JPWO2015145551A1 - Separator bonding method for electric device and separator bonding apparatus for electric device - Google Patents

Abstract

An electrical device capable of sufficiently joining a separator using a separator containing a molten material and a heat-resistant material having a melting temperature higher than that of the molten material, even when the heat-resistant materials face each other. A separator joining method is provided. A separator bonding method of an electric device (packed electrode) is a method of bonding a ceramic separator sandwiching an electrode (positive electrode 20 or negative electrode 30) with light L1. In the pressurizing step of the separator joining method, the joining region (end part) of the ceramic separator facing each other through the electrode (positive electrode 20 or negative electrode 30) is pressurized by the pressurizing member 141 that transmits light. In the joining step, light is transmitted to the pressure member and irradiated to the end portions facing each other. Here, the joining step joins the ceramic layer at one end heated by light and the polypropylene layer at the other end melted by the ceramic layers facing each other. [Selection] Figure 7

Description

  The present invention relates to an electrical device separator joining method and an electrical device separator joining apparatus.

  Conventionally, a battery such as a lithium ion secondary battery is configured by sealing a power generating element to be charged and discharged with an exterior material. The power generation element is configured, for example, by laminating a plurality of packaged electrodes formed by sandwiching a positive electrode with a pair of separators and negative electrodes. The packaged electrode joins both ends thereof to suppress the movement of the positive electrode, thereby preventing a short circuit with the adjacent negative electrode through the separator (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 9-320636

  However, in the configuration as described in Patent Document 1, when the amount of heat generated at the positive electrode and the negative electrode at the time of charging / discharging increases as the output of the battery increases, the heat resistance of the separator may be insufficient.

  Therefore, there is a technology for improving the heat resistance of a separator by forming a separator by laminating a molten material and a heat-resistant material having a melting temperature higher than that of the molten material, and facing the heat-resistant material side to an electrode that generates heat. It has been requested. On the other hand, when the electrodes are sandwiched and laminated so that the heat-resistant materials of the separators face each other, it is difficult to heat and separate the separators.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and is a case where a heat-resistant material is made to face each other using a separator including a molten material and a heat-resistant material having a melting temperature higher than that of the molten material. Another object of the present invention is to provide a separator joining method for an electrical device that can sufficiently join the separator, and a separator joining apparatus for an electrical device that embodies the separator joining method.

  The separator joining method for an electric device according to the present invention that achieves the above object uses a separator including a sheet-like molten material and a heat-resistant material laminated on the molten material and having a higher melting temperature than the molten material, and sandwiches the electrodes. It is the method of joining the separator to perform by light. The separator joining method includes a pressurizing step and a joining step. In the pressurizing step, the joining region of the separator facing the electrode is pressed by a pressurizing member that transmits light. In the bonding step, light is transmitted to the pressure member and irradiated to the bonding regions facing each other. Here, a joining process joins the heat-resistant material of one joining area | region heated with light, and the molten material of the other joining area | region fuse | melted with the heat-resistant material which mutually opposes.

  An electrical device separator bonding apparatus according to the present invention that achieves the above object uses a separator including a sheet-like molten material and a heat-resistant material laminated on the molten material and having a higher melting temperature than the molten material, and sandwiches the electrode. It is an apparatus which joins the separator to perform by light. The separator bonding apparatus has a pressure member and a light source. The pressurizing member pressurizes the joining region of the separator facing through the electrode and transmits light. The light source irradiates the bonding area while transmitting the light to the pressure member.

It is a perspective view which shows the lithium ion secondary battery comprised using the electric device (packed electrode) which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a disassembled perspective view which decomposes | disassembles and shows the lithium ion secondary battery of FIG. 1 to each structural member. It is a perspective view which shows the state which each laminated | stacked the negative electrode on both surfaces of the packaging electrode of FIG. FIG. 4 is a partial cross-sectional view showing the configuration of FIG. 3 along line 4-4 shown in FIG. 3. It is a perspective view which shows the separator joining apparatus which actualized the separator joining method of the electric device (packed electrode) which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a perspective view which shows the principal part of the separator joining apparatus of FIG. It is a schematic diagram which shows the joining method of the separator by the separator joining apparatus of FIG. It is a perspective view which shows the principal part of the separator joining apparatus which actualized the separator joining method of the electric device (packed electrode) which concerns on the modification 1 of 1st Embodiment. It is a perspective view which shows the principal part of the separator joining apparatus which actualized the separator joining method of the electric device (packed electrode) which concerns on the modification 2 of 1st Embodiment. It is a perspective view which shows the principal part of the separator joining apparatus which actualized the separator joining method of the electric device (packed electrode) which concerns on the modification 3 of 1st Embodiment. It is a perspective view which shows the principal part of the separator joining apparatus which actualized the separator joining method of the electric device (packed electrode) which concerns on the modification 4 of 1st Embodiment. It is a perspective view which shows the separator joining method and separator joining apparatus of the electric device (packed electrode) which concern on 2nd Embodiment. It is a perspective view which shows typically the separator joining method of the electric device (packed electrode) which concerns on 3rd Embodiment.

  Hereinafter, first to third embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the description of the drawings, the same elements are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant description is omitted. The sizes and ratios of the members in the drawings are exaggerated for convenience of explanation and may be different from the actual sizes and ratios. In all of FIGS. 1 to 13, the azimuth is indicated by using arrows represented by X, Y, and Z. The direction of the arrow represented by X indicates the transport direction X of the packaged electrode 11 or the like. The direction of the arrow represented by Y indicates the crossing direction Y that intersects the transport direction X of the packaged electrode 11 or the like. The direction of the arrow represented by Z indicates the stacking direction Z of the ceramic separator and the positive electrode 20.

(First embodiment)
The separator bonding apparatus 100 embodies a separator bonding method for an electric device (packed electrode 11). Separator joining apparatus 100 joins joining regions (ends) of separators (a pair of ceramic separators 41 and 42) that sandwich an electrode (positive electrode 20 or negative electrode 30).

  First, an electric device (packed electrode 11) formed by being bonded by the separator bonding apparatus 100 will be described with reference to FIGS. Here, the packaged electrode 11 will be described based on the configuration of the lithium ion secondary battery 10.

  FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a lithium ion secondary battery 10 configured using an electric device (packed electrode 11). FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view showing the lithium ion secondary battery 10 of FIG. FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing a state in which the negative electrodes 30 are laminated on both surfaces of the packaged electrode 11 of FIG. FIG. 4 is a partial cross-sectional view showing the configuration of FIG. 3 along line 4-4 shown in FIG.

  The positive electrode 20 corresponds to an electrode, and is formed by binding a positive electrode active material 22 on both surfaces of a positive electrode current collector 21 which is a conductor. The positive electrode terminal 21 a for taking out electric power is formed to extend from a part of one end of the positive electrode current collector 21. The positive electrode terminals 21a of the stacked positive electrodes 20 are fixed to each other by welding or adhesion.

The material of the positive electrode current collector 21 of the positive electrode 20 is, for example, aluminum expanded metal, aluminum mesh, or aluminum punched metal. The material of the positive electrode active material 22 of the positive electrode 20 includes various oxides (lithium manganese oxide such as LiMn ₂ O ₄ , manganese dioxide, lithium nickel oxide such as LiNiO ₂ , and lithium cobalt oxide such as LiCoO _2. Products, lithium-containing nickel cobalt oxide, or lithium-containing amorphous vanadium pentoxide) or chalcogen compounds (titanium disulfide, molybdenum disulfide) or the like.

  The negative electrode 30 corresponds to an electrode having a polarity different from that of the positive electrode 20, and is formed by binding a negative electrode active material 32 on both surfaces of a negative electrode current collector 31 that is a conductor. The negative electrode terminal 31 a extends from a part of one end of the negative electrode current collector 31 so as not to overlap with the positive electrode terminal 21 a formed on the positive electrode 20. The length of the negative electrode 30 in the longitudinal direction is longer than the length of the positive electrode 20 in the longitudinal direction. The length of the negative electrode 30 in the short direction is the same as the length of the positive electrode 20 in the short direction. The negative electrode terminals 31a of the plurality of negative electrodes 30 that are stacked are fixed to each other by welding or adhesion.

  As the material of the negative electrode current collector 31 of the negative electrode 30, for example, a copper expanded metal, a copper mesh, or a copper punched metal is used. As the material of the negative electrode active material 32 of the negative electrode 30, a carbon material that absorbs and releases lithium ions is used. For such carbon materials, for example, natural graphite, artificial graphite, carbon black, activated carbon, carbon fiber, coke, or organic precursor (phenol resin, polyacrylonitrile, or cellulose) is heat-treated in an inert atmosphere and synthesized. Carbon is used.

  The separator is composed of a pair of ceramic separators 41 and 42. The pair of ceramic separators 41 and 42 electrically isolates the positive electrode 20 and the negative electrode 30. The pair of ceramic separators 41 and 42 holds an electrolytic solution between the positive electrode 20 and the negative electrode 30 to ensure ion conductivity. The pair of ceramic separators 41 and 42 are formed in a rectangular shape. The length in the longitudinal direction of the pair of ceramic separators 41 and 42 is longer than the length in the longitudinal direction of the negative electrode 30 excluding the portion of the negative electrode terminal 31a.

  The pair of ceramic separators 41 and 42 have the same configuration. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, the ceramic separator 41 is formed by laminating a ceramic layer 41n corresponding to a heat-resistant material on a polypropylene layer 41m corresponding to a molten material. The ceramic layer 41n has a higher melting temperature than the polypropylene layer 41m. The ceramic separators 41 and 42 sandwich the positive electrode 20 and are laminated with the ceramic layers 41n and 42n facing each other. The ceramic layers 41n and 42n are in contact with the positive electrode active material 22 of the positive electrode 20.

  The polypropylene layer 41m of the ceramic separator 41 is formed of polypropylene in a sheet shape. The polypropylene layer 41m is impregnated with a nonaqueous electrolytic solution prepared by dissolving an electrolyte in a nonaqueous solvent. In order to hold the non-aqueous electrolyte in the polypropylene layer 41m, a polymer is contained. The ceramic layer 41n is formed, for example, by applying a ceramic obtained by molding an inorganic compound at a high temperature to the polypropylene layer 41m and drying it. The ceramic is made of a porous material formed by bonding a ceramic particle such as silica, alumina, zirconium oxide, titanium oxide or the like and a binder.

  The pair of ceramic separators 41 and 42 are joined to each other by a plurality of joining portions 40 h formed on both sides in the longitudinal direction corresponding to the transport direction X of the separator joining device 100. The joining portion 40h is formed by joining the molten material (polypropylene layer) and the heat-resistant material (ceramic layer) at the end portions of the pair of ceramic separators 41 and 42 facing each other. Specifically, the one end portion 41 p of the ceramic separator 41 faces the one end portion 42 p of the ceramic separator 42 through the positive electrode 20. Similarly, the other end portion 41 q of the ceramic separator 41 faces the other end portion 42 q of the ceramic separator 42 through the positive electrode 20. Here, the pair of ceramic separators 41 and 42 are bonded to each other by flowing a molten polypropylene layer 41m at the end of the ceramic separator 41 and a ceramic layer 42n at the end of the ceramic separator 42 in a pressurized state. ing. Similarly, the pair of ceramic separators 41 and 42 are bonded to each other by flowing a molten polypropylene layer 42m at the end of the ceramic separator 42 and a ceramic layer 41n at the end of the ceramic separator 41 in a pressurized state. ing.

  The packaged electrode 11 is formed by stacking so that both surfaces of the positive electrode 20 are sandwiched by a pair of ceramic separators 41 and 42. The joint portion 40h is formed at a total of three locations at both end portions and the central portion along both longitudinal sides of the pair of ceramic separators 41 and 42. Even if the lithium ion secondary battery 10 vibrates or receives an impact, the movement of the positive electrode 20 in the packaged electrode 11 is suppressed by the joint portions 40 h formed at both ends in the longitudinal direction of the ceramic separators 41 and 42. Can do. That is, a short circuit between the adjacent positive electrode 20 and negative electrode 30 can be prevented via the ceramic separators 41 and 42. Therefore, the lithium ion secondary battery 10 can maintain the desired electrical characteristics.

  The exterior material 50 is composed of, for example, laminate sheets 51 and 52 each provided with a metal plate, and covers and seals the power generating element 15 from both sides. When the power generating element 15 is sealed with the laminate sheets 51 and 52, a part of the periphery of the laminate sheets 51 and 52 is opened, and the other periphery is sealed by heat welding or the like. An electrolyte solution is injected from the open portions of the laminate sheets 51 and 52, and the pair of ceramic separators 41 and 42 are impregnated with the charge solution. While decompressing the inside from the open portions of the laminate sheets 51 and 52, the open portions are also heat-sealed and completely sealed.

  For example, the laminate sheets 51 and 52 of the exterior material 50 each have a three-layer structure formed by laminating three kinds of materials. The first layer corresponds to a heat-fusible resin and uses, for example, polyethylene (PE), ionomer, or ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA). The first layer material is adjacent to the negative electrode 30. The second layer corresponds to a metal foil formed, for example, an Al foil or Ni foil. The third layer corresponds to a resinous film and uses, for example, rigid polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or nylon.

  Next, a separator bonding apparatus 100 that embodies a separator bonding method for an electric device (packed electrode 11) will be described in order with reference to FIGS.

  FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing a separator joining apparatus 100 that embodies a separator joining method for an electric device (packed electrode 11). FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing a main part of the separator joining apparatus 100 of FIG. FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing a method of joining separators (ceramic separators 41 and 42) by the separator joining device 100 of FIG.

  The separator joining apparatus 100 includes, for example, an electrode transport unit 110 (corresponding to a transport process), a first separator transport unit 120 (corresponding to an arrangement process and a transport process), and a second separator transport part 130 (corresponding to an arrangement process and a transport process). , Separator pressurization unit 140 (corresponding to the pressurization process, including the pressurizing member), separator joint unit 150 (corresponding to the jointing process, including the light source), the packed electrode transport unit 160, and the control unit 170. Yes. Hereinafter, the configuration of the separator bonding apparatus 100 will be described in order for each component.

  The electrode transport unit 110 shown in FIG. 5 is cut into a predetermined shape while transporting the positive electrode 20.

  The electrode supply roller 111 of the electrode transport unit 110 has a cylindrical shape, and the positive electrode 20 is wound around and held. The conveyance roller 112 has an elongated cylindrical shape, and guides the conveyance belt 113 while applying a certain tension to the positive electrode 20 wound around the electrode supply roller 111. The conveyor belt 113 is an endless belt provided with a plurality of suction ports on the outer peripheral surface, and conveys the positive electrode 20 along the conveyance direction X while sucking the positive electrode 20. The conveyance belt 113 has a width along the cross direction Y longer than the width of the positive electrode 20. A plurality of rotating members 114 are arranged on the inner peripheral surface of the conveyor belt 113 along the intersecting direction Y to rotate the conveyor belt 113. Among the plurality of rotating members 114, one is a driving roller provided with power, and the other is a driven roller driven by the driving roller. The transport roller 112 and the electrode supply roller 111 rotate following the rotation of the transport belt 113.

  The cutting members 115 and 116 of the electrode transport unit 110 are disposed so as to be adjacent to each other in the cross direction Y, and the positive electrode 20 is cut into a predetermined shape and formed. The cutting member 115 is provided with a straight and sharp blade at the tip, and cuts one end of the positive electrode 20 along the cross direction Y in a straight line. The cutting member 116 is provided with a sharp blade that is partially refracted at the tip, and cuts the other end of the positive electrode 20 just after one end is cut according to the shape of the positive electrode terminal 21a. The cradle 117 receives the cutting member 115 and the cutting member 116 that cut the positive electrode 20. The cradle 117 is disposed to face the cutting member 115 and the cutting member 116 with the positive electrode 20 being conveyed. The electrode transport unit 110 transports the cut out positive electrode 20 so as to pass between the first separator transport unit 120 and the second separator transport unit 130.

  5 and 6, the first separator transport unit 120 has a predetermined shape while transporting the ceramic separator 41 for stacking on one surface of the positive electrode 20 (downward in FIG. 5 along the stacking direction Z). Disconnect.

  The first separator transport unit 120 is disposed downstream of the electrode transport unit 110 in the transport direction X and below the stacking direction Z in FIG.

  The 1st separator conveyance part 120 respond | corresponds to an arrangement | positioning process. In the arranging step, the ceramic separator 41 is arranged so that the central portions 41nc and 42nc of the heat-resistant materials (ceramic layers 41n and 42n) face each other with the electrode (positive electrode 20 or negative electrode 30) therebetween.

  The 1st separator supply roller 121 of the 1st separator conveyance part 120 consists of a column shape, and winds and hold | maintains the elongate ceramic separator 41. FIG. The first separator supply roller 121 winds and holds the ceramic separator 41 so that the polypropylene layer 41m is on the inner side and the ceramic layer 41n is on the outer side. The first pressure roller 122 and the first nip roller 123 that are arranged to face each other have an elongated cylindrical shape, and are in a state where a certain tension is applied to the ceramic separator 41 wound around the first separator supply roller 121. Guided to the first transport drum 124. The first transport drum 124 has a cylindrical shape, and a plurality of suction ports are provided on the outer peripheral surface thereof. The first transport drum 124 has a width along the intersecting direction Y shorter than the width of the ceramic separator 41. That is, both ends of the ceramic separator 41 protrude outward from the first transport drum 124 in the cross direction Y. In this way, the first transport drum 124 avoids interference with the separator joint 150.

  When the first transport drum 124 of the first separator transport unit 120 is rotated, the first separator supply roller 121 is driven and rotated in addition to the first pressure roller 122 and the first nip roller 123. The first cutting member 125 is provided with a straight and sharp blade at the tip and is disposed along the crossing direction Y, and the long ceramic separator 41 sucked by the first transport drum 124 is fixed with a certain width. Disconnect. The first transport drum 124 is laminated with the ceramic separator 41 cut into a rectangular shape being brought close to the one surface side of the positive electrode 20 transported from the electrode transport unit 110. The ceramic separator 41 has the ceramic layer 41 n side opposed to one surface of the positive electrode 20.

  5 and 6, the second separator transport unit 130 transports the ceramic separator 42 for stacking on the other surface (upward in FIG. 5 along the stacking direction Z) facing one surface of the positive electrode 20. While cutting into a predetermined shape.

  The second separator transport unit 130 is disposed downstream of the electrode transport unit 110 in the transport direction X and above the stacking direction Z in FIG.

  The 2nd separator conveyance part 130 respond | corresponds to an arrangement | positioning process. In the arranging step, the ceramic separator 42 is arranged so that the central portions 41nc and 42nc of the heat-resistant materials (ceramic layers 41n and 42n) face each other with the electrode (positive electrode 20 or negative electrode 30) therebetween.

  The second separator transport unit 130 is disposed to face the first separator transport unit 120 along the stacking direction Z. The second separator supply roller 131 of the second separator transport unit 130 has a cylindrical shape, and holds the long ceramic separator 42 by winding it. The second separator supply roller 131 winds and holds the ceramic separator 42 so that the polypropylene layer 42m is on the inner side and the ceramic layer 42n is on the outer side. The second pressure roller 132 and the second nip roller 133 that are disposed to face each other have an elongated cylindrical shape, and are in a state where a certain tension is applied to the ceramic separator 42 wound around the second separator supply roller 131. It is guided to the second transport drum 134. The second transport drum 134 has a cylindrical shape, and a plurality of suction ports are provided on the outer peripheral surface thereof. Similar to the first transport drum 124, the second transport drum 134 avoids interference with the separator joint 150 by making the width along the intersecting direction Y shorter than the width of the ceramic separator 42.

  When the second transport drum 134 of the second separator transport unit 130 is rotated, the second separator supply roller 131 is driven and rotated in addition to the second pressure roller 132 and the second nip roller 133. The second cutting member 135 is provided with a straight and sharp blade at the tip and is disposed along the crossing direction Y, and the long ceramic separator 42 sucked by the second transport drum 134 is fixed with a certain width. Disconnect. The second transport drum 134 is laminated with the ceramic separator 42 cut into a rectangular shape being brought close to the other surface side of the positive electrode 20 unloaded from the electrode transport unit 110. The ceramic separator 42 has the ceramic layer 42 n side opposed to the other surface of the positive electrode 20.

  The first separator transport unit 120 and the second separator transport unit 130 are stacked so that the positive electrode 20 is sandwiched between the pair of ceramic separators 41 and 42 in the gap portion between the first transport drum 124 and the second transport drum 134. While transporting along the transport direction X. Separator joint portions 150 are disposed at both ends on the downstream side along the transport direction X, respectively.

  The separator pressurizing unit 140 pressurizes the joining region (one end 41p and the other end 41q) of the pair of ceramic separators 41 and 42 facing each other through the positive electrode 20 as shown in FIGS.

  The separator pressurization unit 140 corresponds to the pressurization process. In the pressurizing step, the joining region (one end portion 41p and the other end portion 41q) of the pair of ceramic separators 41 and 42 facing each other through the positive electrode 20 is pressurized by a pressurizing member 141 or the like that transmits the light L1.

  The separator pressurization unit 140 is disposed downstream of the first separator transport unit 120 and the second separator transport unit 130 in the transport direction X. The separator pressurization unit 140 is disposed at both ends along the transport direction X.

  The pressurizing member 141 and the biasing member 142 of the separator pressurizing unit 140 are opposed to each other via one end 41p of the ceramic separators 41 and 42 to be conveyed. The pressurizing member 141 pressurizes the ceramic separators 41 and 42 while being in contact with the one end 42p from the ceramic separator 42 side. The urging member 142 urges the ceramic separators 41 and 42 toward the pressing member 141 while abutting the one end 41p from the ceramic separator 41 side. The pressing member 141 and the urging member 142 are movable so as to approach and separate from each other along the stacking direction Z, with the ceramic separators 41 and 42 being conveyed as a boundary.

  The pressure member 141 includes a main body portion 141a and a contact portion 141b. The main body 141a is formed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape. The contact portion 141b is formed to protrude from one end of the main body portion 141a. The main body 141a and the contact portion 141b transmit light L1 derived from the laser oscillator 151 of the separator joint 150. That is, the main body portion 141a and the contact portion 141b are transparent to the wavelength of the light L1. The pressure member 141 is made of transparent plastics or glass having a sufficiently small refractive index with respect to the wavelength of the light L1. The urging member 142 is formed so as to face the pressing member 141 in the stacking direction Z. The urging member 142 includes a rectangular main body portion 142a and an abutting portion 142b formed so as to protrude upward in the drawing along the stacking direction Z from one end of the main body portion 142a. The urging member 142 is made of, for example, a metal having a high reflectance. The urging member 142 can reflect the light L1 transmitted through the end portions of the ceramic separators 41 and 42 and irradiate the end portions again.

  The urging member 142 functions as a pair of pressure members together with the pressure member 141. However, although the pressing member 141 is essential, the urging member 142 can be omitted. Specifically, for example, the pressing member 141 may be pressed against the one end 41p of the ceramic separator 41 in a state where the ceramic separators 41 and 42 are sufficiently tensioned along the transport direction X. . In such a configuration, the urging member 142 can be omitted.

  The pressure member 141 transmits the light L1 emitted from the laser oscillator 151 of the separator joint 150. Therefore, the pressure member 141 may deposit an antireflection film corresponding to the wavelength of the light L1. Further, the urging member 142 may be formed by depositing a reflective film on plastics in order to reflect the light L1 transmitted through the end portions of the ceramic separators 41 and 42 and irradiate the end portions again.

  As an example, the pressing member 141 and the urging member 142 include one contact portion that is opposed to each other along the stacking direction Z. On the other hand, the pressurizing member 141 and the urging member 142 may include a plurality of contact portions that face each other along the stacking direction Z. Specifically, for example, in the joining of the ceramic separators 41 and 42, when the joint portions 40h are formed in total at six locations at both ends and the central portion along both sides in the longitudinal direction, the size of the main body portion is determined. Is set to the same level as the ceramic separator 41, and six contact portions may be provided so as to correspond to the positions of the joint portions 40h.

  The pressing member 141 and the urging member 142 may be configured to be reversed along the stacking direction Z in FIG. That is, the ceramic separators 41 and 42 may be configured to be pressurized from the ceramic separator 42 side by the pressurizing member 141.

  The pressure member 143 and the urging member 144 of the separator pressure unit 140 have the same configuration as the pressure member 141 and the urging member 142. The pressing member 143 and the biasing member 144 are opposed to each other via the other end portions 41q of the ceramic separators 41 and 42 to be conveyed. The pressurizing member 143 pressurizes the ceramic separators 41 and 42 while coming into contact with the other end portion 42q from the ceramic separator 42 side. The urging member 144 urges the ceramic separators 41 and 42 toward the pressing member 143 while abutting against the other end 41q from the ceramic separator 41 side. The pressing member 143 is formed so as to face the pressing member 141 with respect to the transport direction X. The urging member 144 is formed so as to face the urging member 142 with respect to the transport direction X.

  The cooling member 145 of the separator pressure unit 140 cools the pressure members 141 and 143. The cooling member 145 is disposed in a portion of the main body 141a of the pressure member 141 that does not interfere with the light L1. Similarly, the cooling member 145 is disposed in a portion of the main body 143a of the pressure member 143 that does not interfere with the light L1. The cooling member 145 is composed of a Peltier element.

  The separator bonding portion 150 is shown in FIGS. 5 to 7, and in the pair of ceramic separators 41 and 42 facing via the positive electrode 20, the separator bonding portion 150 emits light L <b> 1 to the bonding region (one end portion and the other end portion) in a pressurized state. Irradiate and join.

  The separator joint 150 corresponds to the joining process. In the joining process, the light L1 is transmitted through the pressure member 141 and the like, and the joining regions (one end and the other end) of the ceramic separators 41 and 42 facing each other are irradiated. Here, the bonding process includes a heat-resistant material (ceramic layer) in one bonding region (end portion) heated by the light L1 and another bonding region (end portion) melted by the heat-resistant material (ceramic layer) facing each other. ) Molten material (polypropylene layer).

  Separator joint 150 is disposed downstream of transport direction X from first separator transport unit 120 and second separator transport unit 130. Separator joint 150 is adjacent to separator pressure unit 140.

The laser oscillator 151 of the separator joint 150 corresponds to a light source. The laser oscillator 151 emits light L1. The light L1 irradiates the joining region (one end and the other end) of the ceramic separators 41 and 42 facing each other. The wavelength of the light L1 is preferably a wavelength that is sufficiently absorbed by ceramics corresponding to the heat-resistant material while passing through the polypropylene layer corresponding to the molten material. Ceramics absorb light L1 and heat it. Specifically, the ceramic is made of a porous material formed by bonding a ceramic particle such as silica, alumina, zirconium oxide, titanium oxide or the like and a binder. The absorptance of alumina contained in the ceramic is 0.3 at a wavelength of about 1 μm and 0.6 at a wavelength of about 8 to 14 μm. Therefore, the laser oscillator 151 includes, for example, a Co ₂ (carbon dioxide) laser with an oscillation wavelength of 9.4 μm or 10.6 μm, a YAG (yttrium aluminum garnet crystal) laser with an oscillation wavelength of 1064 nm, or an oscillation wavelength of 808 nm. Or a solid-state laser (LD: laser diode) such as 840 nm and 940 nm.

  The first reflecting mirror 152 reflects the light L 1 emitted from the laser oscillator 151 toward the beam splitter 153. The first reflection mirror 152 is configured by vapor-depositing a reflection film corresponding to the wavelength of the light L1 on a plate-shaped glass material.

  The beam splitter 153 branches the light L1 reflected by the first reflecting mirror 152. The light L1 reflected in the stacking direction Z by the beam splitter 153 enters the pressure member 141. The light transmitted through the pressure member 143 irradiates the joining region (one end portion) of the ceramic separators 41 and 42. On the other hand, the light L1 that has passed through the beam splitter 153 in the cross direction Y irradiates the second reflecting mirror 154. The beam splitter 153 is arranged in the upper direction in the drawing along the stacking direction Z of the pressure member 141.

  The second reflecting mirror 154 reflects the light L1 transmitted through the beam splitter 153 with respect to the pressing member 143. The light L1 transmitted through the pressing member 143 is applied to the joining region (the other end portion) of the ceramic separators 41 and 42. The second reflecting mirror 154 is disposed in the upper direction in the drawing along the stacking direction Z of the pressure member 143. The second reflection mirror 154 has the same configuration as the first reflection mirror 152.

  The packaged electrode transport unit 160 transports the packaged electrode 11 formed by the separator pressurizing unit 140 and the separator joining unit 150 as shown in FIG.

  The packaged electrode transport unit 160 is adjacent to the electrode transport unit 110 along the transport direction X, and is disposed downstream of the first separator transport unit 120 and the second separator transport unit 130 in the transport direction X.

  The transport belt 161 of the packaged electrode transport unit 160 is an endless belt having a plurality of suction ports provided on the outer peripheral surface, and transports the packaged electrode 11 along the transport direction X while sucking the packaged electrode 11. The conveyor belt 161 has a width along the intersecting direction Y shorter than the width of the packaged electrode 11. That is, both ends of the bagging electrode 11 protrude outward from the conveyance belt 161 in the cross direction Y. In this way, the conveyor belt 161 avoids interference with the separator joint 150. A plurality of rotating members 162 are arranged on the inner peripheral surface of the conveyor belt 161 along the intersecting direction Y to rotate the conveyor belt 161. The rotating member 162 is not protruded from the conveyor belt 161 in order to avoid interference with the separator joint 150. Among the plurality of rotating members 162, one is a driving roller provided with power, and the other is a driven roller driven by the driving roller.

  The suction pad 163 of the packaged electrode transport unit 160 is positioned to face the packaged electrode 11 above the packaged electrode 11 placed on the transport belt 161 in the stacking direction Z in FIG. Yes. The suction pad 163 has a plate shape, and a plurality of suction ports are provided on the surface that comes into contact with the bagging electrode 11. The elastic member 164 is located above the suction pad 163 in the stacking direction Z shown in FIG. One end of the elastic member 164 is joined to the suction pad 163. The expansion / contraction member 164 can expand and contract along the stacking direction Z using an air compressor or the like as power. The X-axis stage 165 and the X-axis auxiliary rail 166 movably support the other end facing the one end of the elastic member 164. The X-axis stage 165 is disposed along the transport direction X and scans the telescopic member 164 along the transport direction X. The X-axis auxiliary rail 166 is disposed in parallel with the X-axis stage 165 and assists the scanning of the telescopic member 164 by the X-axis stage 165. The mounting table 167 has a plate shape, and is disposed on the downstream side in the transport direction X with respect to the transport belt 161 disposed, for example. The mounting table 167 temporarily stores and stores the packaged electrode 11.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the control unit 170 operates the electrode transport unit 110, the first separator transport unit 120, the second separator transport unit 130, the separator pressurizing unit 140, the separator joining unit 150, and the packaged electrode transport unit 160, respectively. Control.

  The controller 171 of the control unit 170 includes a ROM, a CPU, and a RAM. A ROM (Read Only Memory) stores a control program related to the separator bonding apparatus 100. The control program includes the rotation member 114 and the cutting members 115 and 116 of the electrode transport unit 110, the first transport drum 124 and the first cutting member 125 of the first separator transport unit 120, and the second transport drum of the second separator transport unit 130. 134 and the control of the second cutting member 135 are included. Further, the control program includes pressurizing members 141 and 143 and biasing members 142 and 144 of the separator pressurizing unit 140, a laser oscillator 151 of the separator joining unit 150, and a rotating member 162 and a telescopic member 164 of the packaged electrode transport unit 160. Etc. related to control.

  A CPU (Central Processing Unit) of the control unit 170 controls the operation of each component of the separator joining apparatus 100 based on a control program. A RAM (Random Access Memory) temporarily stores various data related to each component of the separator joining apparatus 100 under control. The data relates to the intensity of the light L1 emitted from the laser oscillator 151 of the separator joint 150, for example.

  Next, the operation of the separator bonding apparatus 100 will be described.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the electrode transport unit 110 cuts and shapes the positive electrode 20 into a predetermined shape one by one by the cutting members 115 and 116. The electrode transport unit 110 transports the formed positive electrode 20 between the first separator transport unit 120 and the second separator transport unit 130.

  Next, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the first separator transport unit 120 cuts out and transports the ceramic separator 41 laminated on one surface of the positive electrode 20. The first cutting member 125 cuts the ceramic separator 41 into a rectangular shape. The 1st separator conveyance part 120 laminates | stacks the ceramic separator 41 on the one surface side of the positive electrode 20 carried out from the electrode conveyance part 110. FIG.

  Similarly, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the second separator transport unit 130 is a ceramic separator for laminating on the other surface facing one surface of the positive electrode 20 in parallel with the operation of the first separator transport unit 120. 42 is cut out and conveyed. The second cutting member 135 cuts the ceramic separator 41 into a rectangular shape. The second separator transport unit 130 stacks the ceramic separator 42 on the other surface side of the positive electrode 20 transported from the electrode transport unit 110.

  Next, as shown in FIGS. 5 to 7, the separator pressurizing unit 140 sandwiches the joining region between the one end portions 41 p and 42 p of the ceramic separators 41 and 42 by the pressurizing member 141 and the biasing member 142, respectively. Then, the end portions are pressurized so as to press each other. Similarly, the joining region between the other end portions 41q and 42q of the ceramic separators 41 and 42 is sandwiched by the pressurizing member 143 and the biasing member 144, and the end portions are pressurized so as to press each other.

  Next, as shown in FIGS. 5 to 7, the separator bonding unit 150 reflects the light L <b> 1 emitted from the laser oscillator 151 by the first reflection mirror 152 and then branches it by the beam splitter 153. The light L <b> 1 reflected in the stacking direction Z by the beam splitter 153 enters the pressure member 141. The light L1 emitted from the pressing member 141 is applied to the one end portions 41p and 42p of the ceramic separators 41 and 42, and the end portions are melted and joined. The end corresponds to the joint 40h. On the other hand, the light L 1 that has passed through the beam splitter 153 in the cross direction Y is reflected by the second reflecting mirror 154 and then enters the pressure member 143. The light L1 emitted from the pressure member 143 is applied to the other end portions 41q and 42q of the ceramic separators 41 and 42, and the end portions are melted and joined. The end corresponds to the joint 40h.

  Here, the operation of the separator pressurizing unit 140 and the separator joining unit 150 will be described more specifically. As shown in FIGS. 7A to 7B, the heat-resistant material (ceramic layer) heated by the light L1 and the molten material (polypropylene layer) melted through the heated heat-resistant material (ceramic layer) ) Move so as to be adjacent to each other particularly in a pressurized state. Specifically, first, in a pressurized state, the ceramic separators 41 and 42 are in close contact with each other and the voids are greatly reduced, so that heat conduction is facilitated. In particular, the ceramic layer 41n of the ceramic separator 41 and the ceramic layer 42n of the ceramic separator 42 face each other in a state where unevenness is generated on the surface. However, since the polypropylene layer 41m of the ceramic separator 41 and the polypropylene layer 42m of the ceramic separator 42 are elastically deformed under pressure, the surface irregularities of the ceramic layers facing each other can be absorbed and adhered.

  Further, in a pressurized state, the molten material (polypropylene layer) melted in one ceramic separator flows elastically with respect to the heat resistant material (ceramic layer) of the other ceramic separator, and the heat resistant material (ceramic layer) Adjacent to the ceramic layer. The molten material (polypropylene layer) is heated and melted by a heat-resistant material (ceramic layer) of one or other ceramic separators. On the other hand, in a pressurized state, the heat-resistant material (ceramic layer) flows in one ceramic separator so as to enter the molten material (polypropylene layer) of another molten ceramic separator. That is, while pressurizing a pair of separators (ceramic separators 41 and 42), the joining region (end portion) can be effectively joined by irradiating the pressurized portion with light L1 and heating.

  Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 5, the packaged electrode transport unit 160 transports the packaged electrode 11 formed by the separator pressurizing unit 140 and the separator joint 150. The packaged electrode transport unit 160 places the packaged electrode 11 on the mounting table 167 and temporarily stores it.

  According to 1st Embodiment mentioned above, there exists an effect by the following structures.

  The separator joining method for the electric device (packed electrode 11) is a sheet-like molten material (polypropylene layer) and a heat-resistant material (ceramics) laminated on the molten material (polypropylene layer) and having a higher melting temperature than the molten material (polypropylene layer). Layer) and a separator (ceramic separator) that sandwiches the electrode (positive electrode 20 or negative electrode 30) is joined by light L1. The separator joining method includes a pressurizing step and a joining step. In the pressurizing step, the joining region (end portion) of the separator (ceramic separator) facing each other through the electrode (positive electrode 20 or negative electrode 30) is pressurized by the pressurizing member 141 or the like that transmits the light L1. In the joining step, the light L1 is transmitted to the pressing member 141 and the like, and the joining regions (end portions) facing each other are irradiated. Here, the bonding process includes a heat-resistant material (ceramic layer) in one bonding region (end portion) heated by the light L1 and another bonding region (end portion) melted by the heat-resistant material (ceramic layer) facing each other. ) Molten material (polypropylene layer).

  The separator joining apparatus 100 of the electric device (packed electrode 11) is a sheet-like molten material (polypropylene layer) and a heat-resistant material (melting temperature (polypropylene layer)) and a heat-resistant material (melting temperature higher than that of the molten material (polypropylene layer)). And a separator (ceramic separator) that sandwiches an electrode (positive electrode 20 or negative electrode 30) using light L1. The separator bonding apparatus 100 includes a pressure member 141 and the like and a light source (laser oscillator 151). The pressurizing member 141 and the like pressurize the joining region (end portion) of the separator facing through the electrode, and transmit the light L1. The light source (laser oscillator 151) irradiates the bonding region (end) while transmitting the light L1 through the pressure member 141 and the like.

  In such a configuration, a molten material (polypropylene) is formed by a heat-resistant material (ceramic layer) heated by using the light L1 transmitted through the pressure member 141 and the like while the bonding region (end) is pressurized by the pressure member 141 and the like. Melt the layer). That is, a heated heat-resistant material (ceramic layer) and a molten material (polypropylene layer) melted through the heated heat-resistant material (ceramic layer) are moved so as to be adjacent to each other in a pressurized state and joined. be able to. Therefore, even when the heat-resistant materials (ceramic layers) face each other, the separators (ceramic separators) can be sufficiently bonded.

  Here, the electrical device (packed electrode) bonded by the above configuration is an electrode (positive electrode 20 or negative electrode 30) even when a separator (ceramic separator) in which heat-resistant materials (ceramic layers) face each other is used. ) Can be sufficiently bonded to each other, so that desired electrical characteristics can be exhibited. Specifically, for example, the electric device (packed electrode 11) sufficiently bonds the end of the separator (ceramic separator) even when the lithium ion secondary battery 10 vibrates or receives an impact. Therefore, the movement of the positive electrode 20 can be suppressed. That is, a short circuit between the positive electrode 20 and the negative electrode 30 that are adjacent to each other via the separator (ceramic separator) can be prevented. Therefore, the lithium ion secondary battery 10 can maintain the desired electrical characteristics.

  Furthermore, the electric device (packed electrode) joined by the above-described configuration is a molten material (ceramic layer) heated by irradiation with light L1 among the separator (ceramic separator) by the pressurizing member 141 or the like. Polypropylene layer) is melted and joined. Since the molten material (polypropylene layer) is heated by heat conduction from the heat-resistant material (ceramic layer), it does not exceed the temperature of the heat-resistant material (ceramic layer). The light source (laser oscillator 151) heats the heat-resistant material (ceramic layer) that is not in direct contact with the pressure member 141 and the like. Therefore, the pressurizing member 141 can sufficiently prevent sticking to each other at the interface between the separator (ceramic separator) and the molten material (polypropylene layer).

  In the separator bonding apparatus 100 that embodies the separator bonding method and the method, the separator bonding method can be configured to use a pair of separators (ceramic separators 41 and 42). This joining method further includes an arrangement step. The arranging step is performed before the pressurizing step. The arranging step arranges a pair of separators (ceramic separators 41 and 42) so that the central portions 41nc and 42nc of the heat-resistant materials (ceramic layers 41n and 42n) face each other with the electrode (positive electrode 20 or negative electrode 30) therebetween. To do. The pressurizing step includes a bonding region (at least one of the end portion, one end portion 41p or the other end portion 41q) of one separator (ceramic separator 41) of the pair of separators (ceramic separators 41 and 42) and another separator (ceramic separator). 42) the joint regions (at least one of the end portion, the one end portion 42p and the other end portion 42q) are pressurized.

  As shown in such a configuration, this separator joining method can be applied to a very versatile method consisting of a single wafer type. That is, this separator joining method can be used for a method of laminating and stacking each member in the order of the ceramic separator 41, the electrode (positive electrode 20 or negative electrode 30), and the ceramic separator 42.

  In the separator bonding apparatus 100 and the separator bonding apparatus 100 that embodies the method, in particular, the pressure members 141 and 143 of the separator bonding apparatus 100 can include a contact portion 141b that protrudes from the main body portion 141a. The contact part 141b pressurizes only the joining region (end part).

  In such a configuration, the heated heat-resistant material (ceramic layer) and the molten material (polypropylene layer) melted through the heated heat-resistant material (ceramic layer) are adjacent to each other particularly in a pressurized state. Move to join. Therefore, since the pair of separators (ceramic separators 41 and 42) is pressurized by the contact portion 141b, only the joining region (end portion) can be selectively pressurized and effectively joined.

  In the separator bonding apparatus 100 and the separator bonding apparatus 100 that embodies the method, the separator bonding apparatus 100 can further include a cooling member 145 that cools the pressure members 141 and 143.

  According to such a configuration, since the temperature rise of the pressure members 141 and 143 due to the transmission of the light L1 can be reduced, sticking at the interface between the pressure members 141 and 143 and the ceramic separator 41 is prevented. Can be prevented. Furthermore, since the temperature rise of the pressure members 141 and 143 can be reduced, deterioration of the pressure members 141 and 143 can be suppressed. In particular, when the pressure members 141 and 143 are formed of a plastic resin, deterioration can be effectively suppressed.

  In the separator bonding apparatus 100 and the separator bonding apparatus 100 embodying the method, in particular, the light source of the separator bonding apparatus 100 can be configured by a laser oscillator 151. Further, the laser oscillator 151 emits light L1 having a certain wavelength. The refractive index with respect to the light L1 of the pressure members 141 and 143 can be configured to be smaller than the refractive index with respect to the light L1 of the molten material (polypropylene layer).

  In such a configuration, the lower the refractive index of the light L1 with respect to the specific member, the higher the transmittance. Moreover, when the transmittance | permeability of the light L1 with respect to a specific member is high, absorption of the light L1 in the inside of a member will become low, and the temperature rise of a member can be suppressed. In other words, if the refractive index of the pressure members 141 and 143 with respect to the light L1 satisfies the condition that the refractive index with respect to the light L1 of the molten material (polypropylene layer) is satisfied, the light L1 is sufficiently transmitted through the pressure members 141 and 143. Later, the molten material (polypropylene layer) can penetrate and reach the heat-resistant material (ceramic layer).

(Modification 1 of the first embodiment)
A separator bonding method for an electric device (packed electrode 11) according to a first modification of the first embodiment and a separator bonding apparatus 200 that embodies the method will be described with reference to FIG.

  In the first modification of the first embodiment, the configuration in which the operations of the first separator transport unit 120, the second separator transport unit 130, the electrode transport unit 110, etc. are continued while the ceramic separators 41 and 42 are joined is described above. This is different from the configuration according to the first embodiment. In the first embodiment described above, it is necessary to temporarily stop the operation of other constituent members depending on the joining conditions. In the modification 1 of 1st Embodiment, about the thing which consists of a structure similar to 1st Embodiment mentioned above, the same code | symbol is used and the description mentioned above is abbreviate | omitted.

  The separator pressurizing unit 140 and the separator bonding unit 150 of the separator bonding apparatus 200 will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing a main part of a separator bonding apparatus 200 that embodies a separator bonding method for an electric device (packed electrode 11).

  The pressurizing step and the joining step pressurize and join the ceramic separators 41 and 42 while following the movement of the ceramic separators 41 and 42 being conveyed. For example, the 1st separator conveyance part 120, the 2nd separator conveyance part 130, the electrode conveyance part 110, etc. respond | correspond to a conveyance process.

  Specifically, the separator pressurizing unit 140 moves the pressurizing member 141, the urging member 142, the pressurizing member 143, and the urging member 144 downstream in the conveying direction X while pressurizing the ceramic separators 41 and 42. Move along the side. When the joining of the ceramic separators 41 and 42 is completed, the pressure member 141 and the biasing member 142 and the pressure member 143 and the biasing member 144 move at a high speed along the upstream side in the transport direction X to return to the original. Return to position. On the other hand, the separator joining section 150 moves the first reflecting mirror 152, the beam splitter 153, and the second reflecting mirror 154 to the downstream side in the transport direction X while the ceramic separators 41 and 42 are joined by irradiating the light L1. Move along. The first reflection mirror 152, the beam splitter 153, and the second reflection mirror 154 move at a high speed along the upstream side in the transport direction X and return to their original positions when the joining of the ceramic separators 41 and 42 is completed. .

  According to the first modification of the first embodiment described above, the following effects are produced.

  In the separator bonding apparatus 200 and the separator bonding apparatus 200 that embodies the method, the separator bonding method further includes a conveying step. A conveyance process conveys a separator (ceramic separators 41 and 42). Here, the pressurizing step and the joining step pressurize and join the separators (ceramic separators 41 and 42) while following the movement of the separators (ceramic separators 41 and 42) being conveyed in the conveying step.

  According to such a configuration, a pair of ceramic separators can be used while the operation of other components (for example, the first separator transport unit 120, the second separator transport unit 130, and the electrode transport unit 110) is continued. 41 and 42 can be joined. That is, productivity related to the joining of the ceramic separators 41 and 42 can be maintained.

(Modification 2 of the first embodiment)
A separator bonding method for an electric device (packed electrode) according to a second modification of the first embodiment and a separator bonding apparatus 300 that embodies the method will be described with reference to FIG.

  The modification 2 of 1st Embodiment differs in the structure which forms the hole 341h with respect to the entrance plane 341c of the light L1 of the pressurization member 341 from the structure which concerns on 1st Embodiment mentioned above. In the first embodiment described above, no hole is formed in the incident surface. In the second modification of the first embodiment, the same reference numerals are used for components having the same configuration as in the first embodiment described above, and the above description is omitted.

  The separator pressurizing unit 340 and the separator bonding unit 150 of the separator bonding apparatus 300 will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing a main part of a separator bonding apparatus 300 that embodies a separator bonding method for an electric device (packed electrode).

  The separator pressure unit 340 includes a pressure member 341 instead of the pressure member 141. Similar to the pressure member 141, the pressure member 341 is made of a material that is transparent at the wavelength of the light L1, and the basic outer shape is formed in the same shape. That is, the pressurizing member 341 includes a rectangular main body 341a and an abutting portion 341b that protrudes downward in the drawing along the stacking direction Z from one end of the main body 341a. Here, the pressure member 341 includes a hole 341h from the main body 341a to the contact portion 341b. The hole 341h is formed at a certain depth on the incident surface 341c side between the incident surface 341c of the light L1 and the emitting surface 341d facing the incident surface 341c and emitting the light L1.

  The separator joining portion 150 reflects the light L1 emitted from the laser oscillator 151 by the first reflecting mirror 152 and then enters the hole 341h of the pressure member 341 while being branched by the beam splitter 153. The light L1 enters the main body portion 341a from the bottom surface of the hole 341h of the pressure member 341, and exits from the emission surface 341d of the contact portion 341b.

  According to the modification 2 of 1st Embodiment mentioned above, there exists an effect by the following structures.

  In the separator bonding apparatus 300 and the separator bonding apparatus 300 that embodies the method, in particular, the pressure member 341 of the separator bonding apparatus 300 emits the light L1 from the incident surface 341c on which the light L1 is incident, facing the incident surface 341c. Between the exit surfaces 341d, a hole 341h having a constant depth is provided on the entrance surface 341c side.

  According to such a configuration, the pressure member 341 can suppress the attenuation of the light L1 by shortening the optical path length of the light L1 that passes through the inside. Furthermore, since the temperature rise of the pressure member 341 caused by the transmission of the light L1 can be reduced, sticking at the interface between the pressure member 341 and the ceramic separator 41 or 42 can be prevented. Furthermore, according to such a configuration, by making the depth of the hole 341h sufficiently deep and shortening the optical path length of the light L1 transmitted through the inside as much as possible, a material having a large internal attenuation is applied to the pressure member 341. Can be applied.

(Modification 3 of the first embodiment)
A separator bonding method for an electric device (packed electrode) according to a third modification of the first embodiment and a separator bonding apparatus 400 that embodies the method will be described with reference to FIG.

  The modification 3 of 1st Embodiment differs in the structure which irradiates light L1 from the both sides of a pair of ceramic separators 41 and 42 from the structure which concerns on 1st Embodiment mentioned above. In the first embodiment described above, the light L1 is emitted from one side of the pair of ceramic separators 41 and 42. In the modification 3 of 1st Embodiment, about the thing which consists of the structure similar to 1st Embodiment mentioned above, the same code | symbol is used and the description mentioned above is abbreviate | omitted.

  The separator pressurizing part 440 and the separator joining part 450 of the separator joining apparatus 400 will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a main part of a separator bonding apparatus 400 that embodies a separator bonding method for an electric device (packed electrode).

  The separator pressurizing unit 440 pressurizes the joining regions (end portions) of the ceramic separators 41 and 42 by the pressurizing members 141 and 442 while holding them together. The pressure member 442 is made of a material that is transparent at the wavelength of the light L1 similarly to the pressure member 141, and is formed so as to face the stacking direction Z. That is, the pressurizing member 442 includes a rectangular main body 442a and an abutting portion 442b formed to protrude upward in the drawing along the stacking direction Z from one end of the main body 442a.

  Separator junction 450 splits light L1 emitted from laser oscillator 151 by a beam splitter. Of the branched light L1, the light L1 reflected by the beam splitter 153 is incident on the pressure member 141. Similarly, the light L1 reflected by the beam splitter 453 out of the branched light L1 is incident on the pressure member 442. The separator joining portion 450 irradiates light L1 incident on the pressure member 141 from the ceramic separator 41 side to the end portion, and irradiates light L1 incident on the pressure member 442 from the ceramic separator 42 side to the end portion. Irradiate to join the ends.

  According to the modification 3 of 1st Embodiment mentioned above, there exists an effect by the following structures.

  In the separator bonding apparatus 400 that embodies the separator bonding method and the method, particularly in the bonding step of the separator bonding method, a pair of pressure members 141 and 442 pressurize the bonding regions (ends) facing each other from both sides, The light L1 is irradiated from both sides of the bonding region (end) facing each other.

  According to such a configuration, the light L1 necessary for heating the heat-resistant material (ceramic layer) in the joining region (end) of the ceramic separators 41 and 42 is branched, for example, and then the pair of pressure members 141 is branched. And 442 can be guided to the joining region (end portion). That is, by using the pressure members 141 and 442 that transmit the light L1, respectively, the light amount of the light L1 transmitted through one pressure member can be halved. Therefore, since the deterioration of the pressure members 141 and 442 due to the transmission of the light L1 can be suppressed, the life of the pressure members 141 and 442 can be extended. Furthermore, since the temperature rise of the molten material (polypropylene layer) of the ceramic separators 41 and 42 due to the transmission of the light L1 can be reduced, the pressure member 141 or 442 and the molten material (polypropylene of the ceramic separator 41 or 42) are reduced. Sticking at the interface of the layer) can be prevented.

(Modification 4 of the first embodiment)
A separator bonding method for an electric device (packed electrode) according to Modification 4 of the first embodiment and a separator bonding apparatus 500 that embodies the method will be described with reference to FIG.

  The modification 4 of 1st Embodiment differs in the structure which pressurizes the edge parts of the ceramic separators 41 and 42 continuously by the disk-shaped pressurization member 541 from the structure which concerns on 1st Embodiment mentioned above. In the first embodiment described above, the ends are partially pressurized by the pressure member 141 and the like. In the modification 4 of 1st Embodiment, about the thing which consists of a structure similar to 1st Embodiment mentioned above, the same code | symbol is used and the description mentioned above is abbreviate | omitted.

  The separator pressurizing unit 540 and the separator bonding unit 150 of the separator bonding apparatus 500 will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a main part of a separator bonding apparatus 500 that embodies a separator bonding method for an electric device (packed electrode).

  The separator pressurizing unit 540 pressurizes the joining region (end portion) of the ceramic separators 41 and 42 by the rotatable pressurizing member 541 and the biasing member 542 while holding them together. The pressure member 541 is made of a material that is transparent at the wavelength of the light L1 in the same manner as the pressure member 141, and is formed in a disk shape. The pressure member 541 includes a rotation shaft on the side surface. The pressure member 541 rotates while the ceramic separator 41 is in contact with the outer peripheral surface 541a. On the outer peripheral surface 541a, an antireflection film corresponding to the wavelength of the light L1 is deposited. The urging member 542 is disposed to face the pressing member 541 along the stacking direction Z. The urging member 542 is formed in a disk shape. The urging member 542 includes a shaft for rotation on the side surface. The urging member 542 rotates while being urged toward the pressure member 541 while the ceramic separator 42 is brought into contact with the outer peripheral surface 542a. While the ceramic separators 41 and 42 are being pressurized by the pressurizing member 541 and the biasing member 542, the first separator transport unit 120, the second separator transport unit 130, the electrode transport unit 110, and the like temporarily stop their respective operations. Continue without.

  The separator bonding portion 150 reflects the light L1 emitted from the laser oscillator 151 by the first reflecting mirror 152 and then enters the pressure member 541 while being branched by the beam splitter 153. The light L1 enters the outer peripheral surface 541a of the pressure member 541 and irradiates the end portions of the ceramic separators 41 and 42. The laser oscillator 151 continuously emits the light L1, and seam welds the end portions of the ceramic separators 41 and 42. On the other hand, the laser oscillator 151 may intermittently emit the light L1 and spot weld the end portions of the ceramic separators 41 and 42.

  According to the modification 4 of 1st Embodiment mentioned above, there exists an effect by the following structures.

  In the separator joining method and the separator joining device 500 that embodies the method, in particular, the pressure member 541 of the separator joining device 500 is formed in a rotatable disk shape, and continuously presses the joining regions (ends) to each other. .

  According to such a structure, the joining area | region (edge part) of a pair of ceramic separators 41 and 42 can be formed in strip | belt shape. That is, the end portions of the pair of ceramic separators 41 and 42 can be joined more firmly. Furthermore, according to such a configuration, the pair of ceramic separators 41 and 42 can be mounted while the operation of other components (for example, the first separator transport unit 120 and the second separator transport unit 130) is continued. Can be joined. That is, productivity related to the joining of the ceramic separators 41 and 42 can be maintained.

(Second Embodiment)
A separator bonding method for an electric device (packed electrode 12) according to a second embodiment and a separator bonding apparatus 600 that embodies the method will be described with reference to FIG.

  In the second embodiment, the structure in which the ceramic separator 43 is folded back at the edge 20t of the positive electrode 20 and the one end portions 43p and the other end portions 43q face each other at the edge 20t is the first described above. Different from the configuration according to the embodiment. In the first embodiment described above, the positive electrode 20 is sandwiched between the pair of ceramic separators 41 and 42, and the one end 41p and the one end 42p and the other end 41q and the other end 42q face each other. In the second embodiment, the same reference numerals are used for components having the same configuration as in the first embodiment described above, and the above description is omitted.

  The separator bonding apparatus 600 will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 12 is a perspective view showing a separator bonding method and a separator bonding apparatus 600 for an electric device (packed electrode 12).

  First, the configuration of the separator bonding apparatus 600 will be described with reference to FIG.

  The separator joining apparatus 600 includes a member conveying unit 610 (conveying the positive electrode 20 and the bagging electrode 12), a separator conveying unit 620, a separator folding unit 630 (corresponding to the folding process), and a separator pressing unit 640 (corresponding to the pressing process). , And a separator joint portion 650 (corresponding to the joining step). Hereinafter, configurations included in the separator bonding apparatus 600 will be described in order.

  The member conveyance unit 610 conveys the positive electrode 20 and the packaged electrode 12. The member transport unit 610 includes a suction pad 611 and a support member 612. The suction pad 611 has a plate shape, and a plurality of suction ports are provided on the surface that comes into contact with the positive electrode 20 or the packaged electrode 12. The support member 612 has a suction pad 611 bonded to one end, and a moving mechanism including a conductive stage, an air compressor, and the like bonded to the other end. The suction pad 611 is movable along the cross direction Y and the stacking direction Z.

  Separator transport unit 620 includes a pair of gripping members 621 and a pair of cutting members 622. The pair of gripping members 621 corresponds to a robot hand that can be opened and closed along the stacking direction Z. The pair of gripping members 621 grips the end of the long ceramic separator 43 wound around the separator supply roller, and pulls it out so as to be close to the fixed mold 631 and the movable mold 632. The pair of cutting members 622 is provided with a linear sharp blade at the tip. The pair of cutting members 622 cuts the long ceramic separator 43 held by the pair of holding members 621 with a certain width. The pair of cutting members 622 are arranged along the crossing direction Y so as to face the end of the fixed die 631 and the end of the movable die 632 of the separator folding portion 630.

  The separator folding unit 630 corresponds to the folding process. In the folding step, the ceramic separator 43 is folded back at the edge 20t of the positive electrode 20, and the one end portions 43p and the other end portion 43q of the ceramic separator 43 face each other with the edge 20t of the positive electrode 20 as a boundary. The separator folding portion 630 includes a fixed mold 631 and a movable mold 632. The fixed mold 631 and the movable mold 632 face each other between the one end portions 43p and the other end portions 43q while folding the ceramic separator 43 with the edge 20t of the positive electrode 20 as a boundary. The fixed die 631 and the movable die 632 are each formed in a plate shape, and suction ports are provided in a matrix shape on the surface that contacts the ceramic separator 43. Here, the movable die 632 is formed of a material transparent at the wavelength of the light L1 by joining at least the pressure member 641 of the separator pressure unit 640 and along the stacking direction Z. The movable mold 632 is made of the same material as the pressure member 641, for example. The movable mold 632 faces the fixed mold 631 while rotating with respect to one end of the fixed mold 631 so that the ceramic separator 43 is folded at the center.

  The separator pressure unit 640 corresponds to a pressure unit. The separator pressure unit 640 includes a pressure member 641. The pressurizing member 641 pressurizes the end portion of the ceramic separator 43. The pressure member 641 corresponds to a shape in which the contact portion 141b of the pressure member 141 is thinned along the stacking direction Z. A plurality of the pressure members 641 are arranged at regular intervals on both ends of the separator folding unit 630 along the conveyance direction X of the movable mold 632. The pressure member 641 pressurizes the one end portion 43p and the other end portion 43q of the ceramic separator 43 in a state where the ceramic separator 43 is sandwiched between the fixed die 631 and the fixed die 631.

  Separator joint 650 corresponds to a joint. The separator bonding portion 650 reflects the light L1 emitted from the laser oscillator 151 by the first reflection mirror 152 and the second reflection mirror 154 and then enters the pressure member 641 while passing through the transparent movable mold 632. . The light L1 emitted from the pressure member 641 is applied to the one end portions 43p or the other end portions 43q of the ceramic separator 43, and the end portions are melted and joined. The first reflection mirror 152 and the second reflection mirror 154 are movable in the transport direction X and the cross direction Y.

  Next, the operation of the separator bonding apparatus 600 will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, as shown in FIG. 12A, the separator transport unit 620 grips the end of the long ceramic separator 43 wound around the separator supply roller by a pair of gripping members 621, and the ceramic separator 43 is pulled out along the conveyance direction X.

  Next, as illustrated in FIG. 12B, the separator transport unit 620 cuts the long ceramic separator 43 with a certain width by a pair of cutting members 622. At this time, the separator folding portion 630 sucks and holds the ceramic separator 43 by the fixed die 631 and the movable die 632. Thereafter, the member conveyance unit 610 conveys the positive electrode 20 to the upper side of the fixed mold 631 of the separator folding unit 630 by the suction pad 611, and stacks the positive electrode 20 on the ceramic separator 43.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 12C, the movable die 632 faces the fixed die 631 while rotating with respect to one end of the fixed die 631 so that the ceramic separator 43 is folded at the center. At this time, the separator joining portion 650 reflects the light L1 emitted from the laser oscillator 151 by the first reflecting mirror 152 and the second reflecting mirror 154, and then transmits the transparent movable mold 632 while pressing the pressure member 641. To enter. Separator joint 650 irradiates the ends of ceramic separator 43 with light L1 emitted from pressurizing member 641, and melts (at least one of end, one end 41p or the other end 41q). And join. Each time the joining of one place of the ceramic separator 43 is completed, the first reflecting mirror 152 and the second reflecting mirror 154 are moved in the transport direction X and the crossing direction Y, and the direction of the light L1 emitted from the laser oscillator 151 is changed. The next bonding area is irradiated. Alternatively, the fixed die 631 and the movable die 632 may be moved with respect to the transport direction X and the crossing direction Y every time the joining of one place of the ceramic separator 43 is completed. All the joining regions are in a state of being pressurized by the pressure member 641.

  Finally, as shown in FIG. 12D, the moving mold 632 is separated from the fixed mold 631 while rotating in reverse with respect to one end of the fixed mold 631. The member transport unit 610 sucks the packed electrode 12 by the suction pad 611 and transports it to the mounting table. The packaged electrode 12 is obtained by bonding a ceramic separator 43 sandwiching the positive electrode 20.

  According to 2nd Embodiment mentioned above, there exists an effect by the following structures.

  In the separator bonding apparatus 600 that embodies the separator bonding method and the method, for example, the separator bonding method uses a separator (ceramic separator 43) formed longer than the electrode (positive electrode 20 or negative electrode 30). This joining method further includes a folding step. The folding process is performed before the pressurizing process. In the folding step, the separator (ceramic separator 43) is folded back at the edge 20t of the electrode (positive electrode 20 or negative electrode 30) so that the central portions of the heat-resistant materials face each other with the electrode (positive electrode 20 or negative electrode 30) therebetween. Meanwhile, the joining regions (at least one of the end portion, one end portion 43p or the other end portion 43q) of the separator (ceramic separator 43) face each other with the edge 20t as a boundary.

  As shown in such a configuration, the separator joining method of the electrical device (packed electrode 12) and the separator joining apparatus 600 that embodies the method can be applied to a very versatile method consisting of a folding type. Can do. That is, this separator joining method can be used for a method in which each member is overlapped and laminated by sandwiching an electrode (positive electrode 20 or negative electrode 30) while folding a long separator (ceramic separator 43).

  Furthermore, according to such a structure, since the long separator (ceramic separator 43) does not need to join the folded part, the installation and time required for joining can be reduced. Furthermore, according to such a configuration, since the long separator (ceramic separator 43) is folded back along the edge of the electrode (positive electrode 20 or negative electrode 30), no margin is generated at the folded portion. Costs related to materials can be reduced. Furthermore, according to such a configuration, since a single separator (ceramic separator 43) is used, it is possible to minimize the cutting position when cutting out the separator (ceramic separator 43), and to reduce the manufacturing cost and manufacturing. The time required for this can be reduced.

(Third embodiment)
A separator joining method of the electric device (packed electrode 13) according to the third embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

  The third embodiment is different from the configuration according to the first embodiment described above in that the long ceramic separator 44 is wound around the positive electrode 20 and the one end portion 44r and the other end portion 44s are joined to face each other. . In the first embodiment described above, the end portions face each other while the positive electrode 20 is sandwiched between the pair of ceramic separators 41 and 42. In the third embodiment, the same components as those in the first embodiment described above are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the above description is omitted.

  The separator joining method will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 13 is a perspective view schematically showing a separator joining method of the electric device (packed electrode 13).

  The ceramic separator 44 is formed such that the width along the short direction of the positive electrode 20 (cross direction Y in FIG. 13) is longer than the width of the positive electrode 20 in the short direction. First, as shown in FIG. 13A, the positive electrode 20 is placed on one side of the ceramic separator 44 so that the positive electrode terminal 21 a protrudes from the ceramic separator 44. One end 20 r of the positive electrode 20 is located at the center of the ceramic separator 44, and the other end 20 s is located slightly inside the other end 44 s of the ceramic separator 44.

  Further, as illustrated in FIG. 13B, the ceramic separator 44 is wound around both surfaces of the positive electrode 20 while the ceramic separator 44 is folded back at the other end 20 s of the positive electrode 20 by a winding process. In this state, one end 44r and the other end 44s of the ceramic separator 44 face each other. Finally, as shown in FIG. 13 (C), one end 44r and the other end 44s of the ceramic separator 44) facing each other through the positive electrode 20 using the pressurizing member 143 and the biasing member 144 by the pressurizing step. Pressurize. A part of the one end 44r and the other end 44s corresponds to a joining region. In the above state, in the joining step, the light L1 is transmitted through the pressure member 143, and the one end 44r and the other end 44s facing each other are irradiated and joined.

  In the packaged electrode 13, along the both sides of the ceramic separator 44 in the longitudinal direction, the joint portions 40 h are formed at a total of three locations at both end portions and the central portion. Each time the joining of one place of the ceramic separator 44 is completed, the pressure member 143 and the biasing member 144 are moved to the next joining region. At the same time, the first reflection mirror 152 and the second reflection mirror 154 are scanned to irradiate the next junction region with the direction of the light L1 emitted from the laser oscillator 151. Alternatively, the ceramic separator 44 around which the positive electrode 20 is wound may be moved with respect to the transport direction X and the crossing direction Y every time the joining of one place of the ceramic separator 44 is completed.

  According to 3rd Embodiment mentioned above, there exists an effect by the following structures.

  In the separator bonding method, a separator (ceramic separator 44) formed longer than the electrode (positive electrode 20 or negative electrode 30) is used. This joining method further includes a winding step. The winding process is performed before the pressurizing process. The winding process is performed while winding the separator (ceramic separator 44) around the electrode (positive electrode 20 or negative electrode 30) so that the central portions of the heat-resistant material face each other with the electrode (positive electrode 20 or negative electrode 30) therebetween. The one bonding region (one end portion 44r) and the other bonding region (the other end portion 44s) opposite to the one bonding region (one end portion 44r) face each other.

  As shown in such a configuration, the separator joining method of the electric device (packed electrode 13) can be applied to a highly versatile method including a winding type. That is, this separator joining method can be used in a method in which a long separator (ceramic separator 44) is wound around an electrode (positive electrode 20 or negative electrode 30) so that the respective members are stacked and laminated.

  Furthermore, according to such a configuration, the long separator (ceramic separator 44) does not need to join the folded portion while being wound around the electrode (the positive electrode 20 or the negative electrode 30). Can be reduced. Furthermore, according to such a configuration, since the long separator (ceramic separator 44) is folded back along the edge of the electrode (positive electrode 20 or negative electrode 30), there is no margin for the folded portion. Costs related to materials can be reduced. Furthermore, according to such a configuration, since a single separator (ceramic separator 44) is used, the number of cut portions when the separator (ceramic separator 44) is cut out can be minimized. The time required for this can be reduced.

  In addition, the present invention can be variously modified based on the configurations described in the claims, and these are also within the scope of the present invention.

  For example, in the first to third embodiments, in the packaged electrode used in the lithium ion secondary battery 10, the configuration is described in which the separators that sandwich the electrode are joined to each other, but the configuration is not limited to such a configuration. . The present invention can also be applied to joining of members other than the packaged electrode used in the lithium ion secondary battery 10.

  In the first to third embodiments, the secondary battery has been described with the configuration of the lithium ion secondary battery 10, but is not limited to such a configuration. The secondary battery can be configured as, for example, a polymer lithium battery, a nickel-hydrogen battery, or a nickel-cadmium battery.

  In the first to third embodiments, the heat-resistant material of the separator has been described with the configuration of the ceramic layer. However, the configuration is not limited to such a configuration. The heat-resistant material is not limited to ceramics and may be a member having a melting temperature higher than that of the molten material.

  In the first to third embodiments, the melting material of the separator has been described with the configuration of polypropylene, but is not limited to such a configuration. The molten material is not limited to polypropylene and may be a member having a melting temperature lower than that of the heat-resistant material.

  Moreover, although the 1st-3rd embodiment demonstrated the structure which packs the positive electrode 20 with a separator and forms a packed electrode, it is not limited to such a structure. The negative electrode 30 may be packed with a separator to form a packed electrode.

  In the first to third embodiments, the configuration is described in which the separators are joined to each other while sandwiching the electrodes, but the present invention is not limited to such a configuration. After joining the separators, an electrode may be inserted to form a packaged electrode.

  In the first to third embodiments, the electrode, the ceramic separator, and the packaged electrode are described as being automatically conveyed. However, the present invention is not limited to such a configuration. The electrode, the ceramic separator, and the packaged electrode may be transported manually.

  Further, for example, in the first embodiment, the configuration has been described in which the both ends of the ceramic separators 41 and 42 are spot-welded using the pressing member 141 and the urging member 142 having the protrusions, but the configuration is limited to such a configuration. It will never be done. The pressurizing member 141 and the urging member 142 provided with the protrusions may be operated so that the joining portion 40h is continuous along the transport direction X, so that both ends of the ceramic separators 41 and 42 are seam welded.

  In the second embodiment, the ceramic separator 43 is described as being configured to be folded back in the short direction of the positive electrode 20, but is not limited to such a configuration. The ceramic separator 43 may be folded along the longitudinal direction of the positive electrode 20.

  Moreover, it is not limited to the structure which irradiates light to a joining area | region from the one side of a packing electrode. It is good also as a structure which irradiates light to a joining area | region from the back surface and the both sides of the surface of a packaging electrode.

10 Lithium ion secondary battery,
11, 12, 13 Packed electrode (electric device),
15 power generation elements,
20 positive electrode (electrode),
20r one end,
20s other end,
20t edge,
21 positive electrode current collector,
21a positive electrode terminal,
22 cathode active material,
30 negative electrode (electrode),
31 negative electrode current collector,
31a negative electrode terminal,
32 negative electrode active material,
41, 42, 43, 44 Ceramic separator (separator),
41m, 42m polypropylene layer (melting material),
41n, 42n ceramic layer (heat-resistant material),
41nc, 42nc center,
41p, 42p, 43p, 44r one end,
41q, 42q, 43q, 44s, the other end,
40h joint,
50 exterior materials,
51,52 Laminate sheet,
100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600 separator joining device,
110 Electrode transfer unit (corresponding to the transfer process),
111 electrode supply roller,
112 transport rollers,
113 Conveyor belt,
114 rotating member,
115,116 cutting member,
117 cradle,
120 1st separator conveyance part (corresponding to an arrangement process and a conveyance process),
121 first separator supply roller;
122 first pressure roller,
123 first nip roller,
124 first transport drum,
125 first cutting member,
130 second separator transport section (corresponding to the placement process and transport process),
131 second separator supply roller;
132 second pressure roller,
133 second nip roller,
134 second transport drum,
135 second cutting member,
140, 340, 440, 540, 640 Separator pressure part (corresponding to pressure part, pressure process),
141, 143, 341, 442, 541, 641 pressure member,
141a, 143a, 341a, 442a main body,
141b, 143b, 341b, 442b contact part,
142, 144, 542 biasing member,
142a, 144a main body,
142b, 144b contact part,
145 cooling member,
341c incident surface,
341d exit surface,
341h hole,
541a outer peripheral surface,
542a outer peripheral surface,
150, 450, 650 Separator joint (corresponding to joint, joining process),
151 laser oscillator,
152 first reflecting mirror,
153,453 beam splitter,
154 second reflecting mirror,
160 Packed electrode transport section,
161 conveyor belt,
162 rotating member,
163 suction pad,
164 telescopic member,
165 X-axis stage,
166 X-axis auxiliary rail,
167 mounting table,
170 control unit,
171 controller,
610 member conveying unit,
611 suction pad,
612 support member,
620 separator transport section,
621 gripping member,
622 cutting member,
630 separator folding part (corresponding to folding process),
631 fixed type,
632 mobile,
L1 light,
X transport direction (packed electrode, etc.)
Y crossing direction (crossing the transport direction X),
Z Stack direction (with ceramic separator and positive electrode).

[0002]
It is difficult to heat and bond the data together.
[0006]
The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and is a case where a heat-resistant material is made to face each other using a separator including a molten material and a heat-resistant material having a melting temperature higher than that of the molten material. Also, means for solving the problems aimed at providing a separator bonding method for an electric device capable of sufficiently bonding the separator and a separator bonding apparatus for an electric device embodying the separator bonding method [0007]
An electrical device separator joining method according to the present invention that achieves the above object includes a sheet-like melted material and a heat-resistant material laminated on the melted material and having a melting temperature higher than that of the melted material, and sandwiching the electrode between the separators. In this method, the heat-resistant materials are joined by light from a state in which they face each other. The separator joining method includes a pressurizing step and a joining step. In the pressurizing step, pressurization is performed while abutting against the joining region of the separator facing through the electrode by a pressurizing member that transmits light. In the bonding step, light is irradiated to the bonding region while transmitting the light to the pressure member in a state where the bonding region is pressurized by the pressure member. Here, a joining process joins the heat-resistant material of one joining area | region heated with light, and the molten material of the other joining area | region fuse | melted with the heat-resistant material which mutually opposes.
[0008]
An electrical device separator bonding apparatus according to the present invention that achieves the above object includes a sheet-like molten material, and a heat-resistant material that is laminated on the molten material and has a higher melting temperature than the molten material, and includes a separator that sandwiches the electrode. This is a device that joins heat-resistant materials with light from a state in which they face each other. The separator bonding apparatus has a pressure member and a light source. The pressurizing member pressurizes and transmits light while being in contact with the joining region of the separator facing through the electrode. The light source irradiates light to the bonding region while transmitting light to the pressure member in a state where the bonding region is pressurized by the pressure member.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0009]
FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a lithium ion secondary battery configured using an electric device (packed electrode) according to a first embodiment.
FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view showing the lithium ion secondary battery of FIG.
FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing a state in which negative electrodes are laminated on both surfaces of the packaged electrode of FIG.

Separator joining method of the electrical device according to the present invention for achieving the above object, a sheet-like molten material, seen including and a heat-resistant material melting temperature is higher than the melting material is laminated to the molten material, sandwiching the electrode separator Are joined by light from a state in which the heat-resistant materials face each other . The separator joining method includes a pressurizing step and a joining step. In the pressurizing step, pressurization is performed while abutting against the joining region of the separator facing through the electrode by a pressurizing member that transmits light. In the bonding step, light is irradiated to the bonding region while transmitting the light to the pressure member in a state where the bonding region is pressurized by the pressure member. Here, a joining process joins the heat-resistant material of one joining area | region heated with light, and the molten material of the other joining area | region fuse | melted with the heat-resistant material which mutually opposes.

Separator junction device for an electric device according to the present invention for achieving the above object, a sheet-like molten material, seen including and a heat-resistant material melting temperature is higher than the melting material is laminated to the molten material, sandwiching the electrode separator Is a device that joins the heat-resistant materials with light from a state in which the heat-resistant materials face each other . The separator bonding apparatus has a pressure member and a light source. The pressurizing member pressurizes and transmits light while being in contact with the joining region of the separator facing through the electrode. The light source irradiates light to the bonding region while transmitting light to the pressure member in a state where the bonding region is pressurized by the pressure member.

Claims (12)

A separator joining method for an electrical device that uses a separator including a sheet-like melted material and a heat-resistant material that is laminated on the melted material and has a melting temperature higher than that of the melted material, and that joins the separator that sandwiches an electrode by light. There,
A pressurizing step of pressurizing a joining region of the separator facing through the electrode by a pressurizing member that transmits the light;
A bonding step of irradiating the bonding regions facing each other while transmitting the light to the pressure member,
In the joining step, separator joining of an electric device that joins the heat-resistant material in one joining region heated by the light and the melted material in another joining region melted by the opposing heat-resistant materials. Method. Using a pair of separators,
Prior to the pressurizing step, the heat-resistant material further has an arrangement step of arranging a pair of the separators so that the central portions of the heat-resistant materials are opposed to each other with the electrode therebetween.
2. The separator joining method for an electric device according to claim 1, wherein the pressurizing step pressurizes the joining region of the separator of one of the pair of separators and the joining region of the other separator. Using the separator formed longer than the electrode,
Before the pressurizing step, the junction regions of the separator are connected to each other while the separator is folded back at the edge of the electrode so that the center portions of the heat-resistant materials face each other with the electrode interposed therebetween. The separator joining method for an electric device according to claim 1, further comprising a folding step of facing the edges. Using the separator formed longer than the electrode,
Before the pressurizing step, while winding the separator around the electrode so that the central portions of the heat-resistant material face each other with the electrode therebetween, the one joining region and the one joining region The separator joining method for an electric device according to claim 1, further comprising a winding step of facing another joining region on the opposite side. A transporting process for transporting the separator;
3. The separator joining method for an electric device according to claim 1, wherein the pressurizing step and the joining step are performed by pressurizing and joining the separator while following the movement of the separator being transported by the transporting step.   The said joining process pressurizes the said joining area | region which mutually faces by a pair of said pressurization member from both sides, and irradiates the said light from both sides of the said joining area | region which mutually faces. The separator joining method of the electric device of description. A separator joining apparatus for an electrical device that uses a separator including a sheet-like melted material and a heat-resistant material laminated on the melted material and has a melting temperature higher than that of the melted material, and which joins the separator sandwiching an electrode with light. There,
A pressurizing member that pressurizes the joining region of the separator facing the electrode and transmits the light;
And a light source that irradiates the bonding region while allowing the light to pass through the pressure member. The pressure member includes a protrusion protruding from the main body,
8. The separator joining apparatus for an electric device according to claim 7, wherein the protrusion pressurizes only the joining region.   The separator joining apparatus for an electric device according to claim 7, further comprising a cooling member for cooling the pressurizing member.   The pressure member includes a hole having a certain depth on the incident surface side between an incident surface on which the light is incident and an exit surface that faces the incident surface and emits the light. The separator joining apparatus for an electric device according to any one of?   The said pressurization member is formed in the disk shape which can rotate freely, The separator joining apparatus of the electrical device of any one of Claims 7-10 which pressurizes the said joining area | regions continuously. The light source comprises a laser oscillator,
The laser oscillator emits the light of a certain wavelength,
The separator joining apparatus for an electric device according to claim 7, wherein a refractive index of the pressure member with respect to the light is smaller than a refractive index of the molten material with respect to the light.