IT202000007849A1 - SUPPORT APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR THE PRODUCTION OF ELECTRICITY STORAGE DEVICES - Google Patents

Description

DESCRIPTION

of the patent for industrial invention entitled:

? SUPPORT EQUIPMENT AND METHOD FOR THE PRODUCTION OF ELECTRICITY STORAGE DEVICES?

TECHNIQUE SECTOR

The present invention? relating to a support apparatus, a machine and a relative method for the production of electrical energy storage devices.

In particular, the present invention finds advantageous, but not exclusive application in the production of rechargeable batteries, which the following description refers to. explicit reference without losing in generality.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The production of rechargeable batteries generally involves the superposition of different layers of electrodes (with positive and negative polarity - cathode and anode) interspersed with a separator layer, designed to avoid any short circuits and in particular to impregnate with an electrolyte.

In recent years, several winding apparatuses have been developed for the production of electrical energy storage devices. In these apparatuses, the electrodes and the separator are usually wrapped around an oblong, not circular core, so that the movement of the incoming material? usually inconstant and inhomogeneous due to non-circularity? of the nucleus.

Various compensation systems have been proposed to make the movement of the material that is fed to the winding apparatuses more constant and homogeneous.

Document WO 2018146638 describes an apparatus provided with crank means and adapted to regulate the advancement and winding of a web of material in a uniform manner.

Typically, the tape of material to be wound comprises electrodes arranged at predefined distances (in particular progressive) to allow correct positioning of the electrodes, in a stacked manner, during winding; or in such a way that the electrodes face each other for the maximum available surface, in particular also aligning the terminal tabs (tabs).

To guarantee and maintain the position of the electrodes during winding, or to avoid misalignments of the electrodes to be stacked due to the jolts generated during winding, the electrodes and at least one continuous layer of separator are laminated to each other, so? to make them integral with the separator itself, guaranteeing strong adhesion.

However, the lamination process weakens (compressing and heating the separator, usually porous) the separator, favoring possible short circuits caused by the formation of metal dendrites (in particular lithium), which cross the separator generating an electrical connection from two electrodes of polarity opposite, thus generating an internal short circuit of the battery.

Furthermore, in known winding apparatuses,? often complicated to substantially increase the speed? of winding as the generated air flows could compromise the good alignment of the material to be wound both transversely and longitudinally (due, for example, to the elasticity of the separator.

In recent years, yes? attempted to solve this problem by using winding devices compensating, both vertically and horizontally, the non-circular shape of the core and trying to maintain the speed? substantially constant feeding of the material strip. However, these measures do not allow to further increase the speed? winding or reduce the formation of dendrites and thus increase the safety of the battery.

Furthermore, the known methods of supporting and introducing the material towards the winding apparatus have numerous disadvantages, in that, in order not to interfere with the rotation of the winding apparatus, the material is usually supported in a fixed manner up to its proximity. of the apparatus, leaving the suspended material for the last centimeters, exploiting the previous lamination to maintain the position of the electrodes.

Purpose of the present invention? to realize a winding apparatus, a machine and a relative method for the production of electrical energy storage devices, which allow to overcome, at least partially, the drawbacks of the prior art and are, at the same time, easy and economical to produce.

SUMMARY

In accordance with the present invention, a support apparatus, a machine and a method are provided for the production of electrical energy storage devices according to what is claimed in the independent claims that follow and, preferably, in any one of the claims directly or indirectly dependent on independent claims.

The claims describe preferred embodiments of the present invention forming an integral part of the present description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention will come now described with reference to the attached drawings, which illustrate some non-limiting examples of embodiment, in which:

- figure 1? a perspective view of a first part of an automatic machine for the production of accumulation devices comprising a first embodiment of a winding apparatus and a support apparatus;

- figure 2? a perspective and schematic view of the winding apparatus of Figure 1;

- figure 3? a schematic side view of the winding apparatus of Figure 2;

- figure 4? a perspective and schematic view of a second embodiment of a winding apparatus;

- figure 5? a side view of a second part of an automatic machine comprising a pair of opposing winding apparatuses;

- figure 6? a perspective and schematic view of a detail of a different embodiment of the second machine part of Figure 5;

- figure 7? a perspective and schematic view of the support apparatus of Figure 1;

- figure 8? a perspective and schematic view of a detail of the support apparatus of Figure 7;

- figure 9? a front and schematic view of the different winding and supporting steps of a method for the production of accumulation devices;

- figure 10? a plan and schematic view of the steps of Figure 9.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In Figure 1, with 1? a winding apparatus for the production of electrical energy storage devices is indicated as a whole. In particular, the winding apparatus 1? configured to wrap at least one material 2 of planar shape (for example, a tape, a strip, a sheet, a film, etc.). Pi? precisely, the apparatus 1? included inside an automatic machine for the production of electrical energy storage devices, in particular configured to produce rechargeable batteries (for example lithium ion, lithium metal batteries, etc.). Figure 1 illustrates a first part of said automatic machine.

Advantageously but not necessarily, and as schematically indicated in Figure 1, the material 2? a multicomponent material, in particular comprising at least one electrode E and / or at least one separator S for electrodes (per se known and therefore not further described). Pi? precisely, the material 2 comprises at least two electrode layers E and two separator layers S, respectively spaced apart.

In some non-limiting embodiments, the material 2 comprises one or more? continuous strips of separator S on (and / or between) which are arranged a plurality of of plates (blanks) of electrode E (positive and / or negative). In particular, the material 2 comprises two continuous strips of separator S between which a plurality of dividers are arranged. of electrode plates E with the same first polarity? (positive or negative). Pi? precisely, in one of the outer portions (upper or lower) of the two separator layers S, a plurality of separator layers are arranged. of electrode plates E with the same second polarity? opposite to the first (negative or positive).

Advantageously but not necessarily, the aforesaid automatic machine comprises a feeding system (not shown, for example of a known type) configured to feed (in particular at least partially at a constant speed) the material 2, to be wound, along a feeding plane FP (more precisely along the conveying path CP - figures 1, 3 and 7). In particular, these feeding means comprise an unwinding reel for each continuous layer (or discontinuous, if cut during the process) comprised by the material 2 (for example two unwinding reels in the case of two separators spaced by electrode plates, or four unwinding coils in the case of two separator layers interspersed by two continuous electrode layers with opposite polarity), or a separator coil in the case in which intermediate elements such as halfcells are used (superposition of an electrode layer with one of separator), fullcells (superposition of two electrodes with a separator interposed), monocells (superposition of two electrodes and two separators alternately), or bicells (superposition of three electrodes and two separators alternately), or combinations thereof.

In the non-limiting embodiment of Figures 1 to 3, the winding apparatus 1 comprises a support 3 and an actuator device 4.

Advantageously but not necessarily, the support 3 comprises inside it a series of variable axis gears (not shown). Therefore, by varying the position of the rotation axis of these gears, the winding of different formats is allowed.

Advantageously, the winding apparatus 1 also comprises an actuator device 4, which in turn comprises (Figures 2 and 3) an electric motor 5 (for example brushless) and a motion transmission element 6. Pi? precisely, the element 6 of transmission of the motion? a drive shaft.

As illustrated in the non-limiting embodiment of Figure 1, the apparatus 1 further comprises an elongated core 7, on which the material 2 (multicomponent) is wound, forming a wound 8 comprising a plurality of elements. of electrodes E (stacked together). Core 7? arranged (mechanically mounted) rotatably on the edge of the support 3 and? (configured to be) driven in rotation by the actuator device 4 (ie by the motor 5 through the transmission element 6) around a rotation axis A1.

Advantageously but not necessarily, the motion transmission element 6? configured to transmit at least part of the motion of the electric motor 5 to the core 7.

In some non-limiting cases, the core 7? consisting of a rigid flat (metal) plug. In particular, this rigid pin has a flat profile, in particular with rounded edges, so as to accompany the winding of the material 2 without damaging it due to a sharp profile.

In other non-limiting cases, the core 7? constituted by the first cell (ie by the unit comprising the first electrode plate E along the conveying path CP) of a strip, that is the quantity? of material 2 necessary to form a complete coil for the production, for example, of a battery. The following ones are wrapped around the first cell to form the complete wrap 8. In this way, during the production process, you avoid having to remove the metal pin; this operation generally involves the risk of ruining the final product.

Obviously, the core 7 can? have any shape (polyhedral, elliptical, oval, rhomboid, laminar, etc.) that allows for winding.

Advantageously, the apparatus 1 comprises (at least) an element 9, 9? sealing, configured to assume, during winding:

- at least one closure configuration (illustrated for example in the non-limiting embodiments of Figures 1 to 3), in which the element 9, 9? holding at least a portion 10 of material 2 (in particular of separator S? or of electrode E) in contact with the coil 8, avoiding relative movements between the portion 10 of the material 2 held and a lateral surface 11 (shown above in the figure 1 and opposite to a surface 12 illustrated below in figure 1; these surfaces are interchangeable) of the core 7; and

- an opening configuration (illustrated for example in figure 5, figure 6 and in phases b, c and d of figures 9 and 10), in which the sealing element 9 allows the material 2 to be wound onto the surface 11 (or onto the 12) lateral surface of the core 7.

In other words, during the closing configuration, the element 9, 9? sealing? in contact with and supports the outer layer of the wound 8 so as to avoid unwanted movements of the electrodes E inside it (especially if not laminated on the separator S); while in the opening configuration, the element 9, 9? sealing moves away (i.e. is configured to move away) from the coil 8 (in particular radially from the axis A1 of rotation) allowing the feeding of a further layer of material 2 around the core 7 to complete the coil 8.

Advantageously but not necessarily, in the closing configuration, the element 9, 9? sealing? configured to push the portion 10 of material towards (against) the lateral surface 11, 12 of the core 7 (i.e. towards the core 7).

In the non-limiting embodiment of figures 1-3 and 7, the winding apparatus 1 also comprises an actuator device 13, configured to rotate the support 3 around a rotation axis A2, in particular (different and) parallel to the A1 axis of rotation. Specifically, support 3? mechanically connected to the actuator device 13.

In the non-limiting embodiment of Figure 5, the actuator device 13 comprises an electric motor, in particular a torque motor (in other words, a motor with a high number of poles which does not require a reducer for the transmission of motion). Pi? precisely, the actuator device 13? a torque motor with a through rotor (i.e. drilled from side to side).

Advantageously, the transmission element 6 crosses at least partially (in particular, from side to side) a rotor of the actuator device 13. Thereby, ? It is possible to transmit the motion of the actuator device 4 (i.e. of the motor 5) inside the support 3, in particular to the core 7.

Advantageously but not necessarily, the transmission element 6 and the rotor of the actuator device 13 are coaxial with each other, in particular they are concentric.

Advantageously but not necessarily, the actuator device 4 and the actuator device 13 are configured to be moved independently of each other. In particular, the automatic machine (or the apparatus 1) comprises at least one unit? control configured to independently control devices 4 and 13 actuators. Pi? precisely, the unit? control device controls devices 4 and 13 actuators by means of electronic cams, for example on the basis of the position of a virtual master axis.

In the non-limiting embodiment of Figures 1 to 3, the support 3? configured to rotate around axis A2 and core 7? configured to rotate around an A1 axis. In particular, the A1 axis and the A2 axis are non-coaxial to each other. Pi? in particular, the A1 axis and the A2 axis are parallel to each other. In detail, the A1 axis and the A2 axis are perpendicular to the conveying path CP and parallel to the feed FP plane.

Advantageously but not necessarily and as illustrated in the non-limiting embodiments of Figures 1 to 3, the support 3? asymmetrical. Pi? precisely, it has a greater volume in support of the core 7, ie in correspondence with the axis A1 of rotation.

Thereby, ? It is possible to reduce the total mass of the support 3. In particular, the support 3 comprises a counter mass arranged in an opposite position, with respect to the axis A2, of the axis A1. The counter mass has the function of balancing the inertia of the support 7 and avoiding the vibrations that would be generated by the asymmetrical distribution of the mass (avoiding vibrations, obviously also wear is reduced).

Advantageously but not necessarily, the core 7? mechanically coupled (mounted, supported or gripped) by the support 3 so as to perform an orbital winding motion. Specifically, with? Orbital motion? do you mean that the core 7? configured to perform a rotational motion and a revolution motion. In the non-limiting embodiment of Figures 1-3 and 7, the actuator device 13 moves (the support 3, and therefore) the core 7 around the axis A2, determining the revolving motion of the core 7 around this axis. In the non-limiting embodiment of Figures 1-3 and 7, the actuator device 4 moves the core 7 around the axis A1, causing the rotation motion of the core 7 around this axis.

Therefore, the orbital motion with which the core 7 is moved comprises a rotation around the axis A1 and a revolution around the axis A2, which, in use, are (always) parallel to each other.

Advantageously but not necessarily, the apparatus 1 also comprises an actuator device 15, configured to actuate the element or elements 9, 9? sealing.

In the non-limiting embodiments of Figures 1 to 6, the actuator device 15 comprises at least one mechanical cam 16. In particular, the mechanical cam 16 comprises (or determines) a motion profile MP (preferably closed and continuous) arranged along a transverse plane (substantially perpendicular) to the rotation axis A1. Pi? precisely, the mechanical cam 16? crossed transversely by the rotation axis A2, in particular centrally. In the non-limiting embodiments of the attached figures, the mechanical cam 16 comprises an internal profile 17 and an external profile 18, which delimit the motion profile MP (engraved on the extended mechanical cam).

Advantageously but not necessarily, the actuator device 15 further comprises at least one cam follower roller 19 and a motion transmission system 20 configured to at least partially transmit the motion (more precisely the radial dislocation from the axis A1 of rotation) of the cam follower roller 19 to the ? one or more? elements 9, 9? sealing. In use, the cam follower roller 19 slides in a space comprised between the internal profile 17 and the external profile 18, that is, the cam follower roller 19 runs along the motion profile MP.

In some non-limiting and not illustrated cases, in order to satisfy greater adjustment requirements, the actuator device 15 comprises at least one cam 16 comprising in turn a plurality of elements. of profiles followed by at least one respective cam follower roller.

Advantageously but not necessarily, the (radial) variation of the motion profile MP determines the movement of each element 9, 9? sealing. In other words, the opening and closing of the element 9, 9? sealing? determined by the deviation of the motion profile MP from a circular profile.

According to some non-limiting and not illustrated embodiments, the actuator system 15 comprises at least one motor and / or at least one pneumatic user.

Advantageously but not necessarily, and as illustrated in the non-limiting embodiment of Figures 1 to 3, the motion transmission system 20 comprises crank mechanisms 21 (arms, pulleys, etc. - or kinematics). Further, the motion transmission system 20 includes a transmission member 22 configured to convert the radial linear motion of the cam follower roller 19 into rotary motion (e.g., a rack and pinion system, such as those illustrated in Figures 1-4 and 6).

Advantageously but not necessarily, and as illustrated in the non-limiting embodiments of the attached figures, the apparatus 1 comprises two elements 9, 9? sealing, arranged on opposite sides with respect to the core 7.

In particular, the sealing element 9 faces the lateral surface 11 of the core 7, while the element 9? seal faces the lateral surface 12 of the core 7.

In the non-limiting embodiments of figures 4 and 6, the elements having a counterpart in the embodiment of figure 1 are shown with the same number to which? value 100 and value 200 respectively have been added. In other words, cam 16? indicated as 116 in the embodiment of Figure 4 and as 216 in the embodiment of Figure 6 (in accordance with the other references). All the observations relating to the embodiment of Figures 1 to 3 are valid, mutatis mutandis, for the embodiments of Figures 4 and 6.

In some non-limiting cases, such as those illustrated in Figures 1 to 3, elements 9 and 9? sealing are configured to be operated independently of each other, in particular by means of an actuator device 15, plus? precisely comprising the mechanical cam 16 and a roller 19, 19? (figure 2) cam follower for each element 9, 9? sealing. In particular, the reels 19, 19? they are arranged, in use, on opposite sides of the cam 16, or on opposite sides of the axis A1 of rotation. In these cases, each of the elements 9, 9? sealing? moved by the respective roller 19, 19? cam follower by means of respective crank mechanisms 21 and respective transmission elements 22.

In other non-limiting cases, such as those illustrated in Figures 4 and 6, the elements 109, 209 and 109 ?, 209? sealing elements are configured to be operated in an opposite way, i.e. that the closing configuration of one of the sealing elements (for example the element 9) corresponds to the opening configuration of the opposite sealing element (for example the element 9? ) and viceversa. In particular, elements 109, 209 and 109 ?, 209? are operable through the device 115, 215 actuator, plus? precisely comprising the mechanical cam 116, 216 and a roller 119, 219 (Figure 4 or 6) single cam follower for both elements 109 and 109? or 209 and 209? sealing. In particular, each apparatus 1 comprises a single transmission element 131, 222 (replacing the elements 22) provided with two racks and two pinions arranged on opposite sides with respect to the axis A1. In these cases, each pair of elements 109 and 109? or 209 and 209? sealing? moved by the respective cam follower roller 119, 219 by means of respective kinematic mechanisms 121 and / or respective transmission elements 131, 222.

Advantageously but not necessarily, and as illustrated in the non-limiting embodiments of the attached figures, each element 9, 9? seal comprises at least one element 23, 23? distal.

In the non-limiting embodiments of figures 1 to 3, each element 23, 23? distal comprises in turn at least one arm 24, 24? and a component 25, 25? contact, which? arranged in a final portion of the element 23, 23? distal, ie in correspondence of the wound 8. Each component 25, 25? contact? configured to push, in the closing configuration of element 9, 9? sealing, the portion 10 of the material 2 towards the core 7 (in particular towards the lateral surface 11 or 12). Specifically, component 25, 25? contact? a roller 26 (Figure 1) configured to roll on the portion 10 of the material 2 which corresponds to the outer part of the wrapping 8. In this way,? It is possible to avoid damaging a particularly fragile or thin material 2 by pressing with a high level of friction during contact. Pi? in particular, the element 9, 9? furthermore comprises an elastic device 27 (for example a spring) configured to at least partially regulate the pressure with which the component 25, 25? of contact pushes the portion 10 of material and / or to compensate for the increase in thickness of the wound 8 due to the winding of the material 2.

In some non-limiting cases, such as that illustrated in the embodiment of Figure 4, each element 109, 109? sealing includes a plurality? of elements 123 123? distal, in particular configured to be moved simultaneously by the actuator device 15. In other non-limiting and not illustrated cases, the distal elements belonging to the same sealing element are configured to be moved in a deferred manner from each other, so as to progressively maintain the material 2 around which forms the outer layer of the wound 8, in particular, as the material 2 wraps around the core 7.

According to a non-limiting embodiment, the winding apparatus 1 comprises a gripping device 29 configured to grasp the core 7 during winding and release it once the winding 8? been completed. In particular, as illustrated in the non-limiting embodiment of Figures 1 to 3, the gripping device 29 comprises gripping elements 30 having one end. (opposite to support 3) of reduced dimensions, preferably but not necessarily decreasing (more precisely below five millimeters, in particular below one millimeter). Thereby, ? possible to extract with ease? the gripping elements 30 from a complete wound 8.

Obviously, the gripping elements can assume different shapes, for example they can have discontinuities, as illustrated in the embodiment of figure 6, so as to reduce the friction in releasing the core 7 once the winding 8 is completed.

Advantageously but not necessarily, the apparatus 1 comprises a suitable actuator system for moving the gripping elements, in particular a pneumatic user. Pi? precisely, the gripping elements 30 are moved vertically (ie perpendicular to the feeding plane FP) so as to open and close according to the phase of the winding process. Pi? precisely, the elements 20 will be spaced apart, i.e. open, in the product advancement phase, or at the completion of a coil 8, to free the complete coil 8 and receive a new core 7 (for example the first cell of a strip, as illustrated in Figure 6), while they will be closed from the beginning to the end of the actual winding phase (during which the core 7 rotates).

In the non-limiting embodiment of Figure 5,? a second part of an automatic machine for the production of electrical energy storage devices is illustrated. In particular, this part comprises a pair of opposite winding apparatuses 1.

Advantageously but not necessarily, the material 2 is wound by means of the two apparatuses 1 arranged specularly to each other, so as to guide (in particular, to be gripped with the gripping elements) from both sides the core 7, especially in the case in which it is the first cell of a strip.

Advantageously but not necessarily, these apparatuses each comprise a frame 32, which supports the respective actuator device 13 (ie the torque motor 14).

Advantageously but not necessarily, and as illustrated in the non-limiting embodiment of Figure 5, the apparatus 1 comprises (each or in pairs with an opposing apparatus) an actuator device 33 configured to move the frame 32 along at least one vertical direction VD, in particular transversal (perpendicular), to the feeding plane FP (and to the conveying path CP). Thereby, ? it is possible to compensate, during the winding, the accumulation of the material 2 wrapped around the core 7. In other words, during the winding, the thickness of the winding 8 constantly increases every half turn of the core 7 (in particular, it increases in thickness of the material 2) and therefore the actuator device 22 compensates for this increase by keeping the material 2 entering the feed plane FP (in particular by maintaining an entry point EP on the feed plane FP). Pi? more precisely, the actuator device 33 comprises a lifting system 35 (for example a rack and pinion system) configured to move the frame 32 in the vertical direction VD.

Advantageously but not necessarily, and as illustrated in the non-limiting embodiment of Figure 5, the apparatus 1 comprises (each or in pairs with an opposing apparatus) an actuator device 36 configured to move the frame 32 along at least one transverse direction TD, in particular perpendicular to the conveying path CP and substantially parallel to the feeding plane FP. For example, the actuator device 36 comprises an electric motor M and a worm screw for transforming the rotary motion of the motor M into a linear motion. Thereby, ? It is possible to extract the gripping elements once a wrapping 8 has been completed, also allowing the apparatus 1 to be adjustable for a change in the width of the format to be produced.

Advantageously but not necessarily, and as illustrated in the non-limiting embodiment of Figure 1 and Figures 9 and 10, the machine for producing electrical energy storage devices comprises a support apparatus 50 (illustrated individually and in detail in the Figures 7 and 8).

According to the non-limiting embodiment of Figures 1, 7 and 8, the support apparatus 50 comprises a support element 51, movable linearly along the conveying path CP (i.e. along the feed plane FP) through which it is fed (in particular at constant speed) the material 2 (to be wound) is configured to move intermittently along a predefined stroke ST (figure 10) supporting the material 2 continuously.

Advantageously but not necessarily, the support apparatus 50 further comprises an actuator device 52, in particular it comprises an electric motor 53, for example of the brushless type. In particular, in the non-limiting embodiment of Figures 7 and 8, the electric motor 53? arranged (mounted) on board the support element 51.

In the non-limiting embodiment of Figures 7 and 8, the support apparatus 50 comprises a roller 54, mounted on the edge of said support element 51 and configured to be driven in rotation at a speed of rotation. variable by the actuator system 52 (ie by the electric motor 53).

The supporting apparatus 50 also comprises a roller 55, opposite the roller 54 and arranged on the opposite side with respect to the conveying path CP (and the feeding plane FP) in such a way as to make the material 2 pass between the roller 54 and the roller 55.

Advantageously but not necessarily, the actuator system 52 (i.e. the electric motor 53)? configured to vary the speed? at least of the roller 54 compensating for the intermittent movement of the support element 51 and substantially maintaining a condition of (pure) rolling between the roller 54 and the material 2, in other words, avoiding slippage between the roller 54 and the material 2.

Advantageously but not necessarily, the support apparatus 50 further comprises an actuator device 56, configured to operate the support element 51 intermittently along the predefined stroke ST.

According to some non-limiting embodiments, such as that illustrated in Figure 7, the actuator system 56 comprises a linear electric motor 57, configured to move the support element along the predefined stroke ST.

According to other non-limiting and not illustrated embodiments, the actuator system 56 comprises a hydraulic cylinder, a pneumatic cylinder, an electro-hydraulic cylinder, an endless life, or other linear motion systems.

Advantageously but not necessarily, the roller 54 and the roller 55 are arranged vertically one above the other.

In particular, the roller 54 and the roller 55 are in a distal position projecting from the rest of the support apparatus 50. Thereby ? possible to support the material up close? of the core 7 also during winding (during which the core 7 rotates).

In the non-limiting embodiment of Figures 7 and 8, the supporting apparatus 50 also comprises a roller 58 and a roller 59 opposite the roller 58. In particular, the roller 54 and the roller 58 are connected to each other by an element 60 transmission of motion (stretched), especially a belt or chain. Pi? in particular, the roller 55 and the roller 59 are connected to each other by an element 61 for transmitting the motion (elongated), in particular a belt or a chain.

In some non-limiting cases, the roller 54 and the roller 55 are configured to move at the same speed, being connected by a motion transmission system. In particular, the roller 54 and the roller 55 move in opposite directions to allow the material to flow between them without jamming and minimizing friction.

In other non-limiting cases, such as that illustrated in Figure 8, the roller 55, that is the roller arranged on the side of the material 2 whose outer layer comprises a continuous separator,? an idle roller.

Advantageously, but not necessarily, the roller 54 and the roller 55 (as well as the roller 58 and the roller 59) have the same size, in particular less than 20 mm, plus? precisely less than 15 mm, pi? in particular less than 8 mm. In this way, the support apparatus is able to approach the rotating core 7 having the time to retract every half turn of the said core, in particular by continuing to support the material 2 to be wound.

In the non-limiting embodiment of Figure 8, the support apparatus 50 comprises a further copy of roll 58? and 59?, in particular connected to the rollers 58 and 59.

Advantageously but not necessarily, all the rollers 54, 55, 58, 59, 58? and 59? they are the same size. In this way, they can be easily connected to each other by means of elements 60, 61, 60 ?, 61? of motion transmission, such as, for example, chains and belts. The rollers 54, 55, 58, 59, 58? and 59? are they moved by the action of elements 60, 61, 60 ?, 61? motion transmission on pulleys 62 (in particular toothed) configured to ensure a synchronous movement of the rollers arranged on the same side of the material 2 or of all the rollers. In particular, the bushings 62 are keyed onto a central shaft of the rollers 54, 55, 58, 59, 58? and 59 ?.

In the non-limiting embodiment of Figure 8, the support apparatus comprises a transmission element 63 (for example a belt) of the motion of the actuator system 52, i.e. from the electric motor 53, to the roller 58 (opposite to the roller 59), who ? disposed in a rearward position of the support apparatus 50 with respect to roller 54 disposed in a distal position.

In accordance with a further aspect of the present invention, a method is provided for the production of electrical energy storage devices using a winding apparatus 1 as described above and / or a support apparatus 50 as described above.

In some non-limiting cases, the method comprises a feeding step, during which a feeding system as described above feeds the material 2 towards the winding apparatus 1.

Advantageously but not necessarily, the method comprises a winding step, during which the material 2 (multi-component) is wound onto the elongated core 7 to form the wound 8 comprising a plurality of materials. of electrodes E stacked together.

In particular, the method comprises a closing step, during which at least one element 9, 9? sealing? in the closing configuration and maintains at least a portion 10 of the material 2 in contact with the rest of the coil 8, avoiding relative movements between the portion 10 of material and the lateral surface 11 or 12 of the core 7. Pi? precisely, the method also includes an opening phase, during which the element 9, 9? sealing? in the open configuration and allows winding of the material 2 onto the respective lateral surface 11 or 12 of the core 7.

Advantageously but not necessarily, the closing step and the opening step are at least partially simultaneous with the winding step. In particular, the closing phase compensates for the fact that the material 2 is not previously laminated and that therefore the electrodes E are not integral with the separator S. Pi? precisely, during the closing phase, the element 9, 9? it supports the material 2 which has just entered the coil 8, preventing the electrode placed on it from moving in an undesired manner.

In the non-limiting embodiment of Figures 9 and 10, a sequence a-e of the positions assumed by the winding apparatus 1 and by the supporting apparatus 50 during a half turn of the core 7 is illustrated. In particular, during this half turn of the core, is wrapped around the core 7 a quantity? of material 2 equal to the width of the coil 8 along the conveying path CP when the coil 8 itself is in a position parallel to the feeding plane FP.

Advantageously but not necessarily, during a complete revolution of the core 7 around the axis A1 both the opening and closing phases are carried out at least partially (in particular totally). In particular, as illustrated in the sequences of Figures 9 and 10, both the opening and closing phases are carried out at least partially (in particular totally) during half a turn of the core 7 around the axis A1.

Advantageously but not necessarily, during the feeding phase, the feeding system feeds the material 2 along the feeding plane FP, in particular at a speed? VM.

Advantageously but not necessarily, the method further comprises a support step, comprising in turn an accompanying sub-step AS, during which the support apparatus 50, moved through the actuator system 56 at a speed? VS, supports the material along the FP conveying plane until it reaches the vicinity? of the core 7. In particular, with the wording? in proximity? in this case it is meant that the distance between the support apparatus 50 (in particular the roller 54) and the core 7? less than 80 mm, pi? precisely less than 50 mm, in detail less than 20 mm.

Advantageously, the distance between the support apparatus 50 (in particular between the roller 54) and the core 7? variable, in particular it is varied as a function of the angular position of the core 7.

Advantageously but not necessarily, the supporting phase also comprises a recovery sub-phase RS, during which the supporting apparatus 50 retracts (along the conveying path CP) avoiding a collision with the rotating core 7. Pi? precisely, the supporting apparatus 50 is moved intermittently by the (linear) motor 57 supporting each electrode E or each (mono-, half-, full-, double) cell comprising pi? electrodes E.

In particular, the distal portion of the support apparatus 50 comprising the rollers 54 and 55 enters and exits the working space of the core 7 supporting the electrodes to be introduced into the wound so as to maintain their relative position with respect to the material 2 (in particular to the separator S). With the words? Workspace? (workspace) means the set of points (for example the volume) occupied by an object, in this case by the core 7, during the operations it performs (for example, the aforementioned orbital motion). In other words, the? Workspace? ? the spatial volume within which the object works.

Advantageously but not necessarily, the roller 54 (together with the roller 58 and 58? Through the transmission elements 60 and 60?)? operated by the actuator system 52 (ie by the electric motor 53) in order to move at a speed? VR.

According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, the speed? VS and the speed? VR are (at least partially) variable, while, in particular, the speed? VM? (at least partially constant). Pi? precisely, the speed? VR of roller 54 and of those connected thereto varies between the accompanying sub-phase AS and the recovery sub-phase RS. According to some non-limiting embodiments, this variation comprises a variation of direction.

According to some preferred but not limiting embodiments, the speed? VR to which the roller 54 (and the rollers connected to it) is controlled by the actuator system 52 corresponds to the difference between the speed? VM of material 2 and the speed? VS of the support apparatus 50 along the conveying path CP. In particular, according to these embodiments, the speed? Roll 54 VR? the speed? tangential of roller 54, or the speed? ? angle of said roller 54 multiplied by the radius R of roller 54.

Pi? precisely, this speed? can be expressed by the formula:

in which

Thereby, ? It is possible to compensate for the intermittent movement of the supporting apparatus 50 along the conveying path by keeping the rollers 54, 55 (and those connected thereto) in contact with the material 2 without damaging the material 2 itself. In other words, with respect to an inertial reference system, the velocity? Tangential VR of roller 54? always substantially equal to the speed? VM of the material 2. In this way, a state of substantially pure rolling is maintained between the material and the roller 54, which, in particular, comes into contact with the electrodes E. Therefore, there is a tendency to prevent the roller 54 from slipping on the material 2 risking to damage it, for example by generating grooves on the coating of the electrodes E (generally comprising compressed powders).

In some non-limiting cases, during at least part of the accompanying sub-phase AS, the roller 54 and the rollers connected thereto are stationary. In particular, considering the equations described above, this occurs when the support apparatus 50 and the material 2 have the same speed.

Advantageously but not necessarily, and as illustrated in figures 9 and 10, the winding phase comprises a first sub-phase (illustrated in phases a, b and c of the sequence of figures 9 and 10) in which the core 7 is moved from a horizontal position (phase a) parallel to the FP infeed plane to a vertical position (step c), in particular substantially perpendicular to the FP infeed plane.

In particular, the winding phase comprises a second sub-phase (illustrated in phases c, d and e of figures 9 and 10), in which the core 7 is moved from the vertical position (phase c) to the horizontal position (phase e), in particularly substantially on the FP feeding plan. Pi? precisely the first and the second phase divide in half? half a turn of the core 7 during the winding phase.

In some non-limiting cases, the accompanying AS phase? at least partially, in particular totally, contemporary to the first sub-phase. In this way, the supporting apparatus 50 supports the material 2, keeping the electrodes E in position despite the moving away from an entry point EP of the material into the coil 8.

According to some non-limiting forms of implementation, the recovery phase RS? at least partially, in particular entirely, contemporaneous with the second sub-phase. In this way, the supporting apparatus 50 supports the material 2 by keeping the electrodes E in position for as long as possible before turning back, avoiding a potential contact with the coil 8 which would risk damaging it.

In particular, during at least a part of the winding phase, the support apparatus is in a position, on the feeding surface, at risk of collision with the core 7.

Advantageously but not necessarily, and as illustrated in the non-limiting embodiment of Figure 10, the element 9, 9? during the opening phase, it moves away from the coil 8 so as to avoid a collision with the support apparatus 50, as clearly illustrated in phases b, c and d of Figure 10.

Advantageously but not necessarily, and as illustrated in the non-limiting embodiment of Figures 9 and 10, two half cycles of the motion of rotation correspond to a complete cycle of the rotation motion (i.e. to a complete rotation of the core 7 around the axis A1). revolution (i.e. a complete rotation of the support 3 around the axis A2). Thereby, ? It is possible to maintain the entry point EP of the material 2 around the core 7 at a constant height, that is, on the feeding plane FP, as illustrated in Figure 9.

In particular, two accompanying phases and two recovery phases correspond to a complete cycle of the rotation motion of the core.

Advantageously but not necessarily, the unit? control (known and not illustrated)? configured to synergistically control the winding apparatus 1 and the support apparatus 50. Thereby, ? It is possible to support (thus avoiding that they assume different positions from the desired ones) the material 2 for most of the process from the laying of the electrodes E on the separator S to the winding, after which, generally, the electrodes E are stably anchored to the separator due to of the tension with which? wrapped the material around the core 7 to form the wound 8.

In particular, the method? relating to the winding of at least one electrode and / or at least one separator. Pi? precisely, the method? relative to the winding of two layers (or series of cells) of electrode with polarity? different (anode and cathode) interspersed with two layers of separator.

Advantageously but not necessarily, the closing step of the element 9, 9? sealing of an electrode E introduced in the wound 8? at least partially simultaneous with the accompanying phase AS of the electrode E itself. In other words, as illustrated in step e of Figure 9, element 9? seal (lower) closes, that is, it comes into contact with the coil 8, substantially while (or before) the electrode E is completely released from the supporting apparatus 50, that is, it comes out of the rollers 54 and 55 in the distal portion.

In use, the material 2 is fed to the apparatus 1 in the form of a belt, which? divided into strips of desired length configured to be wound around the core 7. In particular, the core 7 rotates both around the axis A1 and around the axis A2 performing the aforementioned orbital motion. During this orbital motion generated by the actuator devices 4 and 13, the material 2 is preferably pulled with speed. and constant voltage at the input EP point. In particular, to let s? that the point EP remains on the feeding plane FP, for each half turn of the core around the axis A1, there corresponds a full turn of the support 9 around the axis A2.

During these rotations, the actuator device 33 moves the frame 3 along the direction VD, in particular by a distance equal to the thickness of the material 2 every half turn of the core 2. Once the winding is completed, or after a certain number of half turns of the core 7, the actuator devices 4 and 13 stop, the material 2 is cut, the coil 8 is closed, preferably by means of adhesive tape or glue, and conveyed to an unloading device per se? known and not illustrated (in particular after having opened the gripping elements and freed the coil 8).

During the aforementioned rotations, the support apparatus 50 operates in a coordinated manner with the winding apparatus 1, moving intermittently to support each electrode E entering the coil 8 avoiding unwanted displacements of the said electrode E. In particular, the The supporting apparatus 50 attempts to maintain the distance between the roller 54 and the core 7 at a constant value, or in any case less than 25 mm. At the same time, the actuator system 52 prevents the roller 54 and the rollers 58, 58? connected to it can damage the electrodes E or the material 2 due to a relative sliding, varying the speed? VR in order to compensate for the intermittent movement of the support element along the stroke ST.

Bench? the invention described above makes particular reference to a very precise example of embodiment, it does not? to be considered limited to this example of implementation, falling within its scope all those variants, modifications or simplifications covered by the attached claims, such as for example a different geometry or composition of the core 7, a different type of devices 4 and 13, 15, 33, 52, 56 actuators or a different type of transmission elements, a different type of sealing elements, etc.

The apparatuses, the machine and the method described above have numerous advantages.

First of all, they allow a regular and uniform advance of the material to be wound (be it single or multilayer) despite the winding core having a non-circular shape, reducing the typical oscillations of flat core devices.

In addition, they allow to wind a non-laminated material 2 supporting the electrodes both during the introduction to the winding apparatus 1 and during the winding itself through the elements 9, 9? sealing.

Furthermore, the variation of the speed? VR described above allows the material 2 to be protected by preventing the rollers of the supporting apparatus from sliding against it, in particular against the electrodes E.

A further advantage of the present invention resides in reinforcing the process even in the case of a laminated material, allowing to have greater control over the material during winding.

Finally, the presence of a distal portion, so? as the type of opening and closing movement of the sealing elements and the intermittent motion of the support apparatus, allow to avoid collisions between the two apparatuses 1 and 50 which alternatively occupy the shared working space.

Claims (15)

CLAIMS 1. Apparatus (1) to support the production of electrical energy storage devices; the apparatus (1) includes: - a support element (51), movable linearly along a feeding plane (FP) through which a material (2) is fed and configured to move intermittently along a predefined stroke supporting the material (2) continuously; - a first actuator system (52); - a second actuator system (56), configured to operate the support element (51) intermittently along the predefined stroke (ST); - a first roller (54), mounted on the said support element (51) and configured to be driven in rotation at a speed? variable from the first actuator system (52); - a second roller (55), opposed to the first roller (54) and arranged on the opposite side with respect to the feeding plane (FP) in such a way as to make the material (2) pass between the first and the second roller (55); the first system (52) actuator being configured to control the speed? at least of the first roller (54) compensating for the intermittent movement of the support element (51) and substantially maintaining a rolling condition between the first roller (54) and the material (2). 2. Apparatus according to claim 1, and comprising at least a third roller (58) and a fourth roller (59) opposite to the third, in which the first and third roller (58) are connected to each other by a first element (60) transmission of the elongated motion, in particular a belt or a chain, and in which the second and fourth rollers (59) are connected to each other by a second element (61) for transmitting the elongated motion, in particular a belt or a chain . Apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second actuator system (56)? a linear electric motor (57), configured to move the support element (51) along the predefined stroke (ST). Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first actuator system (52)? an electric motor, in particular brushless, arranged on board the support element (51). Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first and second rollers (55) are configured to move at the same speed, being connected by a motion transmission system. Apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the second roller (55)? an idle roller. 7. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the first and second rollers (55) have the same size, in particular less than 20 mm. 8. Machine for the production of electrical energy storage devices comprising an apparatus according to one of claims 1 to 7, a power supply system, configured to feed, in particular at speed? constant, a material (2) to be wound along the feeding plane (FP); and a winding apparatus (1) comprising: - a support (3); - a third actuator device; - an elongated core (7) on which to wrap the material (2) forming a coil (8) comprising a plurality of of electrodes (E); said core (7) being rotatably disposed on said support and driven in rotation by the third actuator device around a first rotation axis (A1); the apparatus includes at least one sealing element (9, 9?), configured to assume, during part of the winding: - at least one closure configuration, in which the sealing element (9, 9?) keeps at least a portion (10) of the material (2) in contact with the wrapping (8), avoiding relative movements between the portion (10 ) of the material (2) held and a first lateral surface (11, 12) of the core (7); and - an opening configuration, in which the sealing element (9, 9?) allows the winding of the material (2) on the first lateral surface (11, 12) of the core (7). 9. Method for the production of electrical energy storage devices, the method comprising: - a feeding phase, during which a feeding system feeds a material (2) along a feeding plane (FP) at a first speed; - a support phase, comprising in turn at least an accompanying sub-phase (AS), during which a support apparatus (50), moved by means of a first actuator system (52) at a second speed, supports the material (2 ) along the power supply plane (FP) and up to reach in proximity? of the core (7); and a recovery sub-phase (RS), during which the support apparatus (50) retracts avoiding a collision with the rotating core (7); the supporting apparatus (50) comprising at least a first and a second roller (55), mutually opposed and between which the material (2) passes. Method according to claim 9, wherein, the first roller (54)? driven by a second actuator system (56) at a third speed; the second and third speed? being at least partially variable; in particular, the first speed? ? substantially constant. 11. Method according to claim 10, wherein the third speed is it varies between the accompanying sub-phase (AS) and the recovery sub-phase (RS). Method according to any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein the third speed is to which the first roller (54) is controlled corresponds to the difference between the first speed? feeding of the material (2) along the feeding plane (FP) and the second speed? of the support apparatus (50) along the power supply plane (FP). Method according to any one of claims 9 to 12, and comprising a winding step, during which the material (2) is wound (8) on an elongated core (7) to form a wound (8) comprising a plurality of electrodes (E). Method according to claim 13, in which the winding phase comprises a first sub-phase in which the core (7) is moved from a horizontal position parallel to the feeding plane (FP) to a vertical position, in particular substantially perpendicular to the plane (FP) power supply; and a second sub-phase, in which the core (7) is moved from the vertical position to the horizontal position. Method according to claim 14, wherein the accompanying step (AS)? at least partially, in particular entirely, contemporaneous with the first sub-phase; and in which phase (RS) of recovery? at least partially, in particular entirely, contemporaneous with the second sub-phase.