Electrode manufacturing apparatus

Abstract

An electrode manufacturing apparatus of the present invention comprises: a running roller for transporting a coated electrode; and a mold part disposed on a running path of the coated electrode and provided so as to cut a partial area of the coated electrode. The mold part comprises: an upper mold disposed above the coated electrode; and a lower mold disposed below the coated electrode. The upper mold comprises: an upper molding jig provided so as to cut a partial area of the coated electrode; and one or more first balance members connected to the upper molding jig, wherein the upper molding jig is disposed such that the center thereof is biased with respect to the rotation axis-directional center of the running roller.

Description

Electrode manufacturing equipment

[0001] The present invention relates to an electrode manufacturing method and an electrode manufacturing device, and more specifically, to an electrode manufacturing method and an electrode manufacturing device that can flexibly respond to changes in the overall size of a coated electrode when notching an electrode tab.

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0100654, filed July 30, 2024, and Korean Patent Application No. 10-2025-0099392, filed July 23, 2025, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] When manufacturing secondary battery electrodes, a notching process is used to shape the electrodes into the desired shape. This notching process can be broadly divided into two methods: one involves cutting the electrode using a mold, and the other involves cutting it using a laser. The mold-based notching process typically involves pressing the electrode into a mold and then cutting off a portion of the electrode.

[0004] Fig. 1 is a schematic drawing of an electrode notching device according to a conventional technique, and Figs. 2 and 3 are plan views schematically showing an electrode being formed using a general mold.

[0005] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, a typical electrode notching device (50) for forming a typical electrode includes a main mold (10) in which an upper mold (11) and a lower mold (12) are arranged to face each other. A coating electrode (1A) is introduced between the upper mold (11) and the lower mold (12) of the main mold (10). The upper mold (11) and the lower mold (12) are installed so as to be movable in the up-and-down direction (Z-axis direction). During the notching process, the upper mold (11) and the lower mold (12) cut off a portion of the introduced coating electrode (1A).

[0006] In addition, in a general mold device, an upper mold (11) and a lower mold (12) are each provided with an upper molding jig (20) and a lower molding jig (30). The upper molding jig (20) and the lower molding jig (30) perform the function of notching one end and the other end of the coating electrode (1A), respectively. At this time, the upper molding jig (20) includes a first one-side mold (21) for forming one end of the coating electrode in the electric length direction (Y-axis direction) and a first other-side mold (22) for forming the other end. In addition, the lower molding jig (30) also includes a second one-side mold (31) and a second other-side mold (32). That is, the first one-side mold (21) and the second one-side mold (31) can pressurize and notch the upper and lower surfaces of one end of the coating electrode (1A) to form an electrode tab. In addition, the first other-side mold (22) and the second other-side mold (32) can press and notch the upper and lower surfaces of the other-side portion of the coating electrode (1A) to form the shape of the other-side portion of the coating electrode (1A).

[0007] In addition, it is important to minimize the vibration generated during the pressing operation of the coating electrode (1A), and it is especially important to prevent eccentric vibration during the notching process. The eccentric vibration may occur when the center of the main mold (10) and the center of the transport roller (40, also called a driving roller) do not coincide. To this end, the center (C1) of each of the upper mold (11) and the lower mold (12) of the main mold (10) is designed to be coaxial with the center (M) of the rotational axis (S) of the transport roller (40) that transports the coating electrode (1A). That is, the center (C1) of each of the upper mold (11) and the lower mold (12) is positioned so as not to be eccentric with respect to the center (M) of the rotational axis (S) of the transport roller (40).

[0008] Meanwhile, when production of an electrode with a changed electrode length (L) is required in an existing production facility, the position of the tab formed at one end of the electrode in the direction of the electrode length also changes. However, a general mold device (50) has had difficulty in being universally applied to electrodes with various electrode lengths.

[0009] Specifically, when the total length (L2) of the coating electrode (1B) illustrated in FIG. 3 is changed to a smaller size than the total length (L1) of the coating electrode (1A) illustrated in FIG. 2, the position of the step portion (42) formed on the surface of the transfer roller (40) (located at the end in the direction of the rotation axis (S) of the transfer roller) had to be changed, and accordingly, the arrangement and size of the transfer roller (40) had to be changed. Furthermore, according to the changed transfer roller (40), the positions of the centers (C2) of the upper mold (11) and the lower mold (12) of the main mold (10) had to be changed so that they matched the center (M) in the direction of the rotation axis of the transfer roller (40), or if it was difficult to apply only by changing the positions, the main mold (10) had to be newly manufactured.

[0010] Moreover, this repositioning process required changes to the locations of various measuring equipment and marking devices used to measure electrode positions. Consequently, when production of electrodes with altered electrical fields was required, the need for equipment relocation and replacement resulted in reduced equipment availability and increased costs.

[0011] Therefore, a new electrode notching device and method are required that can flexibly and efficiently replace equipment to accommodate changes in the electrode's overall size while ensuring stable notching quality.

[0012] The present invention aims to solve problems occurring in conventional electrode manufacturing processes.

[0013] Specifically, through one embodiment of the present invention, the purpose is to provide an electrode manufacturing method and an electrode manufacturing device that can flexibly respond to a change in the position of an electrode tab according to a change in the electric field of the electrode by adjusting the center position of a mold portion through a balance member.

[0014] Specifically, the present invention provides an electrode manufacturing method and an electrode manufacturing device capable of adjusting the center position of a mold portion by arranging the centers of an upper molding jig and a lower molding jig, which cut a portion of a coating electrode, to be biased relative to the center of the rotational axis of a driving roller, and using a balance member. This aims to significantly improve production efficiency while maintaining electrode quality.

[0015] In addition, the present invention aims to provide an electrode manufacturing method and an electrode manufacturing device that can effectively respond to changes in eccentricity of a mold portion through one embodiment of the present invention.

[0016] In order to achieve the above-described purpose, according to one embodiment of the present invention, a device for manufacturing an electrode for a secondary battery having an electrode tab is provided by notching a coated electrode.

[0017] An electrode manufacturing device according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a traveling roller for transporting a coated electrode and a mold portion arranged on a traveling path of the coated electrode and configured to cut a portion of the coated electrode. The mold portion is configured to perform a notching process, such as cutting a portion of the coated electrode to form an electrode tab on a non-coated portion of the coated electrode.

[0018] Additionally, the mold portion includes an upper mold positioned above the coating electrode and a lower mold positioned below the coating electrode. The lower mold is configured to cut a portion of the coating electrode together with the upper mold.

[0019] Additionally, the upper mold includes an upper molding jig configured to cut a portion of the coating electrode and at least one first balance member connected to the upper molding jig. The first balance member does not perform cutting processing of the coating electrode, and for example, during a notching process, the first balance member is configured not to come into contact with the coating electrode.

[0020] In addition, the upper forming jig is arranged so that its center is offset from the center of the rotational axis direction of the running roller. Specifically, the center (or center of gravity) of the upper forming jig is not arranged coaxially with the center of the rotational axis direction of the running roller, but is arranged so as to be offset to one side along the rotational axis direction of the running roller. In this document, the meaning of being arranged coaxially means that the center of the upper forming jig is located on an imaginary axis (orthogonal to the rotational axis direction of the running roller) that passes through the center of the rotational axis direction of the running roller and is parallel to the running direction of the running roller.

[0021] In addition, the upper mold may be arranged so that its center is arranged coaxially with the center of the rotational axis of the driving roller. The first balance member performs the function of moving the center (or center of gravity) of the upper mold along the electric length direction of the coating electrode (the rotational axis direction of the driving roller). The first balance member may be arranged parallel to the upper molding jig along the electric length direction of the coating electrode.

[0022] Additionally, the first balance member can be detachably mounted on the upper forming jig.

[0023] Additionally, the lower mold may include a lower molding jig configured to cut a portion of the coating electrode and one or more second balance members connected to the lower molding jig.

[0024] Additionally, the lower forming jig can be arranged so that its center is offset from the center of the rotational axis of the driving roller.

[0025] In addition, the lower mold may be arranged so that its center is arranged coaxially with the center of the rotational axis of the driving roller. The second balance member performs the function of moving the center (or center of gravity) of the lower mold along the electric length direction of the coating electrode (the rotational axis direction of the driving roller). The second balance member may be arranged parallel to the lower molding jig along the electric length direction of the coating electrode.

[0026] The upper molding jig and the lower molding jig can be arranged so that their respective centers are biased toward one side where the uncoated portion where the electrode tab of the coating electrode is to be formed is located.

[0027] Additionally, the centers of each of the upper mold and the lower mold can be arranged coaxially.

[0028] Additionally, the second balance member can be detachably mounted on the lower forming jig.

[0029] Additionally, the upper forming jig may include a first one-side mold provided on one side of the coating electrode to form an electrode tab on one end of the coating electrode, and a first other-side mold provided on the other side of the coating electrode to form the other end of the coating electrode.

[0030] Additionally, the lower forming jig may include a second one-sided mold provided on one side of the coating electrode to form an electrode tab on one end of the coating electrode, and a second other-sided mold provided on the other side of the coating electrode to form the other end of the coating electrode.

[0031] In addition, the first and second balance members may each be provided in multiple units. At this time, the plurality of first balance members may be provided so as to be connectable to each other, and the plurality of second balance members may be provided so as to be connectable to each other. In this document, the first and second balance members may have the same shape and weight, and may be used as terms to distinguish between balance members connected to the upper molding jig and the lower molding jig, respectively. In addition, the term “balance member” in this document may also be used to refer to both the first and second balance members.

[0032] Additionally, the upper forming jig and the first balance member may be coupled to each other using a coupling member. Similarly, the lower forming jig and the second balance member may be coupled to each other using a coupling member.

[0033] In addition, the upper mold may include a distance adjusting member provided between the upper molding jig and the first balance member and configured to adjust a gap between the upper molding jig and the first balance member. In addition, the gap between the upper molding jig and the first balance member may be adjusted by the distance adjusting member, and according to the gap, the center of the upper mold may be moved along the electric field direction of the coating electrode.

[0034] In addition, the lower mold may include a distance adjusting member provided between the lower molding jig and the second balance member and configured to adjust a gap between the lower molding jig and the second balance member. By the distance adjusting member, the gap between the lower molding jig and the second balance member may be adjusted, and according to the gap, the center of the lower mold may be moved along the electric field direction of the coating electrode.

[0035] An electrode manufacturing device according to another embodiment of the present invention includes a driving roller for transporting a coating electrode and a mold portion provided on a driving path of the coating electrode and provided to cut a portion of the coating electrode, wherein the mold portion includes an upper mold disposed above the coating electrode and a lower mold disposed below the coating electrode.

[0036] Additionally, the upper mold includes an upper molding jig configured to cut a portion of the coating electrode, and the lower mold includes a lower molding jig configured to cut a portion of the coating electrode together with the upper molding jig.

[0037] In addition, the mold part is arranged so that its center is arranged coaxially with the center of the rotational axis direction of the driving roller, and the center of each of the upper molding jig and the lower molding jig can be arranged to be biased with respect to the center of the rotational axis direction of the driving roller.

[0038] Additionally, the upper molding jig and the lower molding jig can be arranged so that their respective centers are biased toward the direction where the uncoated portion where the electrode tab of the coated electrode is to be formed is located.

[0039] In addition, the upper forming jig may include a first one-sided mold provided on one side of the coating electrode to form an electrode tab on one end of the coating electrode, and a first other-sided mold provided on the other side of the coating electrode to form the other end of the coating electrode. In addition, the lower forming jig may include a second one-sided mold provided on one side of the coating electrode to form an electrode tab on one end of the coating electrode, and a second other-sided mold provided on the other side of the coating electrode to form the other end of the coating electrode.

[0040] Additionally, the mold portion may further include a balance member connected to at least one of the upper molding jig and the lower molding jig.

[0041] Additionally, the balance member can be detachably mounted on at least one of the upper forming jig and the lower forming jig.

[0042] In addition, the first one-sided mold and the second one-sided mold may be arranged at one end of the coating electrode. For example, the first one-sided mold and the second one-sided mold may be aligned with respect to a stepped portion having a relatively sunken surface among the surfaces of the driving rollers facing the coating electrode. The stepped portion may refer to an area in which the diameter of the driving roller changes along the direction of the rotational axis of the driving roller. In addition, the first other-sided mold and the second other-sided mold may be aligned with respect to the other end of the coating electrode.

[0043] The above balance member compensates for the eccentricity of the upper molding jig and the lower molding jig, and performs the function of moving the center of the upper mold and the lower mold.

[0044] The above balance member is provided in multiple pieces, and the multiple balance members can be provided so as to be capable of being combined with each other.

[0045] At least one of the upper forming jig and the lower forming jig and the balance member can be joined to each other using a joining member.

[0046] Additionally, a distance adjusting member may be provided between the balance member connected to at least one of the upper forming jig and the lower forming jig.

[0047] In addition, according to another embodiment of the present invention, a method for manufacturing an electrode for a secondary battery having an electrode tab by notching a coated electrode is provided, and the electrode manufacturing method can be performed using the electrode manufacturing apparatus.

[0048] In addition, a method for manufacturing an electrode according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a transport step of transporting a coated electrode by a running roller, and a notching step of press-forming an electrode using a mold part having an upper mold disposed on an upper portion of the coated electrode and a lower mold disposed on a lower portion of the coated electrode to form an electrode tab on the coated electrode. In addition, the upper mold includes an upper forming jig arranged to cut a portion of the coated electrode, and at least one first balance member connected to the upper forming jig. In addition, the lower mold may include a lower forming jig arranged to cut a portion of the coated electrode, and at least one second balance member connected to the lower forming jig. In addition, the upper forming jig and the lower forming jig are arranged such that their respective centers are biased with respect to a center in the direction of the rotational axis of the running roller. In addition, the centers of each of the upper mold and the lower mold may be arranged on the same axis.

[0049] As described above, the electrode manufacturing device and electrode manufacturing method related to at least one embodiment of the present invention have the following effects.

[0050] It can flexibly respond to changes in the electric field of the coating electrode, and prevent decreases in equipment operating rate and increased costs due to frequent position adjustments of the driving roller or mold section.

[0051] In addition, by combining and arranging the balance members in various ways, the problem of eccentric vibration occurring in the electrode notching process can be solved, and a higher level of dimensional accuracy and productivity can be secured.

[0052] In addition, it can increase the versatility of the equipment by providing flexibility to respond to various eccentricities of the driving roller and mold section.

[0053] Furthermore, the electrode manufacturing device according to one embodiment of the present invention can implement a dynamic eccentricity compensation system capable of responding to changes in the eccentricity of the mold portion by including a distance adjustment member. This allows for flexible response to various variables that may arise during the electrode manufacturing process, ultimately contributing to improved electrode quality and increased productivity.

[0054] Figure 1 is a schematic front view of a mold for forming a general coating electrode.

[0055] Figures 2 and 3 are schematic plan views showing the process of forming a coated electrode using a general mold.

[0056] FIG. 4 is a partial side view schematically showing a part of an electrode assembly including an electrode manufactured by an electrode manufacturing device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0057] FIG. 5 is a side view schematically illustrating a process of forming a coated electrode in an electrode manufacturing device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0058] Fig. 6 is a plan view schematically showing a process of forming a coated electrode in an electrode manufacturing device according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0059] Fig. 7 is a plan view schematically showing a process of forming a coated electrode in an electrode manufacturing device according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] Fig. 8 is a plan view schematically showing a process of forming a coated electrode in an electrode manufacturing device according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0061] Fig. 9 is a plan view schematically showing a process of forming a coated electrode in an electrode manufacturing device according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0062] Fig. 10 is a plan view schematically showing a process of forming a coated electrode in an electrode manufacturing device according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0063] Figure 11 is a flowchart showing steps of an electrode manufacturing method according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0064] Figure 12 is a plan view schematically showing the appearance of a secondary battery manufactured by the electrode manufacturing device and electrode manufacturing method of the present invention.

[0065] Hereinafter, a secondary battery electrode manufacturing device and electrode manufacturing method according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0066] In addition, regardless of the drawing symbol, identical or corresponding components are given identical or similar reference numbers and redundant descriptions thereof are omitted, and for the convenience of explanation, the size and shape of each component depicted may be exaggerated or reduced.

[0067] FIG. 4 is a partial side view schematically showing a part of an electrode assembly (320) including electrodes (321, 323) manufactured by an electrode manufacturing device (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 5 is a side view schematically showing a coating electrode (310) being formed by an electrode manufacturing device (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0068] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, an electrode manufacturing device (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention is a device for manufacturing a secondary battery electrode (321) equipped with an electrode tab (351) by notching a coated electrode (310A).

[0069] Referring to FIG. 4, the electrodes (321, 322) for a secondary battery are a part of an electrode assembly (320) as shown in FIG. 4. Specifically, the electrode assembly (320) may include a positive electrode (321), a negative electrode (322), and a separator (326) interposed between the positive electrode (321) and the negative electrode (322). In this document, the electrodes (321, 322) may be the positive electrode (321) or the negative electrode (322). The secondary battery (300, see FIG. 12) has a positive electrode tab (351) and a negative electrode tab (not shown) provided on each of the positive electrode (321) and the negative electrode (322). In addition, each of the positive electrode tab (351) and the negative electrode tab may be connected to a positive electrode lead (331) and a negative electrode lead (not shown) by welding or the like. In this document, electrode tab may refer to either a positive tab or a negative tab.

[0070] FIG. 6 is a plan view schematically showing a process of forming a coating electrode (310A) in an electrode manufacturing device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0071] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, the electrode manufacturing device (100, 100A) of the present invention includes a driving roller (110) that transports a coated electrode (310A). Here, the coated electrode (310A) refers to a configuration in which an electrode active material is coated on the surface of a current collector. Thereafter, the coated electrode (310A) formed by the electrode manufacturing device (100) of the present invention can be ultimately used as an electrode (321, 322) of an electrode assembly (320).

[0072] The above-described driving roller (110) can continuously transport a sheet-shaped coating electrode (310A). The rotation speed and transport speed of the driving roller (110) can be appropriately set according to the manufacturing conditions of the coating electrode (310A). In addition, as the material of the driving roller (110), rubber or urethane having excellent frictional force with the coating electrode (310A) can be used. The driving roller (110) transports the coating electrode (310A) along a driving direction (F), and the driving direction (F) can be orthogonal to the direction of the rotation axis of the driving roller.

[0073] The electrode manufacturing device (100, 100A) of the present invention includes a mold part (120) for pressing a coated electrode (310A) in a notching process. Specifically, the mold part (120) includes an upper mold (121) and a lower mold (122). The mold part (120) is positioned on a travel path of the coated electrode (310A).

[0074] In addition, the upper mold (121) includes an upper molding jig (123) provided to cut a portion of the coating electrode (310A) and one or more first balance members (130) connected to the upper molding jig (123). The first balance member (130) does not perform cutting processing of the coating electrode (310A), and for example, during a notching process, the first balance member (130) is provided so as not to come into contact with the coating electrode (310A).

[0075] In addition, the lower mold (122) includes a lower molding jig (125) arranged to cut a portion of the coating electrode (310A). At this time, the center (C3) of the upper molding jig (123) and the lower molding jig (125) are arranged to be biased with respect to the center (M) of the rotational axis direction of the driving roller (110). In addition, the lower mold (122) includes one or more second balance members (130a) connected to the lower molding jig (125).

[0076] Here, the center (C3) of each of the upper molding jig (123) and the lower molding jig (125) refers to the center in the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction, full-length direction of the coating electrode, or rotational axis direction of the driving roller) of the mold part (120), which may be the same as the full-length direction of the coating electrode (310A) in which the non-coated portion is formed on both edges. In addition, in this document, the center (C5) of the mold part (120), the center (C3) of the upper molding jig (123) and the lower molding jig (125) may each refer to a center of gravity. In addition, the center of the mold part (120), the center of the upper mold (121), and the center of the lower mold (123) are arranged to coincide, and the center of the mold part (120), the center of the upper mold (121), and the center of the lower mold (123) may each be arranged on the same axis.

[0077] Here, 'biasedly arranged' means that the center (C3) of the upper molding jig (123) and the lower molding jig (125) of the mold part (120) are arranged at a predetermined distance from the center (M) of the rotational axis of the driving roller (110) along the full length direction (Y-axis direction) of the coating electrode (310A) to the formation position of the electrode tab (351).

[0078] In addition, the mold part (120) is configured to form an electrode tab (351) on the coating electrode (310A). Specifically, when the upper mold (121) is lowered to press the coating electrode (310A), the lower mold (122) can support it. The press pressure and speed of the mold part (120) can be set in consideration of the material and thickness of the coating electrode (310A), the desired pattern, etc. Through this configuration, the electrode manufacturing device (100) of the present invention can effectively respond to changes in the electric length of the coating electrode (310A) or the position of the electrode tab (351) by aligning the center (C5) of the mold part (120) with the center (M) of the driving roller (110) through the first and second balance members (130, 130a). Accordingly, it is possible to suppress a decrease in productivity and an increase in cost due to frequent replacement and adjustment of rollers or molds, and is more stable and efficient.

[0079] In addition, the center (C3) of each of the upper molding jig (123) and the lower molding jig (125) may be arranged to be biased toward one side where the non-coated portion (323) on which the electrode tab (351) of the coating electrode (310A) is to be formed is located.

[0080] Specifically, the electrode tab (351) is a protrusion formed at one end of the coating electrode (310A), and its position in the direction of the electric field changes according to the electric field length (L3) of the coating electrode (310A). At this time, even when the center (C3) of the upper molding jig (123) and the lower molding jig (125) and the center of the driving roller (110) that transports the coating electrode (310A) do not coincide, the center of the mold part (120) and the center of the driving roller (110) must be arranged coaxially whenever the position in the direction of the electric field length (Y-axis direction) of the electrode tab (351) changes.

[0081] Therefore, in order to solve the problems of the prior art, the electrode manufacturing device (100, 100A) of the present invention can arrange the center of the mold part (120) coaxially with the center of the driving roller (110) through the first and second balance members (130, 130a) when the center (C3) of the upper molding jig (123) and the lower molding jig (125) are arranged at a position off the center (M) of the driving roller (110), that is, biased toward the non-coated portion (323) where the electrode tab (351) is formed. Therefore, even when the electric length of the coating electrode (310A) is changed, the change in the arrangement of the mold part (120) can be minimized, and the electrode forming process can be performed without changing the position of the existing driving roller (110) or replacing it with a new driving roller.

[0082] Meanwhile, the upper molding jig (123) may include a first one-sided mold (126) and a first other-sided mold (127). In addition, the lower molding jig (125) may include a second one-sided mold (128) and a second other-sided mold (129).

[0083] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, the first one-sided mold (126) and the first other-sided mold (127) provided in the upper mold (121) may be provided spaced apart from each other along the electric length direction (y-axis direction) of the coating electrode (310A). In addition, the second one-sided mold (128) and the second other-sided mold (129) provided in the lower mold (125) may be provided spaced apart from each other along the electric length direction (y-axis direction) of the coating electrode (310A).

[0084] The above-mentioned coating electrode (310A) may have a coating portion and two non-coated portions positioned on each side of the coating portion. The two non-coated portions may be positioned at one end and the other end of the coating electrode (310A) in the electric field direction (Y-axis direction), respectively.

[0085] The first one-sided mold (126) may be placed on one end of the coating electrode (310A) in the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) on which the electrode tab (351) is to be formed so as to form the electrode tab (351). For example, the first one-sided mold (126) may be placed on the uncoated portion (323, also referred to as the first uncoated portion) located on one side of the coating electrode (310A). This is so that the first one-sided mold (126) forms the electrode tab (351) on the uncoated portion (323). To this end, the first one-sided mold (126) may have a mold pattern that matches the shape of the electrode tab (351). For example, it may include a rectangular pattern for forming a rectangular electrode tab (351).

[0086] In addition, the second one-sided mold (128) provided in the lower mold (122) may also be placed on one end of the coating electrode (310A) in the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) where the electrode tab (351) is to be formed so as to form the electrode tab (351). That is, the second one-sided mold (128) may be placed at a position where it can be engaged with the first one-sided mold (126) in the vertical direction.

[0087] In addition, the first other-side mold (127) may be placed on the other end of the coating electrode (310A) to form the other end (the uncoated portion of the other end) in the electric field direction (Y-axis direction) of the coating electrode (310A). This may be used to cut or form the other end of the coating electrode (310) into a desired shape. For example, work such as removing burrs or the like from the end of the other end of the coating electrode (310A) to form it cleanly, or cutting the other end of the coating electrode (31 A 0) into a specific pattern may be performed.

[0088] In addition, the second other-side mold (129) provided on the lower mold (122) may be placed on the other end of the coating electrode (310A) so as to form the other end in the electric length direction (Y-axis direction) of the coating electrode (310A). That is, the second other-side mold (129) may be placed at a position where it can be engaged with the first other-side mold (127) in the vertical direction.

[0089] In addition, the centers (C3, center of the upper molding jig) of the first one-sided mold (126) and the first other-sided mold (127) and the centers (C3, center of the lower molding jig) of the second one-sided mold (128) and the second other-sided mold (129) may be arranged to be offset with respect to the center (M) in the direction of the rotational axis of the driving roller (110). Specifically, the centers of the first one-sided mold (126) and the first other-sided mold (127) belonging to the upper mold (121) and the centers of the second one-sided mold (128) and the second other-sided mold (129) belonging to the lower mold (125) may be offset by the same distance from the center (M) in the direction of the rotational axis of the driving roller (110).

[0090] For example, the first one-sided mold (126) and the second one-sided mold (128) can be aligned with respect to a stepped portion (111) having a relatively sunken surface among the surfaces facing the coating electrode (310A) of the driving roller (110). The first other-sided mold (127) and the second other-sided mold (129) can be aligned with respect to the other end of the coating electrode (310A). Here, the stepped portion (111) has a shape in which the surface of the roller facing the electrode tab (351) is lower than the height of the surface of the roller facing the remaining portion of the coating electrode (310A).

[0091] Specifically, the step portion (111) refers to a boundary of a portion where the thickness of the roller is formed thinner than other portions. For example, the step size of the step portion (111) may be approximately 1 μm to 5 μm. This step portion (111) is arranged on a pass line (P) through which the electrode tab (351) passes, thereby preventing the tab portion from being flipped over during transportation.

[0092] An electrode manufacturing device (100, 100A) related to one embodiment of the present invention may include first and second balance members (130, 130a) to compensate for the eccentricity of the biased upper molding jig (123) and lower molding jig (125).

[0093] The first and second balance members (130, 130a) above serve to align the center of gravity of the mold part (120) with the center (M) of the driving roller (110). For example, the first and second balance members (130, 130a) may be manufactured with the same material and thickness as the mold part (120). Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, the first and second balance members (130, 130a) may be connected to opposite sides of the deflection of the upper molding jig (123) and the lower molding jig (125), respectively (i.e., the side opposite to the direction in which the electrode tabs are formed).

[0094] For example, when the upper molding jig (123) and the lower molding jig (125) are deflected 10 mm apart in the longitudinal direction at positions where the center (M) of the mold portion (120) and the center (M) of the driving roller (110) coincide with each other, that is, at positions where the center (M) of the mold portion (120) and the center (M) of the driving roller (110) are arranged coaxially, the first and second balance members (130, 130a) may be installed to extend 10 mm in the opposite direction of the deflection from the center (M) of the driving roller (110). Accordingly, the eccentric pressing force of the coating electrode (310A) generated by the upper molding jig (123) and the lower molding jig (125) is balanced by the first and second balance members (130, 130a).

[0095] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, the center (C5) of the mold portion (120) to which the first and second balance members (130, 130a) are combined can be arranged coaxially with the center (M) of the rotational axis of the driving roller (110). This allows the horizontal balance of the mold portion (120) to be stably maintained, thereby enabling uniform pressure to be applied to the coating electrode (310A).

[0096] FIG. 7 is a plan view schematically illustrating a process of forming a coating electrode (310B) of an electrode manufacturing device (100B) according to a second embodiment of the present invention. In the following, in each embodiment, the first balance member (130) and the second balance member (130a) may have the same size and structure. In addition, the upper molding jig and the lower molding jig may be arranged so that their respective centers of gravity are symmetrical with respect to the coating electrode. In addition, the upper mold (121) and the lower mold (122) to which the first balance member (130) and the second balance member (130a) are combined may be arranged so that their respective centers of gravity are symmetrical with respect to the coating electrode. For convenience of explanation, only the upper mold (121) and the first balance member (130) may be illustrated in the drawings in each embodiment.

[0097] Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, the total length (L4) of the coating electrode (310B) illustrated in FIG. 7 is formed to be longer than the total length (L3) of the coating electrode (310) illustrated in FIG. 6. Accordingly, compared to the electrode manufacturing device (100A) of FIG. 6, the arrangement of the first one-sided mold (126) and the second one-sided mold (127) is the same along the rotational axis direction of the driving roller (110), but the arrangement of the first other-sided mold (128) and the second other-sided mold (129) may be different.

[0098] In addition, the center (C4) of each of the upper molding jig (123) and the lower molding jig (125) of the electrode manufacturing device (100B) according to the second embodiment of the present invention is arranged to be biased with respect to the center (M) of the rotation axis direction of the driving roller (110). The center (C4) of each of the upper molding jig (123) and the lower molding jig (125) of the electrode manufacturing device (100B) according to the second embodiment of the present invention may be different in position compared to the center (C3) of each of the upper molding jig (123) and the lower molding jig (125) of the electrode manufacturing device (100A) illustrated in FIG. 6 because the arrangement of the first other-side mold (128) and the second other-side mold (129) has been changed.

[0099] In addition, the electrode manufacturing device (100B) of FIG. 7 may have the same arrangement and size of the driving roller (110) as the driving roller (110) of the electrode manufacturing device (100A) of FIG. 6. In this way, compared to conventional electrode manufacturing devices that require changing both the size and position of the driving roller, the present invention can use the existing driving roller (110) as is, thereby having the advantage of reducing equipment costs and installation time.

[0100] In addition, when compared to the electrode manufacturing device (100A) of FIG. 6, the length (R2) of the first balance member (130) illustrated in FIG. 7 in the electric field direction (Y-axis direction) may be shorter than the length (R1) of the first balance member (130) illustrated in FIG. 6. Referring to FIGS. 5 and 7, the protrusion lengths of the first and second balance members (130, 130a) in the electric field direction may be appropriately set according to the amount of eccentricity.

[0101] Figure 8 is a plan view schematically showing the process of forming a coating electrode (310A) of an electrode manufacturing device (100C) according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0102] Compared with the electrode manufacturing device (100A) of FIG. 6, referring to FIGS. 5 and 8, the electrode manufacturing device (100C) according to the third embodiment of the present invention may be provided with a plurality of first and second balance members (130, 130a). In addition, a plurality of first balance members (130) may be provided so as to be connectable to each other, and a plurality of second balance members (not shown) may be provided so as to be connectable to each other.

[0103] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 8, the first and second balance members (130, 130a) may each include a first member (131) and a second member (132). The overall length (R3) of the first member (131) and the second member (132) in the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) may be designed to have a length corresponding to the eccentricity. For example, when the eccentricity of the upper molding jig and the lower molding jig is 20 mm, the length of the first member (131) may be set to 12 mm, and the length of the second member (132) may be set to 8 mm.

[0104] At this time, the first member (131) and the second member (132) can be detachably connected to each other by a method such as a forced fit joint. Through this, the lengths of the first and second members (131, 132) can be flexibly adjusted in accordance with changes in the eccentricity of the upper and lower molding jigs. For example, when the eccentricity is reduced to 12 mm, a compensation structure optimized for the changed eccentricity can be implemented by removing the second member (132) and using only the first member (131).

[0105] Figure 9 is a plan view schematically showing the electrode forming process of an electrode manufacturing device (100D) according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0106] Referring to FIG. 9, in the electrode manufacturing device (100D) according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention, compared to the electrode manufacturing device (100A) of FIG. 6, the upper forming jig (123) and the first balance member (130) can be joined to each other using a joining member (140).

[0107] Specifically, the joining member (140) may be positioned between the upper forming jig (123) and the first balance member (130) to mechanically join them. For example, the joining member (140) may be provided with various fastening elements such as bolts, nuts, and clamps. For example, a bolt hole may be formed on the central axis of each of the upper forming jig (123) and the balance member (130), and a sturdy joining structure may be obtained by inserting the end of a bolt into each bolt hole and fixing it with a nut.

[0108] In addition, the above-described connecting member (140) can also be utilized to adjust the relative position of the upper forming jig (123) and the first balance member (130). Specifically, the present invention can change the relative position of the first balance member (130) with respect to the upper forming jig (123) by changing the insertion position of the bolts penetrating the connecting member (140) into the bolt holes. This makes it possible to finely adjust the eccentricity compensation amount.

[0109] Fig. 10 is a plan view schematically showing the process of forming a coating electrode (310) of an electrode manufacturing device (100E) according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0110] Referring to FIG. 10, an electrode manufacturing device (100E) according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention may include a distance adjusting member (150). Specifically, the distance adjusting member (150) may be provided to adjust the distance between the first balance member (130) and the upper molding jig (123). To this end, the distance adjusting member (150) may be provided between the upper molding jig (123) and the first balance member (130).

[0111] The above distance adjusting member (150) is mounted on one or both of the upper forming jig (123) and the first balance member (130) to change the distance between them. To this end, the distance adjusting member (150) may include various driving elements such as a motor, cylinder, or actuator.

[0112] For example, a linear actuator may be mounted as a distance adjusting member (150) and controlled to move the first balance member (130) forward or backward in the full-length direction (Y-axis direction) of the coating electrode (310A). At this time, by controlling the displacement of the linear actuator, the eccentricity compensation amount can be continuously varied.

[0113] Figure 11 is a flowchart showing the steps of an electrode manufacturing method (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0114] Referring to FIGS. 4 to 11, the electrode manufacturing method (200) according to the present embodiment is a method of manufacturing a secondary battery electrode (321) equipped with an electrode tab (351) by notching a coated electrode (310A, 310B).

[0115] Specifically, the electrode manufacturing method (200) according to the present embodiment largely includes a transfer step (M10) and a notching step (M20).

[0116] First, in the transport step (M10), the coating electrode (310A) is transported by the driving roller (110). The coating electrode (310A) may be provided in a roll form or a sheet form. The driving roller (110) can continuously transport the coating electrode (310A). The transport speed can be adjusted according to the subsequent process.

[0117] Next, in the notching step (M20), the coating electrode (310) is pressed using the mold part (120) whose eccentricity is controlled by the first and second balance members (130, 130a). As described above, the biased arrangement of the upper molding jig (123) and the lower molding jig (125) can maintain the arrangement of the driving roller (110) even if the position of the electrode tab (351) changes due to a change in the electrode length of the coating electrode (310).

[0118] The mold part (120) used in the notching step (M20) includes an upper mold (121) and a lower mold (122). The center (C3) of each of the upper molding jig (123) and the lower molding jig (125) is arranged to be biased with respect to the center (M) of the rotation axis direction of the driving roller (110).

[0119] In addition, the electrode tab (351) of the coating electrode (310) of the center (C3) of the upper molding jig (123) and the lower molding jig (125) of the present invention can be arranged to be biased toward one side where the non-coated portion (323) to be formed is located.

[0120] Additionally, the upper forming jig (123) may include a first one-sided mold (126) and a first other-sided mold (127). Additionally, the lower forming jig (125) may include a second one-sided mold (128) and a second other-sided mold (129).

[0121] In addition, the centers (C3) of the first one-sided mold (126) and the first other-sided mold (127) and the centers (C3) of the second one-sided mold (128) and the second other-sided mold (129) can be arranged to be biased with respect to the center (M) of the rotational axis direction of the driving roller.

[0122] In addition, the first one-sided mold (126) and the second one-sided mold (128) can be aligned with respect to a step portion (111) having a relatively sunken surface among the surfaces facing the coating electrode (310A) of the driving roller (110). The first other-sided mold (127) and the second other-sided mold (129) can be aligned with respect to the other end of the coating electrode (310A).

[0123] As described above, the first and second balance members (130, 130a) can be combined to compensate for the eccentricity of the upper forming jig (123) and the lower forming jig (125). The lengths (R1, R2, R3) of the first and second balance members (130, 130a) can be determined according to the amount of eccentricity.

[0124] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, the center (C5) of the mold portion (120) to which the first and second balance members (130, 130a) are combined is arranged coaxially with the center (M) of the rotational axis of the driving roller (110).

[0125] Additionally, the first and second balance members (130, 130a) may be provided in multiple numbers. The first and second balance members (131, 132) may be provided so as to be connectable to each other.

[0126] As shown in Fig. 9, the upper forming jig (123) and the balance member (130) can be joined to each other using a joining member (140). In addition, the lower forming jig (125) and the balance member (130) can be joined to each other using a joining member (140).

[0127] As in Fig. 10, a distance adjusting member (150) may be provided between at least one of the upper forming jig (123) and the lower forming jig (125) and the balance member (130).

[0128] Figure 12 is a plan view schematically showing the appearance of a secondary battery (300) manufactured by the electrode manufacturing device (100) and electrode manufacturing method of the present invention.

[0129] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 12, the secondary battery (300) includes an electrode assembly (320), an electrolyte (not shown), and a pouch case (360) having a receiving portion (362) in which the electrode assembly (320) is accommodated. In addition, the secondary battery (300) includes an electrode lead portion (330) that is electrically connected to the electrode assembly (320) and serves as an external terminal. Here, the lead portion (330) may include a positive electrode lead (331) and a negative electrode lead (333). The lead portion (330) may be provided with a protective film (340) for electrical insulation between the lead and the pouch case (360).

[0130] The above electrode assembly (320) includes an electrode (321) manufactured by the electrode manufacturing device (100) and electrode manufacturing method (200) of the present invention.

[0131] The preferred embodiments of the present invention described above are disclosed for the purpose of illustration, and those skilled in the art having ordinary knowledge of the present invention will be able to make various modifications, changes, and additions within the spirit and scope of the present invention, and such modifications, changes, and additions should be considered to fall within the scope of the following claims.

[0132] According to the electrode manufacturing method and electrode manufacturing device related to at least one embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to flexibly respond to changes in the overall size of the coated electrode when notching the electrode tab.

Claims

1. A driving roller for transporting the coating electrode; and It is disposed on the driving path of the coating electrode and includes a mold portion designed to cut a portion of the coating electrode, The above mold part includes an upper mold placed above the coating electrode and a lower mold placed below the coating electrode, The upper mold includes an upper molding jig arranged to cut a portion of the coating electrode and at least one first balance member connected to the upper molding jig, The above upper forming jig is an electrode manufacturing device in which the center is arranged to be oriented relative to the center of the rotational axis of the above driving roller.

2. In paragraph 1, An electrode manufacturing device in which the upper mold is arranged so that its center is coaxial with the center of the rotational axis of the driving roller.

3. In paragraph 1, An electrode manufacturing device in which the first balance member is detachably mounted on the upper forming jig.

4. In paragraph 1, The lower mold includes a lower molding jig arranged to cut a portion of the coating electrode and at least one second balance member connected to the lower molding jig, The above lower forming jig is an electrode manufacturing device in which the center is arranged to be oriented relative to the center of the rotational axis of the above driving roller.

5. In paragraph 4, An electrode manufacturing device in which the lower mold is arranged so that its center is coaxial with the center of the rotational axis of the driving roller.

6. In paragraph 4, An electrode manufacturing device in which the second balance member is detachably mounted on the lower forming jig.

7. In paragraph 4, The upper forming jig includes a first one-sided mold provided on one side of the coating electrode to form an electrode tab on one end of the coating electrode, and a first other-sided mold provided on the other side of the coating electrode to form the other end of the coating electrode. An electrode manufacturing device comprising a second one-sided mold provided on one side of the coating electrode to form an electrode tab on one end of the coating electrode and a second other-sided mold provided on the other side of the coating electrode to form the other end of the coating electrode.

8. In paragraph 4, The first and second balance members are each provided in multiples, The above plurality of first balance members are provided so as to be connectable to each other, An electrode manufacturing device in which the plurality of second balance members are arranged to be mutually connectable.

9. In paragraph 1, An electrode manufacturing device in which the upper forming jig and the first balance member are joined to each other using a joining member.

10. In paragraph 1, An electrode manufacturing device further comprising a distance adjusting member provided between the upper forming jig and the first balance member and configured to adjust the gap between the upper forming jig and the first balance member.

11. A driving roller for transporting the coating electrode; and It includes a mold part provided on the driving path of the coating electrode and provided to cut a portion of the coating electrode, The above mold part includes an upper mold placed above the coating electrode and a lower mold placed below the coating electrode, The upper mold includes an upper molding jig arranged to cut a portion of the coating electrode, and the lower mold includes a lower molding jig arranged to cut a portion of the coating electrode together with the upper molding jig. The above mold part is arranged so that its center is coaxial with the center of the rotational axis of the driving roller, An electrode manufacturing device in which the center of each of the upper molding jig and the lower molding jig is arranged to be biased with respect to the center of the rotational axis direction of the driving roller.

12. In paragraph 11, An electrode manufacturing device in which the upper molding jig and the lower molding jig are each arranged so that their centers are biased toward the direction where the non-coated portion where the electrode tab of the coated electrode is to be formed is located.

13. In paragraph 11, The upper forming jig includes a first one-sided mold provided on one side of the coating electrode to form an electrode tab on one end of the coating electrode, and a first other-sided mold provided on the other side of the coating electrode to form the other end of the coating electrode. An electrode manufacturing device comprising a second one-sided mold provided on one side of the coating electrode to form an electrode tab on one end of the coating electrode and a second other-sided mold provided on the other side of the coating electrode to form the other end of the coating electrode.

14. In paragraph 11, An electrode manufacturing device wherein the mold part further includes a balance member connected to at least one molding jig among an upper molding jig and a lower molding jig.

15. In paragraph 14, An electrode manufacturing device in which the above balance member is detachably mounted on at least one of an upper molding jig and a lower molding jig.

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