatory movement is a rotational movement, preferably about said axis of rotation (X) of said applicator drum (2).

8. Applicator device (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein said movement device (3) comprises a second mechanism (32), preferably a quadrilateral mechanism, configured to move said shielding element (4), said second mechanism (32) preferably being associated with said first mechanism (31 ).

9. Applicator device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said shielding element (4) comprises a tapered end (41) facing said release position.

10. Applicator device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said shielding element (4) has a predominantly flat layout.11 .Applicator device (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein said shielding element (4) has a shovel-like shape.

12. Apparatus (1000) for making an internal assembly (I), preferably for an electrochemical cell, said internal assembly (I) comprising a multilayer semi-finished product (S) and a respective fastening element (T), said apparatus (1000) including a coupling device (6) configured to make the multilayer semi-finished product (S) by coupling a plurality of individual layers, and an applicator device (100) made according to any one of thepreceding claims, said applicator device (100) being associated with said coupling device (6) in such a manner as to apply said fastening element (T) to said multilayer semi-finished product (S) at least at one outer flap (L) of said multilayer semi-finished product (S).

13. Apparatus (1000) for making an internal assembly (I) according to the preceding claim, wherein said movement device (3) is configured in such a manner as to cause said coupling device (6) and said applicator device (100) to move away and towards each other through movement of said coupling device (6) and / or said applicator drum (2).

14. Apparatus (1000) for making an internal assembly (I) according to claim 12 or 13, wherein said movement device (3) is configured in such a manner that said applicator drum (2) is arranged in said release position when proximal with respect to said coupling device (6), with said shielding element (4) arranged at said predetermined distance from said applicator drum (2).

15. Apparatus (1000) for making an internal assembly (I) according to any one of claims 12 to 14, wherein said coupling device (6) comprises a movable unit (61 ) supporting a plurality of coupling heads (62) and is configured to position each of said coupling heads (62) cyclically at a plurality of different workstations including at least one coupling station and one application station of said fastening element (T).

16. Apparatus (1000) for making an internal assembly (I) according to the preceding claim, wherein said movable assembly (61 ) is rotatable about a respective axis of rotation (X’).

17. Apparatus (1000) for making an internal assembly (I) according to claim 15 or 16, wherein said coupling heads (62) are rotatable about a winding axis (A) and are configured in such a way as to make said multilayer semifinished products (S) by winding at least one ribbon around said winding axis (A).

18. Apparatus (1000) for making an internal assembly (I) according to any one of claims 12 to 17, comprising a further movement device (7) configured in such a manner as to move said coupling device (6) according to a respective oscillatory movement.

19. Apparatus (1000) for making an internal assembly (I) according to the preceding claim, wherein said oscillatory movement of said coupling device (6) comprises a cyclic movement along a respective rectilinear and / or curvilinear trajectory between two respective distinct positions.

20. Method for applying a fastening element (T) to a multilayer semi-finished product (S) comprising:• supplying a multilayer semi-finished product (S);• winding said fastening element (T) onto an applicator drum (2);• bringing said fastening element (T), pulled by said applicator drum (2), closer to said multilayer semi-finished product (S);• arranging a shielding element (4) adjacent to said applicator drum (2), by a movement of said shielding element (4) and / or said applicator drum (2), in such a manner as to define a passageway (5) through which said fastening element (T) passes while said fastening element (T) is moved towards said multilayer semifinished product (S) by means of said applicator drum (2);• applying said fastening element (T) to at least one outer flap (L) of said multilayer semi-finished product (S).21 . Method according to the preceding claim, wherein said fastening element (T) is wound onto said applicator drum (2) by rotation of said applicator drum (2).

22. Method according to claim 20 or 21 , comprising moving said applicator drum (2) according to an oscillatory movement and moving said shielding element (4) in a coordinated manner with said oscillatory movement.

23. Method according to claims 21 and 22, wherein said moving said shielding element (4) comprises varying an angular position of said shielding element (4) around said applicator drum (2).

24. Method according to the preceding claim, wherein said shielding element (4) rotates, preferably partially, while said applicator drum (2) rotates.

25. Method according to any one of claims 20 to 24, wherein said fastening element (T) is released from said applicator drum (2) at a release position, said method comprising arranging said shielding element (4) adjacent to said release position (2), at a predefined distance therefrom, when said applicator drum (2) reaches said release position.

26. Method according to any one of claims 20 to 25, comprising moving said multilayer semi-finished product (S) in such a manner that it moves closer to said applicator drum (2).

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