Electrode Substrate Notching With Blade-Assisted Scrap Discharge
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing notching apparatuses for electrode substrates in rechargeable batteries face issues with scrap removal due to deteriorating spring force in tension spring pusher methods and potential damage in cam pusher methods, leading to inaccurate positioning and take-out errors.
Innovation Solution
A notching apparatus with a pusher mechanism featuring a blade that connects the exterior and interior of the die, equipped with recesses on the punch and die to accommodate the blade, and an elastic support system to ensure smooth scrap discharge, preventing damage from foreign substances and maintaining accurate positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If tension spring pusher method is used to remove scrap, then scrap discharge function is provided, but spring force deteriorates due to repetitive cycling causing inaccurate positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The pusher mechanism is segmented into multiple components: pusher body, blade, and elastic member. The blade is separated as a distinct element that can be replaced independently, allowing the elastic member to maintain consistent force without degradation from direct contact with scrap material.
Solution Approach 2:
The blade is designed as a consumable component that can be easily replaced when worn or damaged. This allows the expensive elastic member and pusher body to remain intact and maintain their positioning accuracy over extended periods, while only the inexpensive blade needs periodic replacement.
2Measurement precision
If cam pusher method is used to prevent take-out errors, then positioning accuracy is improved, but cam and pusher may be damaged by foreign substances
Solution Approach 1:
The blade serves as an intermediary between the pusher mechanism and the scrap material. It performs the actual contact and pushing function, protecting the cam and pusher body from direct exposure to foreign substances that could cause damage while maintaining precise positioning control.
Solution Approach 2:
The vulnerable components (cam and pusher body) are extracted from direct contact with scrap material. The blade is designed to be removable and replaceable, isolating the critical positioning components from harmful environmental factors while maintaining the precision positioning function.
3Productivity
If blade connects exterior and interior of die to discharge scrap, then scrap removal efficiency is improved, but blade may be damaged by foreign substances
Solution Approach 1:
The blade is designed as an inexpensive, easily replaceable component that can withstand direct contact with scrap material and foreign substances. When the blade becomes damaged or worn, it can be quickly replaced without affecting the rest of the expensive pusher mechanism or die assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The blade acts as a sacrificial intermediary that protects the interior of the die and the pusher mechanism from damage by foreign substances. It performs the harsh scraping function while being designed for easy replacement, maintaining productivity without compromising the reliability of critical components.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The apparatus effectively and accurately discharges scrap during the notching process, maintaining operational precision and preventing damage, ensuring reliable and efficient electrode manufacturing.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic member to support the blade
Data Source
AI summary
A notching apparatus for an electrode substrate of a rechargeable battery is provided. The notching apparatus includes: a lower plate assembly including a die; an upper plate assembly including a punch facing toward the die; and a pusher on a first side of the punch and the die in a second direction. The pusher is configured to notch an electrode from an electrode substrate passing between the lower plate assembly and the upper plate assembly in a first direction and to separate scrap generated during the notching by pressing with a blade. The blade connects an exterior and an interior of the die in the second direction, and at least one of a first side of the punch and the die have a recess configured to accommodate the blade.