IT202200020736A1 - Stacking apparatus for stacking a continuous strip separator and sheet metal sheets alternately and method for stacking a continuous strip separator and sheet metal sheets - Google Patents

Description

DESCRIPTION

of the industrial invention entitled:

"Stacking apparatus for stacking a continuous strip separator and sheet plates alternately and method for stacking a continuous strip separator and sheet plates"

The present invention relates to a stacking apparatus for stacking a continuous web separator and sheet-like sheets alternately with each other, and to a method for stacking a continuous web separator and sheet-like sheets, wherein sheet-like sheets are stacked with each other with the interposition of a continuous web separator.

The present invention is preferably directed to a stacking apparatus and a method for stacking alternately a continuous web separator and sheet plates wherein the continuous web separator is a dielectric separator and the sheet plates are electrodes.

The present invention can be used to realize electrochemical cells, for example secondary electrochemical cells, comprising flat electrodes separated from each other by a continuous dielectric separator.

In the industrial sector of the production of electric accumulators, electrochemical cells are produced made from stacks of positive and negative electrodes, arranged alternately one above the other, with an intervening separation layer of dielectric material, generally indicated in the technical jargon of the sector with the term "separator", formed by a single continuous strip folded between the electrodes.

In the Applicant's experience, such electrochemical cells can be produced with a stacking apparatus to stack one or more continuous ribbon separators and sheet plates to automate the production process.

In accordance with the Applicant's experience, such a stacking apparatus may comprise a fixed base frame on which are mounted a first sheet metal receiving station, a second sheet metal receiving station and a stacking station located between the two receiving stations. Above the fixed frame is positioned a movable frame that moves with a rectilinear reciprocating motion parallel to the fixed frame. On the movable frame are mounted four sheet metal picking equipment that move with a rectilinear reciprocating motion perpendicular to the fixed frame. Also mounted on the movable frame, fixed to the movable frame, is a separator guide that is fed by a continuous reel of separator. The separator guide comprises two idle accompanying rollers, having rotation axes parallel to each other and located on the same plane parallel to the fixed frame, which deviate the path of the separator. In use, with the mobile frame stationary, a first gripping unit picks up, by moving perpendicularly to the fixed frame, a sheet metal from a first stack of sheet metal sheets while a second gripping unit picks up, by moving perpendicularly to the fixed frame, a sheet metal previously positioned on the first receiving station. Subsequently, by moving the mobile frame, the second gripping unit moves to position the picked up sheet metal in the stacking station and, at the same time, the first gripping unit positions the sheet metal picked up from the stack on the first receiving station. At the moment in which the first gripping unit and the second gripping unit are picking up their respective sheet metal sheets, the third gripping unit and the fourth gripping unit deposit, respectively, a sheet metal (picked up from a second stack of sheet metal sheets) in the second receiving station and a sheet metal (picked up from the second receiving station) in the stacking station. As the first pick-up team and the second pick-up team are depositing their respective sheet metal, the third pick-up team and the fourth pick-up team pick up, respectively, a sheet metal from the second stack of sheet metal and from the second receiving station. As the moving frame moves to remove the second or fourth pick-up team from the stacking station (where they deposited their respective sheet metal), the accompanying rollers move in conjunction with the moving frame above the sheet metal just deposited in the stacking station and position the separator above the sheet metal just deposited. The accompanying rollers are rotated around their rotation axis by the separator itself. A holding device holds the separator above the sheet metal just deposited. The process is carried out cyclically until a cell composed of a stack of sheet metal is formed in which each sheet metal ? separated from another sheet of foil by the continuous ribbon separator which then takes on an accordion shape inside the cell. When the cell is completed, the separator is cut and the resulting cell is removed from the stacking station to free up the stacking station and allow the entire process to be repeated to make another cell.

There is an ever-increasing need, particularly in the industrial sector of electric battery production, to have stacking equipment for alternating continuous ribbon separators and sheet metal sheets that allow for high production rates, i.e. that allow for high cell production speeds.

The Applicant noted that using an apparatus of the type briefly described above, the production speed could be limited by the time required to correctly position the separator above the cell being formed in the stacking station.

The Applicant has in fact noted that it is necessary to ensure that the separator adheres adequately to the sheet metal just deposited in the stacking station. To this end, in the Applicant's experience it is necessary that the separator, after being placed on the sheet metal just deposited in the stacking station, is lowered by a holding device on the stacking station until the separator is substantially lower than the height of the sheet metal just deposited in order to place the separator in close contact with the sheet metal. This operation requires the time necessary for the holding device to perform all the necessary movements and with the necessary excursions.

The Applicant noted that the stacking apparatus cannot perform any other operation or movement during the movements of the holding member, precisely to ensure that the separator is correctly positioned and held on the sheet metal just placed in the stacking station.

The Applicant perceived that by increasing the speed of movement of the retaining organ it would be possible to reduce the time required for the correct positioning of the separator.

The Applicant has however noted that this could cause damage or tearing of the separator. The Applicant has in fact verified that an increase in the descent speed (i.e. the speed in the direction directed towards the upper surface of the sheet metal) of the retaining member could result in the retaining member hitting the separator too sharply, resulting in damage to the separator.

The Applicant has found that by guiding the separator, during its deposition on the sheet metal just deposited in the stacking station, below the level at which the sheet metal just deposited is located, it would be possible to reduce the time required to activate the retaining member, while ensuring correct adhesion of the separator on the sheet metal just deposited.

The present invention therefore relates, in a first aspect, to a stacking apparatus for stacking alternately a continuous strip separator and sheet metal plates.

Preferably, the apparatus includes a stacking station having a stacking surface configured to receive sheet metal foils.

Preferably, the apparatus comprises a first device for transferring first sheet metal blades and a second device for transferring second sheet metal blades which are respectively movable between a pick-up position and a release position.

Preferably, the release position of the first transfer device and the release position of the second transfer device are located at said stacking station.

Preferably, when the first transfer device is in the release position the second transfer device is moved away from the release position and when the second transfer device is in the release position the first transfer device is moved away from the release position.

Preferably, the apparatus includes a continuous web separator feeder configured to feed a continuous web separator to the stacking station.

Preferably, the apparatus includes a displacement device configured to operate on the continuous web separator fed by the feeder device.

Preferably, the moving device comprises a companion device movable between a first end position and a second end position.

Preferably, the follower device moves between the first end position and the second end position above the stacking station as the second transfer device moves from the release position to the pick position.

Preferably, the follower device moves between the second end position and the first end position and above the stacking station as the first transfer device moves from the release position to the pick position.

Preferably, when the companion device is placed in the first end position, the companion device is located at a lower level than the stacking surface.

The Applicant has verified that by moving the follower device between the first end position and the second end position and between the second end position and the first end position such that when the follower device is placed in the first end position, the follower device is at a lower level than the stacking surface, it is possible to make the continuous web separator adhere to the newly deposited sheet metal by partially wrapping the newly deposited sheet metal at least at a first end of the sheet metal.

The present invention relates, in a second aspect, to a method for stacking a continuous strip separator and sheet metal plates alternately.

Preferably, it is planned to transfer first sheet metal sheets and second sheet metal sheets to a stacking station.

Preferably, it is planned to feed a continuous belt separator to the stacking station.

Preferably, it is planned to place the continuous strip separator on the first sheet plates and on the second sheet plates transferred to the stacking station.

Preferably, laying down the continuous web separator comprises moving the continuous web separator above the stacking station between a first end position and a second end position and between a second end position and a first end position, wherein when the continuous web separator is in the first end position, the continuous web separator is below a level at which a sheet of foil is transferred to the stacking station.

By ?sheet metal? we mean a plate having two dimensions much larger than a third dimension. The sheet metal can be a monolithic plate or a plate formed by a plurality of layers joined together of the same material or of different materials.

By "continuous strip separator" is meant a strip having one dimension much larger than two further dimensions, where a first dimension of these two further dimensions is much larger than a second dimension of these two further dimensions. The strip may be monolithic or formed by a plurality of interconnected layers of identical or different materials.

By ?curve? when referring to a path or a trajectory, we mean the trajectory described on a plane by a point-like object that moves continuously between an initial point and an end point in which such trajectory is decomposable, on said plane, into at least two components that are not parallel to each other. Preferably, a ?curve? does not include portions of a straight trajectory.

By ?elevation? with respect to a surface, for example with respect to a stacking surface or with respect to a sheet plate, we mean the distance (along a direction perpendicular to such surface) of an element from an absolute reference plane parallel to and passing through such surface. A ?lower? elevation of an element with respect to such surface places such element below such absolute reference plane. A ?higher? elevation of an element with respect to such surface places such element above such absolute reference plane. A lower elevation of an element with respect to a surface places at least one point of such element below such surface. In the case in which such element has a first portion of it placed at a higher elevation with respect to a surface and, at the same time, also has a second portion of it placed at a lower elevation with respect to such surface, such element is to be understood, in the context of the present invention, to be placed at a lower elevation with respect to such surface.

By ?element? we mean any device or part of a device.

The present invention may present, in one or both of its aspects, at least one of the preferred features described below. Such features may be present singly or in combination with each other, unless expressly stated otherwise, both in the apparatus and in the method of the present invention.

Preferably, the accompanying device is configured to place the continuous web separator on the stacking station.

Preferably, when said accompanying device is placed in an intermediate position between the first and second end positions, the accompanying device is located, with respect to a direction perpendicular to the stacking surface, on the opposite side of the stacking surface from at least one portion of said accompanying device when said accompanying device is placed in at least one of the first and second end positions.

Preferably, when said accompanying device is placed in an intermediate position between the first and second end positions, the accompanying device is located at a higher level than the stacking surface.

Preferably, when said accompanying device is placed in the second end position, the accompanying device is located at a lower level than the stacking surface.

Preferably, said intermediate position between the first and second end positions is substantially equidistant from the first end position and the second end position.

Preferably, when said accompanying device is placed in the first end position, or when said accompanying device is placed in the second end position, said stacking surface is interposed, with respect to a direction perpendicular to the stacking surface, between the feeder device and said accompanying device.

Preferably, when said accompanying device is placed in the first end position and when said accompanying device is placed in the second end position, said stacking surface is interposed, with respect to a direction perpendicular to the stacking surface, between the feeder device and said accompanying device.

Preferably, the moving device moves the accompanying device between the first end position and the second end position and between the second end position and the first end position along a curved path.

Preferably, the curved path followed by the accompanying device has a concavity facing the stacking station.

Preferably, said curved path is an arc of a circle.

Preferably, when the continuous web separator is in the second end position, the continuous web separator is below a level at which there is a sheet of paper transferred to the stacking station.

Preferably, when the continuous web separator is in an intermediate position between the first end position and the second end position, the continuous web separator is above a level at which a sheet of paper is transferred to the stacking station.

Preferably, moving the continuous web separator above the stacking station between a first end position and a second end position and between a second end position and a first end position comprises moving the continuous web separator above the stacking station along a first path between a first end position and a second end position and along a second path between a second end position and a first end position.

Preferably, the first trajectory and the second trajectory are curved trajectories.

Preferably, the first trajectory of the continuous ribbon separator coincides with the second trajectory of the continuous ribbon separator.

Preferably, the first path of the continuous ribbon separator and the second path of the continuous ribbon separator define a curved path.

Preferably, said curved path has a concavity facing the stacking station.

Preferably, said curved path is an arc of a circle.

Preferably, said displacement device comprises a swing arm driven by an actuation shaft and supporting said accompanying device.

Preferably, said actuation shaft is placed, with respect to said stacking station, on the opposite side to said feeder device of a continuous belt separator.

Preferably, said actuation shaft moves the swing arm with a reciprocating motion having a first motion reversal point corresponding to the first end position of the accompanying device and a second motion reversal point corresponding to the second end position of the accompanying device.

Preferably, said actuation shaft reverses the direction of movement of the swing arm at the first reversal point and at the second reversal point.

Preferably, the accompanying device is supported at a first end of said swing arm.

Preferably, the actuation shaft is connected to the swing arm distal to the accompanying device.

Preferably, the actuation shaft is connected to a second end, opposite to the first, of the swing arm.

Preferably, a receptacle configured to receive sheet metal foil is provided located at said stacking station.

Preferably, transferring first sheet plates and second sheet plates to the stacking station comprises depositing first sheet plates alternating and overlapping with second sheet plates on a stacking surface.

Preferably, the receptacle comprises said stacking surface.

Preferably, the stacking surface is substantially flat.

Preferably, said stacking surface lies in a plane parallel to the actuation shaft.

Preferably, moving the continuous web separator above the stacking station includes, while moving the continuous web separator from the first end position to a position intermediate the first end position and the second end position, moving the continuous web separator perpendicular to, and away from, a second sheet metal plate transferred to the stacking station.

Preferably, moving the continuous web separator above the stacking station includes, while moving the continuous web separator from an intermediate position between the first end position and the second end position, and the second end position, moving the continuous web separator perpendicular to, and toward, a second sheet metal transferred to the stacking station.

Preferably, in the first end position the accompanying device is placed at a first distance from the stacking surface.

Preferably, in the second end position the accompanying device is placed at a second distance from the stacking surface.

Preferably, in an intermediate position between the first and second end positions, the accompanying device is placed at a third distance from the stacking surface.

Preferably, this intermediate position is placed at the apex point of the curved path travelled by the accompanying device.

Preferably, said third distance is greater than the first distance and the second distance.

Preferably, the first distance is substantially equal to the second distance.

The Applicant believes that by providing the first distance and the second distance smaller than the third distance, the continuous ribbon separator can easily adhere to the cell being formed, and in particular to the sheet metal just deposited, without the need to subject the continuous ribbon separator to actions that may cause excessive stretching of the continuous ribbon separator.

Preferably, moving the continuous web separator above the stacking station along a first path between a first end position and a second end position and along a second path between a second end position and a first end position comprises partially wrapping the first sheet metal laminations and the second sheet metal laminations transferred to the stacking station with the continuous web separator.

Preferably, a first holding device configured to operate on the continuous belt separator is provided.

Preferably, the first restraining device is arranged at the first end position of the accompanying device.

Preferably, a second holding device configured to operate on the continuous belt separator is provided.

Preferably, the second restraining device is arranged at the second end position of the accompanying device.

Preferably, the first holding device and the second holding device are configured to hold the continuous web separator on a stack of sheet metal being formed at the stacking station.

Preferably, the first holding device and the second holding device are located on opposite sides of the receptacle located in the stacking station along a direction contained in a plane perpendicular to the actuation shaft.

Preferably, the first holding device is configured to hold a portion of continuous web separator deposited on the last sheet metal laminate deposited by the second transfer device at the stacking station.

Preferably, the first holding device is configured to hold a portion of continuous web separator as the continuous web separator is deposited onto the last sheet metal laminate deposited by the first transfer device at the stacking station.

Preferably, the second holding device is configured to hold a portion of continuous web separator deposited on the last sheet metal lamina deposited by the first transfer device at the stacking station.

Preferably, the second holding device is configured to hold a portion of continuous web separator while the continuous web separator is deposited onto the last sheet metal laminate deposited by the second transfer device at the stacking station.

Preferably, said first holding device is movable between a holding condition, in which it intercepts and holds a portion of the continuous web separator, and a releasing condition in which it is moved away from the continuous web separator.

Preferably, said first retaining device moves from the retaining position to the release position and from the release position to the retaining position when the accompanying device is in proximity to the first end position.

Preferably, said first holding device moves from the holding position to the release position and from the release position to the holding position by performing a movement having a component perpendicular to the stacking surface of the receptacle.

Preferably, said component perpendicular to the stacking surface of the receptacle of the movement performed by the first retaining device is greater than said first distance.

Preferably, said component perpendicular to the stacking surface of the receptacle of the movement performed by the first retaining device is less than said third distance.

Preferably, the first holding device is in the holding position when the accompanying device moves between the first end position and the second end position.

Preferably, the first restraining device is in the restraining position when the accompanying device is in the second end position.

Preferably, the first holding device is in the holding position when the accompanying device moves between the second end position and the first end position.

Preferably, said second holding device is movable between a holding condition, in which it intercepts and holds a portion of the continuous web separator, and a releasing condition in which it is moved away from the continuous web separator.

Preferably, said second retaining device switches from the retaining position to the release position and from the release position to the retaining position when the accompanying device is in proximity to the second end position.

Preferably, said second holding device moves from the holding position to the release position and from the release position to the holding position by performing a movement having a component perpendicular to the stacking surface of the receptacle.

Preferably, said component perpendicular to the stacking surface of the receptacle of the movement performed by the second retaining device is greater than said second distance.

Preferably, said component perpendicular to the stacking surface of the receptacle of the movement performed by the second retaining device is less than said third distance.

Preferably, the second retaining device is in the retaining position when the accompanying device moves between the second end position and the first end position.

Preferably, the second restraining device is in the restraining position when the accompanying device is in the first end position.

Preferably, the second holding device is in the holding position when the companion device moves between the first end position and the second end position.

Preferably, when placing sheet metal sheets onto the receptacle located in the stacking station, when the first holding device is in the release position the second holding device is in the holding position and when the second holding device is in the release position the first holding device is in the holding position.

Preferably, the stacking surface of the receptacle is movable between a plurality of stacking positions.

Preferably, in each stacking position the stacking surface is arranged parallel to a respective reference plane.

Preferably, all reference planes are parallel to each other.

Preferably, the reference planes follow one another along a direction perpendicular to the stacking surface.

Preferably, the reference planes follow one another between a reference plane further from the swing arm actuation shaft and a reference plane closer to the swing arm actuation shaft.

Preferably, a reference plane is spaced from an adjacent reference plane by a distance greater than or substantially equal to one thickness of a sheet plate.

Preferably, a reference plane is spaced from an adjacent reference plane by a distance substantially equal to the sum of a thickness of a sheet plate and a thickness of the continuous web separator.

Preferably, the stacking surface moves from a stacking position further away from the swing arm actuation shaft to a stacking position closer to the swing arm actuation shaft when the first transfer device or the second transfer device deposits a respective sheet metal lamina into the receptacle located in the stacking station.

Preferably, the stacking surface is held by the first holding device or the second holding device in an achieved stacking position.

Preferably, the accompanying device comprises at least one accompanying surface configured to contact the continuous web separator.

Preferably, motorized members are active on the accompanying device to move the at least one accompanying surface as the accompanying device moves between the first end position and the second end position.

Preferably, said at least one accompanying surface is configured to rotate as the accompanying device moves between the first end position and the second end position.

Preferably, it is provided to stop the rotation of the accompanying surface when the accompanying surface reaches the second end position.

Preferably, it is provided to stop the rotation of the accompanying surface when the accompanying surface is in the first end position.

Preferably, said accompanying device comprises a first accompanying roller having an external surface defining said at least one accompanying surface.

Preferably, said at least one accompanying surface rolls without slipping relative to the continuous belt separator.

Preferably, the follower device moves between the second end position and the first end position and above the stacking station as the first transfer device moves from the release position to the pick position.

Preferably, the companion device includes an additional accompanying surface.

Preferably, the motorized members are configured to move the additional follower surface as the follower device moves between the second end position and the first end position.

Preferably, said accompanying device comprises a second accompanying roller having an external surface defining said further accompanying surface.

Preferably, this additional accompanying surface rolls without slipping with respect to the continuous belt separator.

Preferably, said motorized members are configured to stop the rotation of the second accompanying roller when the second accompanying roller is in the second end position.

Preferably, the first follower roller and the second follower roller are counter-rotating to each other.

Preferably, the first accompanying roller and the second accompanying roller comprise, respectively, a rotation axis.

Preferably said first distance is measured with respect to the axis of rotation of said first accompanying roller.

Preferably said second distance is measured with respect to the axis of rotation of said second accompanying roller.

Preferably said third distance is measured with respect to the axis of rotation of said first accompanying roller.

Alternatively, preferably said third distance is measured with respect to the axis of rotation of said second accompanying roller.

Preferably, the axis of rotation of the first follower roller is parallel to the axis of rotation of the second follower roller.

Preferably, the outer surface of the first accompanying roller defines a bearing surface for the continuous belt separator.

Preferably, the outer surface of the second accompanying roller defines a bearing surface for the continuous belt separator.

Preferably, the outer surface of the first follower roller and the second follower roller are spaced by a radius distance from their respective axes of rotation.

Preferably, the radius distance of the first companion roller is equal to the radius distance of the second companion roller.

Preferably, a distance separating the axis of rotation of the first accompanying roller from the axis of rotation of the second accompanying roller is greater than the sum of the radius distance of the first accompanying roller and the radius distance of the second accompanying roller.

Preferably, the distance separating the axis of rotation of the first accompanying roller from the axis of rotation of the second accompanying roller is equal to or greater than the sum of the radius distance of the first accompanying roller, the radius distance of the second accompanying roller and the thickness of the continuous strip separator.

Preferably, in the transition between the first end position and the second end position, the axis of rotation of the first accompanying roller moves along a first trajectory.

Preferably, in the transition between the first end position and the second end position, the axis of rotation of the first accompanying roller moves at a first travel speed along said first trajectory.

Preferably, in the transition between the second end position and the first end position, the axis of rotation of the first accompanying roller moves along a second path.

Preferably, in the transition between the second end position and the first end position, the axis of rotation of the first accompanying roller moves at a second travel speed along said second trajectory.

Preferably, in the transition between the first end position and the second end position, the rotation axis of the second accompanying roller moves along a first trajectory.

Preferably, in the transition between the first end position and the second end position, the rotation axis of the second accompanying roller moves at a first travel speed along the first trajectory.

Preferably, in the transition between the second end position and the first end position, the axis of rotation of the second accompanying roller moves along a second path.

Preferably, in the transition between the second end position and the first end position, the axis of rotation of the second accompanying roller moves at a second travel speed along the second path.

Preferably, the first path followed by the axis of rotation of the first accompanying roller coincides at least partially with the first path followed by the axis of rotation of the second accompanying roller.

Preferably, the second path followed by the axis of rotation of the first accompanying roller coincides at least partially with the second path followed by the axis of rotation of the second accompanying roller.

Preferably, the first trajectory followed by the axis of rotation of the first accompanying roller coincides at least partially with the second trajectory followed by the axis of rotation of the first accompanying roller.

Preferably, the first path followed by the axis of rotation of the second accompanying roller coincides at least partially with the second path followed by the axis of rotation of the second accompanying roller.

Preferably, the modulus of the first speed of movement of the axis of rotation of the first accompanying roller is equal to the modulus of the second speed of movement of the axis of rotation of the first accompanying roller.

Preferably, the modulus of the first speed of movement of the axis of rotation of the second accompanying roller is equal to the modulus of the second speed of movement of the axis of rotation of the second accompanying roller.

Preferably, the modulus of the first speed of movement of the rotation axis of the first accompanying roller is equal to the modulus of the first speed of movement of the rotation axis of the second accompanying roller.

Preferably, the modulus of the second speed of movement of the axis of rotation of the first accompanying roller is equal to the modulus of the second speed of movement of the axis of rotation of the second accompanying roller.

Preferably, said motorized organs comprise at least one electric motor connected to the accompanying device.

Preferably, said motorized organs comprise a single electric motor connected to the first accompanying roller and to the second accompanying roller.

Alternatively, said motorized organs comprise a first electric motor connected to the first accompanying roller and a second electric motor connected to the second accompanying roller.

Further features and advantages of the present invention will be better understood from the following detailed description of a preferred embodiment thereof, made with reference to the attached drawings and provided for indicative and non-limiting purposes, in which:

- Figures 1 to 4 are schematic views of a stacking apparatus for stacking alternately a continuous web separator and sheet plates in accordance with the present invention under various operating conditions;

- Figure 5 is a schematic perspective view of some components of the stacking apparatus for alternating stacking of a continuous ribbon separator and the sheet metal plates of Figure 1;

- figure 6 is a schematic front view of some components of the stacking apparatus for stacking alternately a continuous ribbon separator and the sheet metal plates of figure 1;

- Figure 7 is a schematic perspective view of some components of the stacking apparatus for stacking alternately a continuous ribbon separator and the sheet plates of Figure 1; and

- Figure 8 is a schematic perspective view of some components of the stacking apparatus for alternating stacking of a continuous ribbon separator and the sheet metal plates of Figure 1.

The representations in the attached figures are not necessarily to scale and do not necessarily respect the proportions between the various parts.

The apparatus 1 is preferably used to produce electrochemical cells, for example secondary electrochemical cells, comprising flat electrodes separated from each other by a continuous dielectric separator.

The apparatus 1 comprises a support frame 9 on which the various components of the apparatus 1 are mounted.

The apparatus 1 comprises a first transfer device 10 for first sheets of paper 100 and a second transfer device 11 for second sheets of paper 101.

The first foil sheets 100 and the second foil sheets 101 are configured to form electrodes of an electrochemical cell.

For example, the first 100-sheet plates may be metal foil plates intended to form the anode of an electrochemical cell. For example, the first 100-sheet plates may be copper foils.

The second foil laminae 101 may be foil laminae of metallic material intended to form the cathode of an electrochemical cell. For example, the second foil laminae 101 may be aluminum laminae.

Alternatively, the first foil laminations 100 may be foil laminations of metallic material intended to form the cathode of an electrochemical cell.

In this case, the second foil strips 101 may be foil strips of metal material intended to form the anode of an electrochemical cell. In this case, the first foil strips 100 may be, for example, aluminum foil strips and the second foil strips 101 may be, for example, copper foil strips.

The first transfer device 10 comprises, in the preferred embodiment of the invention, a transfer plate 12 configured to contact and retain a first sheet metal lamina 100. The transfer plate 12 may, for example, comprise a suction device or suction cups (not shown) to permit retention of a first sheet metal lamina 100.

As schematized in figure 1, the first transfer device 10 also comprises a kinematic mechanism 13 connected to the transfer plate 12 to move the transfer plate 12. The kinematic mechanism 13 comprises a control connecting rod 14 having a first end connected to the transfer plate 12 and a second end hinged to a connecting rod 15. The connecting rod 15 is also hinged to a crank 16 connected to an electric motor (not illustrated). The control connecting rod 14 is also hinged, in a position between its two ends, to a rocker arm 17 which in turn is hinged to the frame 9. The length of the control connecting rod 14, of the connecting rod 15, of the rocker arm 17 and of the crank 16, as well as the hinge points between these components define the trajectory that the transfer plate 12 can follow.

Similarly, the second transfer device 11 comprises, in the preferred embodiment of the invention, a transfer plate 18 configured to contact and retain a second sheet metal lamina 101. The transfer plate 18 may, for example, comprise a suction device or suction cups (not shown) to enable it to retain a second sheet metal lamina 101.

The second transfer device 11 also comprises (figure 2) a kinematic mechanism 19 connected to the transfer plate 18 to move the transfer plate 18. The kinematic mechanism 19 comprises a control connecting rod 20 having a first end connected to the transfer plate 18 and a second end hinged to a connecting rod 21. The connecting rod 21 is also hinged to a crank 22 connected to an electric motor (not illustrated). The control connecting rod 20 is also hinged, in a position between its two ends, to a rocker arm 23 which is in turn hinged to the frame 9. The length of the control connecting rod 20, of the connecting rod 21, of the rocker arm 23 and of the crank 22, as well as the hinge points between these components define the trajectory that the transfer plate 18 can follow.

The first sheet plates 100 are fed to the first transfer device 10 from a first sheet feeder 24 (Figure 1). The first sheet feeder 24 may contain stacked first sheet plates 100 or, preferably, may be configured to feed a continuous belt from which the first sheet plates 100 are cut to size, one after the other. In particular, only one first sheet plate 100 is cut from the continuous belt at a time, so that the first transfer device 10 can act on the cut first sheet plate 100 before a further first sheet plate 100 is cut.

Similarly, the second sheet plates 101 are fed to the second transfer device 11 from a second sheet feeder 25 (Figure 2). The second sheet feeder 25 may contain stacked second sheet plates 101 or, preferably, may be configured to feed a continuous belt from which the second sheet plates 101 are cut to size, one after the other. In particular, only one second sheet plate 101 is cut from the continuous belt at a time, so that the second transfer device 11 can act on the cut second sheet plate 101 before a further second sheet plate 101 is cut.

The first transfer device 10 is movable between a pick-up position (illustrated in Figure 1) and a release position (illustrated in Figure 3). In the pick-up position, the transfer plate 12 is substantially positioned in correspondence with the first plate feeder 24 and in contact with a first sheet plate 100.

The second transfer device 11 is movable between a pick-up position (illustrated in Figure 4) and a release position (illustrated in Figure 1). In the pick-up position, the transfer plate 18 is substantially positioned in correspondence with the second plate feeder 25 and in contact with a second sheet plate 101.

The apparatus 1 comprises a stacking station 26 located between the first transfer device 10 and the second transfer device 11.

When the first transfer device 10 is in the release position, the transfer plate 12 is positioned at the stacking station 26 to deposit the first sheet plate 100 transported into the stacking station 26.

Similarly, when the second transfer device 11 is in the release position, the transfer plate 18 is positioned at the stacking station 26 to deposit the second sheet plate 101 transported into the stacking station 26.

As schematically shown in Figures 1 through 4, the first transfer device 10 and the second transfer device 11 move substantially in counterphase. In particular, the first transfer device 10 and the second transfer device 11 are never both in their respective release positions. When the first transfer device 10 is in the release position, the second transfer device 11 is in the pick position, or is moving between the pick position and the release position (as for example schematically shown in Figure 3). When the second transfer device 11 is in the release position, the first transfer device 10 is in the pick position (as for example schematically shown in Figure 3), or is moving between the pick position and the release position. Note that because the first transfer device 10 and the second transfer device 11 remain in the release position for a time necessary to release the respective sheet metal plate into the stacking station 26, when a transfer device is in the release position, the first transfer device 10 is in the pick position (as for example schematically shown in Figure 3). in the respective release position, the other transfer device moves towards the respective pick-up position and reaches it.

The continuous movement of the first transfer device 10 and the second transfer device 11 from their respective pick-up positions to their respective release positions (and from their respective release positions to their respective pick-up positions) determines the formation of a stack of first sheet plates 100 and second sheet plates 101 alternately superimposed on each other in the stacking station 26.

As schematized in Figures 1 to 4, the apparatus 1 further comprises a continuous web separator 102 feeder 27 configured to feed a continuous web separator 102 to the stacking station 26.

The feeder device 27 is located between the first transfer device 10 and the second transfer device 11 and above the stacking station 26.

The feeder device 27 includes a rotating support (not shown) for a reel of continuous web separator 102 and a pair of feed rollers 28 through which the continuous web separator 102 is unwound to the stacking station 26. The pair of feed rollers 28 may be rotated by an electric motor (not shown) and may be configured to move toward and away from each other (e.g. during the operations of inserting the continuous web separator 102 between the feed rollers 28). The pair of feed rollers 28 is positioned at a predetermined distance from the stacking station 26 preferably above a central area of the stacking station 26, as schematically shown in Figure 1.

Apparatus 1 comprises a moving device 29 configured to operate on the continuous web separator 102 fed by the feeder device 27.

The moving device 29 operates at the stacking station 26 and is arranged between the first transfer device 10 and the second transfer device 11. The moving device 29 has the function of positioning the continuous web separator 102 between the first and second sheet plates which are placed in the stacking station 26.

The continuous belt separator 102 has the function of physically keeping the first plates in sheet 100 and the second plates in sheet 101 separate to avoid short circuits between them, while still allowing the transport of ions between the first plates in sheet 100 and the second plates in sheet 101.

The resulting electrochemical cell is of the "pouch" or "prismatic" type. Unlike cylindrical wound batteries, batteries using a pouch or prismatic cell do not use the "jelly roll" winding method but use the "Z-fold" technique in which the continuous ribbon-like separator 102 is stacked uniformly in a zig-zag pattern around the anode (e.g. the first foil strips 100) and the cathode (e.g. the second foil strips 101).

The moving device 29 comprises an accompanying device 30 movable with alternating motion between a first end position P1 (figure 1) and a second end position P2 (figure 3). The first end position P1 is located between the stacking station 26 and the first transfer device 10 and the second end position P2 is located between the stacking station 26 and the second transfer device 10. The stacking station 26 therefore extends between the first end position P1 and the second end position P2 of the accompanying device 30.

In the preferred embodiment of the invention, when the accompanying device 30 reaches the first end position P1, the accompanying device 30 is at a lower level than the second sheet plate 101 just deposited.

When the accompanying device 30 reaches the second end position P2, the accompanying device 30 is at a lower level than the first sheet 100 just deposited.

The accompanying device 30 includes an accompanying surface 31 configured to contact the continuous web separator 102 and to accompany it in the movement between the first end position P1 and the second end position P2.

The accompanying device 30 further comprises an additional accompanying surface 32 configured to contact the continuous web separator 102 and to accompany it in the movement between the second end position P2 and the first end position P1.

The accompanying device 30 is motorized by motorized organs 34 so as to actively set in motion the first accompanying surface 31 and the second accompanying surface 32. In particular, the accompanying device 30 is motorized so as to actively set in rotation the first accompanying surface 31 and the second accompanying surface 32.

In the preferred embodiment of the invention, the follower device 30 comprises a first follower roller 30a and a second follower roller 31a.

The first accompanying roller 30a and the second accompanying roller 31a are movable with alternating motion between the first end position P1 and the second end position P2.

As best illustrated in Figure 5, the first accompanying roller 30a and the second accompanying roller 31a comprise a respective rotation axis R1, R2.

The axis of rotation R1 of the first accompanying roller 30a is parallel to the axis of rotation R2 of the second accompanying roller 31a.

The first follower roller 30a and the second follower roller 31a comprise a respective outer surface 33, 33a. The outer surfaces 33, 33a of the first follower roller 30a and the second follower roller 31a are preferably free of surface roughness and are preferably smooth.

The outer surface 33 of the first accompanying roller 30a defines the accompanying surface 31 and the outer surface 33a of the second accompanying roller 31a defines the further accompanying surface 32 of the accompanying device 30.

The outer surface 33 of the first accompanying roller 30a is spaced by a distance of radius D1 from the axis of rotation R1 of the first accompanying roller 30a.

The outer surface 33a of the second accompanying roller 31a is spaced by a distance of radius D2 from the axis of rotation R2 of the second accompanying roller 31a.

The radius distance D1 of the first accompanying roller 30a is equal to the radius distance D2 of the second accompanying roller 31a.

The rotation axis R1 of the first accompanying roller 30a is spaced from the rotation axis R2 of the second accompanying roller 31a by a distance D3 which is substantially equal to the sum of the radius distance D1 of the first accompanying roller 30a, the radius distance D2 of the second accompanying roller 31a and the thickness of the continuous web separator 102, as schematized in figure 5 (where the continuous web separator is illustrated with a dashed line).

The continuous belt separator 102 is inserted between the first accompanying roller 30a and the second accompanying roller 31a and is preferably in contact with both the external surface 33 of the first accompanying roller 30a and the external surface 33a of the second accompanying roller 31a.

The rotation axis R1 of the first accompanying roller 30a and the rotation axis R2 of the second accompanying roller 31a always remain at the same distance D3 from each other during the passage of the first accompanying roller 30a and the second accompanying roller 31a between the first end position P1 and the second end position P2 and between the second end position P2 and the first end position P1.

When the first accompanying roller 30a and the second accompanying roller 31a move between the first end position P1 and the second end position P2, the first accompanying roller 30a and the second accompanying roller 31a unwind the continuous web separator 102 onto the stacking station 26 and in particular onto the sheet metal just deposited by the first transfer device 10 or by the second transfer device 11.

In the passage between the first end position P1 and the second end position P2 the first accompanying roller 30a and the second accompanying roller 31a (and in particular the respective rotation axes R1, R2) move along a respective first trajectory T1 in which such first trajectories are substantially coincident (figure 5).

In the passage between the second end position P2 and the first end position P1 the first accompanying roller 30a and the second accompanying roller 31a (and in particular the respective rotation axes R1, R2) move along a respective second trajectory T2 in which these second trajectories are substantially coincident (figure 5).

In the transition between the first end position P1 and the second end position P2 the rotation axis R1 of the first accompanying roller 30a moves at a first displacement speed V1 along the first trajectory T1.

In the transition between the second end position P2 and the first end position P1 the rotation axis R1 of the first accompanying roller 30a moves at a second travel speed V2 along the second trajectory T2.

In the transition between the first end position P1 and the second end position P2, the rotation axis R2 of the second accompanying roller 31a moves at a first displacement speed V3 along the first trajectory T1.

In the transition between the second end position P2 and the first end position P1 the rotation axis R2 of the second accompanying roller 31a moves at a second displacement speed V4 along the second trajectory T2.

The first velocity of displacement V1 is equal to the third velocity of displacement V3 and the second velocity of displacement V2 is equal to the fourth velocity of displacement V4.

The moduli of the first velocity of displacement V1, of the third velocity of displacement V3, of the second velocity of displacement V2 and of the fourth velocity of displacement V4 are equal to each other.

These first and second trajectories T1, T2 are more specifically given by the locus of the points covered by the rotation axes R1, R2 of the first accompanying roller 30a and of the second accompanying roller 31a in the movement, respectively, between the first end position P1 and the second end position P2 and between the second end position P2 and the first end position P1.

As shown in figure 5, such first and second trajectories T1, T2 define a curved path PC followed by the first accompanying roller 30a and the second accompanying roller 31a. Such curved path PC has a concavity facing the stacking station 26.

The path followed by the continuous web separator 102 during its deposition on the stacking station 26 between the first end position P1 and the second end position P2 also follows a first trajectory T1S. The path followed by the continuous web separator 102 during its deposition on the stacking station 26 between the second end position P2 and the first end position P1 follows a second trajectory T2S. Both the first trajectory T1S and the second trajectory T2S followed by the continuous web separator 102 during its deposition on the stacking station 26 are curved trajectories. The first trajectory T1S and the second trajectory T2S are coincident.

Therefore, the path followed by the continuous web separator 102 during its deposition on the stacking station 26 between the first end position P1 and the second end position P2 and between the second end position P2 and the first end position P1 and above the last deposited sheet metal lamina is also a curved path PC1 having a concavity facing the stacking station 26.

From a strictly geometric point of view, the curved path PC1 followed by the continuous belt separator 102 is parallel to the curved path PC followed by the rotation axes R1, R2 of the first accompanying roller 30a and of the second accompanying roller 31a, however for the purposes of the present invention these two curved paths can be considered substantially coincident.

The first accompanying roller 30a and the second accompanying roller 31a are rotated around their respective rotation axes R1, R2 by the motorized members 34 (represented in figure 7). The first accompanying roller 30a and the second accompanying roller 31a are rotated around their respective rotation axes R1, R2 in such a way as to make the first accompanying roller 30a and the second accompanying roller 31a counter-rotate with respect to each other.

In a possible embodiment of the motorized members illustrated in figure 7, the motorized members 34 comprise a motorized pulley 35, a first pulley 36 integral in rotation with the first accompanying roller 30a and a second pulley 37 integral in rotation with the second accompanying roller 31a.

The first pulley 36 is keyed onto the rotation axis R1 of the first accompanying roller 30a and the second pulley 36 is keyed onto the rotation axis R2 of the second accompanying roller 31a.

The motorized members 34 further comprise a drive belt 38 which engages the motorized pulley 35, the first pulley 36 and the second pulley 37. The drive belt 38 is set in motion by the motorized pulley 35 and drives both the first accompanying roller 30a and the second accompanying roller 31a.

The transmission belt 38 has a first surface 39 and a second surface 40 which are closed in a ring and parallel, in which the first surface 39 is radially internal to the second surface 40.

The first surface 39 and the second surface 40 of the drive belt 38 may be toothed to engage respective teeth of the motorized pulley 35 of the first pulley 36 and of the second pulley 37.

In particular, as shown in figure 7, the first surface 39 of the drive belt 38 engages the motorized pulley 35 and the first pulley 36, while the second surface 40 of the drive belt 38 engages the second pulley 37, obtaining opposite rotations of the first accompanying roller 30a and of the second accompanying roller 31a when the drive belt 38 is set in motion. In this regard, the motorized pulley 35 is set in rotation by a motorized shaft 41 (diagrammed in figure 7) parallel to the rotation axes R1, R2 of the first accompanying roller 30a and of the second accompanying roller 31a.

The motorized shaft 41 is rotated by an electric motor (diagrammed with the number 42 in figure 7) driven in such a way as to stop the rotation of the first accompanying roller 30a and of the second accompanying roller 31a when the latter are in the first end position P1 and when they are in the second end position P2.

As the continuous web separator 102 is moved above the stacking station 26, the accompanying surface 31 is moved, while the accompanying device 30 moves between the first end position P1 and the second end position P2, imposing a first predetermined relative speed between the accompanying surface 31 and the continuous web separator 102.

This first relative speed is given by the difference between a first accompanying speed of the accompanying surface 31 and a first displacement speed of the continuous belt-like separator 102 between the first end position P1 and the second end position P2.

This first relative speed is chosen in such a way as to eliminate or in any case minimize relative slippage between the continuous belt separator 102 and the accompanying surface 31.

Similarly, when the continuous web separator 102 is moved above the stacking station 26, the additional follower surface 32 is moved, while the follower device 30 moves between the second end position P2 and the first end position P1, imposing a second predetermined relative speed between the additional follower surface 32 and the continuous web separator 102.

This second relative speed is given by the difference between a second speed of accompaniment of the further accompaniment surface 32 and a second speed of movement of the continuous belt-like separator 102 between the second end position P2 and the first end position P1.

This second relative speed is chosen in such a way as to eliminate or in any case minimize relative slippage between the continuous belt separator 102 and the additional accompanying surface 32.

In this regard, in the preferred embodiment of the invention, the electric motor 42 is driven to rotate the first follower roller 30a and the second follower roller 31a with a first angular acceleration AC1 up to a first angular velocity VA1 when the first follower roller 30a begins to move from the first end position P1 towards the second end position P2. The first angular acceleration AC1 of the first follower roller 30a is equal in magnitude to the first angular acceleration AC1 of the second follower roller 31a. The first angular velocity VA1 of the first follower roller 30a is equal in magnitude and opposite in direction to the first angular velocity VA1 of the second follower roller 31a.

The electric motor 42 is further driven to rotate the first follower roller 30a and the second follower roller 31a with a second angular acceleration AC2 up to a second angular velocity VA2 when the first follower roller 30a begins to move from the second end position P2 toward the first end position P1. The second angular acceleration AC2 of the first follower roller 30a is equal in magnitude to the second angular acceleration AC2 of the second follower roller 31a. The second angular velocity VA2 of the first follower roller 30a is equal in magnitude and opposite in direction to the second angular velocity VA2 of the second follower roller 31a.

The first angular acceleration AC1 of the first accompanying roller 30a is equal in magnitude to the second angular acceleration AC2 of the first accompanying roller 30a. The first angular velocity VA1 of the first accompanying roller 30a is equal in magnitude and opposite in direction to the second angular velocity VA2 of the first accompanying roller 30a.

The first angular acceleration AC1 of the second accompanying roller 31a is equal in magnitude to the second angular acceleration AC2 of the second accompanying roller 31a. The first angular velocity VA1 of the second accompanying roller 31a is equal in magnitude and opposite in direction to the second angular velocity VA2 of the second accompanying roller 31a.

In alternative embodiments not illustrated, the motorized members 34 may alternatively comprise a pair of electric motors in which each electric motor rotates the rotation axis R1, R2 of the first accompanying roller 30a and of the second accompanying roller 31a. In this case, the operation of the two electric motors is controlled by a control unit in such a way as to obtain the described angular velocities and angular accelerations of the first accompanying roller 30a and of the second accompanying roller 31a.

The first accompanying velocity of the accompanying surface 31 is equal to the first angular velocity VA1 of the first accompanying roller 30a multiplied by the radius distance D1 of the first accompanying roller 30a.

The second accompanying speed of the additional accompanying surface 32 is equal to the second angular VA2 of the second accompanying roller 31a multiplied by the radius distance D2 of the second accompanying roller 31a.

In other words, the first angular velocity VA1 of the first accompanying roller 30a is set in such a way as to eliminate or in any case minimize relative slippage between the continuous belt separator 102 and the external surface 33 of the first accompanying roller 30a.

Similarly, the second angle VA2 of the second accompanying roller 31a is set in such a way as to eliminate or in any case minimize relative slippage between the continuous belt separator 102 and the external surface 33a of the second accompanying roller 31a.

As schematically indicated in figures 7 and 8, the apparatus 1 comprises a plurality of receptacles 43 which can be positioned, one at a time, in the stacking station 26 to receive the sheet metal laminae 100, 101 deposited by the first transfer device 10 and by the second transfer device 101.

Each receptacle 43 includes a substantially flat stacking surface 44.

When the accompanying device 30 is placed in an intermediate position between the first and second end positions P1, P2, the accompanying device 30 is at a higher level than the stacking surface 44.

When the accompanying device 30 is placed in the first end position P1, the accompanying device 30 is at a lower level than the stacking surface 44.

When the accompanying device 30 is placed in the second end position P2, the accompanying device 30 is at a lower level than the stacking surface 44.

Figure 6 illustrates in a front view some parts of the apparatus 1 and in particular the first accompanying roller 30a, the second accompanying roller 31a (represented in a central area of the stacking station 26), a receptacle 43 placed in the stacking station 26 and further components which will be described later. The curved path PC followed by the first accompanying roller 30a and the second accompanying roller 31a has been represented in a dashed line.

As schematically represented in figure 6, the first accompanying roller 30a and the second accompanying roller 31a, when they are in the first end position P1, are placed at a first distance S1 from the stacking surface 44 of the receptacle 43, located in the stacking station 26.

This first distance S1 is measured in a direction perpendicular to the stacking surface 44 and between the rotation axis R1 of the first accompanying roller 30a and the stacking surface 44.

In figure 6, the first distance S1 is represented, for explanatory purposes, as a positive distance, in the sense that it is a distance measured above the stacking surface 44.

However, the first distance S1 can be understood as a negative distance, i.e. measured below the stacking surface 44. Axis

The first accompanying roller 30a and the second accompanying roller 31a, when in the second end position P2, are placed at a second distance S2 from the stacking surface 44 of the receptacle 43, located in the stacking station 26.

This second distance S2 is measured in a direction perpendicular to the stacking surface 44 and between the rotation axis R2 of the second accompanying roller 31a and the stacking surface 44.

In figure 6, the second distance S2 is represented, for exposition purposes, as a positive distance, in the sense that it is a distance measured above the stacking surface 44.

However, the second distance S2 must be understood as a negative distance, i.e. measured below the stacking surface 44.

In an intermediate position between the first P1 and the second end position P2, the first accompanying roller 30a and the second accompanying roller 31a are placed at a third distance S3 from the stacking surface 44.

This third distance S3 is measured in a direction perpendicular to the stacking surface 44 and between the apex of the curved path PC and the stacking surface 44. This intermediate position is placed centrally between the first P1 and the second end position P2.

The first distance S1, the second distance S2 and the third distance S3 are directly proportional to the distances of the continuous belt separator 102 from the stacking surface 44 during its deposition in the stacking station 26.

As schematically represented in figure 6, the first distance S1 is substantially equal to the second distance S2 and is smaller than the third distance S3.

To ensure that the first follower roller 30a and the second follower roller 31a follow the curved path PC, the displacement device 29 comprises an actuator 45 connected to the first follower roller 30a and the second follower roller 31a to move the latter between the first end position P1 and the second end position P2 and between the second end position P2 and the first end position P1.

The actuator 45 comprises a swing arm 46 hinged at one end thereof to an actuation shaft 47 (schematically shown in figure 5). The first accompanying roller 30a and the second accompanying roller 31a are hinged to the swing arm 46 at a second end of the latter.

The swinging arm 46 comprises a housing seat 48 inside which at least some of the motorized members 34 are placed. In particular, as shown in figure 7, inside the housing seat are arranged the motorized pulley 35 and the first pulley 36, the second pulley 37 and the transmission belt 38.

The actuation shaft 47 is placed parallel to the motorized shaft 41 which rotates the motorized pulley 35. In the embodiment illustrated in the attached figures, the actuation shaft 47 and the motorized shaft 41 are coaxial.

The actuation shaft 47 is positioned, with respect to said stacking station 26, on the opposite side to said feeder device 27 of a continuous web separator, so as to be able to direct the concavity of the curved path PC towards the stacking station 26 and towards the stacking surface 44.

The actuation shaft 47 moves the swing arm 46 with a reciprocating motion having a first dead point at the first end position P1 and a second dead point at the second end position P2.

In other words, the first accompanying roller 30a and the second accompanying roller 31a are given a motion law in agreement, i.e. coordinated, with that of the oscillating arm 46, so that the first accompanying roller 30a and the second accompanying roller 31a roll without slipping on the continuous belt separator 102.

In the transition between the first end position P1 and the second end position P2, the rotation speed of the actuation shaft 47 determines the first displacement speed V1 of the rotation axis R1 of the first accompanying roller 30a. Similarly, in the transition between the second end position P2 and the first end position P1, the rotation speed of the actuation shaft 47 determines the second displacement speed V2 of the rotation axis R1 of the first accompanying roller 30a.

To retain the continuous web separator 102 on the sheet plates 100, 101 deposited in the stacking station 26, the apparatus 1 comprises a first retaining device 49 and a second retaining device 50.

As shown in Figures 1 to 4, the first retaining device 49 is arranged at the first end position P1 and the second retaining device 50 is arranged at the second end position P2 of the first follower roller 30a and the second follower roller 31a.

The first holding device 49 and the second holding device 50 are located on opposite sides of the receptacle 43 located in the stacking station 26.

The first holding device 49 has the function of holding a portion of continuous ribbon separator 102 deposited on the last second sheet plate 101 deposited by the second transfer device 11 in the stacking station 26. This condition is shown in figure 1.

The first holding device 49 continues to hold such portion of continuous web separator 102 while the continuous web separator 102 is deposited onto the next first sheet sliver 100 which is deposited by the first transfer device 10 into the stacking station 26. Figures 2 and 3 schematically show the first transfer device 10 depositing such next first sheet sliver 100 into the stacking station 26 and while the first holding device 49 holds the continuous web separator 102.

The second holding device 50 has the function of holding a portion of continuous ribbon separator 102 deposited on the last first sheet plate 100 deposited by the first transfer device 10 in the stacking station 26. This condition is shown in figure 3.

The second holding device 50 continues to hold such portion of continuous web separator 102 while the continuous web separator 102 is deposited onto the next second sheet metal sliver 101 which is deposited by the second transfer device 11 into the stacking station 26. Figures 4 and 1 schematically show the second transfer device 11 depositing such next second sheet metal sliver 101 into the stacking station 26 and while the second holding device 50 is holding the continuous web separator 102.

When such subsequent second sheet 101 is deposited into stacking station 26, first holding device 49 is brought into a release condition in which it temporarily releases the retained portion of continuous web separator 102. First holding device 49 is then returned to a holding condition to retain a new portion of continuous web separator 102 as it is deposited onto such subsequent second sheet 101.

Similarly, when a subsequent first sheet 100 is deposited into stacking station 26, second holding device 50 is brought into a release condition in which it temporarily releases the retained portion of continuous web separator 102. Second holding device 50 is then returned to a holding condition to retain a new portion of continuous web separator 102 as it is deposited onto such subsequent first sheet 100.

The transition of the first holding device 49 from the holding position to the release position and from the release position to the holding position occurs when the first accompanying roller 30a and the second accompanying roller 31a are in the first end position P1.

The transition of the second holding device 50 from the holding position to the release position and from the release position to the holding position occurs when the first accompanying roller 30a and the second accompanying roller 31a are in the second end position P2.

Note that when the first follower roller 30a and the second follower roller 31a reach the first end position P1, the direction of movement of the first follower roller 30a and the second follower roller 31a is reversed to allow the first follower roller 30a and the second follower roller 31a to move towards the second end position P2. At the time of reversal of the motion of the first follower roller 30a and the second follower roller 31a, the first follower roller 30a and the second follower roller 31a may be stopped to allow the first holding device 49 to move from the holding position to the release position and from the release position to the hold position.

Similarly, when the first follower roller 30a and the second follower roller 31a reach the second end position P2, the direction of movement of the first follower roller 30a and the second follower roller 31a is reversed to allow the first follower roller 30a and the second follower roller 31a to move toward the first end position P1. At the time of reversal of the motion of the first follower roller 30a and the second follower roller 31a, the first follower roller 30a and the second follower roller 31a may be stopped to allow the second holding device 50 to move from the holding position to the release position and from the release position to the hold position.

To switch the first holding device 49 from the holding position to the release position and from the release position to the holding position, the first holding device 49 performs a movement having a displacement component perpendicular to the stacking surface 44 of the receptacle 43.

This displacement component has an extension greater than the first distance S1 of the first accompanying roller 30a and the second accompanying roller 31a from the stacking surface 44 of the receptacle 43 (when the first accompanying roller 30a and the second accompanying roller 31a are in the first end position P1).

This displacement component has an extension less than the third distance S3 of the first accompanying roller 30a and the second accompanying roller 31a from the stacking surface 44 of the receptacle 43 (when the first accompanying roller 30a and the second accompanying roller 31a are in the intermediate position between the first end position P1 and the second end portion P2).

Similarly, to switch the second holding device 50 from the holding position to the release position and from the release position to the holding position, the second holding device 50 performs a movement having a displacement component perpendicular to the stacking surface 44 of the receptacle 43.

This displacement component has an extension greater than the second distance S2 of the first accompanying roller 30a and the second accompanying roller 31a from the stacking surface 44 of the receptacle 43 (when the first accompanying roller 30a and the second accompanying roller 31a are in the second end position P2).

This displacement component has an extension less than the third distance S3 of the first accompanying roller 30a and the second accompanying roller 31a from the stacking surface 44 of the receptacle 43 (when the first accompanying roller 30a and the second accompanying roller 31a are in the intermediate position between the first end position P1 and the second end portion P2).

As best illustrated in figure 8, the first retaining device 49 and the second retaining device 50 are structurally identical to each other and are specular with respect to a plane perpendicular to the stacking surface 44 and containing the actuation shaft 47.

Both the first holding device 49 and the second holding device 50 include a pair of holding fingers 51 wherein one holding finger faces the other holding finger along a direction parallel to the rotation axis R1, R2 of the first follower roller 30a and the second follower roller 31a. Both the first holding device 49 and the second holding device 50 are driven by an electric motor 52. The electric motor 52 is configured to raise and lower the pair of holding fingers 51 along a direction perpendicular to the stacking surface 44. An additional electric motor 53 is configured to raise and lower the pair of holding fingers 51 along a direction perpendicular to the stacking surface 44. further connected to a transmission mechanism 54 which moves the fingers of the pair of retaining fingers 51 away from each other along a direction parallel to the rotation axis R1, R2 of the first accompanying roller 30a and of the second accompanying roller 31a.

When the first holding device 49 and the second holding device 50 move from the holding position to the release position, the fingers of the holding finger pair 51 are moved apart from each other, losing contact with the continuous web separator 102, and are subsequently raised until they exceed the aforementioned first and second distances S1, S2. When the first holding device 49 and the second holding device 50 move from the release position to the holding position, the fingers of the holding finger pair 51 are brought together, positioning themselves above the continuous web separator 102, and are subsequently lowered, holding the continuous web separator 102.

As stated above, a plurality of receptacles 43 is foreseen.

Each receptacle 43 is movable between the stacking station 26 and an unloading station 55.

In the embodiment illustrated in the attached figures, three receptacles 43 are provided, as better depicted in figures 7 and 8.

When more than two receptacles 43 are provided, transit stations 56 are provided in a number equal to the number of receptacles 43 minus two. In the illustrated example, where three receptacles 43 are present, one transit station 56 is provided.

In these cases, each receptacle 43 is movable between the stacking station 26, the unloading station 55 and the transit station 56.

The stacking station 26, the unloading station 55 and the transit station 56 follow one another cyclically along a transport path of the receptacles 43 in a predominant order.

This predetermined order may provide that the stacking station 26 is followed by the unloading station 55 or that the stacking station 26 is followed by one or more transit stations 56.

The stacking station 26, the unloading station 55 and the transit station 56 (when present) are equidistant along a transport path.

In the preferred embodiment of the invention, the stacking station 26 is followed by the unloading station 55 which is followed by the transit stations 56.

At the unloading station 55, the electrochemical cell formed at the stacking station 26 is removed from the receptacle 43. In the preferred embodiment of the invention, the receptacles 43 passing through the transit stations 56 are empty, i.e., they do not contain any sheet metal.

When a receptacle 43 is in the stacking station 26 another receptacle 43 is always in the unloading station 55.

All receptacles 43 move simultaneously between stacking station 26, unloading station 55 and, if present, transit stations 56. When receptacles 43 move between stacking station 26, unloading station 55 and, if present, transit stations 56, the deposition of sheet metal laminae 100, 101 is interrupted.

The transport path of the receptacles 43 follows a trajectory that begins and ends at the stacking station 26.

This trajectory is a closed trajectory.

This trajectory is a circular trajectory.

In the preferred embodiment of the invention (figures 7 and 8), the receptacles 43 are mounted on the periphery of a transport drum 57 in such a way as to be able to follow the aforementioned closed trajectory.

The transport drum 57 is rotatable around a transport axis TR1 (illustrated in figure 8) parallel to the rotation axes R1, R2 of the first accompanying roller 30a and the second accompanying roller 31a.

The transport drum 57 is mounted on the frame 9 in such a way that the transport axle TR1 is below the stacking station 26, i.e. it is on the opposite side of the feeder device 27 to the stacking station 26.

The transport axis TR1 is parallel and coincident with an axis of the actuation shaft 47 which moves the swing arm 46.

The transport drum 57 is rotatable around the transport axis TR1 by performing angular rotations interspersed with stops. These angular rotations are of the amount necessary to carry a receptacle 43 from one station to the next station and the stops are of duration equal to the formation time of an electrochemical cell in the stacking station 26.

The stacking station 26, the unloading station 55 and the transit station 56 (when present) are positioned along the periphery of the transport drum 57 and are fixed with respect to the frame 9.

To ensure that during the rotation of the transport drum 57 the electrochemical cell formed in the stacking station 26 does not move relative to the receptacle 43 in which it was formed and from which it must be removed, an anchoring device 58 active on each receptacle 43 is provided.

Each anchoring device 58 is switchable between a holding position in which it holds the stacked sheet metal sheets 100, 101 on a receptacle 43 and a release position in which it does not hold the stacked sheet metal sheets 100, 101 on the receptacle 43.

The anchoring device 58 active on a receptacle 43 is in the holding position when that receptacle 43 moves between the stacking station 26 and the unloading station 55.

The anchoring device 58 active on a receptacle 43 located in the stacking station 26 is in the release position at least until the first transfer device 10 and the second transfer device 11 are depositing the first sheet laminae 100 and the second sheet laminae 101 into the receptacle 43.

The anchoring device 58 active on a receptacle 43 is in the released position when that receptacle moves between the unloading station 55 and the stacking station 26 (possibly passing through the transit stations 56).

The anchoring device 58 of a receptacle 43 located in the stacking station 26 is active on two opposite ends of the stacking surface 44, and the first holding device 49 and the second holding device 50 are active on such receptacle 43 on the further two opposite ends of the stacking surface 44.

Each anchoring device 58 comprises a pair of anchoring fins 59 (figure 8) hinged to the transport drum 57 along hinge axes contained in planes perpendicular to the transport axis TR1.

Each anchoring lug of the pair of anchoring lugs 59 is located at one end of the stacking surface 44, wherein such opposite ends of the stacking surface 44 are spaced along a direction parallel to the rotation axes R1, R2 of the first follower roller 30a and the second follower roller 31a.

Each anchoring lug 59 includes a lip 60 which, when the lugs are in the anchoring position, is positioned parallel to the stacking surface 44 of the receptacle 43. When the lugs are in the release position, the lip 60 is out of the way of the stacking surface 44 of the receptacle 43.

To enable the anchoring fins 59 to properly retain the sheet metal sheets 100, 101 deposited on the stacking surface 44 regardless of the number of sheet metal sheets overlapping each other, the stacking surface 44 of each receptacle is movable between a plurality of stacking positions.

As shown schematically in figure 5, the stacking surface 44 is connected to the receptacle 43 through one or more supports 61 sliding in the receptacle 43 along a direction perpendicular to the stacking surface 44. These supports 66 can be positioned at different degrees of insertion inside the receptacle 43, where each degree of insertion corresponds to a respective stacking position of the stacking surface 44.

In the preferred embodiment of the invention, a stacking position is spaced from an adjacent (or subsequent) stacking position by a distance substantially corresponding to the thickness of a sheet of foil 100, 101 and the thickness of the web support 102.

The stacking surface 44 can, for example, be held by the first holding device 49 or the second holding device 50 in an achieved stacking position.

Note that the stacking positions of the stacking surface 44 also ensure that each sheet metal 100, 101 placed on the stacking surface 44 is always the same distance from the actuation shaft 47 of the swing arm 46.

In use, to stack the continuous strip separator 102 and the sheet plates 100, 101 alternately, the first sheet plates 100 and the second sheet plates 101 are transferred to the stacking station 26 in an alternating manner, i.e. one at a time and with a sequence that provides for an alternation between the first sheet plates 100 and the second sheet plates 101.

The continuous belt separator 102 is fed to the stacking station 26. The continuous belt separator 102 is engaged by the accompanying device 30.

Starting from a situation in which a second sheet 101 has just been deposited, the continuous web separator 102 is engaged by the accompanying surface 31 to move the continuous web separator 102 above the stacking station 26 between the first end position P1 and the second end position P2.

This action is performed by moving the rotation axis R1 of the first accompanying roller 30a of the accompanying device 30 between the first end position P1 and the second end position P2.

The accompanying surface 31 is set in motion, and in particular in rotation in accordance with the preferred embodiment of the invention, by imposing a first predetermined relative speed between the accompanying surface 31 and the continuous belt-like separator 102.

This first relative speed is given by the difference between a first accompanying speed of the accompanying surface 31 and a first displacement speed of the continuous belt-like separator 102 between the first end position P1 and the second end position P2.

To eliminate or in any case reduce relative sliding between the accompanying surface 31 and the continuous belt-like separator 102, the modulus of the first accompanying speed is between 80% and 120% of the modulus of the first displacement speed, preferably between 90% and 110% of the modulus of the first displacement speed, more preferably between 95% and 105% of the modulus of the first displacement speed.

This action is performed by arranging the first accompanying roller 30a of the accompanying device 30 with the external surface 33 defining the accompanying surface 31 and rotating the first accompanying roller 30a around the rotation axis R1 at the first angular velocity VA1.

The continuous ribbon separator 102 is then placed on the second sheet 101 transferred to the stacking station 26 following a first curved trajectory T1S between the first end position P1 and the second end position P2.

As a result of this first curved trajectory T1S, during the movement of the continuous web separator 102 between the first end position P1 and an intermediate position between the first end position P1 and the second end position P2, the continuous web separator 102 moves perpendicularly to, and away from, the second sheet 101 transferred to the stacking station 26.

When the continuous web separator 102 reaches the second end position P2, the continuous web separator 102 positions itself below a level at which the second sheet 101 transferred to the stacking station 26 is located.

The second sheet 101 transferred to the stacking station is then partially wrapped by the continuous web separator 102.

Subsequently, the second holding device 50 holds a portion of continuous web separator 102 deposited on the second sheet plate 101.

Subsequently or simultaneously, a first sheet 100 is placed in the stacking station 26. This first sheet is placed on top of a portion of continuous strip separator 102 which has just been placed on the second sheet 101.

Subsequently, the companion device 30 reverses its motion to pass between the second end position P2 and the first end position P1.

The continuous web separator 102 is engaged by the additional accompanying surface 32 to move the continuous web separator 102 above the stacking station 26 between the second end position P2 and the first end position P1.

This action is performed by moving the rotation axis R2 of the second accompanying roller 31a of the accompanying device 30 between the second end position P2 and the first end position P1.

The additional accompanying surface 32 is set in motion, and in particular in rotation in accordance with the preferred embodiment of the invention, by imposing a second predetermined relative speed between the additional accompanying surface 32 and the continuous ribbon-like separator 102.

This second relative speed is given by the difference between a second speed of accompaniment of the accompaniment surface 32 and a second speed of movement of the continuous belt separator 102 between the second end position P2 and the first end position P1.

To eliminate or in any case reduce relative sliding between the additional accompanying surface 32 and the continuous belt-like separator 102, the modulus of the second accompanying speed is between 80% and 120% of the modulus of the second displacement speed, preferably between 90% and 110% of the modulus of the second displacement speed, more preferably between 95% and 105% of the modulus of the second displacement speed.

This action is performed by arranging the second accompanying roller 31a of the accompanying device 30 with the external surface 33a defining the further accompanying surface 32 and rotating the second accompanying roller 31a around the rotation axis R2 at the second angular velocity VA2.

The continuous strip separator 102 is then placed on the first sheet 100 transferred to the stacking station 26 following a second curved trajectory T2S between the second end position P2 and the first end position P1.

As a result of this second curved trajectory T2S, during the movement of the continuous web separator 102 between the second end position P2 and an intermediate position between the second end position P2 and the first end position P1, the continuous web separator 102 moves perpendicularly to, and away from, the first sheet 100 transferred to the stacking station 26.

When the continuous web separator 102 reaches the first end position P1, the continuous web separator 102 positions itself below a level at which the first sheet 101 transferred to the stacking station 26 is located.

The first sheet 100 transferred to the stacking station 26 is then partially wrapped by the continuous web separator 102.

Next, the first holding device 49 holds a portion of continuous web separator 102 deposited on the first sheet plate 100.

The process described is repeated with the deposition of a further second sheet 101.

Claims (26)

1. Stacking apparatus (1) for stacking alternately a continuous strip separator and sheet metal sheets comprising: a stacking station (26) having a stacking surface (44) configured to receive sheet metal foils (100, 101); a first transfer device (10) for first sheet plates (100) and a second transfer device (11) for second sheet plates (101) respectively movable between a pick-up position and a release position, wherein the release position of the first transfer device (10) and the release position of the second transfer device (11) are placed in correspondence with said stacking station (26) and wherein when the first transfer device (10) is in the release position the second transfer device (11) is moved away from the release position and wherein when the second transfer device (11) is in the release position the first transfer device (10) is moved away from the release position; a continuous web separator (102) feeder device (27) configured to feed a continuous web separator (102) to the stacking station (26); a transfer device (29) configured to operate on the continuous web separator (102) fed by the feeder device (27) and comprising a companion device (30) movable between a first end position (P1) and a second end position (P2) and above the stacking station (26) when the second transfer device (11) moves from the release position to the pick-up position, and movable from the second end position (P2) to the first end position (P1) and above the stacking station (26) when the first transfer device (10) moves from the release position to the pick-up position; where when the accompanying device (30) is placed in the first end position (P1), the accompanying device (30) is at a lower level than the stacking surface (44). 2. Apparatus (1) according to claim 1, wherein when the accompanying device (30) is placed in the second end position (P2), the accompanying device (30) is at a lower level than the stacking surface (44). 3. Apparatus (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein when the accompanying device (30) is placed in an intermediate position between the first and second end positions (P1, P2), the accompanying device (30) is at a higher level than the stacking surface (44). 4. Apparatus (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein in the first end position (P1) said accompanying device (30) is placed at a first distance (S1) from the stacking surface (44), in the second end position (P2) said accompanying device (30) is placed at a second distance (S2) from the stacking surface (44) and in an intermediate position between the first and second end positions (P1, P2) said accompanying device (30) is placed at a third distance (S3) from the stacking surface (44); said third distance (S3) being greater than the first distance (S1) and the second distance (S2). 5. Apparatus (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein when said accompanying device (30) is placed in an intermediate position between the first and second end positions (P1, P2), the accompanying device (30) is located, with respect to a direction perpendicular to the stacking surface (44), on the opposite side of the stacking surface (44) with respect to at least a portion of said accompanying device (30) when said accompanying device is placed in at least one of the first and second end positions (P1, P2). 6. Apparatus (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein when said accompanying device (30) is placed in the first end position (P1), said stacking surface (44) is interposed, with respect to a direction perpendicular to the stacking surface (44), between the feeder device (27) and said accompanying device (30). 7. Apparatus (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein when said accompanying device (30) is placed in the second end position (P2), said stacking surface (44) is interposed, with respect to a direction perpendicular to the stacking surface (44), between the feeder device (27) and said accompanying device (30). 8. Apparatus (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the moving device (29) moves the accompanying device (30) between the first end position (P1) and the second end position (P2) and between the second end position (P2) and the first end position (P1) along a curved path (PC). 9. Apparatus (1) according to claim 8, wherein said curved path (PC) has concavity facing the stacking station (26). 10. Apparatus (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein said displacement device (29) comprises a swinging arm (46) driven by an actuation shaft (47) and supporting said accompanying device; said actuation shaft (47) being placed, with respect to said stacking station (26), on the opposite side with respect to said feeding device (27) of a ribbon separator (102). 11. Apparatus (1) according to any of the preceding claims, comprising a receptacle (43) configured to receive sheet metal laminae (100, 101), placed in said stacking station (26) and comprising said stacking surface (44). 12. Apparatus (1) according to any of the preceding claims, comprising a first holding device (49) configured to operate on the ribbon separator (102) and arranged at the first end position (P1) of the accompanying device, and a second holding device (50) configured to operate on the ribbon separator (102) and arranged at the second end position (P2) of the accompanying device. 13. Apparatus (1) according to claim 12, wherein said first holding device (49) is movable between a holding condition, in which it intercepts and holds a portion of the web separator (102) and a release condition in which it is moved away from the web separator (102); said first holding device (49) moving from the holding position to the release position and from the release position to the holding position when the accompanying device is in the first end position (P1). 14. Apparatus (1) according to claim 13, wherein the first holding device (49) is in the holding position when the accompanying device moves from the first end position (P1) to the second end position (P2), when the accompanying device is in the second end position (P2), and when the accompanying device moves from the second end position (P2) to the first end position (P1). 15. Apparatus (1) according to any of claims 12 to 14, wherein said second holding device (50) is movable between a holding condition, in which it intercepts and holds a portion of the web separator (102) and a release condition in which it is moved away from the web separator (102); said second holding device (50) moving from the holding position to the release position and from the release position to the holding position when the accompanying device is in the second end position (P2). 16. Apparatus (1) according to claim 15, wherein the second holding device (50) is in the holding position when the accompanying device moves from the second end position (P2) to the first end position (P1), when the accompanying device is in the first end position (P1), and when the accompanying device moves from the first end position (P1) to the second end position (P2). 17. Apparatus (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein said stacking surface (44) is movable between a plurality of stacking positions, wherein in each stacking position the stacking surface (44) is arranged parallel to a respective reference plane, wherein all the reference planes are parallel to each other and wherein a reference plane is spaced from an adjacent reference plane by a distance greater than or substantially equal to a thickness of a sheet metal lamina (100, 101). 18. A method of stacking a continuous strip separator and sheet metal comprising: transfer first sheet metal sheets (100) and second sheet metal sheets (101) to a stacking station (26); feed a continuous belt separator (102) to the stacking station (26); placing the continuous web separator (102) on the first sheet plates (100) and on the second sheet plates (102) transferred to the stacking station (26), wherein placing the continuous web separator (102) comprises moving the continuous web separator (102) above the stacking station (26) between a first end position (P1) and a second end position (P2) and between a second end position (P2) and a first end position (P1), wherein when the continuous web separator (102) is in the first end position (P1), the continuous web separator (102) is below a level at which there is a sheet plate (101) transferred to the stacking station (26). 19. The method of claim 18, wherein when the continuous web separator (102) is in the second end position (P2), the continuous web separator (102) is below a level at which there is a sheet lamina (100) transferred to the stacking station (26). 20. A method according to claim 18 or 19, wherein when the continuous web separator (102) is in an intermediate position between the first end position (P1) and the second end position (P2), the continuous web separator (102) is above a height at which there is a sheet of foil (100, 101) transferred to the stacking station (26). 21. A method according to any of claims 18 to 20, wherein moving the continuous web separator (102) above the stacking station (26) between a first end position (P1) and a second end position (P2) and between a second end position (P2) and a first end position (P1) comprises moving the continuous web separator (102) above the stacking station (26) along a first trajectory (T1S) between the first end position (P1) and the second end position (P2) and along a second trajectory (T2S) between the second end position (P2) and the first end position (P1), wherein the first trajectory (T1S) and the second trajectory (T2S) are curved trajectories. 22. The method of claim 21, wherein moving the continuous web separator (102) above the stacking station (26) comprises, while moving the continuous web separator (102) from the first end position (P1) to a position intermediate the first end position (P1) and the second end position (P2), moving the continuous web separator (102) perpendicular to, and away from, a second sheet metal lamina (101) transferred to the stacking station (26). 23. The method of claim 18 or 19, wherein moving the continuous web separator (102) above the stacking station (26) comprises, while moving the continuous web separator (102) from a position intermediate the first end position (P1) and the second end position (P2) and the second end position (P2), moving the continuous web separator (102) perpendicular to, and in approach to, a second sheet metal lamina (101) transferred to the stacking station (26). 24. Method according to claim 21, wherein the first trajectory (T1S) and the second trajectory (T2S) of the continuous web separator (102) have concavities facing the stacking station. 25. A method according to any of claims 18 to 24, wherein moving the continuous web separator (102) above the stacking station (26) between a first end position (P1) and a second end position (P2) and between a second end position (P2) and a first end position (P1) comprises partially wrapping the first sheet laminae (100) and the second sheet laminae (101) transferred to the stacking station (26) with the continuous web separator (102). 26. A method according to any of claims 18 to 25, wherein transferring first sheet laminae (100) and second sheet laminae (101) to a stacking station (26) comprises depositing first sheet laminae (100) alternating and overlapping with second sheet laminae (101) on a stacking surface (44).