Electrode Tab Shape Inspection Using Image-Based Radius Measurement

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for managing the shape of electrode tabs in secondary batteries are prone to human error due to difficulty in setting accurate reference points, leading to potential material deformation and inefficiencies in dimensional measurement.

Innovation Solution

A method and system for detecting shape faults in electrode tabs by photographing the side surface, measuring bending radius and cutting distance, and comparing against designated references, using linear regression techniques to set precise reference points and generate parallel lines for accurate measurement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If manual reference point setting is used for electrode tab shape measurement, then flexibility in measurement setup is improved, but measurement precision and reliability deteriorate due to human error

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflexibility in measurement setupVSAvoidaccuracy of reference point positioning
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the manual mechanical method of reference point setting with an automated image processing system. The system captures images of the electrode tab and uses algorithmic processing to automatically identify and set reference points based on geometric features, eliminating human error while maintaining operational flexibility through programmable parameters.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The measurement system performs self-service by automatically establishing reference points without human intervention. The image processing algorithm independently identifies geometric features of the electrode tab and calculates reference positions, making the system self-sufficient in the measurement process while improving precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Measurement precision

If automated image processing is used for shape fault detection, then measurement precision and reliability are improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccuracy of shape fault detectionVSAvoidcomplexity of detection system
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex manual measurement devices with a simplified automated system that uses standard imaging equipment combined with image processing algorithms. This substitution reduces mechanical complexity while enhancing measurement precision through computational methods.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system creates a digital copy (image) of the electrode tab and performs all measurements on this copy through image processing. This approach simplifies the physical device requirements while maintaining high measurement precision, as all complex operations are performed computationally on the digital representation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

3Device complexity

If manual dimensional measurement is used for electrode tab, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity and detection speed deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesimplicity of measurement systemVSAvoidspeed of shape fault detection
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The automated image processing system enables continuous measurement and detection operations. Multiple electrode tabs can be processed sequentially without interruption, and the system can operate continuously to capture images and perform measurements, significantly improving productivity compared to manual measurement methods.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces time-consuming manual measurement operations with rapid automated image capture and processing. The system can capture images and compute dimensional measurements in seconds, dramatically increasing detection speed while maintaining simplicity through software-based solutions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS20250272820A1System, apparatus, and method for detecting shape fault of electrode tab of secondary battery
Publication Date: 2025.08.28 SK ON CO LTD
  • US20250272820A1 patent drawing
  • US20250272820A1 patent drawing
  • US20250272820A1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure provides a method, device and system for detecting a shape fault of an electrode tab of a secondary battery. The method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include: photographing a side surface of the secondary battery to acquire a side surface image of the electrode tab processed into a designated shape; measuring a bending radius and a cutting distance of the processed electrode tab from the side surface image; checking whether the bending radius and the cutting distance satisfy a designated reference radius and reference distance; and if the bending radius and the cutting distance do not satisfy the reference radius and the reference distance, determining that the shape fault of the electrode tab has occurred.