Separator Adhesion Layout for Simultaneous Edge Bonding

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional separator adhesion apparatuses require separate processes for adhering the long and short sides of a separator, leading to increased inspection and alignment burdens and higher defective rates due to the complexity of the adhesion processes.

Innovation Solution

A separator adhesion apparatus with a main body featuring first and second adhesive members that allow simultaneous adherence of both the long and short sides of a separator, utilizing a columnar shape with detachable first adhesive members and position-adjustable second adhesive members to ensure accurate and efficient adhesion without adhering electrode plates or leads.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If separate processes are used for adhering long and short sides of separator, then adhesion can be achieved, but process complexity and inspection burden increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadhesion qualityVSAvoidprocess complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the adhesion of long sides and short sides of the separator into a single integrated process. The adhesion apparatus is configured to simultaneously perform adhesion operations on multiple sides of the separator using a unified structural design, thereby reducing process complexity while maintaining adhesion quality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The adhesion apparatus is designed with multi-functional capabilities to handle both long side and short side adhesion operations. The device incorporates adjustable adhesive members and positioning mechanisms that can adapt to different sides of the separator, enabling a single apparatus to perform multiple adhesion functions that previously required separate processes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If separate processes are used for adhering long and short sides of separator, then adhesion can be achieved, but defective rate increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadhesion qualityVSAvoidalignment accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The apparatus incorporates preliminary positioning mechanisms that align the separator and electrode assembly before the adhesion process begins. By pre-positioning the components accurately, the system reduces alignment errors and prevents defects that would otherwise occur during separate adhesion processes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces complex mechanical alignment procedures with an integrated apparatus that uses standardized positioning features and guide mechanisms. This substitution simplifies the alignment process and reduces the occurrence of misalignment defects.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Productivity

If simultaneous adhesion of long and short sides is implemented, then process efficiency improves, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprocess efficiencyVSAvoidapparatus structure

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The adhesion apparatus is segmented into modular functional units, each responsible for specific adhesion tasks. This segmentation allows the device to perform simultaneous adhesion operations while maintaining a manageable structural complexity through standardized modular components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The apparatus utilizes spatial arrangement in multiple dimensions to achieve simultaneous adhesion of different sides of the separator. By organizing adhesive members and positioning mechanisms in a three-dimensional configuration, the system accomplishes multi-side adhesion without proportionally increasing overall device complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

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 enhances process efficiency and accuracy, reduces defective rates, and accommodates various electrode assembly standards by allowing simultaneous adhesion of both sides, thereby improving the quality and consistency of the electrode assembly.

Implementation Method 1

The long side of the surplus portions of the separator 20 is interposed between the long side adhering unit 30 and the support unit 31 and heated, thereby thermally adhering the stacked separator 20

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectThermal adhesion: Heating

Data Source

PatentEP4679546A1Apparatus for adhering separators

Publication Date: 2026.01.14 LG ENERGY SOLUTION LTD

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Figure 2(a)~2(b)
Figure 3(a)~3(b)

AI summary

A separator adhesion apparatus according one embodiment of the present disclosure adheres stacked separators of an electrode assembly in which a separator and an electrode are alternately stacked, the separator adhesion apparatus comprising: a main body, and a first adhesive member and a second adhesive member provided on an outer surface of the main body, wherein the first adhesive member is disposed so as to adhere the separator in a direction perpendicular to an advancing direction of the electrode assembly, and wherein the second adhesive member is disposed so as to adhere the separator along an advancing direction of the electrode assembly.