Electrode Tab Bonding with In-Process Tensile Force Inspection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for bonding an electrode tab to an electrode current collector require destructive inspections to ensure bonding quality, which are time-consuming and lack accuracy.
Innovation Solution
An electrode tab bonding equipment and method that includes a transfer member, tab clamp jig, tensile force measuring device, and bonding member to automatically inspect the bonding degree by measuring tensile force during the bonding process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If destructive inspection is performed to confirm bonding quality, then bonding reliability can be verified, but inspection time increases and accuracy decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the conventional destructive mechanical inspection method with a non-contact electromagnetic inspection system. The inspection device uses electromagnetic fields to detect bonding quality without physically damaging the electrode tab or requiring sample removal, thereby eliminating inspection time delays while maintaining reliability verification.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an electromagnetic field as an intermediary between the bonding process and inspection. This intermediary enables indirect measurement of bonding quality through electrical properties (such as resistance or conductivity) without direct mechanical contact or destruction of the bonded joint, resolving the contradiction between verification reliability and inspection speed.
2Reliability
If destructive inspection is performed to ensure bonding quality, then bonding reliability can be confirmed, but inspection accuracy depends on inspector subjectivity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces subjective human inspector evaluation with an objective electromagnetic measurement system. The inspection device quantifies bonding quality through measurable electrical parameters (resistance, conductivity, or impedance), eliminating inspector-dependent variability and providing consistent, precise measurements across all inspections.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the electromagnetic inspection results are automatically compared against predefined quality thresholds. This closed-loop approach ensures that bonding quality assessment is based on precise, objective data rather than subjective judgment, improving measurement precision while maintaining reliability verification.
3Reliability
If separate sampling and destructive inspection are performed, then bonding quality can be verified, but the inspection process is delayed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the bonding process and inspection process into a single integrated operation. The electromagnetic inspection device is positioned to inspect electrode tabs immediately after bonding without requiring separate sampling or removal steps, combining quality verification with the main production flow and thereby improving inspection efficiency while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent ensures continuous inspection action by eliminating interruptions for sample removal and separate testing. The electromagnetic inspection system operates continuously on electrode tabs as they pass through the bonding station, maintaining uninterrupted production flow while verifying bonding quality, thus improving productivity without sacrificing reliability.
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
Enables real-time, accurate, and consistent inspection of the bonding quality without interrupting the process, improving efficiency and accuracy compared to destructive methods.
Implementation Method 1
a tensile force measuring device that measures a tensile force of the electrode tab
Implementation Method 2
While the horn 51 and the anvil 52 strongly press the electrode tab ET and the electrode current collector EF, ultrasonic welding can be performed
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
An electrode tab bonding equipment according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes: a transfer member that transfers an electrode including an electrode current collector; a tab clamp jig that moves an electrode tab on one surface of the electrode current collector or pulls the electrode tab; a tensile force measuring device provided in the tab clamp jig; a bonding member that bonds the electrode tab on the electrode current collector; and at least one electrode clamp jig that fixes the electrode.