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 comprises an applicator drum, a feeding device configured to supply the fastening element to the applicator drum, and a storage and / or dispensing unit at which the fastening element is stored and dispensed to the feeding device. The feeding device comprises an electrostatic charge neutralisation unit configured to neutralise, at least partially, electrostatic charges on the fastening element along a feed path extending between the storage and / or dispensing unit and an application zone of the fastening 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 a preferred, although not exclusive, application in the sector of the production of electrochemical cells, for the manufacture of which a semi-finished product with a structure with overlapped layers 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 “tape-like article” is intended to mean any solid product which, within an industrial production line, is presented in the form of an elongated tape or strip, i.e. an element in which the longitudinal extension is significantly higher than its transversal extension. The tape-like article can be formed by a single tape or strip of material, or by overlapping several tapes arranged into layers.

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

[0011] The tape-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 tape-like article formed by an insulating tape that acts as a separator between conductor elements. The insulating tape-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 tape-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 tape-like article is intended to mean combining the tape-like article with a further element, or combining different portions of the tape-like article with each other, so as to obtain a structure of a different shape from the tape-like article, preferably with a non-tape-like shape, such as for example a coil or a package.

[0015] The term “to wind” referring to a tape-like article, indicates a preferred way of coupling the tape-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 tapelike 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 tape or more generally a tape-like article about an axis, a flat surface or another winding structure. Depending on the structure about which the tape-like 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 tapes 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 tape-like article, for example in the form of a coil, or by coupling a tape-like article with other elements, such as for example conductor elements that can be arranged between loops of a tape-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 tape-like article, or by the alternating layers formed by a “Z” -folded tape-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 tape 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 tape-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 tape, 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 tape-like article, a semi-finished product, or another element, the term "continuous motion", or even “continuously” alone, indicates that the tapelike 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 tape-like / semi-finished product / element is therefore envisaged without, however, this leading to a complete stop. It will be appreciated that the tape-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 tape-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 constrained to each other. It can in fact be provided that the respective movement systems of the two elements are coordinated in such a way 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 thereof, 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] Preferably, the term “neutralise” with reference to electrostatic charges means any type of action aimed at returning a body, or an element, or a set of components to an electrically neutral condition, or to a condition closer to electrical neutrality. In the latter case, neutralisation is partial and will eventually result in a residue of electrical charges on the body / element / assembly of components subject to partial neutralisation, albeit lower than the charges initially present.

[0035] 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.

[0036] 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.

[0037] 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.

[0038] 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.

[0039] The Applicant also noted 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 therefore further perceived that the presence of movement members in a line for the production of internal assemblies can cause the generation of electrostatic charges that can accumulate on the surfaces of the elements moved within the line. This can be particularly critical if the element being moved is thin and flexible, such as fastening elements for semi-finished products, as it can lead to its tendency to be attracted towards other surfaces, deviating from an optimal advancement trajectory. Moreover, this phenomenon is accentuated as the advancement speed of the fastening element and the production line as a whole increases.

[0041] The Applicant finally found that by reducing the build-up of electrostatic charges accumulated during the movement of the fastening element as it moves towards the application zone on the semi-finished product, it is possible to increase the precision with which this operation is carried out.

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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.

[0044] Preferably, said applicator device comprises an applicator drum configured to receive said fastening element. Preferably, said applicator drum is configured to transport said fastening element from a pick-up position to a release position at which said fastening element is applied to a respective multilayer semi-finished product.

[0045] Preferably said applicator device comprises a feeding device configured to supply said fastening element to said applicator drum at said pick-up position.

[0046] Preferably said applicator device comprises a storage and / or dispensing unit of said fastening element at which said fastening element is stored, preferably in the form of a coil, and dispensed towards said feeding device. Preferably, said feeding device comprises an electrostatic charge neutralisation unit configured to neutralise, at least partially, electrostatic charges on the fastening element.

[0047] Preferably, the electrostatic charge neutralisation unit is configured to neutralise, at least in part, electrostatic charges present on the fastening element along a feed path extending between said storage and / or dispensing unit and an application zone of said fastening element.

[0048] Thanks to these features, the applicator device of the present invention can advance the fastening element through the feeding device, supplying it to the applicator drum, in a rapid and appropriately controlled manner, by reducing the build-up of electrostatic charge on the fastening element.

[0049] The use of an electrostatic charge neutralisation unit along the advancement path makes it possible to provide the fastening element for application to the semifinished product in an electrically neutral condition or one in which there is less charge build-up on its surface. In this way, the fastening element is less susceptible to attraction phenomena, and the transport and application of the fastening element can take place with a more precise and controlled trajectory.

[0050] This allows a high advancement speed of the fastening element, without increasing the occurrence of possible errors in the application thereof and deviations from an optimal advancement trajectory.

[0051] In its second aspect, the present invention relates to an apparatus for making an internal assembly, preferably for an electrochemical cell.

[0052] Preferably said internal assembly comprises a multilayer semi-finished product and a respective fastening element, preferably flexible.

[0053] Preferably, said apparatus includes a coupling device configured to make the multilayer semi-finished product, preferably by coupling a plurality of individual layers.

[0054] Preferably said apparatus comprises an applicator device for applying the fastening element to the multilayer semi-finished product.

[0055] Preferably, said applicator device comprises an applicator drum configured to receive said fastening element. Preferably, said applicator drum is configured to transport said fastening element from a pick-up position to a release position at which said fastening element is applied to a respective multilayer semi-finished product.

[0056] Preferably said applicator device comprises a feeding device configured to supply said fastening element to said applicator drum at said pick-up position.

[0057] Preferably said applicator device comprises a storage and / or dispensing unit of said fastening element at which said fastening element is stored, preferably in the form of a coil, and dispensed towards said feeding device.

[0058] Preferably, said feeding device comprises an electrostatic charge neutralisation unit configured to neutralise, at least partially, electrostatic charges on the fastening element.

[0059] Preferably, the electrostatic charge neutralisation unit is configured to neutralise, at least in part, electrostatic charges present on the fastening element along a feed path extending between said storage and / or dispensing unit and an application zone of said fastening element.

[0060] 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 semi-finished product.

[0061] This allows the fastening element to be advanced through the feeding device, supplying it to the applicator drum, precisely and at high speed, thanks to the presence of the electrostatic charge neutralisation unit.

[0062] The electrostatic charge neutralisation unit makes it possible to remove, at least partially, the charges accumulated on the fastening element prior to its application on the semi-finished product.

[0063] In this way, its trajectory towards the application zone and the application itself can be carried out with greater precision, even when advancing at relatively high speeds.

[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] The method preferably comprises supplying a multilayer semi-finished product made by coupling a plurality of layers. Preferably it is provided to supply a fastening element, preferably flexible.

[0066] Preferably the method comprises advancing said fastening element along a feed path to an applicator drum.

[0067] Preferably said method comprises applying said fastening element at least at one outer flap of said semi-finished product preferably via said applicator drum.

[0068] Preferably said method comprises generating ions towards the fastening element along said feed path preferably prior to said application of said fastening element.

[0069] This also makes it possible to apply the fastening element to the multilayer semifinished product precisely and at high advancement speeds due to the reduction of electrostatic charges that can be achieved through ion generation on the fastening element.

[0070] The surface of the fastening element can in fact be made more electrostatically neutral by the ions generated along its advancement path.

[0071] The present invention, in at least one of the aforementioned aspects, may have at least one of the further preferred features indicated below.

[0072] Preferably, said electrostatic charge neutralisation unit comprises at least one ionising element configured to generate ions for neutralising electrostatic charges.

[0073] Preferably said ions are generated as said fastening element advances along said feed path.

[0074] In this way, charge neutralisation can take place without contact and without interruption in the element's advancement, subjecting the fastening element to ion generation along its feed path to the application zone.

[0075] Preferably, said feeding device comprises a storage device, said storage device comprising a plurality of storage rollers comprising at least one movable storage roller and at least one fixed storage roller.

[0076] Preferably said at least one ionising element is placed along a section of said feed path immediately downstream of said storage device.

[0077] In this way, any electrostatic charge build-up associated with the displacement of the fastening element caused by the movement of the movable storage roller can be neutralised or at least reduced prior to subsequent movements of the fastening element and its application.

[0078] Preferably said feeding device comprises a pair of feed rollers, said pair of feed rollers comprising at least one motorised roller.

[0079] Preferably said at least one ionising element is placed along a section, preferably substantially straight, of said feed path arranged immediately upstream of said feed rollers.

[0080] Thanks to these features, it is possible to neutralise or reduce electrostatic charges prior to roller used for the advancement thereof. In this way it is not necessary to place ionising elements downstream of the feed rollers, an area in which the fastening element may have to be cut, or in any case adjacent to the applicator drum. Therefore, the overall dimensions of the applicator device can be rationalised and optimised.

[0081] Preferably, said feeding device comprises a deflector roller on which said fastening element is partially wound in such a manner as to deflect said feed path from a substantially straight direction.

[0082] Preferably said section of said feed path immediately downstream of said storage device extends between said fixed storage roller and said deflector roller.

[0083] Preferably said section of said feed path immediately upstream of said feed rollers extends between said deflector roller and said feed rollers.

[0084] Thanks to these features, the fastening element can be subjected to the iongenerating action at two separate sections. In such sections, the advancement of the fastening element can take place along a straight trajectory, optimising the action of the ionising elements.

[0085] Preferably said electrostatic charge neutralisation unit is configured in such a way that it neutralises charges on at least one face of said fastening element.

[0086] Preferably said electrostatic charge neutralisation unit is configured in such a way that it neutralises electrostatic charges on both faces of said fastening element.

[0087] In this way, it is possible to neutralise at least part of the electrostatic charges present on the largest surface(s) of the fastening element, thus making the action of the ionising elements particularly effective. Preferably said electrostatic charge neutralisation group comprises at least one pair of ionising elements.

[0088] Preferably each ionising element of said pair of ionising elements is configured to generate ions towards a respective face of said fastening element.

[0089] Preferably, a first ionising element of said pair is configured to generate ions at a first face of said fastening element at a first section of said feed path and a second ionising element of said pair is configured to generate ions at a second face of said fastening element at a second section of said feed path. Preferably said ions are generated at a first face of said fastening element at a first section of said feed path and at a second face of said fastening element at a second section of said feed path.

[0090] Preferably said ionising element(s) comprises a respective ionising bar.

[0091] Thanks to these features, it is possible to use ionising elements with a simple structure, such as ionising bars acting at a respective surface of the fastening element.

[0092] Preferably, said neutralisation unit is placed upstream of said applicator drum. Preferably said ions are generated upstream of said applicator drum.

[0093] Thanks to these features, it is possible to supply the fastening element to the applicator drum in a more charge-neutral condition, thus promoting its adhesion to the drum itself and its subsequent application on the semi-finished product.

[0094] Preferably, said multilayer semi-finished product comprises at least one separator tape and at least two conductor tapes.

[0095] Preferably, said fastening element is in the form of a tape, preferably flat. Preferably said fastening element defines two opposite faces.

[0096] Preferably, said multilayer semi-finished product is coupled in coil form.

[0097] 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.

[0098] 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.

[0099] 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:

[0100] - Figure 1 is a perspective view of the applicator device according to the present invention;

[0101] - Figures 2 and 3 are perspective views of the applicator device in Figure 1 ;

[0102] - Figure 4 is a perspective view of an internal assembly including a fastening element applied by means of the applicator device of the present invention; and

[0103] - Figure 5 is a perspective view of an apparatus for making an internal assembly according to the present invention.

[0104] Referring initially to Figure 5, 1000 denotes an apparatus for making an internal assembly I, the latter illustrated in Figure 4, made in accordance with the present invention.

[0105] In some embodiments, such as the one illustrated in the accompanying figures, the apparatus 1000 is intended for producing coils to be used in the manufacture of electrochemical cells.

[0106] 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.

[0107] 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 tape-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.

[0108] In preferred embodiments, such as that illustrated in Figure 5, a plurality of tapelike articles are used. For example, in the case where the internal assembly I is used in the context of manufacturing an electrochemical cell, the tape-like articles may be formed by alternately arranging conductor tapes and separator tapes. These tapes 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.

[0109] In this regard, it may also be provided that a single tape-like article is used which, for example, may form the separator element of an electrochemical cell. Said tape-like article can therefore be associated with conductor elements, for example in the form of foils, still for the purpose of forming an overlapped-layer structure.

[0110] 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.

[0111] Preferably, the structure formed by the coupling of the tape-like articles is a multilayer structure S, in which each layer is represented by one of the tape-like articles.

[0112] As will be explained in more detail below, the tape-like articles can be coupled together by winding in spiral form to form a coil structure.

[0113] In other embodiments, not illustrated in the figures, one or more tape-like articles can be folded into successive loops, with a substantially “Z” layout and coupled, alternately, to anode elements and cathode elements in the form of foils.

[0114] In further embodiments, also not shown in the figures, the conductor elements and separator elements can be coupled in a stacked configuration.

[0115] In general, there may be at least one coupling device 7, illustrated in a preferred embodiment in Figure 5, which preferably includes at least one coupling head 72 and is configured to couple the tape-like article(s), and more generally the conductor elements and separator elements, in the multilayer semi-finished product S.

[0116] For example, the coupling device 7 may be configured so that the tape-like articles converge thereon and, preferably, are wound into a spiral shape.

[0117] For this purpose, the coupling heads 72 can be configured to rotate about a relative winding axis W while the coupling of the tape-like article(s) is taking place.

[0118] As previously mentioned, in preferred embodiments, the coupling device 8 comprises more than one coupling head 72.

[0119] The coupling heads 72 can be supported on a movable assembly 71 , 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 72.

[0120] This makes it possible to position each of the coupling heads 72 cyclically at a plurality of different workstations.

[0121] For example, in one of these stations the coupling of the tapes 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.

[0122] 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.

[0123] 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’.

[0124] 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 5.

[0125] For this purpose, the apparatus 1000 may comprise a respective movement device 8, for example in the form of a movable carriage, configured in such a way as to move the coupling device 7 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.

[0126] 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) 72 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) 72 the multilayer semi-finished product S only rotate about their axis. Advantageously, movement along the translation direction of the winding head(s) 72, has the effect of varying the length of parallel sections of the tape-like article(s).

[0127] 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 tape-like articles during processing.

[0128] Referring now again to Figures 1 , 2 and 3, the apparatus 1000 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 I.

[0129] 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 tape-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.

[0130] 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 tape.

[0131] The applicator device 100 comprises an applicator drum 2 configured to transport said fastening element T from a pick-up position to a release position at which the fastening element T is applied to the respective multilayer semi-finished product S.

[0132] The fastening element T can be supplied to the applicator drum 2 at said pick-up position by means of a feeding device 3.

[0133] The applicator device 100 comprises a storage and dispensing unit 4 at which the fastening element is stored, preferably in the form of a coil, and dispensed to the feeding device.

[0134] For example, in the embodiment illustrated in Figure 1 , there are two spools T1 , T2 which dispense a respective fastening element T for its application on the semi-finished product S. In fact, as can be seen from Figure 4, the internal assembly I can comprise two fastening elements T, axially spaced for clamping the flap L.

[0135] The fastening element T moves along a feed direction A from the storage and dispensing unit 4 advantageously fed by the feeding device 3 to the applicator drum 2.

[0136] In preferred embodiments, the feeding device 3 comprises a storage device 6, which enables buffering of the fastening element T during its feeding towards the applicator drum 2.

[0137] Preferably, the storage device comprises a plurality of storage rollers 61 , 62 which include at least one movable storage roller 61 and at least one fixed storage roller 62, as best illustrated in Figure 2.

[0138] The displacement of the storage roller 61 can be used to vary the length of a section between the rollers 61 and 62 by increasing or decreasing the distance travelled by the fastening element T as it advances.

[0139] The movement of the mobile storage roller 61 towards and away from the fixed storage roller 62 can be either motorised or obtained by means of elastic elements, thus acting as dancer rollers.

[0140] In preferred embodiments, downstream of the accumulator device 6 is a pair of feed rollers 31 , 32, between which the fastening element T is passed, directing it towards the applicator drum 2.

[0141] Preferably, the pair of feed rollers 31 , 32 comprises at least one motorised roller 31 in charge of advancing the fastening element T.

[0142] In some embodiments, the fastening element T is transferred from the storage device 6 to the feed rollers 31 , 32 via a deflector roller 33, arranged downstream of the rollers 31 , 32 with respect to the feed direction A, on which the fastening element T is partially wound.

[0143] The deflector roller 33 allows the direction of the fastening element’s trajectory defined by its feed path P to be deflected.

[0144] Advantageously, in the embodiment illustrated in Figure 2 the fastening element follows a substantially straight trajectory, with a substantially vertical layout, at the storage device 6. The deflector roller 33 modifies this direction with respect to the vertical, thereby rationalising the space required to advance the fastening element T. For example, in the present embodiment, the deflector roller 33 deflects the fastening element T in a substantially horizontal direction.

[0145] In certain embodiments, the feeding device 3 further comprises one or more abutment rollers 34 arranged downstream of the feed rollers 31 , 32 and which are configured in such a way as to stress the fastening element T towards the applicator drum 2.

[0146] As can be seen in Figure 1 , the applicator drum 2 is configured to transport said fastening element T from a pick-up position to a release position at which the fastening element T is applied to the respective multilayer semi-finished product S.

[0147] The applicator drum 2 and the abutment roller 34 can therefore be brought closer together to facilitate the winding of the fastening element T onto the applicator drum 2.

[0148] In preferred embodiments, the fastening element T is essentially flat and is wound onto an outer shell 21 of the applicator drum 2 at its a surface TB thereof.

[0149] The applicator drum 2 is advantageously configured to rotate about a respective axis of rotation X, visible in Figure 1 , and wind the fastening element T around a portion of said outer shell 21 .

[0150] As previously mentioned, the applicator drum 2 and the abutment roller 34 can be configured to be moved between a mutual distal position, in which the abutment roller 34 is moved away from the outer shell 21 , and an abutment position, in which the abutment roller 33 is in contact with the applicator drum 2 in such a way that the fastening element T, arranged between the abutment roller and the applicator drum 2, is stressed against the outer shell 21 .

[0151] In some embodiments, the applicator device 100 further comprises a cutting element 16 arranged between the two abutment rollers 34 or, more generally, in a position adjacent to the abutment roller 34 and configured to cut the fastening element T by abutting the outer shell 21 of the applicator drum 2.

[0152] Note that the fastening element T is applied at the outer shell 21 of the drum 2 at the pick-up position and moved to a release position at a zone where the fastening element T is applied to the semi-finished product S.

[0153] With reference to Figures 1 and 3, the applicator device 100 comprises an electrostatic charge neutralisation unit 5 arranged between the storage and dispensing unit 4 and the application zone of the fastening element T.

[0154] The electrostatic charge neutralisation unit 5 is advantageously configured to neutralise, at least partially, electrostatic charges on the fastening element T along a feed path P extending between the storage and supply unit 4 and the application zone of the fastening element T.

[0155] Preferably the electrostatic charge neutralisation unit 5 comprises at least one ionising element 51 , 52 configured to generate ions for neutralising electrostatic charges.

[0156] As can best be observed from Figure 2, the ionising element can be in the form of an ionising bar acting at a respective face of the fastening element T.

[0157] In some embodiments, such as the one illustrated in the figures, is are a pair of ionising elements 51 , 52, each generating ions towards a respective face of the fastening element T.

[0158] In this way, the electrostatic charge neutralisation unit 5 can neutralise, at least partially, the electrostatic charges on both faces of the fastening element T.

[0159] However, it will be appreciated that it may be provided that the neutralisation unit 5 will act on one face only or that a single ionising element capable of acting on both faces will be used.

[0160] In preferred embodiments, also in order to make appropriate use of the structure of the applicator device 100, in particular of the storage device 6 and the feeding device 3, a first ionising element 51 may be arranged along a section of the feed path P immediately downstream of the storage device 6. It should also be noted that this section of the feed path P extends advantageously between the fixed storage roller 62 and said deflector roller 33.

[0161] Again in order to obtain the above benefits, a second ionising element 52 may be provided along a section of the feed path P arranged immediately upstream of the feed rollers 31 , 32. This section extends between the deflector roller 33 and the feed rollers 31 , 32. This arrangement also makes it possible to position the ionising elements appropriately so that the two ionising elements act on different faces of the fastening element T.

[0162] In addition, it is particularly advantageous in that it allows the fastening element T to be supplied to the applicator drum 2, significantly reducing the electrostatic charges accumulated during advancement along the feed path P.

[0163] Once supplied to the applicator drum 2, the fastening element T can be further displaced by movement of the drum 2 itself to the release position, at which it is applied to the semi-finished product S.

[0164] This displacement can be achieved by rotation of the drum 2 about its axis of rotation X as well as by further movements.

[0165] As for example illustrated in Figure 5, in some embodiments, the applicator device 100 may include a movement device that allows the applicator drum to oscillate with respect to an oscillation axis Y parallel to the axis X.

[0166] Such an oscillatory movement can generally allow the coupling device 7 and the applicator drum 2 to move away from and towards each other.

[0167] Such movement towards and away from each other can also be associated with the movement of the winding heads 72, and in general of the coupling device 7, along the direction R described above. The movement device 8 of the coupling device 7 can therefore be made to bring the at least one coupling head 72 closer to the applicator device 100 and, preferably, to the applicator drum 2.

[0168] 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.

[0169] As previously mentioned, it should be noted that the fastening element T advantageously has an adhesive face TA which is arranged to come into contact with the semi-finished product S as the applicator drum 2 pushes the fastening element against the semi-finished product S. In contrast, the opposite face TB at which the fastening element T is placed against the shell 21 is advantageously non-adhesive.

[0170] 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.

[0171] 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.

[0172] 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 receive said fastening element (T) and transport said fastening element (T) from a pick-up position to a release position at which said fastening element (T) is applied to a respective multilayer semi-finished product (S);• a feeding device (3) configured to supply said fastening element (T) to said applicator drum (2) at said pick-up position;• a storage and / or dispensing unit (4) of said fastening element (T) at which said fastening element (T) is stored, preferably in the form of a coil (T1 , T2), and dispensed towards said feeding device (3);• wherein said feeding device (3) comprises an electrostatic charge neutralisation unit (5) configured in such manner as to neutralise, at least in part, electrostatic charges present on the fastening element (T) along a feed path (P) extending between said storage and / or dispensing unit (4) and an application zone of said fastening element (T) on the multilayer semi-finished product (S).

2. Applicator device (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein said electrostatic charge neutralisation unit (5) comprises at least one ionising element (51 , 52) configured in such manner as to generate ions for neutralising electrostatic charges.

3. Applicator device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein said feeding device (3) comprises a storage device (6), said storage device comprising a plurality of storage rollers (61 , 62) comprising at least one movable storage roller (61 ) and at least one fixed storage roller (62).

4. Applicator device (100) according to claims 2 and 3, wherein said at least one ioniser element (51 ) is arranged along a section of said feed path (P) immediately downstream of said storage device (6).

5. Applicator device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said feeding device (3) comprises a pair of feeding rollers (31 , 32), said pair of feeding rollers (31 , 32) comprising at least one motorised roller (31 ).

6. Applicator device (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein said at least one ionising element (52) is arranged along a section, preferably substantially straight, of said feed path (P) arranged immediately upstream of said feeding rollers (31 , 32).

7. Applicator device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said feeding device (3) comprises a deflector roller (33) on which said fastening element (T) is partially wound in such a manner as to deflect said feed path (P) with respect to a substantially straight direction.

8. Applicator device (100) according to claims 4 and 7, wherein said section of said feed path (P) immediately downstream of said storage device (6) extends between said fixed storage roller (62) and said deflector roller (33).

9. Applicator device (100) according to claim 6 and claim 7 or 8, wherein said section of said feed path (P) arranged immediately upstream of said feeding rollers (31 , 32) extends between said deflector roller (33) and said feeding rollers (31 , 32).

10. Applicator device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said fastening element (T) is in the form of a flat tape and defines two opposite faces, said electrostatic charge neutralisation unit (5) being configured in such a way as to neutralise charges on at least one face of said fastening element (T).11 .Applicator device (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein said electrostatic charge neutralisation unit (5) is configured to neutralise electrostatic charges on both faces of said fastening element (T).

12. Applicator device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, when dependent on claim 2, wherein said electrostatic charge neutralisation unit (5) comprises at least one pair of ionising elements (51 ,13. Applicator device (100) according to claims 13 and 14, wherein each ionising element of said pair of ionising elements is configured in such manner as to generate ions towards a respective face of said fastening element (T).

14. Apparatus (1000) for making an internal assembly (I) comprising a multilayer semi-finished product (S) and a respective fastening element (T), said apparatus including a coupling device (7) 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 the preceding claims, said applicator device (100) being associated with said coupling device (7) in such a way as to apply said fastening element (T) to said multilayer semi-finished product (S) at at least one outer flap (L) of said semi-finished product (S).

15. Method for applying a flexible fastening element (T) to a multilayer semifinished product (S) comprising:• Supplying a multilayer semi-finished product (S) made by coupling a plurality of layers;• Supplying a flexible fastening element (T);• Advancing said fastening element (T) along a feed path (P) towards an applicator drum (2);• Applying the fastening element (T) to at least one outer flap (L) of said semi-finished product (S) via said applicator drum (2)• Generating ions towards the fastening element (T) along said feed path (P) before said applying said fastening element (T).

16. Method according to the preceding claim, in which said ions are generated while said fastening element (T) advances along said feed path (P).

17. Method according to the preceding claim, wherein said ions are generated upstream of said applicator drum (2).

18. Method according to any one of claims 15 to 17, wherein said fastening element (T) is in the form of a flat tape.

19. Method according to the preceding claim, wherein said ions are generated at at least one face of said fastening element (T).

20. Method according to the preceding claim, wherein said ions are generated at both faces of said fastening element (T). 21 . Method according to the preceding claim, wherein said ions are generated at a first face of said fastening element (T) at a first section of said feed path (P) and at a second face of said fastening element (T) at a second section of said feed path (P).

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