Electrode manufacturing apparatus and electrode manufacturing method

Abstract

The present invention provides an electrode manufacturing apparatus (10) comprising: a laser irradiation part (100) which irradiates a laser at a predetermined point (P) of a first sheet part (52) on one side in the width direction of an electrode sheet (50) which is conveyed in a conveying direction and extends in the longitudinal direction parallel to the conveying direction; a first support roller (200) which is disposed adjacent to the predetermined point (P), supports the first sheet part (52), and is rotatably installed; and a first cleaning roller (510) which is in contact with the first support roller (200) and is rotatably installed.

Description

Electrode manufacturing apparatus and electrode manufacturing method

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority based on Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0198698 filed on December 27, 2024, and all contents disclosed in the document of said Korean patent application are incorporated herein as part of this specification.

[0002] The present invention relates to an electrode manufacturing apparatus and an electrode manufacturing method, and more specifically, to an electrode manufacturing apparatus and an electrode manufacturing method that prevent or reduce laser processing defects, electrode sheet damage and contamination, and the resulting low voltage defects of a battery cell.

[0003] Generally, a secondary battery is completed by manufacturing an electrode by applying an electrode mixture, comprising an electrode active material, a conductive agent, a binder, etc., onto a sheet-type electrode current collector and drying it, then laminating the manufactured electrode together with a separator, and finally embedding and sealing it in a battery case along with an electrolyte.

[0004] Here, the electrode is manufactured by forming an electrode tab by laser notching the uncoated portion of an electrode sheet, which includes a retaining portion coated with an electrode active material and an uncoated portion not coated with an electrode active material, and then cutting the electrode sheet to a predetermined length.

[0005] However, when an electrode sheet is notched with a laser, foreign substances such as fumes are generated. These foreign substances accumulate or adhere to the pattern jig, causing problems such as laser notching defects, damage and contamination of the electrode sheet, and low voltage failure of the battery cell. Therefore, the pattern jig must be cleaned or replaced periodically. Here, the pattern jig is used to apply tension to the electrode sheet around the notching point to maintain the position of the notching point constant.

[0006] However, periodically cleaning or replacing the pattern jig is not only cumbersome but also requires stopping the laser notching process, which increases electrode manufacturing costs and maintenance costs of the electrode manufacturing device and reduces electrode productivity. Therefore, an electrode manufacturing device and an electrode manufacturing method capable of solving these problems are required.

[0007] A related prior art document is Korean Registered Patent No. 10-2245162.

[0008] The present invention has been devised to solve the aforementioned problems and aims to provide an electrode manufacturing apparatus and an electrode manufacturing method that prevent or reduce the accumulation or adhesion of foreign matter to the support means of an electrode sheet.

[0009] The present invention aims to provide an electrode manufacturing apparatus and an electrode manufacturing method that prevent or reduce laser processing defects, electrode sheet damage and contamination, and the resulting low voltage defects of a battery cell.

[0010] The present invention aims to provide an electrode manufacturing device and an electrode manufacturing method that reduce the cost of manufacturing the electrode and the maintenance cost of the electrode manufacturing device (10), and improve the productivity of the electrode.

[0011] The present invention aims to provide an electrode manufacturing device and an electrode manufacturing method that can secure extra space and reduce the maintenance cost of the electrode manufacturing device (10).

[0012] The present invention aims to provide an electrode manufacturing apparatus and an electrode manufacturing method implemented with a simple configuration at low cost.

[0013] The present invention aims to provide an electrode manufacturing apparatus and an electrode manufacturing method in which the cleaning effect is improved and foreign matter is effectively removed.

[0014] The technical problems of the present invention are not limited to the purposes mentioned above, and other unmentioned purposes and advantages of the present invention may be understood from the following description and will be more clearly understood by the embodiments of the present invention. Furthermore, it will be readily apparent that the purposes and advantages of the present invention can be realized by the means and combinations thereof set forth in the claims.

[0015] To solve the above-mentioned problem, the present invention provides an electrode manufacturing device (10) comprising a laser irradiation unit (100), a first support roller (200), and a first cleaning roller (510).

[0016] The above laser irradiation unit (100) can irradiate a laser at a predetermined point (P) of the first sheet unit (52) on one side in the width direction of the electrode sheet (50).

[0017] The above electrode sheet (50) can be transported in the transport direction.

[0018] The electrode sheet (50) can be extended along a longitudinal direction parallel to the transport direction.

[0019] The first support roller (200) can be positioned adjacent to the predetermined point (P).

[0020] The first support roller (200) can support the first seat portion (52).

[0021] The first support roller (200) can be installed to be rotatable.

[0022] The first cleaning roller (510) can come into contact with the first support roller (200).

[0023] The first cleaning roller (510) can be installed to be rotatable.

[0024] In one embodiment, the first cleaning roller (510) may include a first body (512) and one or more first brush bristles (514).

[0025] The first main body (512) can be installed so as to be rotatable.

[0026] One or more first brush bristles (514) may be formed to protrude outwardly from the outer surface of the first body (512).

[0027] One or more of the first brush bristles (514) can come into contact with the first support roller (200) as the first main body (512) rotates.

[0028] In one embodiment, the electrode manufacturing device (10) may further include a first driving unit.

[0029] The first driving unit can rotate the first cleaning roller (510).

[0030] In one embodiment, the first linear velocity (V1) of the first cleaning roller (510) at a first point located at the shortest distance (D) from the rotation center of the first cleaning roller (510) to the outer surface of the first support roller (200) may be different from the second linear velocity (V2) of the first support roller (200) at the first point.

[0031] In one embodiment, the magnitude of the first linear velocity (V1) may be greater than the magnitude of the second linear velocity (V2).

[0032] In one embodiment, the rotational direction of the first cleaning roller (510) may be opposite to the rotational direction of the first support roller (200).

[0033] In one embodiment, the rotational direction of the first cleaning roller (510) may correspond to the rotational direction of the first support roller (200).

[0034] In one embodiment, the extension direction of the rotational center axis of the first support roller (200) and the first cleaning roller (510) may be parallel to the width direction.

[0035] In one embodiment, the electrode manufacturing device (10) may further include a first injection unit (610).

[0036] The first injection unit (610) can inject air onto the first cleaning roller (510).

[0037] In one embodiment, the electrode sheet (50) and the first support roller (200) may be positioned on one side of the first cleaning roller (510) in the thickness direction of the electrode sheet (50).

[0038] The first injection unit (610) can inject air onto the other side of the first cleaning roller (510) in the thickness direction.

[0039] In one embodiment, the electrode manufacturing device (10) may further include a first suction part (710).

[0040] The first suction part (710) may be positioned adjacent to the first cleaning roller (510).

[0041] The first suction part (710) above can suck in foreign matter.

[0042] In one embodiment, the electrode manufacturing device (10) may further include a first suction part (710).

[0043] The first suction part (710) may be positioned adjacent to the first cleaning roller (510).

[0044] The first suction part (710) above can suck in foreign matter.

[0045] The first cleaning roller (510) can be positioned between the first spraying part (610) and the first suction part (710).

[0046] The first injection part (610) and the first suction part (710) can face each other.

[0047] In one embodiment, the electrode manufacturing device (10) may further include a second support roller (300).

[0048] The second support roller (300) can be positioned adjacent to the predetermined point (P).

[0049] The second support roller (300) may be arranged to face each other at a predetermined distance from the first support roller (200).

[0050] The second support roller (300) can support the first seat portion (52).

[0051] The second support roller (300) can be installed to be rotatable.

[0052] The predetermined point (P) may be located between the first support roller (200) and the second support roller (300) in the above transfer direction.

[0053] The second support roller (300) may come into contact with the second cleaning roller (520) which is rotatably installed, or with the first cleaning roller (510).

[0054] In one embodiment, the second support roller (300) may come into contact with the second cleaning roller (520).

[0055] In one embodiment, the first cleaning roller (510) and the second cleaning roller (520) may be spaced apart from each other.

[0056] In one embodiment, the electrode manufacturing device (10) may further include a first injection unit (610) and a second injection unit (620).

[0057] The first injection unit (610) can inject air onto the first cleaning roller (510).

[0058] The second injection unit (620) can inject air into the second cleaning roller (520).

[0059] In one embodiment, the first support roller (200) and the first cleaning roller (510) may each be positioned on one side of the conveying direction than the second support roller (300) and the second cleaning roller (520).

[0060] The above electrode manufacturing device (10) may further include a second suction part (720).

[0061] The second suction part (720) may be positioned to face at least the space between the first cleaning roller (510) and the second cleaning roller (520) in the width direction.

[0062] The above second suction part (720) can suck in foreign matter.

[0063] In one embodiment, the electrode manufacturing device (10) may further include a first injection unit (610) and a second injection unit (620).

[0064] The first injection unit (610) can inject air onto the first cleaning roller (510).

[0065] The second injection unit (620) can inject air into the second cleaning roller (520).

[0066] The first injection unit (610) above may be positioned to inject air from one side of the conveying direction to the other.

[0067] The second injection unit (620) above may be positioned to inject air from one side to the other side of the conveying direction.

[0068] In one embodiment, the electrode manufacturing device (10) may further include a third support roller (400).

[0069] The third support roller (400) can support the second sheet portion (54) on the other side in the width direction of the electrode sheet (50).

[0070] The third support roller (400) can be installed to be rotatable.

[0071] The third support roller (400) may be adjacent to and face the first support roller (200) and the first cleaning roller (510) in the width direction.

[0072] In one embodiment, the electrode manufacturing device (10) may further include a third support roller (400).

[0073] The third support roller (400) can be installed to support the second sheet portion (54) on the other side of the width direction of the electrode sheet (50) and to be rotatable.

[0074] The third support roller (400) may be adjacent to and face the first support roller (200), the first cleaning roller (510), the second support roller (300), and the second cleaning roller (520) in the width direction.

[0075] In addition, to solve the above-mentioned problem, the present invention provides an electrode manufacturing method (S900) including a laser processing process (S910).

[0076] In the above laser processing process (S910), the laser irradiation unit (100) can irradiate a laser at the predetermined point (P) of the electrode sheet (50) being transported in the above transport direction.

[0077] In the above laser processing process (S910), the first support roller (200) can generate tension on the first sheet portion (52) around the predetermined point (P) and rotate when the electrode sheet (50) is transported.

[0078] In addition, the first cleaning roller (510) can remove foreign matter from the outer surface of the first support roller (200) while rotating.

[0079] In one embodiment, the electrode manufacturing device (10) may further include a first injection unit (610).

[0080] The first injection unit (610) can inject air onto the first cleaning roller (510).

[0081] In the above laser processing process (S910), the first spraying unit (610) can spray air onto the first cleaning roller (510).

[0082] In one embodiment, during the laser processing process (S910), the suction part can suck in foreign matter.

[0083] The above suction part may be positioned adjacent to the first cleaning roller (510).

[0084] According to embodiments of the present invention, since a support means (first support roller (200)) that generates tension on an electrode sheet (50) for laser processing rotates and is cleaned by a first cleaning roller (510), even if the support means is positioned adjacent to a laser processing point (P), foreign matter such as fumes generated by laser processing can be prevented or reduced from accumulating or adhering to the support means. Accordingly, laser processing defects, damage and contamination of the electrode sheet (50), and low voltage defects of the battery cell caused therefrom can be prevented or reduced.

[0085] In particular, since the first cleaning roller (510) rotates, foreign matter attached to the first cleaning roller (510) can be removed from the first cleaning roller (510). Accordingly, contamination of the first support roller (200) by the first cleaning roller (510) can be prevented or reduced. Therefore, the first support roller (200) can be effectively cleaned, and foreign matter accumulation or adhesion to the first support roller (200) can be prevented or reduced.

[0086] In addition, since there is no need to stop the laser processing process for cleaning the support means (first support roller (200)), the cost of manufacturing the electrode and the maintenance cost of the electrode manufacturing device (10) can be reduced and the productivity of the electrode can be improved.

[0087] In addition, there is no need to install conventional equipment for cleaning the support means (first support roller (200)) while laser processing is being performed. Here, the conventional equipment may be a first piece of equipment for exchanging two support means located at a first position and a second position, and a second piece of equipment for cleaning the support means at the second position while laser processing the electrode sheet (50) using the support means at the first position. Accordingly, extra space can be secured and maintenance costs of the electrode manufacturing device (10) can be reduced.

[0088] According to embodiments of the present invention, the first cleaning roller (510) can be implemented with a simple configuration at a low cost.

[0089] According to embodiments of the present invention, the rotational speed of the first cleaning roller (510) can be appropriately adjusted. Accordingly, foreign matter adhering to the first support roller (200) can be effectively removed. In addition, foreign matter adhering to the first cleaning roller (510) can be effectively detached from the first cleaning roller (510).

[0090] In addition, the degree to which the first support roller (200) promotes or inhibits rotation by friction with the first cleaning roller (510) can be appropriately adjusted.

[0091] According to embodiments of the present invention, foreign matter adhering to the first support roller (200) and the first cleaning roller (510) can be effectively removed.

[0092] According to embodiments of the present invention, since the first support roller (200) may not be excessively restricted from rotating by the first cleaning roller (510), laser processing defects may be prevented or reduced.

[0093] According to embodiments of the present invention, the first support roller (200) may not be excessively rotated by the first cleaning roller (510), thereby preventing or reducing laser processing defects.

[0094] According to embodiments of the present invention, the first support roller (200) and the first cleaning roller (510) can be simply implemented.

[0095] According to embodiments of the present invention, the first cleaning roller (510) and the first support roller (200) can be effectively cleaned with a simple, low-cost configuration, and foreign matter can be prevented or reduced from accumulating or sticking to the first support roller (200).

[0096] According to embodiments of the present invention, foreign matter detached from the first cleaning roller (510) by the first spraying unit (610) can be prevented or reduced from moving to the electrode sheet (50) and the first support roller (200). In addition, laser processing defects caused by the air sprayed from the first spraying unit (610) can be prevented.

[0097] According to embodiments of the present invention, the first cleaning roller (510) can be effectively cleaned and foreign matter can be effectively removed.

[0098] According to embodiments of the present invention, even if two support means (first and second support rollers (200, 300)) supporting both sides of the transfer direction of the laser processing point (P) are positioned adjacent to the laser processing point (P), foreign matter such as fumes generated by laser processing can be prevented or reduced from accumulating or adhering to the two support means. Accordingly, laser processing defects, damage and contamination of the electrode sheet (50), and low voltage defects of the battery cell caused therefrom can be prevented or reduced.

[0099] In embodiments of the present invention, the first and second support rollers (200, 300) are individually cleaned by the first and second cleaning rollers (510, 520), so the cleaning effect can be improved.

[0100] According to embodiments of the present invention, the cleaning roller can be miniaturized and extra space can be secured.

[0101] According to embodiments of the present invention, the first and second cleaning rollers (510, 520) and the first and second support rollers (200, 300) can be effectively cleaned with a simple, low-cost configuration, and foreign matter can be prevented or reduced from accumulating or sticking to the first and second support rollers (200, 300).

[0102] According to embodiments of the present invention, foreign matter on the first and second cleaning rollers (510, 520) can be effectively removed with a simple configuration at low cost.

[0103] According to embodiments of the present invention, the first and second cleaning rollers (510, 520) and the first and second support rollers (200, 300) can be effectively cleaned and foreign matter effectively removed with a simple configuration at low cost.

[0104] According to embodiments of the present invention, the movement of foreign matter is restricted in the width direction, so contamination of the electrode sheet (50) can be prevented or reduced.

[0105] In addition to the effects described above, the specific effects of the present invention are described together with the specific details for implementing the invention below.

[0106] FIGS. 1 and FIGS. 2 are perspective views of an electrode manufacturing apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0107] FIGS. 3 and FIGS. 4 are perspective views showing the state in which the second suction part is removed from the electrode manufacturing device of FIGS. 1 and FIGS. 2.

[0108] FIGS. 5 and FIGS. 6 are rear and side views of the electrode manufacturing apparatus of FIGS. 1 and FIGS. 2.

[0109] Figure 7 is an enlarged view of a part of Figure 6.

[0110] FIG. 8 is a flowchart of an electrode manufacturing method according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0111] [Explanation of the symbol]

[0112] 10: Electrode manufacturing device

[0113] 50: Electrode sheet P: Specified point

[0114] 52: 1st sheet section 54: 2nd sheet section

[0115] 100: Laser irradiation unit

[0116] 200: 1st support roller 300: 2nd support roller

[0117] 400: Third support roller

[0118] 510: 1st cleaning roller

[0119] 512: First main body 514: First brush head

[0120] 520: 2nd cleaning roller

[0121] 522: Second main body 524: Second brush head

[0122] D: Shortest distance V1: First linear velocity

[0123] R: Radius V2: Secondary velocity

[0124] 610: 1st part 620: 2nd part

[0125] 710: 1st suction part 720: 2nd suction part

[0126] 800: Brush section

[0127] The aforementioned objectives, features, and advantages are described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings, thereby enabling those skilled in the art to easily implement the technical concept of the present invention. In describing the present invention, detailed descriptions of known technologies related to the present invention are omitted if it is determined that such descriptions would unnecessarily obscure the essence of the invention. Hereinafter, preferred embodiments according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. In the drawings, the same reference numerals are used to indicate the same or similar components.

[0128] Although terms such as "first," "second," etc., are used to describe various components, it goes without saying that these components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used merely to distinguish one component from another, and unless specifically stated otherwise, the first component may also be the second component.

[0129] Throughout the specification, unless specifically stated otherwise, each component may be singular or plural.

[0130] In the following, the statement that any configuration is placed on the "upper (or lower)" of a component or on the "upper (or lower)" of a component may mean not only that any configuration is placed in contact with the upper (or lower) surface of said component, but also that another configuration may be interposed between said component and any configuration placed on (or below) said component.

[0131] In addition, where it is stated that one component is "connected," "combined," or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that while the components may be directly connected or connected to each other, another component may be "interposed" between each component, or each component may be "connected," "combined," or "connected" through another component.

[0132] Singular expressions used in this specification include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this application, terms such as "composed of" or "comprising" should not be interpreted as necessarily including all of the various components or steps described in the specification, and should be interpreted as meaning that some of the components or steps may be omitted or additional components or steps may be included.

[0133] FIGS. 1 and 2 are perspective views of an electrode manufacturing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIGS. 3 and 4 are perspective views showing the state in which the second suction part is removed from the electrode manufacturing apparatus of FIGS. 1 and 2. FIGS. 5 and 6 are rear and side views, respectively, of the electrode manufacturing apparatus of FIGS. 1 and 2. FIGS. 7 is an enlarged view of a part of FIGS. 6. FIGS. 8 is a flowchart of an electrode manufacturing method according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0134] [Electrode manufacturing device]

[0135] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 7, an electrode manufacturing device (10) according to one embodiment may include a laser irradiation unit (100), a first support roller (200), and a first cleaning roller (510). The electrode manufacturing device (10) may further include a second support roller (300) and a second cleaning roller (520). The electrode manufacturing device (10) may further include one or more of a third support roller (400), a first driving unit (not shown), a second driving unit (not shown), a first spraying unit (610), a second spraying unit (620), a first suction unit (710), a second suction unit (720), and a brush unit (800).

[0136] The laser irradiation unit (100) can irradiate a laser at a predetermined point (P) of the first sheet portion (52) on one side (e.g., right side) of the width direction (e.g., left-right direction) of the electrode sheet (50) (Fig. 3). Here, the electrode sheet (50) can be transported in a transport direction (e.g., up-down direction). The electrode sheet (50) can be formed to extend along a length direction parallel to the transport direction. Also, here, the first sheet portion (52) may be an uncoated portion where the electrode active material is not coated on the electrode foil.

[0137] [Support Roller]

[0138] The first support roller (200) may be positioned adjacent to a predetermined point (P) of the electrode sheet (50). The first support roller (200) may support the first sheet portion (52). The first support roller (200) may be installed to be rotatable. The first support roller (200) may generate tension on the first sheet portion (52).

[0139] In the thickness direction (e.g., front and rear direction) of the electrode sheet (50), the first support roller (200) and the electrode sheet (50) may be positioned on one side (e.g., front side) of the first cleaning roller (510) described later. The first support roller (200) may come into contact with the first cleaning roller (510) described later.

[0140] The first support roller (200) can free-wheel. The first support roller (200) can rotate by friction with the conveyed electrode sheet (50) and / or the rotating first cleaning roller (510). The first support roller (200) can be promoted or inhibited from rotating by the electrode sheet (50) or the first cleaning roller (510).

[0141] Meanwhile, the first support roller (200) may also be rotated by a separate drive unit.

[0142] The extension direction of the rotational center axis of the first support roller (200) can be parallel to the width direction of the electrode sheet (50).

[0143] The second support roller (300) may be positioned adjacent to a predetermined point (P). The second support roller (300) may be positioned to face each other (e.g., in the conveying direction) at a predetermined distance from the first support roller (200). The second support roller (300) may support the first seat portion (52). The second support roller (300) may be installed to be rotatable. The second support roller (300) may generate tension on the first seat portion (52).

[0144] In the thickness direction, the second support roller (300) and the electrode sheet (50) may be positioned on one side (e.g., the front side) of the second cleaning roller (520) described later. The second support roller (300) may come into contact with the second cleaning roller (520) or the first cleaning roller (510) described later.

[0145] The predetermined point (P) may be located between the first support roller (200) and the second support roller (300) in the direction of transport of the electrode sheet (50).

[0146] Any details not mentioned regarding the second support roller (300) can be inferred from the first support roller (200).

[0147] The third support roller (400) can support the second sheet portion (54) on the other side (e.g., left) in the width direction of the electrode sheet (50). Here, the second sheet portion (54) may be a retaining portion on which an electrode active material is applied to an electrode foil. The third support roller (400) may be rotatably installed. The third support roller (400) can generate tension on the second sheet portion (54).

[0148] The third support roller (400) may be adjacent to and face the first support roller (200) and the first cleaning roller (510) described later in the width direction. Additionally, the third support roller (400) may be adjacent to and face the second support roller (300) and the second cleaning roller (520) described later in the width direction.

[0149] Accordingly, the movement of foreign matter is restricted in the width direction, so contamination of the electrode sheet (50) can be prevented or reduced.

[0150] [Cleaning roller, drive unit]

[0151] The first cleaning roller (510) can come into contact with the first support roller (200). The first cleaning roller (510) can be installed to be rotatable. The first cleaning roller (510) can clean the first support roller (200). The first cleaning roller (510) can remove foreign matter adhering to the first support roller (200).

[0152] Accordingly, since the support means (first support roller (200)) that generates tension on the electrode sheet (50) for laser processing rotates and is cleaned by the first cleaning roller (510), even if the support means is positioned adjacent to the laser processing point (P), foreign matter such as fumes generated by laser processing can be prevented or reduced from accumulating or adhering to the support means. Accordingly, laser processing defects, damage and contamination of the electrode sheet (50), and low voltage defects of the battery cell caused by these can be prevented or reduced.

[0153] In particular, since the first cleaning roller (510) rotates, foreign matter attached to the first cleaning roller (510) can be removed from the first cleaning roller (510). Accordingly, contamination of the first support roller (200) by the first cleaning roller (510) can be prevented or reduced. Therefore, the first support roller (200) can be effectively cleaned, and foreign matter accumulation or adhesion to the first support roller (200) can be prevented or reduced.

[0154] In addition, since there is no need to stop the laser processing process for cleaning the support means (first support roller (200)), the cost of manufacturing the electrode and the maintenance cost of the electrode manufacturing device (10) can be reduced and the productivity of the electrode can be improved.

[0155] In addition, there is no need to install conventional equipment for cleaning the support means (first support roller (200)) while laser processing is being performed. Here, the conventional equipment may be a first piece of equipment for exchanging two support means located at a first position and a second position, and a second piece of equipment for cleaning the support means at the second position while laser processing the electrode sheet (50) using the support means at the first position. Accordingly, extra space can be secured and maintenance costs of the electrode manufacturing device (10) can be reduced.

[0156] The first cleaning roller (510) may include a first main body (512) and one or more first brush bristles (514). The first main body (512) may be rotatably installed. One or more first brush bristles (514) may be formed to protrude outwardly from the outer surface of the first main body (512). One or more first brush bristles (514) may come into contact with the first support roller (200) as the first main body (512) rotates.

[0157] Accordingly, the first cleaning roller (510) can be implemented with a low-cost, simple configuration.

[0158] The first cleaning roller (510) can be rotated by the first driving unit described later.

[0159] Meanwhile, the first cleaning roller (510) may rotate by friction with the first support roller (200). Additionally, the first cleaning roller (510) may be connected to the first support roller (200), for example by a belt or the like, so as to rotate with the first support roller (200) at a predetermined rotational ratio.

[0160] The first linear velocity (V1) of the first cleaning roller (510) at a first point located at the shortest distance (D) from the center of rotation of the first cleaning roller (510) to the outer surface of the first support roller (200) may be different from the second linear velocity (V2) of the first support roller (200) at the first point (Fig. 7). Here, the first linear velocity (V1) may be the tangential velocity of the first cleaning roller (510) at the first point when the radius of the first cleaning roller (510) is assumed to be the shortest distance (D). The second linear velocity (V2) may be the tangential velocity of the first support roller (200) at the first point.

[0161] Accordingly, foreign matter adhering to the first support roller (200) can be effectively removed.

[0162] The magnitude of the first linear velocity (V1) may be greater than the magnitude of the second linear velocity (V2). Here, the magnitude of the first linear velocity (V1) may be the absolute value of the product of the shortest distance (D) and the rotational speed of the first cleaning roller (510). The magnitude of the second linear velocity (V2) may be the absolute value of the product of the radius (R) of the first support roller (200) and the rotational speed of the first support roller (200).

[0163] Accordingly, foreign matter adhering to the first support roller (200) and the first cleaning roller (510) can be effectively removed. Additionally, since the influence (rotation inhibition or promotion) of the first cleaning roller (510) on the rotation of the first support roller (200) can be reduced, laser processing defects can be prevented or reduced.

[0164] The rotation direction of the first cleaning roller (510) may be opposite to the rotation direction of the first support roller (200).

[0165] Accordingly, since the first support roller (200) may not be excessively restricted from rotating by the first cleaning roller (510), laser processing defects can be prevented or reduced.

[0166] The rotation direction of the first cleaning roller (510) can correspond to the rotation direction of the first support roller (200).

[0167] Accordingly, the first support roller (200) may not be excessively rotated by the first cleaning roller (510), thereby preventing or reducing laser processing defects. In addition, foreign matter adhering to the first support roller (200) and the first cleaning roller (510) can be effectively removed.

[0168] The extension direction of the rotational center axis of the first cleaning roller (510) may be parallel to the width direction of the electrode sheet (50). At this time, as described above, the extension direction of the rotational center axis of the first support roller (200) may be parallel to the width direction of the electrode sheet (50).

[0169] Accordingly, the first support roller (200) and the first cleaning roller (510) can be simply implemented.

[0170] The first cleaning roller (510) may be positioned between the first spraying unit (610) and the first suction unit (710) described later. The first cleaning roller (510) and the first support roller (200) may be positioned on one side (e.g., the upper side) of the conveying direction than the second cleaning roller (520) and the second support roller (300).

[0171] Meanwhile, unlike the drawing, the first cleaning roller (510) may come into contact with the second support roller (300). That is, the first cleaning roller (510) may clean the second support roller (300). In this case, the second cleaning roller (520) and the second spraying unit (620), which will be described later, may be omitted.

[0172] The second cleaning roller (520) can come into contact with the second support roller (300). The second cleaning roller (520) can be installed to be rotatable. The second cleaning roller (520) can clean the second support roller (300). The second cleaning roller (520) can remove foreign matter adhering to the second support roller (300).

[0173] Accordingly, even if two support means (first and second support rollers (200, 300)) supporting both sides of the transfer direction of the laser processing point (P) are positioned adjacent to the laser processing point (P), foreign matter such as fumes generated by laser processing can be prevented or reduced from accumulating or adhering to the two support means. Accordingly, laser processing defects, damage and contamination of the electrode sheet (50), and low voltage defects of the battery cell caused therefrom can be prevented or reduced.

[0174] In addition, the cleaning effect can be improved because the first and second support rollers (200, 300) are individually cleaned by the first and second cleaning rollers (510, 520).

[0175] The second cleaning roller (520) may include a second body (522) and one or more second brush bristles (524). The second body (522) may be rotatably installed. One or more second brush bristles (524) may be formed to protrude outwardly from the outer surface of the second body (522). One or more second brush bristles (524) may come into contact with the second support roller (300) as the second body (522) rotates.

[0176] The first cleaning roller (510) and the second cleaning roller (520) can be spaced apart from each other.

[0177] Accordingly, the cleaning roller can be miniaturized and extra space can be secured.

[0178] Any details not mentioned regarding the second cleaning roller (520) can be easily inferred from the first cleaning roller (510).

[0179] The first driving unit (not shown) can rotate the first cleaning roller (510).

[0180] Accordingly, the rotational speed of the first cleaning roller (510) can be appropriately adjusted. Accordingly, foreign matter adhering to the first support roller (200) can be effectively removed. In addition, foreign matter adhering to the first cleaning roller (510) can be effectively removed from the first cleaning roller (510).

[0181] In addition, the degree to which the first support roller (200) is promoted or inhibited by friction with the first cleaning roller (510) can be appropriately adjusted. Accordingly, laser processing defects caused by excessive promotion or inhibition of rotation of the first support roller (200) can be prevented or reduced.

[0182] The second drive unit (not shown) can rotate the second cleaning roller (520).

[0183] [Participle]

[0184] The first injection unit (610) may include an air injection nozzle. The first injection unit (610) may inject air onto the first cleaning roller (510).

[0185] Accordingly, the first cleaning roller (510) and the first support roller (200) can be effectively cleaned with a low-cost, simple configuration, and foreign matter can be prevented or reduced from accumulating or sticking to the first support roller (200).

[0186] The first spraying unit (610) can spray air onto the other side (e.g., the rear side) of the first cleaning roller (510) in the thickness direction. At this time, as described above, the electrode sheet (50) and the first support roller (200) may be positioned on one side (e.g., the front side) of the first cleaning roller (510) in the thickness direction.

[0187] Accordingly, foreign matter detached from the first cleaning roller (510) by the first spraying unit (610) can be prevented or reduced from moving to the electrode sheet (50) and the first support roller (200). In addition, laser processing defects caused by the air sprayed from the first spraying unit (610) can be prevented.

[0188] The first injection part (610) and the first suction part (710) described later can face each other.

[0189] Accordingly, the first cleaning roller (510) can be effectively cleaned and foreign matter can be effectively removed.

[0190] The second injection unit (620) may include an air injection nozzle. The second injection unit (620) may inject air onto the second cleaning roller (520).

[0191] Accordingly, the first and second cleaning rollers (510, 520) and the first and second support rollers (200, 300) can be effectively cleaned with a simple, low-cost configuration, and foreign matter can be prevented or reduced from accumulating or sticking to the first and second support rollers (200, 300).

[0192] In particular, since the first and second spraying units (610, 620) spray air individually onto the first and second cleaning rollers (510, 520), the first and second cleaning rollers (510, 520) and the first and second support rollers (200, 300) can be effectively cleaned.

[0193] The second injection unit (620) can inject air onto the other side (e.g., the rear side) of the second cleaning roller (520) in the thickness direction. At this time, as described above, the electrode sheet (50) and the second support roller (300) may be positioned on one side (e.g., the front side) of the second cleaning roller (520) in the thickness direction of the electrode sheet (50).

[0194] The first injection unit (610) may be positioned to inject air from one side (e.g., the upper side) to the other side (e.g., the lower side) of the conveying direction, and the second injection unit (620) may be positioned to inject air from the other side to one side of the conveying direction. At this time, as described above, the first support roller (200) and the first cleaning roller (510) may be positioned on one side (e.g., the upper side) of the conveying direction, respectively, than the second support roller (300) and the second cleaning roller (520). Additionally, as described later, the second suction unit (720) may be positioned to face the space between the first cleaning roller (510) and the second cleaning roller (520) in the width direction.

[0195] Accordingly, the first and second cleaning rollers (510, 520) and the first and second support rollers (200, 300) can be effectively cleaned and foreign matter effectively removed with a simple, low-cost configuration.

[0196] Any details not mentioned in relation to the second injection part (620) can be easily inferred from the first injection part (610).

[0197] [Suction part, Brush part]

[0198] The first suction part (710) may include a suction tube. The first suction part (710) may be positioned adjacent to the first cleaning roller (510). The first suction part (710) may suck in foreign matter.

[0199] Accordingly, the first cleaning roller (510) and the first support roller (200) can be effectively cleaned with a low-cost, simple configuration, and foreign matter can be prevented or reduced from accumulating or sticking to the first support roller (200).

[0200] The first suction unit (710) may be positioned adjacent to the second cleaning roller (520). The first suction unit (710) may be positioned adjacent to the brush unit (800). The first suction unit (710) may be positioned below the brush unit (800).

[0201] The second suction part (720) may include a suction tube. The second suction part (720) may be positioned to face in the width direction with the space between at least the first cleaning roller (510) and the second cleaning roller (520). The second suction part (720) may suck in foreign matter.

[0202] Accordingly, foreign matter on the first and second cleaning rollers (510, 520) can be effectively removed with a simple, low-cost configuration.

[0203] The second suction part (720) may be positioned to face the predetermined point (P) in the width direction adjacently. The second suction part (720) may be positioned to face the first and second cleaning rollers (510, 520) in the width direction adjacently.

[0204] The brush part (800) can be installed to be in contact with the third support roller (400). The brush part (800) can clean the third support roller (400).

[0205] [Electrode Manufacturing Method]

[0206] Referring to FIG. 8, an electrode manufacturing method (S900) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a laser processing process (S910).

[0207] In the laser processing process (S910), the laser irradiation unit (100) can irradiate a laser at a predetermined point (P) of the electrode sheet (50) being transported in the transport direction.

[0208] Here, the first support roller (200) can generate tension on the first sheet portion (52) around a predetermined point (P). The first support roller (200) can rotate when the electrode sheet (50) is transported. The first cleaning roller (510) can remove foreign matter from the outer surface of the first support roller (200) while rotating.

[0209] Accordingly, since the support means (first support roller (200)) that generates tension on the electrode sheet (50) for laser processing rotates and is cleaned by the first cleaning roller (510), even if the support means is positioned adjacent to the laser processing point (P), foreign matter such as fumes generated by laser processing can be prevented or reduced from accumulating or adhering to the support means. Accordingly, laser processing defects, damage and contamination of the electrode sheet (50), and low voltage defects of the battery cell caused by these can be prevented or reduced.

[0210] In particular, since the first cleaning roller (510) rotates, foreign matter attached to the first cleaning roller (510) can be removed from the first cleaning roller (510). Accordingly, contamination of the first support roller (200) by the first cleaning roller (510) can be prevented or reduced. Therefore, the first support roller (200) can be effectively cleaned, and foreign matter accumulation or adhesion to the first support roller (200) can be prevented or reduced.

[0211] In addition, since there is no need to stop the laser processing process for cleaning the support means (first support roller (200)), the cost of manufacturing the electrode and the maintenance cost of the electrode manufacturing device (10) can be reduced and the productivity of the electrode can be improved.

[0212] In addition, there is no need to install conventional equipment for cleaning the support means (first support roller (200)) while laser processing is being performed. Here, the conventional equipment may be a first piece of equipment for exchanging two support means located at a first position and a second position, and a second piece of equipment for cleaning the support means at the second position while laser processing the electrode sheet (50) using the support means at the first position. Accordingly, space can be secured and maintenance costs of the electrode manufacturing device (10) can be reduced.

[0213] In addition, the second support roller (300) can generate tension on the first sheet portion (52) around a predetermined point (P). The second support roller (300) can rotate when the electrode sheet (50) is transported. The second cleaning roller (520) can remove foreign matter from the outer surface of the second support roller (300) while rotating.

[0214] In addition, the third support roller (400) can generate tension on the second sheet portion (54) around a predetermined point (P). The third support roller (400) can rotate when the electrode sheet (50) is transported. The brush portion (800) can remove foreign matter from the outer surface of the third support roller (400).

[0215] Also, here, the first injection unit (610) can inject air into the first cleaning roller (510).

[0216] Accordingly, the first cleaning roller (510) and the first support roller (200) can be effectively cleaned with a low-cost, simple configuration, and foreign matter can be prevented or reduced from accumulating or sticking to the first support roller (200).

[0217] For example, the first spray unit (610) can spray air onto a portion on the other side in the thickness direction of the first cleaning roller (510). The first spray unit (610) can spray air from one side in the conveying direction to the other side.

[0218] In addition, the second injection unit (620) can spray air onto the second cleaning roller (520). For example, the second injection unit (620) can spray air onto a portion on the other side in the thickness direction of the second cleaning roller (520). The second injection unit (620) can spray air from the other side in the conveying direction to one side.

[0219] In addition, the suction part positioned adjacent to the first cleaning roller (510) can suck up foreign matter. The suction part may be the aforementioned first suction part (710) and / or second suction part (720).

[0220] Accordingly, foreign matter can be effectively removed with a low-cost and simple configuration.

[0221] Meanwhile, matters not mentioned regarding the electrode manufacturing method (S900) can be easily inferred from the aforementioned electrode manufacturing device (10).

[0222] The embodiments described above should be understood as exemplary in all respects and not limiting, and the scope of the invention will be defined by the claims set forth below rather than by the detailed description above. Furthermore, the meaning and scope of the claims set forth below, as well as all modifications and variations derived from equivalents thereof, should be interpreted as being included within the scope of the invention.

[0223] Although the present invention has been described above with reference to the illustrated drawings, the present invention is not limited by the embodiments and drawings disclosed in this specification, and it is obvious that various modifications can be made by a person skilled in the art within the scope of the technical concept of the present invention. Furthermore, even if the effects of the configuration according to the present invention were not explicitly described while describing the embodiments of the present invention above, it is natural to acknowledge that the effects predictable by said configuration should also be recognized.

Claims

A laser irradiation unit (100) that irradiates a laser at a predetermined point (P) of a first sheet portion (52) on one side of the width direction of an electrode sheet (50) that is transported in a transport direction and extended along a length direction parallel to the transport direction; A first support roller (200) positioned adjacent to the above-mentioned predetermined point (P), supporting the first seat portion (52), and rotatably installed; and A first cleaning roller (510) that is installed to be rotatably connected to the first support roller (200), Electrode manufacturing device. In claim 1, The electrode manufacturing device, wherein the first cleaning roller (510) comprises a first main body (512) that is rotatably installed and one or more first brush bristles (514) that are formed protruding outwardly from the outer surface of the first main body (512) and come into contact with the first support roller (200) according to the rotation of the first main body (512). In claim 1 or claim 2, An electrode manufacturing device further comprising a first driving unit for rotating the first cleaning roller (510). In any one of claims 1 to 3, An electrode manufacturing device in which the first linear velocity (V1) of the first cleaning roller (510) at a first point located at the shortest distance (D) from the center of rotation of the first cleaning roller (510) to the outer surface of the first support roller (200) is different from the second linear velocity (V2) of the first support roller (200) at the first point. In claim 4, An electrode manufacturing device in which the magnitude of the first linear velocity (V1) is greater than the magnitude of the second linear velocity (V2). In any one of claims 1 to 5, An electrode manufacturing device in which the rotational direction of the first cleaning roller (510) is opposite to the rotational direction of the first support roller (200). In any one of claims 1 to 5, An electrode manufacturing device in which the rotational direction of the first cleaning roller (510) corresponds to the rotational direction of the first support roller (200). In any one of claims 1 to 7, An electrode manufacturing device in which the direction of extension of the rotational center axis of the first support roller (200) and the first cleaning roller (510) is parallel to the width direction. In any one of claims 1 to 8, An electrode manufacturing device further comprising a first injection unit (610) for injecting air onto the first cleaning roller (510). In claim 9, In the thickness direction of the electrode sheet (50), the electrode sheet (50) and the first support roller (200) are positioned on one side of the first cleaning roller (510), and The first injection unit (610) above is an electrode manufacturing device that injects air onto the other side of the thickness direction of the first cleaning roller (510). In any one of claims 1 to 10, An electrode manufacturing device further comprising a first suction part (710) disposed adjacent to the first cleaning roller (510) and sucking in foreign matter. In claim 9 or claim 10, It further includes a first suction part (710) positioned adjacent to the first cleaning roller (510) and sucking up foreign matter, and The first cleaning roller (510) is positioned between the first spraying part (610) and the first suction part (710), and The first injection part (610) and the first suction part (710) face each other, forming an electrode manufacturing device. In any one of claims 1 to 12, It further includes a second support roller (300) which is positioned adjacent to the above-mentioned predetermined point (P), positioned to face each other at a predetermined distance from the first support roller (200), and is installed to support the first seat portion (52) and be rotatable. The predetermined point (P) is located between the first support roller (200) and the second support roller (300) in the above transfer direction, and The above second support roller (300) is an electrode manufacturing device that contacts a second cleaning roller (520) that is rotatably installed or contacts a first cleaning roller (510). In claim 13, The above second support roller (300) is in contact with the above second cleaning roller (520), forming an electrode manufacturing device. In claim 14, A first spraying unit (610) that sprays air onto the first cleaning roller (510); and An electrode manufacturing device further comprising a second injection unit (620) that injects air onto the second cleaning roller (520). In claim 14, The first support roller (200) and the first cleaning roller (510) are each positioned on one side of the conveying direction relative to the second support roller (300) and the second cleaning roller (520), and An electrode manufacturing device further comprising a second suction part (720) that sucks up foreign matter and is positioned to face in the width direction and at least in the space between the first cleaning roller (510) and the second cleaning roller (520). In claim 16, A first spraying unit (610) that sprays air onto the first cleaning roller (510); and It further includes a second injection unit (620) that injects air into the second cleaning roller (520), and The first injection unit (610) is positioned to inject air from one side of the conveying direction to the other side, and The above second injection unit (620) is an electrode manufacturing device arranged to inject air from one side to the other side of the transfer direction. In any one of claims 1 to 17, It further includes a third support roller (400) that supports the second sheet portion (54) on the other side of the width direction of the electrode sheet (50) and is rotatably installed. The above third support roller (400) is an electrode manufacturing device that faces the above first support roller (200) and the first cleaning roller (510) in the width direction. In an electrode manufacturing method (S900) using an electrode manufacturing apparatus (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, claims 11, claims 13, claims 14, claims 16 and 18, The laser processing process (S910) includes the laser irradiation unit (100) irradiating a laser at a predetermined point (P) of the electrode sheet (50) being transported in the above transport direction, and In the above laser processing process (S910), the first support roller (200) generates tension on the first sheet portion (52) around the predetermined point (P) and rotates when the electrode sheet (50) is transported, and the first cleaning roller (510) rotates to remove foreign matter from the outer surface of the first support roller (200). Electrode manufacturing method. In claim 19, The electrode manufacturing device (10) further includes a first injection unit (610) that injects air onto the first cleaning roller (510). In the above laser processing process (S910), the first spraying unit (610) sprays air onto the first cleaning roller (510), a method for manufacturing an electrode.

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