Electrode Plate Vacuum Pad Pressure Control for Faster Stacking

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electrode plate stacking processes in secondary batteries face challenges with slow production speeds due to lengthy pipe configurations and delayed vacuum pressure adjustments, leading to increased absorption times and potential scattering of foreign materials.

Innovation Solution

The electrode plate absorption device incorporates a vacuum tank and control valve system to maintain a constant low vacuum pressure, reducing pipe length and increasing conductance, thereby enhancing the speed and efficiency of electrode plate absorption.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Speed

If a conventional vacuum system with long pipes is used, then the structure is simple, but the vacuum pressure adjustment is delayed and absorption time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevacuum pressure adjustment speedVSAvoidpipe length
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSLength of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The vacuum system is segmented into multiple sections: a first vacuum pad with a first pipe directly connected to the vacuum generator, and a second vacuum pad with a second pipe connected to a three-way valve. This segmentation allows independent control of different vacuum zones, enabling faster pressure adjustment in critical areas without requiring complete system redesign.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

A three-way valve is introduced as an intermediary component between the vacuum generator and the second vacuum pad. This mediator enables rapid switching and pressure control by providing a local control point, eliminating the need for long pipes to extend the vacuum generator's reach while maintaining system simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Productivity

If the pipe configuration is extended to reach all vacuum pads, then all areas can be covered, but the conductance decreases and absorption time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveabsorption speedVSAvoidpipe configuration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The vacuum pad system is divided into multiple independently controllable groups. The first vacuum pad operates through a direct connection for maximum speed, while the second vacuum pad is controlled through the three-way valve. This segmentation allows each zone to be optimized for its specific function, improving overall productivity without requiring a uniformly complex pipe network.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The three-way valve introduces dynamic control capability to the vacuum system. By enabling rapid switching between different vacuum sources or atmospheric pressure, the system can dynamically adjust pressure distribution across different pads, optimizing absorption speed for each operational phase without permanently increasing pipe complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Speed

If vacuum pressure is increased to improve absorption, then absorption speed improves, but foreign materials scatter

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveabsorption speedVSAvoidforeign material scattering
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

Different vacuum pressure levels are applied to different locations based on local requirements. The first vacuum pad operates at one pressure condition while the second vacuum pad, controlled through the three-way valve, can operate at different pressure conditions. This local quality approach allows high-speed absorption in critical areas while maintaining gentler conditions in other areas to prevent foreign material scattering.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The three-way valve enables dynamic pressure adjustment during the absorption process. The system can transition between different pressure states to optimize absorption while minimizing scattering. By controlling the timing and magnitude of pressure changes locally at each pad, the system achieves high absorption speed without the harmful effects of uncontrolled pressure surges that cause material scattering.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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

This configuration reduces vacuum absorption time, allowing for high-speed stacking and minimizing material scattering, thus improving the overall manufacturing efficiency of secondary batteries.

Implementation Method 1

a vacuum tank connected to the vacuum generator through a first pipe and having a pressure maintained by the vacuum generator

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectVacuum: Vacuum

Implementation Method 2

a control valve connected through the vacuum tank through a second pipe, wherein the control valve uses the vacuum tank to control a pressure of a vacuum pad

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPressure control: Pressure Gradient

Data Source

PatentUS20250388415A1Electrode plate absorption device
Publication Date: 2025.12.25 SAMSUNG SDI CO LTD
  • US20250388415A1 patent drawing
  • US20250388415A1 patent drawing
  • US20250388415A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A pressure control module includes a vacuum tank connected to a vacuum generator, the vacuum tank being configured to have a pressure therein maintained by the vacuum generator, and a control valve connected to the vacuum tank, the control valve being configured to control via the vacuum tank a pressure of a vacuum pad that absorbs an electrode plate.