Method for manufacturing secondary battery

Abstract

Provided, according to example embodiments, is a method for manufacturing a secondary battery. The method comprises: a step for reading an electrode ID from a data matrix of a monocell including a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator; and a step for determining whether the monocell is functional or defective on the basis of the electrode ID, wherein the electrode ID includes a symbol for identifying an electrode.

Description

Method of manufacturing a secondary battery

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for manufacturing a secondary battery.

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority from Republic of Korea Patent Application No. 10-2024-0097177, filed on July 23, 2024.

[0003] Unlike primary batteries, secondary batteries can be charged and discharged multiple times. They are widely used as a power source for various wireless devices, including handsets, laptops, and cordless vacuum cleaners. Recently, improved energy density and economies of scale have dramatically reduced the per-unit manufacturing cost of secondary batteries. Furthermore, as the range of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) has increased to match that of fuel-powered vehicles, the primary use of secondary batteries is shifting from mobile devices to mobility.

[0004] Secondary batteries are manufactured through electrode processes, assembly processes, and activation processes. Among these, the electrode process is the most critical process in determining the yield and performance of the battery cell. The electrode process may include a coating process, a roll press process, and a slitting process. In the coating process, active and insulating materials may be applied to the surface of the current collector. In the roll press process, the electrode may be pressed by pressure rolls. The roll press process may determine the density, performance, and surface finish of the electrode. In the slitting process, the electrode may be cut into multiple electrodes depending on the battery cell design.

[0005] The technical idea of ​​the present invention aims to solve a problem by providing a method for manufacturing a secondary battery with improved traceability.

[0006] According to exemplary embodiments of the present invention for solving the above-described problem, a method for manufacturing a secondary battery is provided. The method includes the steps of: reading an electrode ID from a data matrix of a mono cell including a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator; and determining the quality of the mono cell based on the electrode ID, wherein the electrode ID includes a symbol identifying the electrode.

[0007] The quality of the mono cell is determined based on the electrode ID and quality data associated with the electrode ID, and the quality data associated with the electrode ID includes the electrode ID and a quality value matched to the electrode ID.

[0008] The quality of the above mono cell is determined by the quality value matched to the electrode ID.

[0009] The method further comprises the step of discharging the mono cell if the quality value indicates a defect.

[0010] The method further comprises the step of generating a signal to turn off the vacuum of the transport device configured to transport the mono cell if the quality value indicates a bad quality.

[0011] The anode includes a cathode tab, the cathode includes a cathode tab, and the data matrix is ​​on one of the anode tab and the cathode tab.

[0012] According to exemplary embodiments, a secondary battery manufacturing system is provided. The system includes a notching device configured to form an electrode tab on an electrode sheet, a marking device configured to form a data matrix on the electrode tab, and an inspector configured to inspect the electrode sheet; and a server configured to match an electrode ID indicated by the data matrix with a quality value of the electrode sheet determined by the inspector.

[0013] The above notching equipment is configured to collect coordinate-associated electrode ID data and coordinate-associated quality data, wherein the coordinate-associated electrode ID data includes coordinates of the electrode sheet and the electrode ID matched to the coordinates, and the coordinate-associated quality data includes the coordinates and a quality value matched to the coordinates.

[0014] The server is configured to match the electrode ID with the quality value based on the coordinate-associated electrode ID data and the coordinate-associated quality data.

[0015] The system further comprises an L&S (Lamination and Stacking) facility configured to cut the electrode sheet to form an electrode including an electrode tab and to form a mono cell using the electrode, wherein the L&S facility comprises an electrode ID reader configured to detect the electrode ID from the data matrix.

[0016] The server is configured to transmit electrode ID-associated quality data including the electrode ID and a quality value matched to the electrode ID to the controller of the L&S facility.

[0017] The L&S facility further comprises a transport device configured to transport the mono cell, and the controller is configured to generate a signal for controlling a vacuum of the transport device based on quality data associated with the electrode ID.

[0018] According to exemplary embodiments of the present invention, quality values ​​and electrode IDs can be matched based on quality data and electrode ID data collected during the notching process. Accordingly, by reading the data matrix after forming monocells in the L&S process, defective monocells can be distinguished from good monocells.

[0019] The effects that can be obtained from the exemplary embodiments of the present invention are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned can be clearly derived and understood by those skilled in the art to which the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure pertain from the following description. In other words, unintended effects resulting from practicing the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure can also be derived by those skilled in the art from the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0020] Figure 1 illustrates a secondary battery manufacturing system according to exemplary embodiments.

[0021] Figure 2 illustrates a notching facility according to exemplary embodiments.

[0022] Figure 3 shows an electrode sheet processed by a notching device.

[0023] Figure 4 illustrates an L&S (Lamination and Stacking) facility according to exemplary embodiments.

[0024] FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a method for manufacturing a secondary battery according to exemplary embodiments.

[0025] According to exemplary embodiments of the present invention, a method for manufacturing a secondary battery is provided. The method comprises the steps of: reading an electrode ID from a data matrix of a mono cell including a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator; and determining the quality of the mono cell based on the electrode ID, wherein the electrode ID includes a symbol identifying the electrode.

[0026] According to exemplary embodiments of the present invention, a secondary battery manufacturing system is provided. The system includes a notching device configured to form an electrode tab on an electrode sheet, a marking device configured to form a data matrix on the electrode tab, and an inspector configured to inspect the electrode sheet; and a server configured to match an electrode ID indicated by the data matrix with a quality value of the electrode sheet determined by the inspector.

[0027] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Prior to this, it should be noted that the terms and words used in this specification and claims should not be construed as limited to their conventional or dictionary meanings. Based on the principle that the inventor can appropriately define the concepts of terms to best explain his or her invention, they should be interpreted in a way that aligns with the technical spirit of the present invention.

[0028] Accordingly, the embodiments described in this specification and the configurations illustrated in the drawings are merely the most preferred embodiments of the present invention and do not represent all of the technical ideas of the present invention. Therefore, it should be understood that there may be various equivalents and modified examples that can replace them at the time of filing this application.

[0029] In addition, when describing the present invention, if it is determined that a detailed description of a related known configuration or function may obscure the gist of the present invention, the detailed description is omitted.

[0030] Since the embodiments of the present invention are provided to more fully explain the present invention to those skilled in the art, the shapes and sizes of components in the drawings may be exaggerated, omitted, or schematically illustrated for clearer explanation. Accordingly, the sizes and proportions of each component do not fully reflect the actual sizes or proportions.

[0031]

[0032] (Example 1)

[0033] Figure 1 illustrates a secondary battery manufacturing system (10) according to exemplary embodiments.

[0034] Figure 2 illustrates a notching facility (100) according to exemplary embodiments.

[0035] Fig. 3 shows an electrode sheet (ES) processed by a notching device (100).

[0036] FIG. 4 illustrates an L&S (Lamination and Stacking) facility (200) according to exemplary embodiments.

[0037] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 4, the secondary battery manufacturing system (10) may include a notching facility (100) and an L&S facility (200).

[0038] A notching device (100) may be configured to process an electrode roll (ER1). The notching device (100) may be configured to form electrode tabs (ET) on an electrode sheet (ES) unwound from the electrode roll (ER1). The notching device (100) may be configured to form a data matrix (DM) on the electrode tabs (ET) of the electrode sheet (ES). In the notching device (100), coordinate-related quality data (CQD) and coordinate-related electrode ID data (CID) may be collected. The notching device (100) may be configured to transmit the coordinate-related quality data (CQD) and the coordinate-related electrode ID data (CID) to a server (1020). The coordinate-related quality data (CQD) and the coordinate-related electrode ID data (CID) may be transmitted to the server (1020) via a communication server (1010).

[0039] The server (1020) may be configured to generate electrode ID-associated quality data (IQD) based on coordinate-associated quality data (CQD) and coordinate-associated electrode ID data (CID). The server (1020) may be configured to transmit the electrode ID-associated quality data (IQD) to the L&S facility.

[0040] The L&S facility (200) may be configured to form a plurality of mono cells (MC) using an anode roll (ERP), a cathode roll (ERN), and separator rolls (SRS). The L&S facility (200) may be configured to separate good products and defective products among the plurality of mono cells (MC) based on electrode ID-associated quality data (IQD). The L&S facility (200) may be configured to transfer good products among the plurality of mono cells (MC) to a subsequent process facility and discharge defective products.

[0041] The secondary battery manufacturing system may further include a coating facility configured to perform a coating process, a roll pressing facility configured to perform a roll pressing process, and a slitting facility configured to perform a slitting process.

[0042] In the coating process, electrode slurry may be coated on an electrode sheet. In the roll pressing process, the electrode sheet coated with the electrode slurry may be rolled. The electrode sheet may be separated into a plurality of electrode sheets through the slitting process.

[0043] The communication server (1010) may be a device for communication between the controllers of the manufacturing facility and the server (1020). The controller (143) of the notching facility (100) and the controller (240) of the L&S facility (200) may communicate with the server (1020) via the communication server (1010). Accordingly, data on process events occurring in the notching facility (100) and the L&S facility (200) may be transmitted to the server (1020). In addition, data on process events stored in the server (1020) may be transmitted to the notching facility (100) and the L&S facility (200).

[0044] The server (1020) may be configured to generate a roll map containing data on process events. The process event data in the roll map may include values ​​representing the process events and coordinates matching the values. The coordinates may indicate locations on the electrode sheet. Accordingly, the roll map enables feedback, feedforward, and secondary battery manufacturing process tracking, as described below.

[0045] A roll map can include coordinate-related measurement data and coordinate-related inspection data, which are generated by associating time-series data, such as measurement data and inspection data, with coordinate data. Accordingly, the roll map can provide traceability for the entire process, whether during subsequent processes or after product shipment.

[0046] Roll maps can be generated on a lot-by-lot basis. A lot is a production unit of a roll-to-roll process. An electrode roll (or electrode assembly roll) separated after achieving the target winding length of each process is an example of a lot. Similarly, an electrode roll loaded into an unwinder of each process is also an example of a lot. The server (1020) can generate and store roll maps for each process (e.g., a coating process, a roll pressing process, or a slitting process).

[0047] Time series data organized over time (i.e., as the process progresses) in the roll map can be associated with coordinate data collected based on the amount of movement of the electrode sheet (i.e., either the amount consumed or the amount injected).

[0048] The manufacturing of secondary batteries involves a series of distinct processes, with leading processes influencing subsequent processes. However, if the time-series data from leading processes do not directly match real-world workpieces, intermediate products, and finished products, it can be difficult to incorporate this data into subsequent processes. Hereinafter, the correction of subsequent processes based on data generated from the results of leading processes is referred to as feedforward.

[0049] Here, the workpiece refers to an article provided as a result of each process, such as, for example, a second electrode roll (ER2) completed by the notching equipment (100). The intermediate product may refer to one of separators, electrodes, and assemblies thereof (i.e., electrode assemblies) cut through the notching process. The intermediate product may also be a structure including a housing and an electrode assembly embedded in the housing (in some cases, the structure further includes an electrolyte). The product refers to an article processed to be operable as a secondary battery through an activation process. The above-described definitions of the workpiece, intermediate product, and product are for one aspect thereof and do not exclude conventional definitions thereof.

[0050] Process events typically occur as the process progresses, making them time-series data. Accordingly, process event data may include values ​​representing the event and corresponding time values.

[0051] For feedforward, time-series data needs to be associated with the positions of real-world workpieces, parts, semi-finished products, and finished products. Feedforward may involve controlling processing of electrode sheets based on a roll map generated in a previous process. The roll map may associate the time-series data with coordinate data, which includes coordinates representing the positions of real-world workpieces, parts, semi-finished products, and finished products. Based on the coordinate data, the roll map can provide a match between the time-series data and real-world workpieces, parts, semi-finished products, and finished products. Accordingly, the generation of the roll map and feedforward based on the roll map can quantify and objectify aspects of the process previously dependent on the operator's discretion, thereby improving the productivity and quality of the secondary battery manufacturing process.

[0052] According to exemplary embodiments, the server (1020) may be a data processing system that supports various activities necessary for managing the manufacturing of secondary batteries, such as work schedule management, work instructions, quality control, and work performance aggregation. The server (1020) may be, for example, a Manufacturing Execution System (MES). The server (1020) may be configured to input, process, output, and communicate data necessary for electrode manufacturing, such as a coating process, a press process, and a manufacturing process.

[0053] According to other exemplary embodiments, the server (1020) may be configured to store and process raw measurement data. The server (1020) may continuously monitor the processing of the electrode sheets based on the measurement data, thereby managing the quality of the processing of the electrode sheets. According to exemplary embodiments, the server (1020) may be a Statistical Process Controller (SPC). By collecting and analyzing manufacturing data in near real-time, the server (1020) may promptly identify problem conditions and provide alerts to operators before potential problems occur.

[0054] According to other exemplary embodiments, the server (1020) may be, for example, a data warehouse and may store the roll map for a long period of time based on the quality assurance period of the product, etc.

[0055] According to other exemplary embodiments, the server (1020) may perform all of the functions of MES, SPC, and data warehouse, or may be provided separately from MES, SPC, and data warehouse for role map creation.

[0056]

[0057] The notching equipment (100) may include an unwinder (111), a rewinder (113), a notching device (115), a marking device (117), a first encoder (121), a second encoder (123), an inspector (130), a controller (141), and a controller (143).

[0058] A first electrode roll (ER1) can be loaded onto an unwinder (111). The unwinder (111) can be configured to unwind an electrode sheet (ES) from the first electrode roll (ER1). The rewinder (113) can be configured to wind the electrode sheet (ES) onto a second electrode roll (ER2). Accordingly, the electrode sheet (ES) can be moved between the unwinder (111) and the rewinder (113).

[0059] The electrode sheet (ES) is wound onto a second electrode roll (ER2), and after reaching a predetermined winding length, it can be cut transversely (TD) and separated. The second electrode roll (ER2) separated from the electrode sheet (ES) can be managed as a lot, which is a unit of the production process, as a product for which the coating process has been completed.

[0060] The first encoder (121) may be configured to detect the amount of electrode sheet (ES) unwound from the first electrode roll (ER1) by the unwinder (111). Accordingly, the first encoder (121) may be configured to generate an input amount signal (UWAS) indicating the length of the electrode sheet (ES) unwound by the unwinder (111). The first encoder (121) may be configured to transmit the input amount signal (UWAS) to the controller (141).

[0061] The second encoder (123) may be configured to detect the amount of electrode sheet (ES) wound onto the second electrode roll (ER2) by the rewinder (113). Accordingly, the second encoder (123) may be configured to generate a consumption amount signal (WAS) indicating the length of the electrode sheet (ES) wound by the rewinder (113). The second encoder (123) may be configured to transmit the consumption amount signal (WAS) to the controller (141).

[0062] The electrode sheet (ES) may include a current collector (CL) and an active material layer (AL). The current collector (CL) may not cause chemical changes in the secondary battery ultimately manufactured and may have high conductivity. The surface of the current collector (CL) may include a micro-roughened structure to enhance the adhesion of the active material. The shape of the current collector (CL) may include any one of a film, a sheet, a foil, a net, a porous material, a foam, and a non-woven fabric.

[0063] The current collector (CL) for the positive electrode may include any one of stainless steel, aluminum, nickel, titanium, calcined carbon, and aluminum. The current collector (CL) for the negative electrode may include any one of copper, stainless steel, aluminum, nickel, titanium, calcined carbon, and an aluminum-cadmium alloy.

[0064] The active material layer (AL) may include a positive electrode active material or a negative electrode active material. The positive electrode active material is a material that can cause an electrochemical reaction. The positive electrode active material may be a lithium transition metal oxide. The positive electrode active material may be, for example, a layered compound such as lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2) and lithium nickel oxide (LiNiO2) substituted with one or more transition metals; lithium manganese oxide substituted with one or more transition metals; chemical formula LiNi 1-y M y Lithium nickel oxide expressed as O2 (wherein, M is any one of Co, Mn, Al, Cu, Fe, Mg, B, Cr, Zn, and Ga, and 0.01≤y≤0.7); Li 1+z Ni 1 / 3 Co 1 / 3 Mn 1 / 3 O2, Li 1+zN i 0.4 Mn 0.4 Co 0.2 Li like O2 1+z Ni b Mn c Co 1-(b+c+d) M d O (2-e) A e (wherein, -0.5≤z≤0.5, 0.1≤b≤0.8, 0.1≤c≤0.8, 0≤d≤0.2, 0≤e≤0.2, b+c+d<1, M is any one of Al, Mg, Cr, Ti, Si, and Y, and A is any one of F, P, and Cl) lithium nickel cobalt manganese composite oxide; and chemical formula Li 1+x M 1-y M' y PO 4-z Xz (wherein, M is a transition metal, more specifically, one of Fe, Mn, Co, and Ni, M' is one of Al, Mg, and Ti, X is one of F, S, and N, -0.5≤x≤+0.5, 0≤y≤0.5, and 0≤z≤0.1) and may include one of the olivine-based lithium metal phosphates.

[0065] The negative active material may include carbon, such as non-graphitizable carbon, graphitic carbon, etc. The negative active material may include, for example, Li x Fe2O3(0≤x≤1), LixWO2(0≤x≤1), Sn x Me 1-x Me' y O z (wherein Me is any one of Mn, Fe, Pb and Ge, and Me' is any one of Al, B, P, Si, elements of group 1, 2 and 3 of the periodic table and halogens; 0 <x≤1이고; 1≤y≤3 이며; 1≤z≤8) 등의 금속 복합 산화물을 포함할 수 있다. 음극 활물질은, 예컨대, 리튬 금속; 리튬 합금; 규소계 합금; 및 주석계 합금 중 어느 하나를 포함할 수 있다. 음극 활물질은, 예컨대, SnO, SnO2, PbO, PbO2, Pb2O3, Pb3O4, Sb2O3, Sb2O4, Sb2O5, GeO, GeO2, Bi2O3, Bi2O4및 Bi2O5등의 금속 산화물을 포함할 수 있다. 음극 활물질은, 예컨대, 폴리아세틸렌 등의 도전성 고분자; Li-Co-Ni 계 재료 등을 포함할 수도 있다.

[0066] The notching device (115) may be configured to form an electrode tab (ET) on the uncoated portion of the electrode sheet (ES). The electrode tab (ET) may be formed by partial cutting of the uncoated portion of the electrode sheet (ES). The notching device (115) may be, but is not limited to, a laser notcher. The notching device (115) may also include a mechanical notching means, such as a notching knife.

[0067] The portion of the current collector (CL) to which the active material layer (AL) is applied may be referred to as a maintenance portion, and the portion of the current collector (CL) to which the active material layer (AL) is not applied (i.e., the portion of the current collector (CL) spaced apart from the active material layer (AL)) may be referred to as a non-maintained portion.

[0068] The marking device (117) may be configured to form a data matrix (DM). The data matrix (DM) may be formed on the electrode tab (ET). The marking device (117) may be either a laser printer or an inkjet printer.

[0069] The data matrix (DM) may be, for example, a two-dimensional barcode. The data matrix (DM) may include information about an electrode ID. That is, the electrode ID may be read from the data matrix (DM). The electrode ID may be used to identify the electrode tab (ET). The electrode ID may include symbols indicating the location where the notching device (100) is installed, the time at which the electrode tab (ET) was formed, and the lot number of the electrode roll (ER2).

[0070] Coordinate-related electrode ID data (CID), which is data of the operation of the marking device (117), can be transmitted to the controller (143). The coordinate-related electrode ID data (CID) can include an electrode ID and coordinates matched to the electrode ID.

[0071] The controller (141) may be configured to collect coordinate data (CD) of the electrode sheet (ES) based on a depletion amount signal (WAS) and / or an input amount signal (UWAS) of the electrode sheet (ES). For example, the controller (141) may determine a movement distance of the electrode sheet (ES) based on the depletion amount signal (WAS) of the electrode sheet (ES). Accordingly, the controller (141) may be configured to determine a position within the electrode sheet (ES) of a portion of the electrode sheet (ES) that is wound by the rewinder (113) at each point in time when an event occurs in the electrode sheet (ES).

[0072] As another example, the controller (141) may determine the movement distance of the electrode sheet (ES) based on the input amount signal (UWAS) of the electrode sheet (ES), or may determine the movement distance of the electrode sheet (ES) based on each of the exhaustion amount signal (WAS) and the input amount signal (UWAS). Hereinafter, as a non-limiting example, the technical idea of ​​the present invention is explained with reference to an embodiment in which the controller (141) collects coordinate data (CD) based on the exhaustion amount signal (WAS) of the electrode sheet (ES).

[0073] The coordinate data (CD) may include coordinates matching each portion of the electrode sheet (ES). That is, each arbitrary point on the electrode sheet (ES) may be matched with a corresponding coordinate. The coordinate may be a one-dimensional quantity in the machine direction (MD) of the electrode sheet (ES) (or, the longitudinal direction of the electrode sheet (ES)), but is not limited thereto. The coordinate may also be a two-dimensional quantity in the Y direction of the machine direction (MD) of the electrode sheet (ES) and the transverse direction (TD) of the electrode sheet (ES).

[0074] According to exemplary embodiments, the marking device (117) can operate on coordinate data (CD). According to exemplary embodiments, the marking device (117) can be configured to calibrate coordinates of the coordinate data (CD) based on an offset length of the marking device (117) and form a data matrix (DM) on the electrode tab (ET) based on the calibrated coordinates. Here, the offset length of the marking device (117) can be a length of the electrode sheet (ES) between a portion of the electrode sheet (ES) detected by the second encoder (123) and a portion of the electrode sheet (ES) processed by the marking device (117). The marking device (117) can be configured to transmit data of the operation of the marking device (117) (data of the formation of the data matrix (DM)) to the controller (143).

[0075] The tester (130) may include a Time Delay and Integration (TDI) camera, a Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor (CMOS) image sensor, and a Time of Flight (TOF) sensor. The tester (130) may also include an emitter and a receiver configured to perform measurements using non-destructive signals such as ultrasound, microwaves, terahertz waves, and infrared waves. The tester (130) may also include analog and / or digital sensors such as biosensors, chemical sensors, composition sensors, current and / or power meters, air quality sensors, gas sensors, Hall effect sensors, brightness level sensors, and light sensors. The tester (130) may also include pressure sensors, temperature sensors, ultrasonic sensors, proximity sensors, door status sensors, motion tracking sensors, humidity sensors, visible and infrared sensors, and cameras.

[0076] The tester (130) may be configured to collect quality data (QD). The tester (130) may be configured to transmit the quality data (QD) to the controller (141). The quality data (QD) may include a quality value determined from the inspection data and measurement data of the electrode sheet (ES). The quality value may indicate whether a portion of the electrode sheet (ES) is defective or good.

[0077] The measurement data may include a plurality of measurement values ​​expressed in numbers. For example, the measurement data may include dimensional data of the electrode sheet (ES) such as thickness and width, loading amount data of the coating material on the electrode sheet (ES), dimensional data such as the width of the insulating material provided on the coating material and the overlapping width between the coating material and the insulating material, mismatch data between the maintenance lanes on the upper surface of the electrode sheet (ES) and the maintenance lanes on the lower surface of the electrode sheet (ES), etc. Here, the loading amount represents the amount of the coating material loaded per unit area of ​​the electrode sheet (ES) and may be the areal density of the coating material.

[0078] The measurement data is processed in a set manner so that the quality value of the measured portion of the electrode sheet (ES) can be determined. If the measured amount of the coating material on the electrode sheet (ES) (e.g., the loading amount on the electrode sheet (ES) or the thickness of the electrode sheet (ES)) is within a set range including an upper limit and a lower limit, the corresponding portion of the electrode sheet (ES) can be determined as a good product. If the measured amount of the coating material on the electrode sheet (ES) (e.g., the loading amount on the electrode sheet (ES) or the thickness of the electrode sheet (ES)) is less than the lower limit or greater than the upper limit, the corresponding portion of the electrode sheet (ES) can be determined as a defective product.

[0079] Inspection data may include quality values ​​and process events of portions of the electrode sheet (ES). For example, the inspection data may include data on the appearance of the electrode sheet (ES) collected by an image-based inspection device such as a vision machine, data on open circuits and seams of the electrode sheet (ES), data on portions of the electrode sheet (ES) on which sampling inspection has been performed, data on portions of the electrode sheet (ES) scheduled for scrapping, data on scrapped portions of the electrode sheet (ES), data on the quality of coating materials and insulating materials on the electrode sheet (ES), data on reference points indicating the positions of the electrode sheet (ES), and defect data such as pinhole defects, crater defects, line defects, crack defects, side ring defects, island defects, fold defects, wrinkle defects, dent defects, and imprint defects. The inspection device may be any one of a color sensor, a seam sensor, a reference point sensor, and a vision machine.

[0080] The measurement data and inspection data described above may be time-series data. The measurement data and inspection data may be temporally ordered. Temporal ordering is a key characteristic of time-series data, organizing events in the order in which they occur and arrive for processing. That is, the measurement data and inspection data may be stored based on the time at which the measurement and inspection were performed, and the measurement data and inspection data may be temporally associated. Accordingly, each measurement value of the measurement data may be matched to a time, and each inspection value of the inspection data may be matched to a time.

[0081]

[0082] The controller (141) may be configured to generate coordinate-related quality data (CQD) based on the quality data (QD) and the coordinate data (CD). The coordinate-related quality data (CQD) may include a determination of the quality of a portion of the electrode sheet (ES) and coordinates matching the determination. The controller (141) may be configured to transmit the coordinate-related quality data (CQD) to the controller (143).

[0083] The controller (143) may be configured to control all operating elements of the notching device (100). For example, the controller (143) may be configured to control the unwinder (111), the rewinder (113), the notching device (115), and the marking device (117). The controller (143) may be configured to generate a signal for controlling the notching device (115) and the marking device (117) based on a recipe transmitted from the server (1020).

[0084] The controller (143) may be configured to collect coordinate-associated electrode ID data (CID) based on the operation data of the marking device (117). The coordinate-associated electrode ID data (CID) may also be collected by the controller (141). The controller (143) may be configured to transmit the coordinate-associated electrode ID data (CID) and the coordinate-associated quality data (CQD) to the server (1020). The coordinate-associated electrode ID data (CID) and the coordinate-associated quality data (CQD) may be transmitted to the communication server (1010) via the communication server (1010).

[0085]

[0086] The L&S equipment (200) may include an anode unwinder (211P), a cathode unwinder (211N), and separator unwinders (211S1, 211S2), electrode cutters (213P, 213N), guide rolls (215), a separator cutter (217), a transport device (219), a data matrix reader (230), and a controller (240).

[0087] The L&S equipment (200) may be configured to perform, for example, a lamination and stacking process. As a result of the lamination process, mono cells (MC) may be provided. Each mono cell (MC) may include an anode (EPP), a cathode (EPN), and separators. In the stacking process, the mono cells (MC) and additional half cells may be stacked vertically, thereby providing an electrode assembly.

[0088] Unwinders (211P, 211N, 211S1, 211S2) may be configured to feed roll-shaped materials into the L&S facility (200). More specifically, the unwinder (211P) may be configured to unwind a positive electrode sheet (ESP) from a positive electrode roll (ERP), the unwinder (211N) may be configured to unwind a negative electrode sheet (ESN) from a negative electrode roll (ERN), and the unwinders (211S1, 211S2) may be configured to unwind separator sheets (SS1, SS2) from separator rolls (SR1, SR2).

[0089] The positive electrode roll (ERP) and the negative electrode roll (ERN) can be provided by the notching equipment (100) of Fig. 2. Accordingly, each of the positive electrode tabs (TP) of the positive electrode sheet (ESP) unwound from the positive electrode roll (ERP) can include a data matrix (DM), and each of the negative electrode tabs (TN) of the negative electrode sheet (ESN) unwound from the negative electrode roll (ERN) can include a data matrix (DM).

[0090] The positive electrode cutter (213P) may be configured to cut the positive electrode sheet (ESP). A plurality of positive electrodes (EPP) may be provided by cutting the positive electrode sheet (ESP). The negative electrode cutter (213N) may be configured to cut the negative electrode sheet (ESN). A plurality of negative electrodes (EPN) may be provided by cutting the negative electrode sheet (ESN).

[0091] The controller (240) can control the operation of the positive cutter (213P) and the negative cutter (213N) as described below, and accordingly can be configured to count the cut of the positive sheet (ESP) by the positive cutter (213P) and the cut of the negative sheet (ESN) by the negative cutter (213N).

[0092] The guide rolls (215) may be configured to define a path of the separator sheets (SS1, SS2). The separator sheets (SS1, SS2) may be aligned in parallel by the guide rolls (215). The positive electrodes (EPP) and the negative electrodes (EPN) may be placed on the separator sheets (SS1, SS2). For example, the negative electrodes (EPN) may be placed on the separator sheet (SS2), and the positive electrodes (EPP) may be placed on the separator sheet (SS1). The positive electrodes (EPP) and the negative electrodes (EPN) may be electrically and physically separated by the separator sheet (SS1).

[0093] The separator cutter (217) may be configured to cut the separator sheets (SS1, SS2). Before cutting the separator sheets (SS1, SS2) by the separator cutter (217), the laminated structure of the separator sheets (SS1, SS2), the positive electrodes (EPP), and the negative electrodes (EPN) may be pressed by a nip roll (not shown) or the like. By cutting the separator sheets (SS1, SS2), a mono cell (MC) including the positive electrodes (EPP), the negative electrodes (EPN), and the separators may be provided.

[0094] The transport device (219) may be configured to transport the mono cell (MC) to a subsequent processing facility, such as a stacking facility. The transport device (219) may include, but is not limited to, a gripper configured to grip the mono cell (MC) using vacuum pressure.

[0095] The electrode ID reader (230) may be configured to detect a data matrix (DM). The electrode ID reader (230) may be configured to read out an electrode ID indicated by the data matrix (DM). The electrode ID reader (230) may include, but is not limited to, a bar code reader (BCR), for example. The electrode ID reader (230) may also include an optical character reader (OCR).

[0096] The electrode ID reader (230) may include a camera configured to capture an image including a data matrix (DM) and a processor configured to process the image. The electrode ID reader (230) may be configured to generate an electrode ID detection signal (ISD) based on detection of the data matrix (DM). The electrode ID reader (230) may be configured to transmit the electrode ID detection signal (ISD) to a controller (240).

[0097] The controller (240) may be configured to control elements of the L&S facility (200), such as, for example, unwinders (211P, 211N, 211S1, 211S2), anode cutter (213P), cathode cutter (213N), separator cutter (217), and transport device (219).

[0098] The controller (240) may be configured to receive electrode ID associated quality data (IQD) transmitted from the server (1020) and electrode ID data (ISD) transmitted from the data matrix reader (230). The controller (240) may be configured to generate a signal for controlling the operation of the transport device (219) based on the electrode ID associated quality data (IQD) and electrode ID data (ISD) transmitted from the server (1020).

[0099] The electrode ID associated quality data (IQD) may include an electrode ID and a quality value matched to the electrode ID (more specifically, a quality value of the positive electrode (EPP) and / or negative electrode (EPN)). According to exemplary embodiments, the controller (240) may be configured to determine a failure. The determination of a failure of a mono cell (MC) may be determined based on a comparison of the electrode ID of the electrode ID data (ISD) and the electrode ID of the electrode ID associated quality data (IQD).

[0100] If the electrode ID read from the data matrix (DM) of the anode (EPP) and / or cathode (EPN) matches a defective quality value, the controller (240) may be configured to generate a control signal for ejection of the defective anode (EPP) and / or cathode (EPN). If the electrode ID read from the data matrix (DM) of the anode (EPP) and / or cathode (EPN) matches a defective quality value, the controller (240) may be configured to generate a signal for turning off the vacuum of the transport device (219).

[0101] If the electrode ID read from the data matrix (DM) of the positive electrode (EPP) and / or negative electrode (EPN) matches a defective quality value, the mono cell (MC) may not be transferred to the subsequent process. If the electrode ID read from the data matrix (DM) of the positive electrode (EPP) and / or negative electrode (EPN) matches a defective quality value, the mono cell (MC) may be discharged to the NG box (220).

[0102] The controllers (141, 143, 240) may be, for example, a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC). A PLC is a specialized type of microprocessor-based controller that uses programmable memory to store commands and implement functions such as logic, sequencing, timing, counting, and arithmetic to control machines and processes. PLCs are easy to operate and program. The controller (141) may also be a PLC, but is not limited thereto.

[0103] The communication server (1010) and the server (1020) may be implemented using hardware, firmware, software, or a combination thereof. For example, the communication server (1010) and the server (1020) may include computing devices such as workstation computers, desktop computers, laptop computers, and tablet computers. The communication server (1010) and the server (1020) may also include any of simple controllers, complex processors such as microprocessors, CPUs, and GPUs, processors configured by software, dedicated hardware, and firmware. The communication server (1010) and the server (1020) may be implemented using, for example, general-purpose computers or application-specific hardware such as digital signal processors (DSPs), field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), and application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs).

[0104] The server (1020) may include a physical server or a cloud server. The server (1020) may provide data and analysis results to the operator via various frameworks. The framework may include a protocol supporting data transmission, allowing the display device (1030) to visualize data through a user interface and provide updated visualizations when new data is calculated by the server (1020). The protocol supporting the data transmission may use HTML, JavaScript, and / or JSON.

[0105] The server (1020) may include various Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) for storing data in databases and other data management tools. The APIs may also be used to retrieve data from databases in various data management systems. The data management systems may provide access to the databases, pull data from the databases, retrieve data, and generate metrics. Metrics are tools for visualizing data. Metrics include time-series measurements and can be used for monitoring applications and generating status alerts.

[0106] The secondary battery manufacturing system (10) can implement a plug-in architecture with an API for data acquisition to provide plug-and-play connectivity for sensors, measuring instruments, and testers. This allows resources from a specific process step and site to be easily transferred to other processes and sites, or new resources to be easily introduced to each process step and site.

[0107] In some embodiments, the secondary battery manufacturing system (10) may further include a manual input system that allows an operator to input manufacturing data. The secondary battery manufacturing system (10) may allow for data entry by an operator using an input tool and computer-based input of manufacturing data, such as scraping an Excel file. The manual input system may be, for example, a Human-Machine Interface (HMI) of a Supervisory Control And Data Acquisition (SCADA) system. SCADA may typically include a combination of software and hardware, such as a PLC and a Remote Terminal Unit (RTU). The HMI is a key element of the SCADA system, serving as a screen that supports communication between the operator and the SCADA system. For example, manual input by the HMI may include selecting a defect type and reflecting performance upon completion.

[0108]

[0109] (Example 2)

[0110] FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a method for manufacturing a secondary battery according to exemplary embodiments.

[0111] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 5, a data matrix (DM) can be formed on an electrode tab (ET) of an electrode sheet (ES) at P110. The electrode tab (ET) can be formed by a notching device (115), and the data matrix (DM) can be formed by a marking device.

[0112] Next, the electrode ID and the quality value of the portion of the electrode sheet (ES) can be matched in P120. The matching of the electrode ID and the quality value of the portion of the electrode sheet (ES) can be based on coordinates and can be performed by the server (1020). Quality data (IQD) associated with the electrode ID can be generated by matching the electrode ID and the quality value of the portion of the electrode sheet (ES).

[0113] Next, at P130, the electrode ID can be read out from the data matrix (DM). The data matrix reader (230) can be configured to detect the data matrix (DM) and read out the electrode ID from the data matrix (DM).

[0114] Next, at P140, the quality of the mono cell (MC) can be determined based on the electrode ID. The quality of the mono cell (MC) can be determined by the controller (240). The determination of the quality of the mono cell (MC) can include retrieving a quality value matching the electrode ID of the positive electrode (EPP) of the mono cell (MC) and a quality value matching the electrode ID of the negative electrode (EPN) from the quality data (IQD) associated with the electrode ID.

[0115] If at least one of the electrode IDs of the positive electrode (EPP) and the negative electrode (EPN) of the mono cell (MC) matches a value indicating a defect, the mono cell (MC) may be determined to be defective. If each of the electrode IDs of the positive electrode (EPP) and the negative electrode (EPN) of the mono cell (MC) matches a value indicating a good product, the mono cell (MC) may be determined to be good.

[0116] Next, at P150, the defective mono cell (MC) can be discharged to the NG box (220). For the discharge of the defective mono cell (MC), the controller (240) can be configured to generate a signal to turn off the vacuum of the transport device (219).

[0117]

[0118]

[0119] The present invention has been described in more detail through drawings and examples. However, the configurations described in the drawings or examples described in this specification are merely embodiments of the present invention and do not represent all of the technical ideas of the present invention. Therefore, it should be understood that various equivalents and modified examples may exist as of the time of this application.

Claims

1. A step of reading out an electrode ID from a data matrix of a mono cell including an anode, cathode, and separator; and A step of determining the quality of the mono cell based on the electrode ID, and A method for manufacturing a secondary battery, wherein the electrode ID includes a symbol that identifies the electrode.

2. In paragraph 1, The quality of the above mono cell is determined based on the electrode ID and quality data associated with the electrode ID, and A method for manufacturing a secondary battery, characterized in that the quality data associated with the electrode ID includes an electrode ID and a quality value matched to the electrode ID.

3. In paragraph 2, A method for manufacturing a secondary battery, characterized in that the quality of the mono cell is determined by the quality value matched to the electrode ID.

4. In paragraph 3, A method for manufacturing a secondary battery, further comprising the step of discharging the mono cell if the above quality value indicates a defect.

5. In paragraph 4, A method for manufacturing a secondary battery further comprising the step of generating a signal for turning off the vacuum of a transport device configured to transport the mono cell when the quality value indicates a defect.

6. In paragraph 1, The anode includes a cathode tab, the cathode includes a cathode tab, and A method for manufacturing a secondary battery, wherein the data matrix is ​​located in one of the positive electrode tab and the negative electrode tab.

7. A notching device comprising a notching device configured to form an electrode tab on an electrode sheet, a marking device configured to form a data matrix on the electrode tab, and an inspection device configured to inspect the electrode sheet; and A secondary battery manufacturing system including a server configured to match an electrode ID indicated by the data matrix with a quality value of the electrode sheet determined by the inspector.

8. In paragraph 7, The above notching equipment is configured to collect coordinate-related electrode ID data and coordinate-related quality data, The electrode ID data associated with the above coordinates includes the coordinates of the electrode sheet and the electrode ID matched to the coordinates, and A secondary battery manufacturing system, characterized in that the quality data associated with the above coordinates includes the above coordinates and a quality value matched to the above coordinates.

9. In paragraph 8, A secondary battery manufacturing system, characterized in that the server is configured to match the electrode ID and the quality value based on the coordinate-associated electrode ID data and the coordinate-associated quality data.

10. In paragraph 7, Further comprising an L&S (Lamination and Stacking) facility configured to cut the above electrode sheet to form an electrode including an electrode tab and to form a mono cell using the electrode. A secondary battery manufacturing system, characterized in that the L&S equipment includes an electrode ID reader configured to detect the electrode ID from the data matrix.

11. In paragraph 10, A secondary battery manufacturing system, characterized in that the server is configured to transmit quality data associated with the electrode ID, including the electrode ID and a quality value matched to the electrode ID, to the controller of the L&S facility.

12. In paragraph 11, The above L&S facility further comprises a transport device configured to transport the mono cell, and A secondary battery manufacturing system, characterized in that the controller is configured to generate a signal for controlling the vacuum of the transport device based on quality data associated with the electrode ID.

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