Electrode manufacturing device for secondary battery and manufacturing method thereof

Abstract

An electrode manufacturing device for a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: a first lamination roller for laminating a first release film on one surface of a metal foil; a second lamination roller for laminating a second release film on the other surface of the metal foil; a notching member for notching the metal foil on which the first release film and the second release film are laminated; a first winding member for winding the first release film separated from the metal foil; a second winding member for winding the second release film separated from the metal foil; a third lamination roller for laminating a third release film on the metal foil after the first and second release films are separated from the metal foil; and a rewinding member for winding the metal foil on which the third release film is laminated.

Description

Device for manufacturing electrodes for secondary batteries and method for manufacturing

[0001] The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for manufacturing electrodes for secondary batteries, and more specifically, to a method and apparatus for manufacturing secondary batteries that includes a notching method for safety and prevention of contamination.

[0002] Unlike primary batteries, which cannot be recharged, secondary batteries refer to batteries capable of charging and discharging, and are applied not only to portable devices but also to electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) driven by electric power sources.

[0003] Currently, widely used types of secondary batteries include lithium-ion batteries, lithium-polymer batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-hydrogen batteries, and nickel-zinc batteries. The operating voltage of these unit secondary battery cells, or unit cells, is approximately 2.5V to 4.6V. Therefore, if a higher output voltage is required, a battery pack is formed by connecting multiple battery cells in series. Additionally, a battery pack is formed by connecting multiple battery cells in parallel depending on the charge / discharge capacity required for the battery pack. Accordingly, the number of battery cells included in the battery pack can be varied depending on the required output voltage or charge / discharge capacity.

[0004] When configuring a battery pack by connecting multiple battery cells in series or parallel, it is common practice to first configure a battery module consisting of at least one battery cell, preferably multiple battery cells, and then use at least one such battery module and add other components to form a battery pack. Here, a battery module refers to a component in which multiple battery cells are connected in series or parallel, and a battery pack may refer to a component in which multiple battery modules are connected in series or parallel to increase capacity and output.

[0005] Battery cells are classified into pouch type, cylindrical type, prismatic type, etc., depending on the shape of the battery case.

[0006] Among these, cylindrical cells offer excellent safety as they primarily utilize a metal case with a cylindrical structure. They also have the advantage of high energy density by housing a jelly-roll type electrode assembly inside the case, and make it easy to configure a large-capacity power storage device by connecting multiple cells in series or parallel.

[0007] The electrode assembly, housed in a cylindrical case, is a rechargeable power generation device composed of a stacked structure of an anode, a separator, and a cathode, and is classified into jellyroll, stack, and stack / folding types. The jellyroll type is formed by winding a separator between long sheet-shaped anodes and cathodes coated with active material; the stack type is formed by sequentially stacking multiple anodes and cathodes of a predetermined size with a separator in between; and the stack / folding type is a composite structure of the jellyroll and stack types. Among these, the jellyroll electrode assembly has the advantages of being easy to manufacture and having a high energy density per unit weight.

[0008] In the case of a pouch-type cell, the structure is configured such that an electrode assembly is accommodated inside a pouch-type case. The pouch-type case may be in the form of a pouch sheet folded along a folding line, and an electrode assembly may be accommodated inside it. In the pouch-type cell, the electrode assembly may have a structure in which an anode, a separator, and a cathode are stacked, and electrode leads may be disposed on one or both sides of the electrode assembly.

[0009] A method for manufacturing an electrode assembly of this structure includes a process for manufacturing an electrode sheet, a process for pressing the electrode sheet, a slitting process, a vacuum drying process, a notching process, and a process for manufacturing an electrode assembly including the electrode sheet and a separator.

[0010] The above notching process is a processing step for forming electrode tabs on an electrode sheet (e.g., lithium metal foil, etc.) and determines the production speed of the secondary battery.

[0011] In particular, during the notching process, metal adhesion occurs because the electrode sheet is made of metal foil, and the notching process using ultrasonic punching is performed with deceleration, resulting in a problem of reduced process speed. Furthermore, since ultrasonic punching requires direct contact with the metal foil, there are issues with adhesion and contamination, as well as reduced durability.

[0012] The present invention aims to solve the problems described above by providing an apparatus and method for manufacturing an electrode for a secondary battery that can prevent contamination, improve safety, and increase process speed during the notching process.

[0013] An electrode manufacturing apparatus for a secondary battery according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a first lamination roller for laminating a first release film to one side of a metal foil; a second lamination roller for laminating a second release film to the other side of the metal foil; a notching member for notching the metal foil on which the first release film and the second release film are laminated; a first winding member for winding the first release film separated from the metal foil; a second winding member for winding the second release film separated from the metal foil; a third lamination roller for laminating a third release film to the metal foil after the first and second release films are separated from the metal foil; and a rewinding member for winding the metal foil on which the third release film is laminated.

[0014] In addition, the electrode manufacturing device for a secondary battery further includes a metal foil winding member on which the metal foil is wound.

[0015] Additionally, the metal foil is wound onto the metal foil winding member in a state where a release film is laminated to the metal foil, and the secondary battery electrode manufacturing device further includes a winding member for winding the release film separated from the metal foil.

[0016] The first and second release films are laminated to the non-notching area of ​​the metal foil.

[0017] Additionally, the electrode manufacturing apparatus for a secondary battery further includes: a first feeding roller for guiding the first release film separated from the metal foil after notching the metal foil; and a second feeding roller for guiding the second release film separated from the metal foil after notching the metal foil.

[0018] In addition, the third release film can cover the notching tab of the metal foil.

[0019] A method for manufacturing an electrode for a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: a step of laminating a first and a second release film to each of two sides of a metal foil; a step of notching the metal foil on which the first and second release films are laminated; a step of separating the first and second release films from the metal foil after the notching step; a step of laminating a third release film to the metal foil after the separation step; and a step of winding the metal foil on which the third release film is laminated onto a rewinding member.

[0020] The method for manufacturing an electrode for a secondary battery further includes the step of unwinding the metal foil from a metal foil winding member before the lamination step of the first and second release films.

[0021] An electrode manufacturing apparatus for a secondary battery according to another embodiment of the present invention comprises: a first lamination roller for laminating a first release film to one side of a metal foil; a second lamination roller for laminating a second release film to the other side of the metal foil; a notching member for notching the metal foil on which the first release film and the second release film are laminated; a winding member for winding the second release film separated from the metal foil; and a rewinding member for winding the metal foil on which the first release film is laminated.

[0022] An electrode manufacturing apparatus for a secondary battery according to another embodiment of the present invention further includes a feeding roller for guiding the second release film separated from the metal foil after notching the metal foil.

[0023] A method for manufacturing an electrode for a secondary battery according to another embodiment of the present invention comprises: a step of laminating a first and a second release film to each of two sides of a metal foil; a step of notching the metal foil on which the first and second release films are laminated; a step of separating the second release film from the metal foil after the notching step; and a step of winding the metal foil on which the first release film is laminated onto a rewinding member after the separation step.

[0024] An electrode manufacturing apparatus for a secondary battery according to another embodiment of the present invention comprises: a first lamination roller for laminating a first separator to one side of a metal foil; a second lamination roller for laminating a second separator to the other side of the metal foil; a notching member for notching the metal foil on which the first separator and the second separator are laminated; and a rewinding member for winding the metal foil on which the first separator and the second separator are laminated.

[0025] In addition, the first and second separators may be separators constituting an electrode assembly.

[0026] A method for manufacturing an electrode for a secondary battery according to another embodiment of the present invention comprises: a step of laminating first and second separators on each side of a metal foil; a step of notching the metal foil on which the first and second separators are laminated; and a step of winding the metal foil on which the first and second separators are laminated onto a rewinding member.

[0027] An electrode manufacturing apparatus for a secondary battery according to another embodiment of the present invention comprises: a first lamination roller for laminating a separator to one side of a metal foil; a second lamination roller for laminating a release film to the other side of the metal foil; a notching member for notching the metal foil on which the separator and the release film are laminated; a winding member for winding the release film separated from the metal foil after notching; and a rewinding member for winding the metal foil on which the separator is laminated.

[0028] In addition, the above separator may be a separator constituting an electrode assembly.

[0029] A method for manufacturing an electrode for a secondary battery according to another embodiment of the present invention comprises: a step of laminating a separator and a release film to each of two sides of a metal foil; a step of notching the metal foil on which the separator and the release film are laminated; a step of separating the release film from the metal foil after the notching step; and a step of winding the metal foil on which the separator is laminated onto a rewinding member.

[0030] The electrode manufacturing apparatus and method for a secondary battery according to the present invention can prevent contamination and improve safety during the notching process and increase the process speed.

[0031] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating a battery cell in an embodiment of the present invention, and

[0032] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a cross-sectional view of a battery cell in one embodiment of the present invention, and

[0033] FIG. 3 is a detailed cross-sectional view of a battery cell in one embodiment of the present invention, and

[0034] FIG. 4 is a drawing for explaining that a current collector plate is coupled to an electrode assembly in one embodiment of the present invention, and

[0035] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of an electrode manufacturing apparatus for a secondary battery in one embodiment of the present invention, and

[0036] FIG. 6 is a plan view of a metal foil supplied to a notching portion in an embodiment of the present invention, and

[0037] FIG. 7 is a front view of a metal foil supplied to a notching portion in an embodiment of the present invention, and

[0038] FIG. 8 is a plan view of a metal foil before being wound onto a winding roller after notching in an embodiment of the present invention, and

[0039] FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram of an electrode manufacturing apparatus for a secondary battery in the second embodiment of the present invention, and

[0040] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of an electrode manufacturing apparatus for a secondary battery according to a third embodiment of the present invention, and

[0041] FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram of an electrode manufacturing apparatus for a secondary battery according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention, and

[0042] FIG. 12 is a drawing illustrating a battery pack in an embodiment of the present invention, and

[0043] FIG. 13 is a drawing illustrating an electric vehicle equipped with a battery pack in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] The advantages and features of the present invention and the methods for achieving them will become clear by referring to the embodiments described below in detail together with the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below but may be implemented in various different forms. These embodiments are provided merely to ensure that the disclosure of the present invention is complete and to fully inform those skilled in the art of the scope of the invention, and the present invention is defined only by the scope of the claims. Accordingly, in some embodiments, well-known process steps, well-known device structures, and well-known techniques are not specifically described to avoid the present invention being interpreted ambiguously. Throughout the specification, like reference numerals refer to like components.

[0045] In drawings, thicknesses may be enlarged to clearly represent multiple layers and regions. Throughout the specification, the same reference numerals are used for similar parts. When a part such as a layer, film, region, or plate is described as being "above" another part, this includes not only cases where it is "immediately above" another part, but also cases where there is another part in between. Conversely, when a part is described as being "immediately above" another part, it means that there is no other part in between. Furthermore, when a part such as a layer, film, region, or plate is described as being "below" another part, this includes not only cases where it is "immediately below" another part, but also cases where there is another part in between. Conversely, when a part is described as being "immediately below" another part, it means that there is no other part in between.

[0046] Before describing the electrode manufacturing apparatus for a secondary battery in the present invention, the battery cell (1) is described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0047] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating a battery cell in an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a cross-sectional view of a battery cell in an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 3 is a detailed cross-sectional view of a battery cell in an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 4 is a drawing for explaining that a current collector plate is coupled to an electrode assembly in an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of an electrode manufacturing device for a secondary battery in an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 6 is a plan view of a metal foil supplied to a notching section in an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 7 is a front view of a metal foil supplied to a notching section in an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 8 is a plan view of a metal foil before being wound onto a winding roller after notching in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] For convenience of explanation, in this specification, the direction following the longitudinal direction of the winding axis of an electrode assembly wound in a jelly roll shape may be referred to as the "axial direction," "vertical direction," or "height direction." Additionally, the direction surrounding the winding axis may be referred to as the "circumferential direction" or "peripheral direction." Furthermore, the direction approaching or moving away from the winding axis may be referred to as the "radial direction." Among the radial directions, the direction approaching the winding axis may be referred to as the "centripetal direction," and the direction moving away from the winding axis may be referred to as the "centrifugal direction."

[0049] The battery cell (1) may include an electrode assembly (10), a battery housing (20), a first current collector plate (30), a battery cap (40), a sealing gasket (50), a second current collector plate (60), a rivet (70), and an insulating part (80). The battery cell (1) including the electrode assembly (10) is not limited to the shape of the battery cell (1) shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 and can be applied to batteries of other shapes. The battery cell (1) may be a cylindrical secondary battery (cylindrical battery cell).

[0050] The electrode assembly (10) may be provided in a cylindrical shape having a core and an outer surface, wherein a first electrode (e.g., a negative electrode), a second electrode (e.g., a positive electrode), and a separator interposed between these electrodes are wound around a winding axis. The electrode assembly (10) may be a jelly-roll type electrode assembly. An additional separator may be provided on the outer surface of the electrode assembly (10) for insulation from the battery housing (20). The electrode assembly (10) may be provided without limitation to have a winding structure well known in the art of the present invention.

[0051] The first electrode of the electrode assembly (10) may include a first electrode current collector and a first electrode active material applied on one or both sides of the first electrode current collector. A non-coated portion in which the first electrode active material is not applied may exist at one end (upper portion) in the width direction (a direction parallel to the height direction of the battery cell) of the first electrode. That is, the first electrode may include a first non-coated portion (11) that is exposed to the outside of the separator and is not coated with active material at one long end along the winding direction, and a first retaining portion coated with active material. The first non-coated portion (11) may be provided at the upper portion based on the height direction of the electrode assembly (10) housed within the battery housing (20). At least a portion of the first non-coated portion (11) may be used as an electrode tab itself. The first non-coated portion (11) may be, for example, a negative electrode tab.

[0052] The second electrode of the electrode assembly (10) may include a second electrode current collector and a second electrode active material applied on one or both sides of the second electrode current collector. Based on the width direction (height direction) of the second electrode (12), a non-coated portion where the second electrode active material is not applied may exist at the other end. That is, the second electrode may include a second non-coated portion (12) that is exposed to the outside of the separator and where the active material is not coated at the other long end along the winding direction, and a second retaining portion coated with the active material. The second non-coated portion (12) may be provided at the bottom based on the height direction of the electrode assembly (10) housed within the battery housing (20). At least a portion of the second non-coated portion (12) may be used as an electrode tab itself. The second non-coated portion (12) may be, for example, a positive electrode tab.

[0053] The battery housing (20) may be a roughly cylindrical receptacle with an opening formed on one side. The battery housing (20) may be provided with a conductive metal material. The battery housing (20) may be configured to accommodate the electrode assembly (10) of the secondary battery. The side of the battery housing (20) and the lower surface located opposite the opening (20a) may be formed integrally. The battery housing (20) may be configured to accommodate the electrode assembly (10) and the electrolyte through the opening (20a) formed on its upper side.

[0054] The battery housing (20) may have a beading portion (21) formed in an end region adjacent to an opening (20a) provided at the top thereof, and a crimping portion (22) formed on the beading portion (21). The beading portion (21) has a shape in which the outer circumference of the battery housing (20) is pressed in to a predetermined depth. The beading portion (21) may have a shape in which it is pressed inward in the region between the opening (20a) of the battery housing (20) and the internal receiving space that accommodates the electrode assembly (10).

[0055] The beading portion (21) may provide a support surface on which a sealing gasket (50) and a battery cap (40) can be seated. Additionally, the beading portion (21) may provide a support surface on which at least a portion of the edge perimeter of the first current collector plate (30) can be seated and joined. At least a portion of the edge perimeter of the current collector plate (30), at least a portion of the edge perimeter of the sealing gasket (50), and at least a portion of the edge perimeter of the battery cap (40) can be seated on the upper surface of the beading portion (21). The beading portion (21) may be formed by pressing the outer circumference of the battery housing (20) inward in an area adjacent to the opening (20a) of the battery housing (20) while the electrode assembly (10) is received within the battery housing (20) through the opening (20a).

[0056] In order to stably support the first current collector plate (30), the battery cap (40), and the sealing gasket (50), the upper surface of the beading portion (21) may have a shape that extends along a direction approximately parallel to the lower surface of the battery housing (20), that is, a shape that extends in a direction approximately perpendicular to the side wall of the battery housing (20). The beading portion (21) can function as a support portion on which the battery cap (40), etc., is seated, while preventing the electrode assembly (10), which has a size corresponding to the inner diameter of the internal receiving space of the battery housing (20), from coming out through the opening (20a) formed at the top of the battery housing (20).

[0057] The crimping portion (22) extends upward from the beading portion (21) and is formed on the upper part of the beading portion (21). The crimping portion (22) has a bent shape that extends to wrap around the edge perimeter and part of the upper surface of the battery cap (40) placed on the upper part of the beading portion (21). The battery cap (40) is fixed on the beading portion (21) by the crimping portion (22). The crimping portion (22) may have a shape that extends inward in the radial direction (centripetal direction) of the battery cell (1) from the upper perimeter of the battery housing (20). The crimping portion (22) is provided in an area corresponding to the edge perimeter of the upper surface of the battery cap (40) to fix the battery cap (40) and prevent the battery cap (40) from moving upward.

[0058] The upper portion of the crimping portion (22) is formed by bending so that it extends inward by a predetermined distance along the radial direction of the battery cell (1) to wrap around a part of the upper surface of the battery cap (40), thereby securing the perimeter of the upper surface of the battery cap (40). The perimeter area of ​​the battery cap (40) is interposed between the upper portion of the crimping portion (22) and the beading portion (21) and is secured to the battery housing (20), covering the opening (20a) of the battery housing (20).

[0059] The first current collector plate (30) is housed inside the battery housing (20). The first current collector plate (30) is made of a conductive metal material and can be electrically connected to the electrode assembly (10). The first current collector plate (30) can be electrically connected to the battery housing (20). That is, the first current collector plate (30) can electrically connect the first electrode of the electrode assembly (10) and the battery housing (20). The first current collector plate (30) may be provided with a support portion (31), a tab coupling portion (32), and a housing coupling portion (33).

[0060] The support portion (31) and the tab connecting portion (32) of the first current collector plate (30) may be positioned on the upper part of the electrode assembly (10). The support portion (31) may be positioned on one side of the electrode assembly (10). The tab connecting portion (32) may extend from the support portion (31) and be connected to the first non-reinforced portion (11) of the electrode assembly (10). For example, the tab connecting portion (32) may be connected to the electrode assembly (10) by welding a certain area while seated on the first non-reinforced portion (11) of the electrode assembly (10). The tab connecting portion (32) of the first current collector plate (30) may be located below the lower surface of the beading portion (21).

[0061] A through hole may be formed in the first collector plate (30) to allow flames generated inside the battery cell (1) to escape smoothly. Accordingly, even if a thermal runaway phenomenon occurs on the side of the electrode assembly (10), the flames and venting gas generated from the electrode assembly (10) can be smoothly discharged through the through hole without being blocked by the first collector plate (30) located on the upper side of the electrode assembly (10). Therefore, it is possible to prevent the flames from moving toward the beading part (21) located in the vicinity of the electrode assembly (10) and the first collector plate (30) and causing pinholes in the beading part (21), and to prevent the fire from spreading to other battery cells (1) located around the battery cell (1) where the fire occurred.

[0062] The support member (31) may be provided with a current collector hole (H2) formed at a position corresponding to a winding hole (H1) formed approximately in the center of the electrode assembly (10). The winding hole (H1) and the current collector hole (H2), which are in communication with each other, do not need to function as a passage for a welding rod or laser beam for welding between the electrode terminal of the electrode assembly (10) and the current collector, or between the electrode terminal and a lead tab (not shown). Therefore, the energy density of the electrode assembly (10) can be increased by reducing the size of the winding hole (H1) and the current collector hole (H2). If the diameter of the current collector hole (H2) is excessively smaller than the diameter of the winding hole (H1), the hole formed in the winding hole (H1) may be obscured, which may reduce liquid injection performance. Accordingly, so that the current collector hole (H2) does not obstruct the winding hole (H1) formed in the core of the electrode assembly (10), it may have a diameter substantially the same as or larger than that of the winding hole (H1) of the electrode assembly (10).

[0063] The housing coupling portion (33) may be connected to the inner surface of the battery housing (20) by extending from the support portion (31) to a periphery area. The housing coupling portion (33) may be electrically connected to the inner surface of the battery housing (20) by extending from the support portion (31). For example, the housing coupling portion (33) may be connected to the upper surface of the beading portion (21) on the inner surface of the battery housing (20).

[0064] The inner diameter of the battery housing (20) in the area where the beading portion (21) is formed may be smaller than the diameter of the electrode assembly (10). For stable contact and connection, the beading portion (21) may have a shape that extends along a direction approximately parallel to the lower surface of the battery housing (20), that is, a direction approximately perpendicular to the side wall of the battery housing (20). The housing connection portion (33) may be welded to the upper surface of the beading portion (21). For welding the connection between the battery housing (20) and the first current collector plate (30), for example, laser welding, ultrasonic welding, or spot welding may be applied.

[0065] A battery cap (40) may be provided to cover an opening (20a) of a battery housing (20). The battery cap (40) may be coupled to the battery housing (20) to seal the opening (20a) of the battery housing (20) through a crimping process via a sealing gasket (50). The battery cap (40) may be provided with a venting portion (41) formed to prevent an increase in internal pressure caused by gas generated inside the battery housing (20).

[0066] The venting portion (41) may be configured to break when the internal pressure of the battery housing (20) increases above a certain level. The venting portion (41) is formed in a part of the battery cap (40) and may be a structurally weaker area than the surrounding area so that it can easily break when pressure is applied to the inside due to thermal runaway, etc. For example, the venting portion (41) may be an area having a thinner thickness compared to the surrounding area. The venting portion (41) may be formed as a roughly circular closed loop.

[0067] The battery cap (40) can cover an opening (20a) formed on one side of the battery housing (20). The battery cap (40) can be secured by a crimping portion (22) formed on the top of the battery housing (20).

[0068] A sealing gasket (50) is interposed between the battery housing (20) and the battery cap (40), and between the first current collector plate (30) and the battery cap (40), to improve fixing strength and sealing performance of the battery housing (20). The sealing gasket (50) seals the upper opening of the battery housing (20) between the battery cap (40) and the crimping portion (22) of the battery housing (20), and can electrically insulate the battery housing (20) and the battery cap (40). The sealing gasket (50) may include a material having insulating and elastic properties. The sealing gasket (50) may include, for example, a polymer resin.

[0069] Accordingly, the first current collector plate (30) may be interposed between the beading portion (21) of the battery housing (20) and the sealing gasket (50). The first current collector plate (30) interposed between the beading portion (21) and the sealing gasket (50) may be secured by the bending of the crimping portion (22) extending upward from the beading portion (21). The sealing gasket (50) is provided to surround the battery cap (40) to seal the space between the battery cap (40) and the battery housing (20). The sealing gasket (50) serves to maintain airtightness between the battery housing (20) and the battery cap (40). A rivet (70) is inserted into and joined to an opening formed in the bottom portion (23) of the battery housing (20). An insulating portion (80) may be interposed between the rivet (70) and the opening of the battery housing (20). The insulating part (80) can insulate the rivet (70) from the battery housing (20).

[0070] FIG. 4 is a drawing illustrating that current collector plates (30, 60) are attached to the upper and / or lower surfaces of an electrode assembly (10), and the first and second current collector plates (30, 60) can be joined to the electrode assembly (10) by welding.

[0071] In the first electrode current collector of the first electrode, a plurality of notching tabs may be formed along the longitudinal direction on the edge of the first electrode current collector in the first uncoated portion (11) where the electrode active material is not coated, and similarly, in the second electrode current collector of the second electrode, a plurality of notching tabs may be formed along the longitudinal direction on the edge of the second electrode current collector in the second uncoated portion (12) where the electrode active material is not coated.

[0072] In this way, the first and second unoccupied portions (11, 12) in which notching tabs are formed at the first and second electrodes can each be bent in the direction of the core, and the first and second current collector plates (30, 60) can be welded to the first and second unoccupied portions (11, 12) of the first electrode and / or the second electrode that are bent in the direction of the core.

[0073] During the battery cell manufacturing process, in the notching process for forming notching tabs on the electrodes, metal adhesion occurs because the electrode sheet is made of metal foil. Furthermore, since the notching process using ultrasonic punching proceeds with deceleration, there is a problem of reduced process speed. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, an apparatus and method for manufacturing electrodes for secondary batteries are presented to resolve these problems.

[0074] Although a cylindrical battery cell was described as an example of a battery cell (1), the electrode manufacturing apparatus and manufacturing method for a secondary battery according to the present invention described below can be applied not only to cylindrical cells but also to other types of battery cells such as pouch-type cells and prismatic cells.

[0075] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of an electrode manufacturing apparatus (100) for a secondary battery in the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0076] In the first embodiment of the present invention, the electrode manufacturing apparatus (100) for a secondary battery comprises a metal foil winding member (roll) (110) on which a metal foil (111) is wound, a winding member (115) for winding a release film (115a), a first film winding member (roll) (120) on which a first release film (121) is wound, a second film winding member (roll) (125) on which a second release film (126) is wound, a first laminating roller (130), a second laminating roller (131), a notching member (140), a first winding member (160) for winding the first release film (121), a second winding member (165) for winding the second release film (126), a third film winding member (roll) (170) on which a third release film (171) is wound, and a notched It may include a rewinding member (180) for winding the metal foil (111).

[0077] The above metal foil winding member (roll) (110) may be a member (roll) on which a metal foil (111) is wound. The metal foil (111) wound on the metal foil winding member (110) may be processed to become the first electrode or the second electrode of the aforementioned electrode assembly (10). The metal foil (111) may have a certain width. In this embodiment, the metal foil (111) may be a lithium metal foil, but is not limited thereto.

[0078] A metal foil (111) may be wound onto a metal foil winding member (110), and a release film (115a) may be laminated to the metal foil (111) and wound onto the metal foil winding member (110). The release film (115a) laminated to the metal foil (111) may be a protective film.

[0079] As shown in FIG. 5, a metal foil (111) can be unwound from a metal foil winding member (110), and a metal foil (111) laminated with a release film (115a) can be unwound.

[0080] After the release film (115a) is separated from the metal foil (111) unwound from the metal foil winding member (110), the metal foil (111) can be supplied to the notching member (140).

[0081] The release film (115a) separated from the metal foil (111) can be wound onto a winding member (115).

[0082] The first film winding member (roll) (120) may be a member (roll) on which the first release film (121) is wound. The first release film (121) unwound from the first film winding member (roll) (120) may be laminated (laminated) onto one side of the metal foil (111) unwound from the metal foil winding member (110) by the first lamination roller (130). The first release film (121) may be laminated to the remaining portion of the metal foil (111) excluding the notched portion (see FIG. 6). The first release film (121) may be smaller than the width of the metal foil (111).

[0083] The second film winding member (roll) (125) may be a member (roll) on which the second release film (126) is wound. The second release film (126) unwound from the second film winding member (roll) (125) may be laminated (laminated) to the other side of the metal foil (111) unwound from the metal foil winding member (110) by the second lamination roller (131). The other side of the metal foil (111) to which the second release film (126) is laminated may be the opposite side of the one side of the metal foil (111) to which the first release film (121) is laminated. For example, if the first release film (121) is laminated to the upper side of the metal foil (111), the second release film (126) may be laminated to the lower side of the metal foil (111).

[0084] The second release film (126) can be laminated to the remaining portion of the metal foil (111) excluding the notched portion (see FIG. 6). The second release film (126) may be smaller than the width of the metal foil (111).

[0085] The first and second release films (121, 126) are not limited to peelable plastic films, and release paper may also be used. For example, as the release film in this embodiment, polyester films such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polybutylene terephthalate, and polyethylene naphthalate, polyethylene film, polypropylene film, polyvinyl chloride film, polyvinylidene chloride film, polyvinyl alcohol film, polycarbonate film, polymethylpentene film, polysulfone film, polyetheretherketone film, polyimide film, fluoropolymer film, polyamide film, acrylic resin film, etc. may be used.

[0086] A release layer may be formed on such a plastic film. The release layer allows the metal foil (111) and the release film (121, 126) to be easily separated when the release film (121, 126) is separated from the metal foil (111). Non-limiting examples of release agents used in the release layer include epoxy-based release agents, fluoropolymer-based release agents, silicone-based release agents, alkyd resin-based release agents, water-soluble polymers, etc.

[0087] The first release film (121) and the second release film (126) can protect the metal foil (111) from foreign substances in the notching process described later and prevent the metal foil (111) from contamination.

[0088] The metal foil (111) in which the first release film (121) and the second release film (126) are laminated (stacked) can be notched by a notching member (140).

[0089] The notching member (140) can notch the metal foil (111) and can notch the metal foil (111) using laser notching, etc.

[0090] As shown in FIG. 6, notching can be performed along the notching guide line (111a), and notching can be performed on the portion of the metal foil (111) that is not covered by the release film (121, 126).

[0091] In the case of laser notching, it can be achieved by irradiating a laser onto a metal foil (111) and cutting the metal foil with the laser. Thus, the laser can be irradiated along the notching guide line (111a) to cut the metal foil (111) along the notching guide line (111a). The notching process may also be performed by other notching means, such as ultrasonic notching.

[0092] A notching tab (112) can be formed on the metal foil (111) by this notching process.

[0093] In the notching process, dust particles resulting from the generation of fumes when cutting the metal foil (111) can cause contamination of the metal foil (111). In this embodiment, contamination during the notching process can be prevented by laminating release films (121, 126) on one or both sides of the metal foil (111). Additionally, the release films (121, 126) are laminated to the remaining parts of the metal foil (111) excluding the notched portion, so that laser notching can be performed without being affected by the release films (121, 126).

[0094] The first winding member (160) can wind the first release film (121) separated from the notched metal foil (111).

[0095] As described above, after the metal foil (111) is notched by the notching member (140) in the notching process, the first release film (121) can be separated from the metal foil (111). The separated first release film (121) can be guided by the first feeding roller (150) and wound onto the first winding member (160).

[0096] The second winding member (165) can wind the second release film (126) separated from the notched metal foil (111).

[0097] As described above, after the metal foil (111) is notched by the notching member (140) in the notching process, the second release film (126) can be separated from the metal foil (111). The separated second release film (126) can be guided by the second feeding roller (151) and wound onto the second winding member (165).

[0098] After the first release film (121) and the second release film (126) are separated from the notched metal foil (111), the third release film (171) can be laminated to the metal foil (111).

[0099] The third film winding member (roll) (170) may be a member (roll) on which the third release film (171) is wound. The third release film (171) unwound from the third film winding member (roll) (170) may be laminated (laminated) onto one side of the metal foil (111) by the third laminating roller (175). The third release film (171) may cover the notching tab (112) on the metal foil (111) (see FIG. 8). Accordingly, the width of the third release film (171) may be greater than the width of the first and second release films (121, 126).

[0100] In this way, the third release film (171) covers the notching tab (112), thereby preventing the notching tab (112) from folding. If the release film (171) were not present, the notching tab (112) of the metal foil (111) could fold due to its soft physical properties, but the third release film (171) is laminated to the metal foil (111) to prevent the notching tab (112) from folding.

[0101] A support roller (176) may be positioned on the opposite side of the third laminating roller (175) relative to the metal foil (111). The support roller (176) can support one side of the metal foil (111), and by positioning the support roller (176) on the opposite side of the third laminating roller (175), the third release film (171) can be smoothly laminated to the metal foil (111).

[0102] The above rewinding member (180) may be a roll for winding a metal foil (111) laminated with a third release film (171). Accordingly, the notched metal foil (111) can be wound onto the rewinding member (180) in a state where the third release film (171) is laminated.

[0103] Accordingly, in the electrode manufacturing apparatus (100) for a secondary battery according to the present embodiment, as described above, a release film (121, 126) is laminated to one or both sides of a metal foil (111) and a notching process is performed, thereby preventing contamination caused by the generation of fumes and ensuring safety. In addition, after the notching is completed, the release film is laminated, which prevents tab folding of the metal foil, prevents sticking of the metal foil, and increases the process speed.

[0104] Next, a method for manufacturing an electrode for a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0105] A method for manufacturing an electrode for a secondary battery according to one embodiment of the present invention can be carried out by the aforementioned electrode manufacturing apparatus (100) for a secondary battery.

[0106] A method for manufacturing an electrode for a secondary battery may include the steps of: unwinding a metal foil (111) from a metal foil winding member (110); laminating first and second release films (121, 126) on each side of the metal foil (111); notching the metal foil (111) on which the first and second release films (121, 126) are laminated; separating the first and second release films (121, 126) from the metal foil (111) after the notching step; laminating a third release film (171) on one side of the metal foil (111) after the separation step; and winding the metal foil (111) on which the third release film (171) is laminated onto a rewinding member (180).

[0107] First, the metal foil (111) can be unwound from the metal foil winding member (110) on which the metal foil (111) is wound.

[0108] When the metal foil (111) is unwound from the metal foil winding member (110) with the release film (115a) laminated to it, the release film (115a) may be separated from the metal foil (111) before or after unwinding. As shown in FIG. 5, the release film (115a) separated from the metal foil (111) may be wound onto the winding member (115).

[0109] Next, a step of laminating the first and second release films (121, 126) onto each side of the metal foil (111) may be performed.

[0110] In the lamination step, the first release film (121) can be unwound from the first film winding member (roll) (120) on which the first release film (121) is wound, and the unwound first release film (121) can be laminated (layered) onto one side of the metal foil (111) by the first lamination roller (130). The first release film (121) can be laminated to the remaining portion of the metal foil (111) excluding the notched portion.

[0111] And, the second release film (126) can be unwound from the second film winding member (roll) (125) on which the second release film (126) is wound, and the unwound second release film (126) can be laminated (layered) to the opposite side of the metal foil (111) by the second lamination roller (131). The second release film (126) can be laminated to the remaining part of the metal foil (111) excluding the notched portion.

[0112] Accordingly, the first and second release films (121, 126) can be laminated to the non-notching area of ​​the metal foil (111).

[0113] After the lamination step, a step of notching the metal foil (111) laminated with the first and second release films (121, 126) may be performed.

[0114] In the notching stage, notching can be performed by the notching member (140).

[0115] The notching member (140) can notch the metal foil (111) and can notch the metal foil (111) using laser notching, etc.

[0116] As shown in FIG. 6, notching can be performed along the notching guide line (111a), and notching can be performed on the portion of the metal foil (111) that is not covered by the release film (121, 126). Through this notching process, a notching tab (112) can be formed on the metal foil (111).

[0117] In the notching process, a release film (121, 126) is laminated to one or both sides of the metal foil (111) to prevent contamination caused by notching.

[0118] After the notching step, a step of separating the first and second release films (121, 126) from the metal foil (111) may be performed.

[0119] A first release film (121) can be separated from a metal foil (111), and the separated first release film (121) can be guided by a first feeding roller (150) and wound onto a first winding member (160).

[0120] And, the second release film (126) can be separated from the metal foil (111), and the separated second release film (126) can be guided by the second feeding roller (151) and wound onto the second winding member (165).

[0121] After the separation step of the first and second release films (121, 126), a step of laminating a third release film (171) onto one side of the metal foil (111) may be performed.

[0122] The third release film (171) can be unwound from the third film winding member (roll) (170) on which the third release film (171) is wound, and the unwound third release film (171) can be laminated (laminated) to one side of the metal foil (111) by the third laminating roller (175). The third release film (171) can cover the notching tab (112) on the metal foil (111) (see FIG. 8). In this way, by the third release film (171) covering the notching tab (112), the notching tab (112) is prevented from folding.

[0123] After laminating the third release film (171), a step of winding the metal foil (111) laminated with the third release film (171) onto a rewinding member (180) may be performed.

[0124] Meanwhile, FIG. 9 is a drawing illustrating an electrode manufacturing apparatus (100) for a secondary battery according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0125] The difference between the second embodiment of the present invention and the first embodiment described above is that there is no first winding member (160) and a third film winding member (170), and the metal foil (111) laminated with the first release film (121) is directly wound by the rewinding member (180).

[0126] An electrode manufacturing device (100) for a secondary battery according to a second embodiment of the present invention may include a metal foil winding member (roll) (110) on which a metal foil (111) is wound, a winding member (115) for winding a release film (115a), a first film winding member (roll) (120) on which a first release film (121) is wound, a second film winding member (roll) (125) on which a second release film (126) is wound, a first laminating roller (130), a second laminating roller (131), a notching member (140), a winding member (166) for winding the second release film (126), and a rewinding member (180) for winding the notched metal foil (111).

[0127] As shown in FIG. 9, a metal foil (111) can be unwound from a metal foil winding member (110), and a metal foil (111) laminated with a release film (115a) can be unwound.

[0128] After the release film (115a) is separated from the metal foil (111) unwound from the metal foil winding member (110), the metal foil (111) can be supplied to the notching member (140).

[0129] The release film (115a) separated from the metal foil (111) can be wound onto a winding member (115).

[0130] The first release film (121) unwound from the first film winding member (roll) (120) can be laminated (layered) onto one side of the metal foil (111) unwound from the metal foil winding member (110) by the first laminating roller (130).

[0131] The second release film (126) unwound from the second film winding member (roll) (125) can be laminated (layered) to the other side of the metal foil (111) unwound from the metal foil winding member (110) by the second laminating roller (131).

[0132] The notching member (140) can notch the metal foil (111) and can notch the metal foil (111) using laser notching, etc.

[0133] As shown in FIG. 6, notching can be performed along the notching guide line (111a), and notching can be performed on the portion of the metal foil (111) that is not covered by the release film (121, 126). Through this notching process, a notching tab (112) can be formed on the metal foil (111).

[0134] In this embodiment, contamination during the notching process can be prevented by laminating a release film (121, 126) to one or both sides of the metal foil (111). Additionally, the release film (121, 126) is laminated to the remaining portion of the metal foil (111) excluding the notched portion, so that laser notching can be performed without being affected by the release film (121, 126).

[0135] The above winding member (166) can wind a second release film (126) separated from a notched metal foil (111).

[0136] As described above, after the metal foil (111) is notched by the notching member (140) in the notching process, the second release film (126) can be separated from the metal foil (111). The separated second release film (126) can be guided by a feeding roller (153) and wound onto a winding member (166).

[0137] The above rewinding member (180) may be a roll for winding a metal foil (111) laminated with a first release film (121). Accordingly, the notched metal foil (111) can be wound onto the rewinding member (180) in a state where the first release film (121) is laminated.

[0138] Accordingly, in the electrode manufacturing apparatus (100) for a secondary battery according to the second embodiment, as described above, a release film (121, 126) is laminated to one or both sides of a metal foil (111) and a notching process is performed, thereby preventing contamination caused by the generation of fumes and ensuring safety. In addition, after the notching is completed, the second release film (126) is separated, but the metal foil (111) is rewound with the first release film (121) laminated thereon, so that the tab folding prevention effect of the metal foil (111) is achieved and the process speed can be increased.

[0139] Other components and effects are the same as those in the previous embodiment, so a detailed description thereof is omitted here.

[0140] Next, a method for manufacturing an electrode for a secondary battery according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0141] The method for manufacturing an electrode for a secondary battery according to the second embodiment of the present invention can be carried out by the electrode manufacturing apparatus (100) for a secondary battery according to the second embodiment described above.

[0142] A method for manufacturing an electrode for a secondary battery may include the steps of: unwinding a metal foil (111) from a metal foil winding member (110); laminating first and second release films (121, 126) on each side of the metal foil (111); notching the metal foil (111) on which the first and second release films (121, 126) are laminated; separating the second release film (126) from the metal foil (111) after the notching step; and winding the metal foil (111) on which the first release film (121) is laminated onto a rewinding member (180).

[0143] First, the metal foil (111) can be unwound from the metal foil winding member (110) on which the metal foil (111) is wound.

[0144] When the metal foil (111) is unwound from the metal foil winding member (110) with the release film (115a) laminated to it, the release film (115a) may be separated from the metal foil (111) before or after unwinding. As shown in FIG. 9, the release film (115a) separated from the metal foil (111) may be wound onto the winding member (115).

[0145] Next, a step of laminating the first and second release films (121, 126) onto each side of the metal foil (111) may be performed.

[0146] In the lamination step, the first release film (121) can be unwound from the first film winding member (roll) (120) on which the first release film (121) is wound, and the unwound first release film (121) can be laminated (layered) onto one side of the metal foil (111) by the first lamination roller (130). The first release film (121) can be laminated to the remaining portion of the metal foil (111) excluding the notched portion.

[0147] And, the second release film (126) can be unwound from the second film winding member (roll) (125) on which the second release film (126) is wound, and the unwound second release film (126) can be laminated (layered) to the opposite side of the metal foil (111) by the second lamination roller (131). The second release film (126) can be laminated to the remaining part of the metal foil (111) excluding the notched portion.

[0148] After the lamination step, a step of notching the metal foil (111) laminated with the first and second release films (121, 126) may be performed.

[0149] In the notching stage, notching can be performed by the notching member (140).

[0150] The notching member (140) can notch the metal foil (111) and can notch the metal foil (111) using laser notching, etc.

[0151] As shown in FIG. 6, notching can be performed along the notching guide line (111a), and notching can be performed on the portion of the metal foil (111) that is not covered by the release film (121, 126). Through this notching process, a notching tab (112) can be formed on the metal foil (111).

[0152] In the notching process, a release film (121, 126) is laminated to one or both sides of the metal foil (111) to prevent contamination caused by notching.

[0153] After the notching step, a step of separating the second release film (126) from the metal foil (111) may be performed.

[0154] A second release film (126) can be separated from a metal foil (111), and the separated second release film (126) can be guided by a feeding roller (153) and wound onto a winding member (166).

[0155] And, a step of winding the metal foil (111) laminated with the first release film (121) onto a rewinding member (180) may be performed.

[0156] In this way, by winding the metal foil (111) laminated with the first release film (121) onto the rewinding member (180), the sticking of the metal foil (111) is prevented and the process speed can be increased.

[0157] Next, a secondary battery electrode manufacturing apparatus (100) according to the third embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0158] FIG. 10 is a drawing illustrating an electrode manufacturing apparatus (100) for a secondary battery according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0159] The difference between the third embodiment of the present invention and the previously described embodiment is that instead of a release film (121, 126), a separator (191, 196) is laminated to a metal foil (111), and after notching, the metal foil (111) laminated with the separator (191, 196) is wound onto a rewinding member (180).

[0160] An electrode manufacturing device (100) for a secondary battery according to the third embodiment of the present invention may include a metal foil winding member (roll) (110) on which a metal foil (111) is wound, a winding member (115) for winding a release film (115a), a first separator winding member (roll) (190) on which a first separator (191) is wound, a second separator winding member (roll) (195) on which a second separator (196) is wound, a first laminating roller (130), a second laminating roller (131), a notching member (140), and a rewinding member (180) for winding the notched metal foil (111).

[0161] As shown in FIG. 10, a metal foil (111) can be unwound from a metal foil winding member (110), and a metal foil (111) laminated with a release film (115a) can be unwound.

[0162] After the release film (115a) is separated from the metal foil (111) unwound from the metal foil winding member (110), the metal foil (111) can be supplied to the notching member (140).

[0163] The release film (115a) separated from the metal foil (111) can be wound onto a winding member (115).

[0164] The first separator film winding member (roll) (190) may be a member (roll) on which the first separator film (191) is wound. The first separator film (191) unwound from the first separator film winding member (roll) (190) may be laminated (laminated) to one side of the metal foil (111) unwound from the metal foil winding member (110) by the first lamination roller (130). The first separator film (191) may be laminated to the remaining portion of the metal foil (111) excluding the notched portion. The first separator film (191) may be smaller than the width of the metal foil (111), similar to the first release film (121) in FIG. 6.

[0165] The second separator film winding member (roll) (195) may be a member (roll) on which the second separator film (196) is wound. The second separator film (196) unwound from the second separator film winding member (roll) (195) may be laminated (laminated) to the other side of the metal foil (111) unwound from the metal foil winding member (110) by the second laminating roller (131). The other side of the metal foil (111) to which the second separator film (196) is laminated may be the opposite side of the one side of the metal foil (111) to which the first separator film (191) is laminated. For example, if the first separator film (191) is laminated to the upper side of the metal foil (111), the second separator film (196) may be laminated to the lower side of the metal foil (111).

[0166] The second separator (196) can be laminated to the remaining portion of the metal foil (111) excluding the notched portion. The second separator (196) may be smaller than the width of the metal foil (111), similar to the second release film (126) in FIG. 6.

[0167] The first and second separators (191, 196) may be separators constituting the electrode assembly (10). As described above, the electrode assembly (10) may be formed by including a first electrode, a second electrode, and a separator interposed between these electrodes, and the separator (191, 196) may be laminated to the metal foil (111) during the notching process. In this way, since the separator (191, 196) is laminated to the metal foil (111) during notching, a separate process of bonding the separator to the metal foil (111) is unnecessary when assembling the electrode assembly (10). In addition, contamination during the notching process can be prevented by laminating the separator (121, 126) to one or both sides of the metal foil (111).

[0168] In this embodiment, the separator (191, 193, 196) may be a porous substrate, and the material may be formed from a polymer mixed with one or more types of polyolefin-based polymers selected from the group consisting of polyethylene; polypropylene; polybutylene; and polypentene.

[0169] The notching member (140) can notch the metal foil (111) and can notch the metal foil (111) using laser notching, etc.

[0170] Notching can be performed along the notching guide line (111a), and notching can be performed on the portion of the metal foil (111) that is not covered by the separator (191, 196). Through this notching process, a notching tab (112) can be formed on the metal foil (111).

[0171] The separator (191, 196) is laminated to the remaining portion of the metal foil (111) excluding the notched portion, so that laser notching can be performed without affecting the separator (191, 196).

[0172] The rewinding member (180) may be a roll for winding the metal foil (111) laminated with the first and second separators (191, 196). Accordingly, the notched metal foil (111) may be wound onto the rewinding member (180) in a state where the first and second separators (191, 196) are laminated.

[0173] Accordingly, in the electrode manufacturing apparatus (100) for a secondary battery according to the third embodiment, as described above, the separator (191, 196) is laminated to one or both sides of the metal foil (111) and a notching process is performed, so contamination caused by the generation of fumes can be prevented and safety can be ensured. In addition, after the notching is completed, the metal foil (111) is rewound with the separator (191, 196) laminated, so there is no need to perform a separate separator bonding process when assembling the electrode assembly (10), and the process speed can be increased.

[0174] Other components and effects are the same as those in the previous embodiment, so a detailed description thereof is omitted here.

[0175] Next, a method for manufacturing an electrode for a secondary battery according to the third embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0176] The method for manufacturing an electrode for a secondary battery according to the third embodiment of the present invention can be carried out by the electrode manufacturing apparatus (100) for a secondary battery according to the third embodiment described above.

[0177] A method for manufacturing an electrode for a secondary battery may include the steps of: unwinding a metal foil (111) from a metal foil winding member (110); laminating first and second separators (191, 196) on each side of the metal foil (111); notching the metal foil (111) laminated with the first and second separators (191, 196); and winding the metal foil (111) laminated with the first and second separators (191, 196) onto a rewinding member (180).

[0178] First, the metal foil (111) can be unwound from the metal foil winding member (110) on which the metal foil (111) is wound.

[0179] When the metal foil (111) is unwound from the metal foil winding member (110) with the release film (115a) laminated to it, the release film (115a) may be separated from the metal foil (111) before or after unwinding. As shown in FIG. 10, the release film (115a) separated from the metal foil (111) may be wound onto the winding member (115).

[0180] Next, a step of laminating the first and second separators (191, 196) to each of the two sides of the metal foil (111) may be performed.

[0181] In the lamination step, the first separator (191) can be unwound from the first separator winding member (roll) (190) on which the first separator (191) is wound, and the unwound first separator (191) can be laminated (layered) to one side of the metal foil (111) by the first lamination roller (130). The first separator (191) can be laminated to the remaining portion of the metal foil (111) excluding the notched portion.

[0182] And, the second separator (196) can be unwound from the second separator winding member (roll) (195) on which the second separator (196) is wound, and the unwound second separator (196) can be laminated (layered) to the opposite side of the metal foil (111) by the second laminating roller (131). The second separator (196) can be laminated to the remaining part of the metal foil (111) excluding the notched portion.

[0183] After the lamination step, a step of notching the metal foil (111) laminated with the first and second separators (191, 196) can be performed.

[0184] In the notching stage, notching can be performed by the notching member (140).

[0185] The notching member (140) can notch the metal foil (111) and can notch the metal foil (111) using laser notching, etc.

[0186] Notching can be performed along the notching guide line (111a), and notching can be performed on the portion of the metal foil (111) that is not covered by the first and second separators (191, 196). Through this notching process, a notching tab (112) can be formed on the metal foil (111).

[0187] In the notching process, a separator (191, 196) is laminated to one or both sides of the metal foil (111) to prevent contamination caused by notching.

[0188] After the notching step, a step of winding the metal foil (111) laminated with the first and second separators (191, 196) onto a rewinding member (180) may be performed.

[0189] In this way, by winding the metal foil (111) laminated with the first and second separators (191, 196) onto the rewinding member (180), the adhesion of the metal foil (111) is prevented and the process speed can be increased.

[0190] Next, a secondary battery electrode manufacturing apparatus (100) according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0191] FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram illustrating an electrode manufacturing apparatus (100) for a secondary battery according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0192] An electrode manufacturing device (100) for a secondary battery according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention may include a metal foil winding member (roll) (110) on which a metal foil (111) is wound, a winding member (115) for winding a release film (115a), a separator winding member (roll) (192) on which a separator (193) is wound, a release film winding member (roll) (127) on which a release film (128) is wound, a first lamination roller (130), a second lamination roller (131), a notching member (140), a winding member (167) for winding a release film (128), and a rewinding member (180) for winding a notched metal foil (111).

[0193] As shown in FIG. 11, a metal foil (111) can be unwound from a metal foil winding member (110), and a metal foil (111) laminated with a release film (115a) can be unwound.

[0194] After the release film (115a) is separated from the metal foil (111) unwound from the metal foil winding member (110), the metal foil (111) can be supplied to the notching member (140).

[0195] The release film (115a) separated from the metal foil (111) can be wound onto a winding member (115).

[0196] The separator rolling member (roll) (192) may be a member (roll) on which the separator (193) is wound.

[0197] The separator (193) unwound from the separator winding member (roll) (192) can be laminated (layered) onto one side of the metal foil (111) unwound from the metal foil winding member (110) by the first lamination roller (130). The separator (193) can be laminated to the remaining part (non-notched area) of the metal foil (111) excluding the notched portion. The separator (193) may be smaller than the width of the metal foil (111), similar to the first release film (121) in FIG. 6.

[0198] A release film (128) unwound from a film winding member (roll) (127) can be laminated (layered) to the other side of a metal foil (111) unwound from a metal foil winding member (110) by a second laminating roller (131). The other side of the metal foil (111) to which the release film (128) is laminated may be the opposite side of the metal foil (111) to which the separator (193) is laminated. For example, if the separator (193) is laminated to the upper side of the metal foil (111), the release film (128) can be laminated to the lower side of the metal foil (111).

[0199] The release film (128) can be laminated to the remaining portion of the metal foil (111) excluding the notched portion. The release film (128) may be smaller than the width of the metal foil (111), similar to the release films (121, 126) in FIG. 6.

[0200] The separator (193) may be a separator constituting the electrode assembly (10). Therefore, since notching is performed with the separator (193) laminated to the metal foil (111), a separate process of attaching the separator to the metal foil (111) is unnecessary when assembling the electrode assembly (10). In addition, by laminating the separator (193) and the release film (128) on both sides of the metal foil (111), contamination can be prevented during the notching process.

[0201] The notching member (140) can notch the metal foil (111) and can notch the metal foil (111) using laser notching, etc.

[0202] Notching can be performed along the notching guide line (111a), and notching can be performed on the portion of the metal foil (111) that is not covered by the separator (193) and the release film (128) (see FIG. 6). A notching tab (112) can be formed on the metal foil (111) by this notching process.

[0203] The separator (193) and the release film (128) are laminated to the remaining portion of the metal foil (111) excluding the notched portion, so that laser notching can be performed without affecting the release film (128).

[0204] The winding member (167) can wind the release film (128) separated from the notched metal foil (111).

[0205] As described above, after the metal foil (111) is notched by the notching member (140) in the notching process, the release film (128) can be separated from the metal foil (111). The separated release film (128) can be guided by a feeding roller (153) and wound onto a winding member (167).

[0206] The above rewinding member (180) may be a roll for winding a metal foil (111) laminated with a separator (193). Accordingly, the notched metal foil (111) can be wound onto the rewinding member (180) with the separator (193) laminated thereon.

[0207] Accordingly, in the electrode manufacturing apparatus (100) for a secondary battery according to the fourth embodiment, as described above, the separator (193) and the release film (128) are laminated on both sides of the metal foil (111) and a notching process is performed, so contamination caused by the generation of fumes can be prevented and safety can be ensured. In addition, after the notching is completed, the release film (128) is separated, but the metal foil (111) is rewound with the separator (193) laminated thereon, so there is no need to perform a separate separator bonding process when assembling the electrode assembly (10), and the process speed can be increased.

[0208] Next, a method for manufacturing an electrode for a secondary battery according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0209] The method for manufacturing an electrode for a secondary battery according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention can be carried out by the electrode manufacturing apparatus (100) for a secondary battery according to the fourth embodiment described above.

[0210] A method for manufacturing an electrode for a secondary battery may include the steps of: unwinding a metal foil (111) from a metal foil winding member (110); laminating a separator (193) and a release film (128) on each side of the metal foil (111); notching the metal foil (111) on which the separator (193) and the release film (128) are laminated; separating the release film (128) from the metal foil (111) after the notching step; and winding the metal foil (111) on which the separator (193) is laminated onto a rewinding member (180).

[0211] First, the metal foil (111) can be unwound from the metal foil winding member (110) on which the metal foil (111) is wound.

[0212] When the metal foil (111) is unwound from the metal foil winding member (110) with the release film (115a) laminated to it, the release film (115a) may be separated from the metal foil (111) before or after unwinding. As shown in FIG. 9, the release film (115a) separated from the metal foil (111) may be wound onto the winding member (115).

[0213] Next, a step of laminating a separator (193) and a release film (128) to each of the two sides of the metal foil (111) may be performed.

[0214] In the lamination step, the separator (193) can be unwound from the separator winding member (roll) (192) on which the separator (193) is wound, and the unwound separator (193) can be laminated (layered) to one side of the metal foil (111) by the first lamination roller (130). The separator (193) can be laminated to the remaining portion of the metal foil (111) excluding the notched portion.

[0215] And, the release film (128) can be unwound from the film winding member (roll) (127) on which the release film (128) is wound, and the unwound release film (128) can be laminated (layered) to the opposite side of the metal foil (111) by the second laminating roller (131). The release film (128) can be laminated to the remaining part of the metal foil (111) excluding the notched portion.

[0216] After the lamination step, a step of notching the metal foil (111) laminated with the separator (193) and release film (128) can be performed.

[0217] In the notching stage, notching can be performed by the notching member (140).

[0218] The notching member (140) can notch the metal foil (111) and can notch the metal foil (111) using laser notching, etc.

[0219] Notching can be performed along the notching guide line (111a), and notching can be performed on the portion of the metal foil (111) that is not covered by the separator (193) and the release film (128). Through this notching process, a notching tab (112) can be formed on the metal foil (111).

[0220] In the notching process, a separator (193) and a release film (128) are laminated on both sides of the metal foil (111), thereby preventing contamination caused by notching.

[0221] After the notching step, a step of separating the release film (128) from the metal foil (111) may be performed.

[0222] A release film (128) can be separated from a metal foil (111), and the separated release film (128) can be guided by a feeding roller (153) and wound onto a winding member (167).

[0223] And, a step of winding the metal foil (111) laminated with the separator (193) onto the rewinding member (180) can be performed.

[0224] In this way, by winding the metal foil (111) laminated with the separator (193) onto the rewinding member (180), the sticking of the metal foil (111) is prevented and the process speed can be increased.

[0225] Meanwhile, a plurality of cylindrical battery cells (1) can be accommodated in a pack case (2100) to form a battery pack (2000) (see FIG. 12).

[0226] The battery pack (2000) may additionally include various control and protection systems such as a Battery Management System (BMS), and the battery pack (2000) may be applied to various devices. Specifically, it may be applied to means of transportation such as electric bicycles, electric vehicles, and hybrid vehicles, or to an Energy Storage System (ESS), but is not limited thereto and can be applied to various devices capable of using secondary batteries.

[0227] FIG. 13 is a drawing illustrating an electric vehicle (V) equipped with a battery pack (2000). In the electric vehicle (V), the wheels are driven by a motor that receives power from the battery pack (2000), allowing the electric vehicle to operate.

[0228] Although the present invention has been described with reference to preferred embodiments as described above, it is not limited to the aforementioned embodiments, and various changes and modifications may be made by those skilled in the art within the scope of the invention without departing from the spirit of the invention.

[0229] The present invention can provide an apparatus and method for manufacturing an electrode for a secondary battery that can prevent contamination and improve safety in the notching process and increase the process speed.

Claims

1. A first lamination roller for laminating a first release film onto one side of a metal foil; A second lamination roller for laminating a second release film to the other side of the metal foil; A notching member for notching the metal foil laminated with the first release film and the second release film; A first winding member for winding the first release film separated from the metal foil; A second winding member for winding the second release film separated from the metal foil; A third lamination roller for laminating a third release film onto the metal foil after the first and second release films are separated from the metal foil; and A rewinding member for winding the metal foil laminated with the above third release film; A secondary battery electrode manufacturing device including 2. In Paragraph 1, A secondary battery electrode manufacturing apparatus further comprising a metal foil winding member on which the above-mentioned metal foil is wound.

3. In Paragraph 2, The metal foil is wound onto the metal foil winding member in a state where a release film is laminated to the metal foil, and A secondary battery electrode manufacturing apparatus further comprising a winding member for winding a release film separated from the above metal foil.

4. In Paragraph 1, The above first and second release films are laminated to the non-notching area of ​​the metal foil. A secondary battery electrode manufacturing apparatus.

5. In Paragraph 1, A first feeding roller for guiding the first release film separated from the metal foil after notching the metal foil; and A second feeding roller for guiding the second release film separated from the metal foil after notching the metal foil; A secondary battery electrode manufacturing device further comprising 6. In Paragraph 1, The above third release film is a secondary battery electrode manufacturing device that covers the notching tab of the above metal foil.

7. A step of laminating the first and second release films to each side of the metal foil; A step of notching the metal foil laminated with the first and second release films; A step of separating the first and second release films from the metal foil after the above notching step; A step of laminating a third release film onto the metal foil after the above separation step; and A step of winding the metal foil laminated with the third release film onto a rewinding member; A method for manufacturing an electrode for a secondary battery comprising 8. In Paragraph 7, A method for manufacturing an electrode for a secondary battery, further comprising the step of unwinding the metal foil from a metal foil winding member before the lamination step of the first and second release films.

9. A first lamination roller for laminating a first release film onto one side of a metal foil; A second lamination roller for laminating a second release film to the other side of the metal foil; A notching member for notching the metal foil laminated with the first release film and the second release film; A winding member for winding the second release film separated from the notched metal foil; and A rewinding member for winding the metal foil laminated with the first release film; A secondary battery electrode manufacturing device including 10. In Paragraph 9, A secondary battery electrode manufacturing apparatus further comprising: a feeding roller for guiding the second release film separated from the metal foil after notching the metal foil.

11. A step of laminating the first and second release films to each side of the metal foil; A step of notching the metal foil laminated with the first and second release films; A step of separating the second release film from the metal foil after the above notching step; and After the above separation step, a step of winding the metal foil laminated with the first release film onto a rewinding member; A method for manufacturing an electrode for a secondary battery comprising 12. In an apparatus for manufacturing electrodes for secondary batteries, A first lamination roller for laminating a first separator to one side of a metal foil; A second lamination roller for laminating a second separator to the other side of the metal foil; A notching member for notching the metal foil laminated with the first separator and the second separator; A rewinding member for winding the metal foil having the first separator and the second separator laminated thereto; A secondary battery electrode manufacturing device including 13. In Paragraph 12, The above first and second separators are separators constituting an electrode assembly, and the electrode manufacturing apparatus for a secondary battery.

14. A step of laminating the first and second separators to each side of the metal foil; A step of notching the metal foil laminated with the first and second separators; and A step of winding the metal foil, on which the first and second separators are laminated, onto a rewinding member after the notching step; A method for manufacturing an electrode for a secondary battery comprising 15. In an apparatus for manufacturing electrodes for secondary batteries, A first lamination roller for laminating a separator to one side of a metal foil; A second lamination roller for laminating a release film to the other side of the metal foil; A notching member for notching the metal foil laminated with the above separator and the above release film; A winding member for winding the release film separated from the notched metal foil; and A rewinding member for winding the metal foil laminated with the above separator; A secondary battery electrode manufacturing device including 16. In Paragraph 15, The above separator is a separator constituting an electrode assembly, and is a secondary battery electrode manufacturing device.

17. A step of laminating a separator and a release film to each side of a metal foil; A step of notching the metal foil on which the above-mentioned separator and the above-mentioned release film are respectively laminated; A step of separating the release film from the metal foil after the notching step; and A step of winding the metal foil laminated with the above-mentioned separator onto a rewinding member; A method for manufacturing an electrode for a secondary battery comprising 18. In Paragraph 17, A method for manufacturing an electrode for a secondary battery, wherein the above-mentioned separator is a separator constituting an electrode assembly.

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