Z-Fold Cell Preparation With Pre-Applied Separator Adhesive
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Solution Overview
Problem
The issue of electrode displacement during the Z-folding process in secondary battery assembly, leading to reduced adhesion and heat transfer inefficiencies, is addressed by the present invention.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus and method involving an electrode reel, separator reel, table, and nozzles for applying adhesive to specific regions of the separator sheet to stabilize electrode placement, using a combination of linear and swinging motions to ensure precise adhesion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a separate laminating process is performed after stacking the electrode and separator sheet in Z-folding form, then adhesion between electrode and separator is improved, but overall thickness of the stack increases and heat transfer to the inside is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies adhesive to the separator sheet before stacking the electrode and separator sheet together in Z-folding form. This preliminary application of adhesive ensures that adhesion is established during the stacking process itself, eliminating the need for a separate post-stack laminating process. The adhesive is applied to the inner surface of the separator sheet that contacts the electrode, creating immediate bonding upon stacking while maintaining the original stack thickness and heat transfer characteristics.
2Temperature
If no separate laminating process is performed after stacking, then heat transfer is maintained, but the electrode is not adhered to the separator sheet and displacement occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The adhesive is applied to the separator sheet before stacking, ensuring that when the electrode and separator sheet are stacked in Z-folding form, the adhesive immediately bonds the electrode to the separator. This preliminary bonding action prevents electrode displacement during subsequent handling and assembly processes while eliminating the need for additional post-stack laminating that would compromise heat transfer.
3Strength
If the stack thickness is increased by separate laminating, then adhesion is improved, but the electrode may be out of position during transfer for laminating
Solution Approach 1:
By applying adhesive to the separator sheet before stacking the electrode and separator together, the patent ensures that the electrode is immediately bonded to the separator at its correct position during the stacking process. This eliminates the need for subsequent transfer and laminating operations that would increase the risk of electrode displacement. The adhesive application occurs when the separator is still in its initial position, ensuring precise electrode placement from the start.
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
Prevents electrode displacement and enhances adhesion, maintaining the integrity of the Z-folding structure for efficient heat transfer and battery performance.
Implementation Method 1
a nozzle (17) for applying an adhesive to at least a portion of a region of the separator sheet (122) stably placed on the table (16)
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for preparing a cell is provided. The apparatus includes an electrode reel from which an electrode sheet is unwound, wherein the electrode sheet is configured to form a plurality of electrodes, a separator reel from which a separator sheet is unwound, wherein the separator sheet is configured to stack with the electrode while covering the electrode by being folded when the electrode is stably placed, a table having an upper surface on which the electrode and the separator sheet are stably placed, and a nozzle configured to apply an adhesive to at least a portion of a region of the separator sheet stably placed on the table.