WO2025210575A1

WO2025210575A1 - Alignment device, apparatus and method for creating an internal assembly, preferably for an electrochemical cell intended for producing batteries

Info

Publication number: WO2025210575A1
Application number: PCT/IB2025/053554
Authority: WO
Inventors: Andrea Biondi; Luca Cavazza; Matteo LENZI; Maurizio Ventura
Original assignee: GD SpA
Current assignee: GD SpA
Priority date: 2024-04-04
Filing date: 2025-04-04
Publication date: 2025-10-09
Anticipated expiration: 2026-10-04

Abstract

An alignment device (205) for a strip (80), comprising a rotation unit (210) comprising an aligning roller (220) rotatable about a first longitudinal axis (220X) and configured to be in contact with said strip (80) displaceable along a predefined feed path (PA), a body (230) on which there is housed a rotation member (232) configured to rotate said aligning roller (220) about a rotation axis (220Y) perpendicular to said first longitudinal axis (220X), so as to be able to align said strip (80) with respect to said predefined feed path (PA), the rotation member (232) comprising a fixed component (232a), integrally constrained to said body (230) and a movable component (232b) constrained to said aligning roller (220).

Description

DESCRIPTION

"ALIGNMENT DEVICE, APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR CREATING AN INTERNAL ASSEMBLY, PREFERABLY FOR AN ELECTROCHEMICAL CELL INTENDED FOR PRODUCING BATTERIES"

The present invention relates to an apparatus and a method for creating an internal assembly, e.g. obtained as a coil of the type formed by winding a stripshaped article including a strip or a plurality of overlapping strips.

The invention also directed to a method for making the internal assembly itself.

The present invention finds a preferred, though not exclusive, application in the field of electrochemical cell production, for the manufacture of which, for example, a winding of a strip-shaped article or a stacking of a heterogeneous multilayer structure can be used.

In fact, in the relevant technical field, it is known to combine electrically conductor and electrically separator elements in layers in order to form an elaborate and functional structure of anodes and cathodes. The article made by overlapping the above-mentioned layers can thus be advantageously wound in coil form or coupled with layers in flat or other configurations, and thus be efficiently implemented for creating the desired electrochemical cell.

In the present disclosure, as well as in the accompanying claims, certain terms and expressions are deemed to assume, unless otherwise expressly indicated, the meaning expressed in the following definitions.

The term "internal assembly" of an electrochemical cell generically refers to the structure in which the conductor elements and the separator elements are combined within the electrochemical cell. Such a structure may be a substantially flat layered structure alternating on top of each other (achieved by means of stacking or Z-folding techniques) or it may be a coil structure formed by the spiral winding of conductor and separator strips alternating with each other.

The term "separator element" refers to a material that has the ability to isolate two further materials when interposed between them. More preferably, a separator element in this context is an electrically insulating material.

The term "separator strip" refers to a "separator element" with an substantially strip-shaped form. Thus, in this context, the term "separator strip" generally refers to a strip-shaped element that has the ability to isolate two materials when interposed between them. More preferably, a separator strip in this context is an electrically insulating material.

Consistently with what has been described above, the term "conductor element" identifies a material that has the ability to conduct a current, e.g. electric current, without dispersing it significantly.

Similar to the previous arguments, the term "conductor strip" refers to a "conductor element" with an substantially strip-shaped form.

For a more complete description, it should be noted that in this document, the term "strip" (or "strip-shaped article") refers to any solid product which, within an industrial production line, is in an elongated form, i.e. having a longitudinal extension significantly greater than its transverse extension.

It is interesting to note that the strip (or "strip-shaped article") can be composed of homogeneous or heterogeneous material and can be formed by a single layer or by the superimposition of several layers.

The strip also has characteristics that allow a certain flexing during its advancing along a relative production line.

Again, according to the present context, the strip (or strip-shaped article) can for example be made by overlapping conductor and insulating layers alternated with each other and be intended to form a sandwich to be wound for making a coil intended for the production of electrochemical cells.

The term "winding" is intended to mean making a spiral structure by rotation of a strip, a ribbon or more generally a strip-shaped article about an axis, a flat surface or another structure. By winding, the strip-shaped article will form one or more turns about the axis or the structure.

The term "coil" is intended to mean any spiral structure formed by winding a strip, ribbon or more generally a strip-shaped article about an axis, a flat surface or another winding structure. Depending on the structure about which the stripshaped article is wound, the overall shape of the coil may be substantially cylindrical rather than crushed or otherwise shaped.

As mentioned above, the coil can be applied not only in the electrochemical cell sector but also in other sectors, such as for example in the capacitor sector, within which coil-shaped structures can likewise be used.

The term "closed path" is intended to mean a path along which a winding head or other element travels in which the starting point and the end point of the path substantially coincide.

The term "continuous" referred to an expression of motion, is intended to mean an operation that takes place without interruption, without there being a stop or an interruption in the operation in question. In particular, with reference to the movement of a strip or of other element, the term "continuous" indicates that the strip, or a portion thereof, is never stopped during its movement.

The term "substantially constant" referred to a measure or quantity, such as for example the speed of displacement of an object, is intended to mean that said measure or quantity maintains, over time, a value which preferably varies by a maximum of ±10%, preferably by a maximum of ±5%, preferably by a maximum of ±2%.

Similar to the above, the terms "substantially parallel" or "substantially perpendicular" are used to identify a configuration between two geometric or physical elements (e.g. two lines, two segments, two planes, etc.) that respectively satisfies the condition of parallelism or perpendicularity with a tolerance of ± 5°. Furthermore, the condition of parallelism or perpendicularity between two geometric or physical elements is also understood to be fulfilled when there is no pure translation of one element with respect to another.

In this context, the term "predefined feed path" identifies a path that an element (e.g. the strip-shaped separator element) would have to follow if the machining process were to work completely correctly.

In reality, it is often the case that the actual feed path that the element follows may differ from the predefined feed path for various reasons such as, for example, compositional irregularities or discontinuities in the element that deform in an unpredictable manner, wear zones in the guide devices of the element that change the application of forces and constraints from what was theoretically modelled, etc.

An "alignment operation" takes place when the actual feed path is substantially overlapped with the predefined feed path. Further, in the present context, the term "reference portion" is used to identify a part of an element (e.g. the edge of the strip acting as a separator element) whose position and orientation is used to define a possible difference in alignment between the predefined feed path and the actual feed path. Similarly, the term "reference" is used when related to the apparatus or a device included in it in order to identify at least one spatially constant point against which the difference in alignment of the aforementioned reference portion can be assessed.

Said alignment, therefore, is preferably achieved by bringing the reference portion in substantial overlap with the reference of the apparatus.

The term "intersects" refers to a condition whereby a first element has at least one of its points in common with a second element that intersects it. This condition is particularly evident and understandable when considering projections on the same plane of several intersecting elements.

The term "integral" referred to the movement of two or more elements, is intended to mean that these elements perform substantially the same movement and substantially simultaneously. In other words, two integral elements move together, as a single body, although they are not necessarily joined or constrained to each other. It can in fact be provided that the respective systems of movement of the two elements are coordinated in such a way as to move, when necessary, the two elements together. Furthermore, it may be provided for the use of a temporary constraint between the two elements which, for example, joins them to each other in some steps, causing them to move together, and separates them again, making them movable independently of each other.

It should also be specified that the expression "to displace an object between a first position and a second position" is intended to mean both the displacement from the first position to the second position and the displacement from the second position to the first position.

This definition applies in an analogous way to similar expressions of motion, such as for example to transfer or to move a generic object between two positions or between two zones or even between two different operating configurations.

In this context, the term "distance" between two elements, e.g. A and B, refers to the minimum distance that can be defined by considering all points of A and all points of B. In this sense, therefore, a distance between two elements is identified between their mutually most proximal points. In this context, the term "kinematically independent" is intended to mean two or more systems that are able to perform movements completely independently and separately. In other words, kinematically independent systems or devices are configured in such a way that they can carry out their intended movements without changing the position of other involved systems. It is also significant to understand that this condition of kinematic independence does not exclude that different systems or devices can cooperate and/or transfer material to each other along common and substantially overlapping segments of space.

It is further important to note that this condition of kinematic independence does not exclude that parts different and directly independent from each other have a common driving origin. In this sense, kinematically independent systems could be moved, for example, by a same drive shaft by means of different types of drive connections, while still realising their own motions that do not directly influence each other.

The term "movable" refers to portions or devices provided with the ability to move through space. It is relevant to note that these portions or devices can be movable both because they are provided with their own means of displacement ad because they are constrained to further portions configured with displacement abilities.

The terms "upstream" and "downstream" indicate operating steps that have their own specific position in the sequencing of a process.

More specifically, if operation B occurs upstream of operation A, it means that operation B will occur sequentially before said operation A.

Similarly, if operation B occurs downstream of operation A, it means that operation B will occur sequentially after said operation A.

These considerations for operating steps also apply to devices and/or portions that are positioned respectively upstream or downstream of others according to the sequential operating flow of the process considered and described.

The terms "vertical" and "horizontal" have in this context the meaning they generally have in common parlance whereby, for example, the supporting plane is horizontal and the plane perpendicular to it is vertical. In this sense, the terms "upper" and "lower" refer to different vertically spaced-apart positions and serve primarily to distinguish different elements or faces in a practical manner, but do not in any way have a limiting sense of description.

In this context, the term "in absolute value" referred to, for example, an angle of rotation (e.g. 45°) is understood to mean both an angle of rotation in a first direction (positive, +45°) equal to the indicated value and in a second direction (negative, -45°), opposite to the first, equal to the indicated value.

For greater clarity, by way of example, a clockwise rotation produced according to said angle of rotation is identified as being produced according to the first positive direction of rotation, and therefore the corresponding angle will be reported with a value greater than zero (e.g. +45°).

Consistently, a negative value of the angle of rotation indicates a rotation that occurs in a counter-clockwise direction.

The term "as complimentary" is intended to mean a configuration of a spatial element (e.g. surface) such as to fill the space not occupied by a reference element.

In particular, if a spatial surface is configured as complimentary with a reference surface, it is shaped in such a way as to substantially follow the profile of the reference surface by occupying a space not occupied by the reference surface at least in one of its surroundings. By way of non-limiting example, a spatial element configured as complimentary with a reference element with a conical extension can be made as a recess with a substantially funnel-shaped section.

The term "to interact" is intended to mean a condition that allows one to actively intervene by changing certain conditions or configurations in which an element is acting.

For example, the expression "a folding unit interposed between said dispensing unit and said winding unit and configured to interact with said strip along said feed path" is intended to mean that said folding unit is able to actively modify and define the spatial extension of the strip feed path, in particular by determining a first curved folding tract.

The term "rod" refers to an element having a solid or hollow three-dimensional body preferably developed along a main axis, which may be slab-shaped, linear, double plate, circular, 'C'-shaped, 'H'-shaped or similar. In this context, the term "rod" can be regarded as similar to "bar". The term "slab-shaped" refers to an object having a slab-like shape, i.e. having a parallelepiped body with a prevailing longitudinal development (i.e. length) and a thickness, measured perpendicular to the longitudinal development, much less than the length. This slab comprises two substantially planar, parallel and opposite surfaces.

The Applicant, in the context of the constant need to increase the performance and efficiency of its production processes, has preliminarily observed how, in a production line for an internal assembly of electrochemical cells (whether of the "stacking" or "z-folding" type or of the coil-winding type), the feed speed of the strip (or portions thereof), with respect to the unit that carries out the coupling, can constitute an important element of limitation of the production capacity of the line itself.

Furthermore, this limitation is even more critical if high precision is required in the formation of the assembly. In particular, the Applicant noted that in many applications, such as, for example, in the winding of a strip in the form of a coil for the production of electrochemical cells, a high degree of precision in the geometry of the couplings of the different materials used must be ensured in order to guarantee the required performance of the finished product.

At the same time, the Applicant has noted that the steps of interrupting and resuming feeding the strip produce undesirable reductions in the production efficiency of the process together with increased wear of the moving parts which are subjected to increased acceleration and deceleration in order to try to compensate for these negative variations in productivity.

Even more so, the Applicant noted that such interruption and resumption of feeding the strip can, in addition to increased wear and tear and thus reduced life expectancy of a device, imply misalignments related to these process discontinuities.

Analysing this aspect in detail and further elaborating on it, the Applicant noted that the alignment devices generally used tend to have rotation joints placed far apart from one another or several aligning rollers adopted, thus resulting in a worn working condition that cannot always be reproduced consistently.

Further, the Applicant noted that such a non-ideal condition of operation of the alignment device may induce cascading problems of alignment of the strip on all process steps implemented by the apparatus for the manufacture of batteries placed downstream of the alignment device.

The Applicant therefore perceived how it is possible to increase the coupling speed of the strip compared to known solutions if the strip movement is not interrupted during the different steps of the coil making process, obtaining a better strip processing precision and an increase in the average life of the alignment devices provided.

The Applicant therefore found that making an alignment device that was structurally more rigid and resistant than those of the prior art and capable of better withstanding abrupt acceleration and deceleration gave the possibility of improving the efficiency of the process for creating a battery, reducing wear and tear on the machines or components involved while increasing the precision and optimisation of the strip processing.

In a first aspect thereof, therefore, the present invention is directed to an alignment device for a strip.

Preferably, said alignment device comprises a rotation unit comprising an aligning roller rotatable about a first longitudinal axis.

Preferably, said aligning roller is configured to be in contact with said displaceable strip along a predefined feed path.

Preferably, said alignment device comprises a body on which a rotation member is housed.

Preferably, said rotation member is configured to rotate said aligning roller about a rotation axis perpendicular to said first longitudinal axis, so as to be able to align said strip with respect to said predefined feed path.

Preferably, said rotation device comprises a fixed component, integrally constrained with said body, and a movable component constrained to said aligning roller and selectively displaceable relative to said fixed component so as to allow the rotation of said aligning roller about said rotation axis.

Preferably, said alignment device comprises a rod constrained in proximity to a first portion thereof to said movable component of said rotation member and in proximity to a second portion thereof to said aligning roller.

Preferably, said second portion of said rod is opposite said first portion of said rod.

Preferably, said alignment device comprises a motor element constrained to said body at said second portion of said rod and configured to selectively rotate said rod about said rotation axis.

Preferably, said aligning roller is configured so that its projection on a reference plane perpendicular to said rotation axis intersects said rotation axis and the projection of said rotation member on said reference plane.

Thanks to this technical solution, it is possible to create an alignment device with improved structural rigidity and better able to withstand mechanical stresses, e.g. linked to sudden acceleration or deceleration.

More specifically, thanks to this technical solution, the Applicant realised that it would be able to further limit and counteract possible levers acting on the aligning roller, thereby increasing its mechanical response.

In addition, this distinctive feature introduced allows for the motor element dedicated to driving the rotation member to be fixed to or in proximity to a structural base and to act on the rotation member by means of an arm (i.e. rod). This condition produces a reduction in the inertial effects acting on the alignment device, particularly significantly if the alignment device is mounted on a movable portion selectively displaceable in space subjected to intense acceleration and deceleration.

In a second aspect thereof, the present invention is directed to an apparatus for making an internal assembly, preferably for an electrochemical cell intended for producing batteries.

Preferably, said apparatus comprises a dispensing unit configured to dispense at least one strip along a predefined feed path.

Preferably, said apparatus comprises an alignment device comprising at least in part the technical features described above.

Preferably, said alignment device is positioned along said predefined feed path and configured to displace said strip along a transverse direction with respect to said predefined feed path so as to align said strip with respect to said predefined feed path. This makes it possible to produce internal assemblies for batteries in a precise, efficient and structurally advantageous manner.

In a third aspect thereof, the present invention is directed to a method for aligning a strip, the latter intended for creating an internal assembly of an electrochemical cell for producing batteries.

Preferably, said method comprise dispensing said strip along a predefined feed path.

Preferably, said method comprises arranging an alignment device for said strip.

Preferably, said alignment device comprises a rotation unit comprising an aligning roller.

Preferably, said aligning roller is rotatable about a first longitudinal axis and configured to be in contact with said strip along said predefined feed path.

Preferably, said alignment device comprises a rotation member configured to rotate said aligning roller about a rotation axis perpendicular to said first longitudinal axis.

Preferably, said method comprises identifying an alignment difference between said strip and said predefined feed path.

Preferably, said method comprises, in the case where said difference in alignment is other than zero, aligning said strip to said predefined feed path by rotating said aligning roller about said rotation axis while maintaining the projection of said aligning roller on a reference plane, perpendicular to said rotation axis, intersecting said rotation axis and the projection of said rotation member on said reference plane.

Again, the same benefits of the invention can be obtained as described in respect of a first aspect thereof.

The present invention, in at least one of the aforesaid aspects, may have at least one of the further preferred features set forth below.

Preferably, said rotation axis is in proximity to an outer surface of said aligning roller.

Thanks to this technical solution, it is possible to align the strip while producing a selected and contained disturbance on the strip to be moved.

Preferably, said rotation axis is substantially tangent to said outer surface of said aligning roller.

In this context, the rotation axis is in proximity to the outer surface, and in particular to its tangent, when positioned at a distance therefrom equal to ± 10mm, preferably at ± 5mm and even more preferably at a distance equal to 0mm.

Thanks to said solution, the strip undergoes an alignment correction mainly for a portion placed downstream of said aligning roller, while the portion of the strip placed upstream of the aligning roller will not undergo significant alignment changes and disturbances.

This further enables more effective control of the desired alignment of the strip while reducing at the same time twisting and/or faults introduced into the strip upstream of the aligning roller.

Preferably, said rotation axis is positioned substantially equidistant from the bases of said aligning roller.

This results in a more symmetrically uniform behaviour of the aligning roller.

Preferably, said fixed component comprises a first and second abutment surface intended to receive at least part of the forces acting on the movable component.

Preferably, the projections of said first and a second abutment surface on said reference plane intersect the projection of said aligning roller on said reference plane.

This makes it possible to create an alignment device that is particularly compact and resistant to applied stress.

Preferably, said first striking surface extends along the direction of said rotation axis for at least 5mm.

Preferably, said second striking surface extends in a direction substantially perpendicular to the rotation axis.

In this way, the first abutment surface allows to provide an abutment with respect to the forces applied on the aligning roller and having radial components with respect to the rotation axis, while the second abutment surface allows to provide an abutment with respect to the forces applied on the aligning roller and having substantially parallel components with respect to the rotation axis.

Preferably, said strip is interposed between said aligning roller and said rotation member.

This makes it easy to position the rotation member and the movement actuating devices connected to it in a practical and simple manner.

Preferably, said rotation member comprises a pin and a bearing or a joint or a hinge or a curved guide and a slide configured to rotate said aligning roller about said rotation axis.

Thanks to these technical solutions, the rotation of the aligning roller can be realised in a precise, efficient and industrially advantageous manner.

The Applicant further noted that the claimed embodiments having the above- mentioned characteristics may have an aligning roller that rotates both about a real rotation axis (i.e. physically coinciding with a part of the rotation member) and about a virtual rotation axis (i.e. not physically coinciding with a part of the rotation member), thereby obtaining further design freedom as desired.

Preferably, said strip is partially wound about said aligning roller for at least 90°, more preferably between 150° and 180°.

In this way, the desired strip rotation can be applied efficiently and cost- effectively.

According to a further embodiment, said aligning roller is constrained to said rod with an allowed rotation about said first longitudinal axis by means of a first and second support element each housed in proximity to a respective first and second end of said rod.

Preferably, said rod is constrained to said movable component advantageously in proximity to an intermediate portion of said first and second support element.

This enables providing a more symmetrical behaviour to the alignment device and increases its wear resistance.

According to a further embodiment, said alignment device comprises a further aligning roller.

Preferably, said further aligning roller is housed flanked to said aligning roller.

Preferably, said further aligning roller is rotatable about a second longitudinal axis.

Preferably, said second longitudinal axis is coplanar to said first longitudinal axis.

Preferably, between said first and second longitudinal axis there is a distance depending on the amount of maximum correction required, the width of the strip and its stiffness. According to one embodiment, this distance is comprised between 50 and 5 mm, preferably between 40 and 10 mm, more preferably about 20 mm.

This makes it possible to create an alignment device that has a greater extension of the rotating support surface during the alignment steps.

This solution is more practical, particularly when large diameters of the aligning roller are required.

Preferably, said rod is made in the form of a rotating bracket.

Preferably, said aligning roller is connected at its axial ends to a first and a second sensor device respectively. Preferably, said first and second sensor devices are housed in said rotating bracket.

Preferably, said first and second sensor devices comprise a pair of annular load cells or a pair of compression load cells, respectively, to detect forces acting on said aligning roller.

In this way, it is possible to control the development of forces acting on the aligning roller and the moved strip more precisely and effectively.

According to one embodiment, said first and second sensor devices are housed within a support portion to which said aligning roller is constrained with an allowed rotation about said first longitudinal axis.

Preferably, each of said first and second annular load cells surrounds a first part of a connection body.

Preferably, said connecting body comprises a second part internally fixed to a rotoidal joint configured to allow the rotation about said first longitudinal axis and in turn externally fixed to said aligning roller.

Thanks this technical solution it is possible to monitor the forces applied by the strip to the aligning roller while minimising the radial footprint of the rotoidal joint.

According to a further embodiment, said first and second compression load cells are housed externally to said support portion and on sides axially opposite to said aligning roller.

Preferably, said support portion comprises a first and a second support bracket at or in proximity of which the two axial ends of said aligning roller are constrained with an allowed rotation.

Preferably, said first and second compression load cells are interposed between said first and second support bracket and said rotating bracket, respectively.

In this way, when the aligning roller is subjected to a force transferred by the strip, it moves consistently in that direction. The two load cells detect this displacement and convert it into a signal that can be correlated to the force on the aligning roller.

Thanks to this solution, it is therefore possible to measure and control the evolution of the forces acting on the second roller.

Furthermore, this technical solution becomes advantageously practical when, for example, one does not have the possibility of inserting load cells inside the roller one wishes to control.

Preferably, said aligning roller has a cylindrical development.

In said sense, said cylindrical development is a function of said first longitudinal axis.

In this way, an advantageous and uniform feed and control of the strip is realised.

According to further embodiments, said aligning roller has concave or convex development.

Preferably, said aligning roller has an zone of maximum concavity or convexity.

Thanks to this embodiment, the strip tends to move spontaneously towards the zone of maximum concavity or convexity.

According to embodiments, this zone of maximum concavity or convexity may be defined at a central longitudinal zone equidistant from the longitudinal ends of the aligning roller.

This make it possible to ensure that the strip is spontaneously moved towards the central longitudinal zone of the aligning roller, keeping it further away from the axial ends.

In embodiments, this zone of maximum concavity or convexity can be spaced from said central longitudinal zone of the aligning roller.

Thanks to this asymmetrical configuration, the strip can be guided in an even more specific and particular way.

According to further embodiment, the aligning roller has a conical development, i.e. tapered towards one of its longitudinal ends.

Thanks to this embodiment, the strip can be made to tend to move spontaneously according to the development of the tapering. For example, the strip may move spontaneously towards the zone of the roller that has a smaller diameter. It is relevant to note that all embodiments described in the present document relating to said aligning roller can also be applied to the case where the further aligning roller is also present.

Preferably, said apparatus comprises a supply unit for said strip placed downstream of said dispensing unit along said predefined feed path and comprising said alignment device.

Preferably, said apparatus comprises a coupling unit, placed downstream of said supply unit.

Preferably, said coupling unit is configured to combine a plurality of conductor elements and at least one separator element in a predefined structure, so as to form an internal assembly of said electrochemical cell.

Preferably, said strip is at least one of said conductor elements and said at least one separator element.

In this way, the internal assembly can be realised precisely.

Preferably, said supply unit comprises a movable portion configured to reversibly move along a displacement direction between a first configuration distal to said dispensing unit and a second configuration proximal to said dispensing unit.

Preferably, said movable portion comprises said alignment device.

This makes it possible to obtain a coupling of the strip wherein the alignment is continuously checked and corrected even during the steps in which the movable portion displaces itself to avoid interruption in feeding the strip.

Thanks this technical solution, it is therefore possible to further improve the process of continuously feeding and coupling of the strip by correcting any misalignment even while the movable portion is in action.

Preferably, said alignment device is positioned immediately upstream of said coupling unit.

In this way, any misalignment can be checked and corrected just before the coupling of the materials so that a more precise internal assembly can be produced.

According to one embodiment, said strip is a separator strip. Preferably, said internal assembly of said electrochemical cell is a structure formed by a stack of conductor foils individually separated by said separator strip.

Preferably, said coupling unit is a stacking unit of said conductor foils separated by said separator strip.

Preferably, said supply unit comprises said alignment device.

In this way, an internal assembly in the form of a multilayer stacked structure for prismatic batteries can be precisely and efficiently realised.

According to a further embodiment, said strip is at least one of a plurality of strips comprising a pair of conductor strips and a pair of separator strips.

Preferably, said internal assembly of said electrochemical cell is a coil formed by said conductor strips and said separator strips.

Preferably, said coupling unit is a winding unit of said pair of conductor strips and said pair of separator strips.

Preferably, said supply unit comprises said alignment device.

In this way, an internal assembly in the form of a multilayer wound coil for cylindrical coils can be precisely and efficiently realised.

According to one embodiment, said supply unit comprises a respective alignment device for each of said conductor strips and said separator strips.

In this way, it is possible to precisely control the positioning of all elements of the internal assembly during its creation.

In embodiments, the alignment device comprises a sensor for alignment of the strip placed close to the aligning roller of the alignment device.

According to some embodiments, there are provided two sensors, one placed upstream and one downstream of the alignment device.

Preferably, both the sensor placed upstream of the alignment device and the sensor placed downstream of the alignment device are positioned at a respective distance from the first longitudinal axis of the aligning roller comprised between 50 and 15 mm, preferably about equal to 20 mm. It is understood that the distance between the sensor placed upstream and the first longitudinal axis may differ from the distance between the sensor placed downstream and the first longitudinal axis, as long as both are within the range described above.

Preferably, the distance of such sensors with respect to the first longitudinal axis is measured from the most proximal portion of the sensor (or, alternatively, from its sensing element).

Preferably, said alignment device comprises a fin opening integral with said alignment device and configured to make said plurality of fins pass.

Thanks to this solution, it will then be possible to size the position and extension of the fin opening in such a way as to guarantee safe movement of the alignment device during the desired actions, benefiting from an innovative spectrum of types of interactions between the fins themselves and the aforementioned device.

Preferably, said movable portion comprises a folding unit configured to fold said plurality of fins about an axis parallel to said longitudinal extension direction of said at least one strip.

Preferably, said folding unit is placed upstream of said alignment device.

In this way, a predetermined orientation of the plurality of fins can be preserved or effectively guaranteed.

Preferably, said folding unit is housed on said movable portion.

In this way, it is possible to perform a further plurality of operations while maintaining continuous strip feeding.

Preferably, said alignment device comprises a sensor to detect a misalignment of said strip with respect to said predefined feed path.

Thanks to this solution, it is possible to precisely, quickly and uniformly quantify the amount of misalignment, if any, to be corrected.

Preferably, said sensor is an optical or laser sensor.

In this way, the benefits described above can be produced in a cost-effective and efficient manner. Preferably, said apparatus comprises a processing unit operatively connected to said sensor and configured to process data collected by said sensor and to identify a correction of any misalignment between an actual feed path of said strip and said predefined feed path. Furthermore, said processing unit is operatively connected to different types of the alignment devices or groups according to the present invention and configured to send instructions to the latter to realise a desired alignment correction movement.

This makes it possible to produce the necessary alignment in an automated, fast and efficient manner.

Preferably, said method comprises arranging a movable portion downstream of said dispensing unit and comprising one or more of said alignment devices.

Preferably, said method comprises aligning said strip relative to said feed path by reversibly moving said movable portion along a displacement direction d between a first configuration distal to said dispensing unit and a second configuration proximal to said dispensing unit, so as to continuously supply and feed said strip.

Preferably, said method comprises supplying said strip to said alignment device in a supply direction substantially parallel to said rotation axis.

Preferably, said method comprises, in the case where said difference in alignment is other than zero, actuating said alignment device to align said strip to said predefined feed path by engaging said strip at said main body in such a way as to maintain a safe distance between said plurality of fins and at said alignment device during the displacement of said alignment device.

In this way, a folding or pre-folding of the plurality of fins realised at a step upstream of the alignment device can be preserved or guaranteed. It is evident that a great advantage of this operating method is that it allows for an effective alignment by providing for an effective configuration of the device that synergistically aligns the main body of the strip and controls the orientation of the fins while avoiding unwanted deformation or damage.

For the person skilled in the art, it is clear that the safety distance is measured with respect to the part of the alignment device closest to the plurality of fins.

Preferably, said safety distance is substantially constant during the displacement of said alignment device 205. Preferably, said safety distance can be between 0 and 7.5 mm, more preferably about 2 mm.

This ensures a functional balance between the compactness of the device and the safety of the processes involved.

Preferably, said method comprises arranging along said predefined feed path a supply unit comprising said alignment device.

Preferably, said method comprises arranging a coupling unit configured to combine a plurality of conductor elements and at least one separator element in a predefined structure so as to form said internal assembly of said electrochemical cell.

In this way, the internal assembly can be realised precisely.

According to one embodiment, said method comprise arranging a stacking unit as a coupling unit.

Preferably, said method comprise dispensing said strip as a separator strip.

Preferably, said method comprises stacking said separator strip by means of said stacking unit creating a structure comprising a stack of conductor elements in the form of conductor foils individually separated by said separator strip,

Preferably, said method comprises creating thereby said internal assembly of said electrochemical cell for a prismatic battery.

In this way, an internal assembly with a stacked multilayer structure can be created efficiently and industrially. Preferably, said method comprise arranging a winding unit as a coupling unit.

Preferably, said method comprises dispensing a plurality of strips comprising a pair of conductor strips and a pair of separator strips of which said strip is at least one.

Preferably, said method comprises winding said plurality of strips by means of said winding unit, isolating each one of said pair of conductor strips with a respective separator strip of said pair of separator strips.

Preferably, said method comprises creating thereby said internal assembly in the form of a coil of said electrochemical cell for a cylindrical battery.

In this way, an internal assembly with a multilayer wound structure can be efficiently and industrially created.

Preferably, said method comprise folding said plurality of fins by means of a folding unit.

Preferably, said folding takes place upstream of said alignment of said strip with respect to said feed path.

The characteristics and advantages of the invention will become clearer from the detailed description of a preferred embodiment thereof, shown by way of nonlimiting example, with reference to the appended drawings wherein:

- figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of the apparatus according to the present invention;

- figures 2, 3 and 4 are respectively a perspective view, a side view and a schematic view of a folding unit included in an embodiment according to the present invention;

- figure 5 is a side view of the apparatus comprising a movable portion and a plurality of the alignment devices according to the present invention,

- figures 6 and 7 are perspective views of an alignment device according to an embodiment of the present invention,

- figure 8 is a top view of the alignment device of figure 7.

- figure 9 is a perspective view of a section according to plan IX in figure 8,

- figures 9b, c, d are perspective views of a section according to plan IXb, c, d of figure 8,

- figure 10 is a perspective view of a section according to the plan X of figure 8,

- figure 11 is a detailed perspective view of an element in figure 6,

- figures 12 and 13 are perspective views of a further embodiment of the present invention

- figure 14 is a perspective view of a section according to plan IX of figure 8 relating to the detail of a further embodiment.

With reference initially to figure 1 , 100 denotes an apparatus for creating an internal assembly 3, preferably in the form of a coil B, realised in accordance with the present invention.

In embodiments of the present invention not shown in the accompanying figures, the internal assembly 3 may comprise a structure consisting of a stack of conductor foils individually separated or, alternatively, a multilayer structure of alternating separator foils and conductor foils.

In preferred embodiments, the apparatus 100 is intended to perform the coupling of a strip 80 or a strip-shaped article N, made from a plurality of strips, intended for the production of electrochemical cells.

It is however understood that this represents a possible embodiment example and that the apparatus 100 according to the present invention may be intended for coupling strip-shaped articles also intended for different uses, even in fields other than those relating to the production of electrochemical cells.

For example, still in the field of energy storage, the present invention can find application in the production of other wound components intended for batteries or supercapacitors.

In general and still with reference to figure 1 , the apparatus 100 is configured to supply at least one strip 80, by means of a dispensing unit 200, and couple it, by a coupling unit 300, thus creating the internal assembly 3.

For illustrative and non-limiting purposes only, in the following embodiments the coupling unit 300 will be described as the winding unit.

For example, the apparatus 100 may also be used in the context of a production line for electrochemical cell coils B, in which the strip-shaped article N is made by a combination of several strips 80, in detail a plurality of four strips N1 , N2, N3, N4 that are overlapped between them forming the strip-shaped article N wound in the coil B.

It is clear to the person skilled in the art that the embodiments described below regarding the use of the strip 80 are also immediately implementable in the aforementioned plurality of the strips N1 , N2, N3, N4.

Preferably, the plurality of strips N1 , N2, N3, N4 comprises two conductor strips (N1 and N3) and two separator strips (N2 and N4).

Still with reference to figure 1 , it can be noted the presence of a supply unit 2 interposed between dispensing unit 200 and the winding unit 300.

More comprehensively, the dispensing unit 200 and the winding unit 300 are configured to respectively dispense and wind strip 80 along a feed path PA. This clarification aims at clearly defining the feed direction of the strip 80 and the consequent clear possibility of identifying process steps that are upstream or downstream with respect to the feed path PA.

Still with reference to the embodiments shown in figures 1 , the strip 80 or strips N1 , N2, N3, N4 are supplied by special dispensing devices 6 comprised in the dispensing unit 200.

This strip 80 or plurality of strips N1 , N2, N3, N4 may be strips made of polymeric material, more preferably polyolefins and even more preferably polyethylene, polypropylene or their co-polymers.

These strips have such a yielding nature that they can be rolled up on themselves without suffering critical structural damage and/or producing fractures in the material itself.

Figure 1 shows an embodiment of the dispensing devices 6 of the strip (e.g. separators or conductors), which may be large coils wherein a strip is collected so as to be unwound and then supplied during the operation of the apparatus 100.

The strips obtained from the dispensing devices 6 are supplied to the supply unit 2 (placed downstream of the dispensing unit 6) which, in preferred embodiments, is responsible for combining the plurality of strips N1 , N2, N3, N4 with each other so as to form the strip-shaped article N before it is wound by the winding unit 300. It will be appreciated that the strip 80 or the plurality of strips N1 , N2, N3, N4, before being supplied to supply unit 2 may further pass through further units e.g. for preliminary processing on the strips.

In preferred embodiments, the strip 80 or the plurality of strips N1 , N2, N3, N4 are fed continuously, preferably into the supply unit 2.

In other words, each strip, or possibly one or more of the aforementioned strips, is fed by the dispensing devices 6 and introduced into the supply unit 2 without ever stopping, proceeding at a speed greater than zero and preferably substantially constant.

However, there may be the need to provide for interruptions of one or more of the strips dispensed or to slow down feeding one or more of the strips for other operating needs related to the specific processing being carried out.

For example, while producing coils intended for creating electrochemical cells, it can be provided that the strips that form anode and cathode respectively are not present in the terminal portion of the strip-shaped article that is wound to form the coil. In other words, it can be provided that the coil has a terminal and/or initial fin wherein only the two overlapped separator strips are present.

For this and other purposes, an accumulation device (not shown in the figures) configured to accumulate an amount of at least one of said plurality of strips N1 , N2, N3, N4 or the generic strip 80 may be provided.

According to preferred embodiments such as the one shown, for example, in figures 2, 4, 19 and 20, the strip 80 (generic example of characteristics also common to the plurality of strips N1 , N2, N3, N4 as argued above) comprises a main body 81 having main development according to its longitudinal direction L.

In further embodiments, the strip 80 comprises a plurality of fins 82 transversely projecting from the main body 81 with respect to the longitudinal direction L. figures 2, 4, 19 and 20 show that these transverse fins 82 (or "side fins") extend projecting from a larger side of the main body 81 of the strip 80.

It can be noted that when the actual feed path of the strip 80 can be overlapped with the predefined feed path PA, then the longitudinal direction L substantially coincides with the predefined feed path PA.

Preferably, the plurality of fins 82 is realised by cutting or etching or ablation of the strip 80.

The plurality fins 82 can have various shapes and can be represented, when projected onto a reference plane, as, for example, trapezoidal, square, rectangular, triangular, rounded or similarly shaped two-dimensional structures.

It is interesting to note that it can be noted that the fins 82 are shaped so that, once the coil B is made, they can overlap on each other at least partially so as to create one continuous conductor element.

In order to be able to fold these fins 82 they are at least partially separated from each other by a through hole (or empty space or opening or "gap") extending in a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction L of the main body 81 .

It is therefore clear that during any processes implemented by the apparatus 100 the plurality of fins 82 can change their spatial orientation according to a predetermined pattern.

This is shown, schematically, for example, in figures 2 and 4 in which the plurality of fins is inclined with respect to the central body 81 by a fin inclination angle of, for example, between 30° and 60° in absolute value, more preferably substantially equal to 45° in absolute value.

With reference to figure 7, a preferred embodiment of the alignment device 205 is shown, comprising an fin opening 219 configured to allow them to pass through without undergoing undesirable damage or deformation along the feed path PA.

It is relevant to note that the technical features relating to the presence of the fin opening 219 can be freely combined with the various technical elements described in the various embodiments presented in this document.

Considering figure 1 , it can be noted that the supply unit 2 preferably comprises a movable portion 250 configured to move in reciprocating motion along its own displacement direction d preferably substantially parallel to a portion of the feed path PA. In other words, the movable portion 250 is configured to be able to displace with respect to the advancement of the strip 80 (or the plurality of the strips N1 , N2, N3, N4) thus causing a relative feed acceleration or slowdown.

It is interesting to note that in the event that the movable portion 250 advances by exactly the same amount as the plurality of strip 80 (or of the strips N1 , N2, N3, N4), a condition of relative speed equal to zero is created, i.e. a "moving stop" condition in which the movable portion 250 and the strip 80 (or the plurality of strips N1 , N2, N3, N4) are between them “stationary” although in motion with respect to an external reference system. This configuration makes it possible to perform specific tasks that would normally require stopping feeding the strip (e.g. selective retention and movement by grippers of a portion of the strip, cutting a strip into two parts, etc.) continuously without ever blocking the advancement of the strip.

In other words, when the movable portion 250 moves from an initial position and advances along the feed path PA according to substantially the direction d with a speed equal to that of the strip 80, it is able to realise a kind of buffer condition of the strip which can then be advantageously recovered as required simply by returning the movable portion 250 to its initial position by means of a displacement in the opposite direction to the advancement of the strip 80.

In the preferred embodiment shown in figure 1 , the movable portion 250 moves by pure translation in an alternating manner in the direction d, which is inclined at 45° with respect to the vertical.

In alternative embodiments, the movable portion 250 can move in different directions, e.g. horizontally.

In further embodiments pertaining to the present invention, such an alternating translation movement of the movable portion is replaceable by a more complex law of motion comprising a first forward tract (e.g. horizontal), a second displacement tract (e.g. vertical) a third backward displacement tract (e.g., horizontal, equal in modulus to the first horizontal feed tract but opposite in direction), and a fourth displacement tract (e.g., vertical, equal in modulus to the second vertical displacement tract but opposite in direction) enabling the movable portion 250 to return to its initial starting point once the intended law of motion has been completed, thereby realising a closed path.

In some embodiments such as the one shown in figure 1 , the strip N1 is a conductor strip oriented along the supply unit 2 substantially parallel to the displacement direction d of the movable portion 250. In an alternative embodiment of the present invention not shown in the figure, the displacement direction d of the movable portion 250 is horizontal and corresponds to the orientation of the conductor strip N3 along the supply unit 2.

The movement of the movable portion 250 is carried out by motorised displacement devices not shown in the figures, which preferably comprise rails or slides, moved by means of strips or racks.

The movable portion 250 comprises, in the first embodiment versions described herein, at least one alignment device 205 constrained to it and configured to align the strip 80 to the predefined feed path PA.

In more detail and still with reference to figure 1 , the movable portion 250 comprises a movable input section 251 from which the strip 80 or the plurality of strips N1 , N2, N3, N4, which will then be wound to form the coil B by the winding unit 300, enter.

Preferably, the winding unit 300 comprises three winding heads 310 that can be moved by rotation with respect to the movable portion 250.

In preferred embodiments, each of the winding heads 310 allows for efficient and continuous winding of the strip 80 or the strip-shaped article N to form the desired coil B. It is interesting to note that the plurality of winding heads 310 allows for the continuous winding of coils B without having to stop the feeding of the strip 80.

In some embodiments not shown in the figures, the winding unit 300 comprises a rotatable body that ca rotate about its own rotation axis.

This rotatable body supports a plurality of extending arms, which are preferably hinged at one of their first ends to the rotatable body and which house at their second end, opposite the first, respective winding heads 310 for the continuous creation of the coils B.

For the sake of completeness, reference is now made to the example in figure 7 to show how the alignment device 205 is configured to move the strip 80 so as to align a portion of reference 81 a of the strip 80 with respect to a reference 81 b of the apparatus 100. According to preferred embodiments, the reference portion 81 a is, for example, advantageously a lateral edge of the main body 81 or a creasing edge from which the plurality of fins 82 project.

Still considering figure 7, it can be noted that reference 81 b is a spatial point identified at an element of the alignment device 205. Furthermore, the set reference can be a point, or a spatial segment or other specifically predefined geometric elements. Preferably, the alignment device 205 comprises a sensor 260', which can be an optical sensor, a photo/video camera, or similar technical solution.

The sensor 260' is configured to detect any difference in alignment AAII between the strip 80 and the predefined feed path PA. In particular, in line with what has been argued above, it is advantageous to determine this difference in alignment by noting any variation in distance between the portion of reference 81 a and reference 81 b.

Preferably, the sensor 260' is configured to acquire information with a certain sampling frequency of the desired signal depending, for example, also on the feed speed of the strip 80 itself.

This sampling can be carried out either continuously or discontinuously with a predefined acquisition frequency.

Now with reference to figure 5, it can be noted that in the movable portion 250, four alignment devices 205 are preferably installed, which are placed upstream of the winding unit 300 and each acting on one of the strips N1 , N2, N3, N4, each comprising a respective fin opening 219.

It is interesting to note that, in the event that the alignment difference AAII detected by the sensor 260' is other than zero, it is provided actuating the alignment device 205 to align strip 80 to the predefined feed path PA by engaging the strip 80 at the main body 81 in such a way as to maintain a safety distance Ds between the plurality of fins 82 and the alignment device 205.

According to further embodiments of said method, the safety distance Ds is substantially constant during the displacement of said alignment device 205. For example, this can be between 0 and 7.5 mm, more preferably about 2 mm.

Furthermore, the embodiment of figure 5 advantageously comprises two other alignment devices, which can be realised according to the teachings of the present invention or other technical solutions, placed immediately upstream of the winding unit 300 and each acting on one of the two conductor strips N1 , N3.

In the embodiment shown in figure 1 , the plurality of the alignment devices 205 is preferably positioned in proximity to the movable input section 251 .

In more detail, each alignment device 205' shown in figure 5 is configured to selectively move the strip 80 so as to align its reference portion 81 a with respect to the reference 81 b of the apparatus 100 by means of a rotation of the reference portion 81a about a transverse axis, preferably perpendicular, to the longitudinal direction L and the main body 81 of the strip 80.

With reference to figures 6 and 7, it can be noted that the alignment device 205 comprises a rotation unit 210 including an aligning roller 220 configured to rotate about its first longitudinal axis 220X so as to be in contact with the strip 80. Further, the alignment device 205 comprises a body 230 (shown in detail in figure 11 ) preferably integrally constrained to the movable portion 250 and on which there is housed a rotation member 232 configured to rotate the aligning roller 220 about a rotation axis 220Y substantially perpendicular to the first longitudinal axis 220X.

As can be noted from figure 6, the aligning roller 220 is configured so that its projection 220P on a reference plane XZ, perpendicular to the rotation axis 220Y, intersects the rotation axis 220Y itself and the projection 232P of the rotation member 232 on the reference plane XZ. In more detail, it can be seen that the aligning roller 220, having an substantially cylindrical shape, projects an substantially rectangular outline onto the reference plane XZ, while the reference member 232 projects an substantially circular outline onto the reference plane XZ. These elements will be described more fully below.

Preferably, the rotation axis 220Y is positioned substantially equidistant from the bases of the aligning roller 220.

With reference to figures 9 and 10, it can be noted that the rotation member 232 comprises a fixed component 232a integrally constrained to the body 230 (and thus to the movable portion 250) and a movable component 232b constrained to the aligning roller 220 and selectively displaceable relative to the fixed component 232a so as to allow the rotation of the aligning roller 220 about the rotation axis 220Y.

More particularly, the rotation member 232 preferably comprises a pin associated with a rotating bearing 232b and a box-like body 232a configured to rotate said aligning roller 220 about said rotation axis 220Y. Specifically, as shown in more detail in figure 9, in this embodiment, the fixed component is represented by the body 230 to which the external wall of the rotating bearing 232a is integrally constrained, while the movable component is represented by the pin 232b integrally constrained to the internal wall of the rotating bearing with free rotation about the rotation axis 220Y thanks to the balls interposed between the internal wall and the external wall of the bearing itself.

Alternative embodiments to those mentioned above involve a joint or hinge or a curved guide and slide as the respective combinations of fixed 232a and movable 232b components.

It is interesting to note that the fixed component 232a comprises a first and a second abutment surface 232a1 , 232a2, intended to receive at least in part the forces acting on the movable component 232b during use, and in particular rotation about the rotation axis 220Y, of the aligning roller 220.

In fact, with reference to figure 9, it can be seen that the outer wall 232a1 of the rotating bearing (integrally constrained to the housing 230) is intended to provide the abutment for the forces applied on the aligning roller 220 and having radial components with respect to the rotation axis 220Y, while the upper wall of the rotating bearing (in contact with the lower wall of the pin 232b) is intended to provide the abutment for the forces applied on the aligning roller 220 and having components parallel to the rotation axis 220Y. In particular, it is noted that the pin 232b is integrally constrained on ends opposite to two respective rods (or arms or plates) 231 so that the bearing (or the plurality of bearings if present) acts as an abutment for both possible directions of actuation of the forces applied on the aligning roller 220 having components parallel to the rotation axis 220Y

It is noted that the first abutment surface 232a1 , in order to provide such an abutment with respect to the forces applied on the aligning roller 220 and having radial components with respect to the rotation axis 220Y, extends along the direction of said rotation axis 220Y for at least 5mm while the second abutment surface 232a2 extends in a direction substantially perpendicular to the rotation axis 220Y.

Figure 7 shows that the strip 80 is preferably interposed between the aligning roller 220 and the rotation member 232.

Still with reference to figure 7, it can be noted that the space in which the strip 80 is made to pass comprises the fin opening 219 which moves integrally with the aligning roller 220.

Further preferably, the strip 80 is partially wound about the aligning roller 220 for at least 90°, more preferably for an angle subtended at the centre of the aligning roller 220 comprised between 150° and 180°. In these configurations, it is possible to pass the fins 82 even if bent according to the fin angle between 30° and 60° in absolute value without producing harmful contact with the alignment device 205.

With reference to figures 6 and 9, it can be noted that each rod (or arm or plate) of the pair of rods 231 is integrally constrained in proximity to its first end 231a to an upper and lower portion of the movable component, respectively.

Furthermore, the aligning roller 220 is constrained with an allowed rotation in proximity to a second end 231 b, opposite the first end 231a, of the upper rod 231 . Preferably, the rods 231 are substantially slab-shaped and are integrally constrained to the pin 232b by a plurality of screws or similar clamping devices.

It can be noted from figure 11 that the body 230 preferably has a substantially parallelepiped shape comprising a seat 236 shaped to receive the pair of rotating bearings 232a and the pin 232b. In this case, it can be noted that the seat 236 has a substantially cylindrical shape and is positioned at one end of the body 230.

According to a preferred embodiment, the body 230 develops about the seat 236 with substantially uniform thickness, thus presenting a rounded end close to the seat 236.

Still with reference to figure 11 , the body 230 comprises a central hole 237 which passes through in a direction parallel to the rotation axis 220Y and has a preferably substantially rectangular cross-section.

In addition, the body 230 comprises a cavity 239 ending above and below in a pair of oblong openings 238 positioned in proximity to the end opposite to that in which the seat 236 is located and shaped to guide the displacement of the pair of rods 231 during their rotation.

The cavity 239 appears to be communicating with the outside of the body 230 not only at the pair of oblong openings 238 but also through a further lateral opening.

With reference to the embodiment shown in figure 9, it can be noted that the aligning roller 220 can have cylindrical development with respect to the first longitudinal axis 220X. figure 9b shows another embodiment in which the aligning roller 220 has convex development, while figure 9c shows a further embodiment in which the aligning roller 220 has concave development. In both cases described here, these convexities and concavities are to be understood with respect to the first longitudinal axis 220X.

Again, the embodiment examples shown in figures 9b and 9c exhibit the maximum convexity and concavity substantially at a longitudinally central zone (or axially central zone) of the aligning roller 220. In embodiments not shown in the figures, such convexity and concavity maxima can be defined in portions of the aligning roller 220 other than the longitudinally central zone.

It is interesting to note that in figure 9d a further embodiment is shown, the aligning roller has a conical development, i.e. tapered towards one of its longitudinal ends. In the example case, the direction of tapering is preferably towards the second end 231 b of the rod 231 .

Now with reference to figures 9 and 10, it can be noted that the pin 232b housed in the seat 236 is constrained to the pair of rods 231 both above and below at the first end 231 a of each rod.

In the embodiment shown as an example in figure 9, the upper rod has the two opposing surfaces with greater extension on which the pin as the first rotating element 231 on the lower surface and the aligning roller 220 on the upper surface are respectively constrained.

With reference to figures 7 and 9, the pair of rods 231 hinged on the pin 231 are substantially identical in shape and extension and are integrally constrained together by means of a spacer 240 (in this example in the form of a ring) placed in contact with the lower face of the upper rod and the upper face of the lower rod, respectively. The constraint between the pair of rods 231 and the ring (or spacer) 240 is preferably made by means of screws as shown in figures 9 and 10.

This rod-pair (or double-arm) configuration serves to increase the rigidity of the rotating support through which the aligning roller 220 is placed in rotation, thus conferring less deformability on the alignment device 205.

It is interesting to note, with reference to figure 11 , that the central hole 237 of the body 230 is shaped to accommodate the spacer 240 and to allow it to move freely within it while the pair of rods 231 performs a rotation about the rotation axis 220Y less than or equal to about 10° in absolute value, more preferably less than or equal to about 4° in absolute value.

Still with reference to figures 9 and 10, it can be noted that the alignment device 205 comprises a motor element 234 with a drive shaft 235a rotatable about its longitudinal axis.

Preferably, the motor element 234 is a stepper, brushless motor or similar technical solution of the electrical or pneumatic type.

With reference to figures 10 and 11 , it can be noted that the drive shaft 235a is realised as a trapezoidal screw, preferably a recirculating ball screw, and housed within the cavity 239 ending in the pair of oblong openings 238 formed in the body 230. In more detail, it can be noted that the trapezoidal screw 235a, preferably a recirculating ball screw, is inserted into the cavity 239 passing through the aforementioned further side opening.

According to one embodiment, a flanged nut 235b is housed on the trapezoidal screw 235a, preferably with recirculating balls. Said flanged nut 235b further comprises an upper and a lower tooth projecting vertically and from opposite sides from its outer surface.

From figures 10 and 11 , it can be noted that each oblong opening 238 of the body 230 is configured to have the largest dimension aligned with the longitudinal axis of the trapezoidal screw 235a so that the upper and lower teeth of the flange nut 235b can move freely within them while the flange nut 235b slides on the trapezoidal screw 235a.

Further and again with reference to figures 9 and 10, it can be noted that the pair of rods 231 comprises in proximity to each second end 231 b a respective pair of seats 235c each configured to receive and engage by shape interference with a respective tooth of the flanged nut 235b. Preferably, a respective bearing is interposed between each tooth and the respective seat 235c engaging by interference fit.

In this way it is possible, by driving the motor element 234 and consequent rotation of the trapezoidal screw 235a, to selectively rotate the pair of rods 231 about the rotation axis 220Y.

As shown in figure 10 the electric motor 234 can be mounted in a preferred orientation, for example perpendicular with respect to the rotation axis 220Y, or, according to embodiments not shown in the figures, vertically by aligning the motor shaft 235a with the rotating member 232 (i.e. in the example considered the combination of the pair of bearings and the coaxial pin) thus arranging the motor shaft 235a vertically.

As can be noted from figures 7, 8, 9 and 10, the aligning roller 220 is constrained to the upper rod at its second end 231 b by means of a rigid support preferably in the form of a square. Preferably, the bracket is designed in such a way as to determine a sufficient opening width for fins 219.

Depending on the preferred embodiment, the aligning roller 220 is constrained to the rigid support with granted rotation about the first longitudinal axis 220X by means of a joint, an unidirectional joint or selectively actuatable in rotation by means of a motor element (not shown in the figures).

According to a further embodiment shown in figure 12, the aligning roller 220 is constrained to the upper rod 231 with an allowed rotation about the first longitudinal axis 220X by means of a first and a second support element each housed in proximity to a respective first and second end of said rod.

Still with reference to figure 12, it can be noted that, in this specific embodiment, the rod 231 extends on the side opposite to the second portion 231 b beyond the point of constraint with the movable component of the rotating member 232, now defining a rotating bracket that accommodates, in proximity to the two respective ends, the first and second support elements for the aligning roller 220.

Again, the aligning roller 220 is constrained to the first and second support elements with an allowed rotation about the first longitudinal axis 220X by means of joints, unidirectional joints or selectively actuatable in rotation by means of a motor element (not shown in figures).

In more detail and according to preferred embodiments, the aligning roller 220 is connected at its axial ends respectively to a first and a second sensor device 1001 , 1002 housed on or in the rotating bracket 231 .

With reference to figure 12, it can be noted that the first and second sensor devices 1001 , 1002 comprise a pair of load cells 218c', 218d' respectively, for compression to detect forces acting on said aligning roller 220.

In the embodiment shown, the first and second load cells 218c', 218d' for compression are housed externally to the support portion 215d' and on sides axially opposite to the aligning roller 220. As can be noted, the support portion 215d' comprises a first and a second support bracket at which the two axial ends of said aligning roller 220 are constrained with an allowed rotation. In addition, the first and second load cell 218c', 218d' for compression are respectively interposed between the first and second support bracket and the rotating bracket 231.

Advantageously, the load cells for compression are configured to detect the force F applied on the aligning roller 220 according to a preferred orientation (e.g. vertical as shown by way of example in figure 12).

Further, with reference now to figure 13, a further embodiment is shown in which the alignment device 205 comprises a further aligning roller.

For the sake of clarity in this case 220a identifies the aligning roller and 220b the further aligning roller.

As can be noted from figure 13, the further aligning roller 220b is housed alongside the aligning roller 220a.

Again, consistently with what has been described above, the aligning roller 220a is rotatable about a first longitudinal axis 220aX while the further aligning roller 220b is rotatable about a second longitudinal axis 220bX.

Preferably, the second longitudinal axis 220bX is coplanar to the first longitudinal axis 220aX. Furthermore, between the first longitudinal axis 220aX and the second longitudinal axis 220bX there is a distance of between 40 and 10 mm, more preferably about 20 mm.

Advantageously and as shown in figures 12 and 13, the support(s) present and configured to provide abutment to the aligning roller with an allowed rotation may comprise through holes to lighten its structure without compromising its overall rigidity.

Now with reference to figure 14, it can be noted that in this further embodiment the first and second sensor devices 1001 , 1002 are housed within the support portion 215d' to which the aligning roller 220 is constrained with an allowed rotation about its first longitudinal axis 220X. Each of the first and second annular load cells 1001 a, 1002a surrounds a first part of a connection body 601 , which has a second part 602 internally fixed to a rotoidal joint 610 configured to allow the rotation about the first longitudinal axis 220X and in turn externally fixed to the aligning roller 220.

It is interesting to note that the different embodiments described above can be freely combined between them as required by the person skilled in the art.

The aligning roller 220 comprises an outer surface that is intended for contact with the strip 80. With particular reference to figure 8, it can be noted that the rotation axis 220Y is preferably tangent to the outer surface of the aligning roller 220. Even more preferably, the rotation axis 220Y is tangent to the outer surface of the aligning roller 220 and equidistant from the bases of the roller.

In preferred embodiments, the aligning roller 220 is made of polymer or metal.

Preferably, the pair of rods 231 and the body 230 of the alignment device 205 are made of steel.

Further, figure 6 shows a possible reference 81 b of the aligning roller 220 positioned in proximity to an end thereof.

Now with reference to figure 7, it can be noted that the alignment device 205 is preferably interposed between two further rollers guiding the strip 80 along the predefined feed path PA, these two further rollers being substantially aligned with each other, preferably horizontally, and offset from the aligning roller 220 so that the predefined feed path PA of the strip 80 imposed by these three rollers defines a trajectory similar to an inverted "U" or "Q".

In this operating condition, the strip 80 is in contact with the outer surface of the aligning roller 220 for a distance subtended by an angle at the centre of the aligning roller 220 equal to about 180°. In alternative embodiments not shown in the figures, this angle at the centre can be comprised between 90° and 270°.

Still with reference to figure 7, it can be noted that the strip 80 preferably initiates the contact with the aligning roller 220 in a direction that is parallel to the rotation axis 220Y.

In other words, the strip 80 is fed to the alignment device 205 in a feed direction DA substantially parallel to the rotation axis 220Y. Still with reference to figure 7, the further roller positioned immediately downstream of the aligning roller 220 is, preferably, a first folding roller 13 of a folding unit 1 described in more detail below and depicted in figures 2, 3 and 4. In other embodiments not shown in the figures, the feed direction DA can be transverse to the rotation axis 220Y.

The characteristics of the alignment device 205 can then be further enhanced by positioning the folding unit 1 also included in the movable portion 250 immediately downstream of it.

Still with reference to figure 1 , it can be noted that the folding unit 1 is also preferably housed in proximity to the movable input section 251 of the movable portion 250, even more preferably immediately downstream of the alignment device 205.

According to preferred embodiments of the present invention, the folding unit 1 is placed immediately downstream of the first type of the alignment device 205.

With reference to figures 2 and 3, it can be noted that the previously described folding unit 1 may comprise a first curved abutment 10. This first curved abutment element 10 comprises in turn a convex curved abutment surface 11 and a folding curb 12 projecting from said convex curved abutment surface 11 .

In such a case, the term "convex" with reference to the convex curved abutment surface 11 as represented, for example, in figure 2 or 3, identifies a surface having a concavity oriented towards the opposite side of the surface that is in contact with the strip 80 when in use.

For further clarity and completeness, a comparison between a concave and a convex surface will be discussed below.

As known, a geometric figure (e.g. plane surface or solid in space) is said to be concave if there is at least one segment joining two of its points that does not belong entirely to the figure.

Consistently, therefore, with what has been discussed above, in the case of the convex curved abutment surface 11 shown in figure 2, all the segments joining two of its points belong entirely to the figure itself.

In this context, it is noted that the convex curved abutment surface 11 is a surface portion of the curved element 10 that is intended to be in contact with the main body 81 of the strip 80. It is clear that the curved element 10 can be made either as a substantially solid element or as a profiled element of a predetermined thickness that substantially follows the extension of the convex curved abutment surface 11 itself.

In all such cases, the portion of the surface to be considered convex is the one configured to interact with the main body 81 of the strip 80.

Observing figure 2 and 4, it can be noted how, when the main body 81 of the strip 80 engages in abutment on the curved element 10, the plurality of fins 82 bent by the folding curb 12 increase their relative distance according to the longitudinal direction L, thus increasing the gap ("port") between them.

With reference to figures 2 and 3, it can be noted that the first curved abutment element 10 is preferably a first folding roller 13 with a circular cross-section.

This first idle folding roller 13 can be rotated about its first longitudinal axis X (see, for example, figure 2). figure 4 is a lateral schematic representation of the spatial arrangement of the main body 81 of the strip 80 and the fins 82 as they are folded on the first folding roller 13.

In more detail, it can be noted that the plurality of fins 82 of the strip 80 comprises a portion 82a radially proximal to the first folding roller 13 (and to the rotation centre 13a of the first folding roller 13) which is constrained directly to the main body 81 of the strip 80 and a radially distal portion 82b from the first folding roller 13 identified in proximity to the free end opposite to the radially proximal portion 82a.

In figure 4, the arrow identifying the radial direction of the first folding roller 13 originating from the rotation centre 13a is identified as DR.

For the sake of clarity, the zone wherein the radially proximal portion 82a is constrained to the central body 81 of the strip 80 has been represented with a circle in figure 4. It is evident that at this zone the plurality of fins 82 has no possibility of increasing their mutual distance.

It can be noted, therefore, that the mutual distancing D between the plurality of fins 82 according to the longitudinal direction L of the strip 80 and the feed path PA is all the greater and more evident the more distant the radially distal portion 82b is from the main body 81 .

It is evident that for some applications, such as, for example, the analysis of the extension of the port between the plurality of fins 82, it will be advantageous to exploit this maximum distance obtained in proximity to the radially distal portion 82b.

For a more immediate understanding and still with reference to figure 3, it is described that the dispensing unit 200, the winding unit 300 and the folding unit 1 are configured to guide the strip 80, at least for a first curved folding tract of the feed path PA, in contact with the convex curved abutment surface 11 by folding the plurality of fins 82 away from the convex curved abutment surface 11 by means of the folding curb 12 so as to increase the relative distance between the plurality of fins 82 measured according to the longitudinal direction L.

In other words, the convex curved abutment surface 11 of the first curved abutment element 10 is configured to cooperate with the dispensing unit 200 and the winding unit 300 so as make the strip 80 adhere on at least a portion thereof at an initial portion of the first curved folding tract.

As described above, considering that the first curved abutment element 10 is preferably a first idle folding roller 13 with a substantially circular cross-section, the curved folding tract is an arc of circumference defined by the strip 80 that advances in contact on the convex curved abutment surface 11 .

With reference again now to figure 3, it can be seen that the first curved folding tract is identified immediately downstream of a start-of-contact line 11 a, which corresponds to the zone where said contact occurs between the convex curved abutment surface 11 and the central body 81 of the strip 80. The start-of-contact line 11 a is shown in figure 3 as a line perpendicular to the plane containing the first curved folding tract.

As it can still be seen from figure 3, the central body 81 of the strip 80 begins to interact with the first folding roller 13 from the start-of-contact line 11 a, and at the same time the folding curb 12 folds the fins 82 away from each other.

Considering figure 2 ad 3 in more detail now, it can be noted that the folding unit 1 can comprise a second abutment element 15 in some preferred embodiments.

In the preferred example shown, the first curved abutment element 10 and the second curved abutment element 15 are respectively the first folding roller 13 and a second folding roller 17.

These two rollers 13, 17 are idle and freely rotatable respectively about the first longitudinal axis X and a second longitudinal axis X'. For a more detailed representation, consider the example in figure 2, wherein we can further see that the first longitudinal axis X and the second longitudinal axis X' are parallel to each other.

There is thus an ideal collaboration between the two rollers.

In more detail, the second folding roller 17 comprises a tapered portion 16 configured as complementary to the folding curb 12.

The second folding roller 17 is thus able to perform a synergetic function in the step of folding the fins 82 further improving the desired result.

It is interesting to note that the second folding roller 17 can be less extended, according to its axial direction, than the first folding roller 13 since its most functional part is placed in proximity to the fins 82 of the strip 80 when engaged on the folding unit and therefore in proximity to and cooperating with the folding curb 12.

With reference to figures 2, the folding curb 12 has a substantially ring-shaped extension with a substantially triangular cross-section that widens as it moves away from the median zone (with respect to its first longitudinal axis X) of the first folding roller 13.

Consistently with what has been described above, the tapered portion 16 is advantageously made in a conical or truncated-cone shape spatially complementary to the extension of the folding curb 12.

As shown in detail in figure 3, the second folding roller 17 is preferably movable and configured to move between a first configuration C1 , wherein it is in a position proximal to the start-of-contact line 11 a and a second configuration C2 wherein it is in a position distal from the start-of-contact line 11 a while maintaining in both configurations a substantially equal distance between the respective first and second longitudinal axes X, X' (i.e., the second folding roller 17 remains at an equal distance from the first folding roller 13 in both configurations C1 , C2).

In other words, the second folding roller 17 can move reversibly along an arc of circumference highlighted in figure 3 for greater clarity. Still with reference to figure 3, it can be noted that the first configuration C1 is substantially median to the first curved folding tract TP1 .

In this case, therefore, the second folding roller 17 does not intervene exactly at the start-of-contact line 11 a, but rather a little further downstream so that a first folding level is achieved by the first folding roller 13 alone and a second folding level is subsequently obtained which, by constraining the strip 80 between the two rollers 13, 17, makes the desired folding level of the fins 82 even more effective. Moving the second folding roller 17 to the second configuration C2 causes the second folding roller 17 to operate further downstream than in the first configuration C1 , thus making it possible to adapt the desired folding increase at a later time.

With reference to again to figures 1 and 5, it can be noted that the movable portion 250 comprises four alignment devices 205, positioned in proximity to the movable input section 251 , each operating on a different strip of the plurality of strips N1 , N2, N3, N4. Consistently with the foregoing, this configuration is effectively combined with the insertion in the movable portion 250 of four further folding units 1 each positioned immediately downstream of a respective alignment device 205.

It is clear to the person skilled in the art that an apparatus 100 comprising a movable portion 250 housing an alignment device 205 according to the present invention will be able to carry out all processes for working the strip 80 positioned downstream of the alignment device more accurately and efficiently, particularly in the case of a step of folding the fins 82 prodromal to the creation of a coil B.

It is also immediately clear to the person skilled in the art that all embodiments relating to the alignment device 205 described herein can be implemented independently of the presence of other devices, portions or elements of the apparatus 100.

Claims

1 . Alignment device (205) for aligning a strip (80), comprising

- a rotation unit (210) comprising an aligning roller (220) rotatable about a first longitudinal axis (220X) and configured to be in contact with said strip (80) displaceable along a predefined feed path (PA),

- a body (230) on which there is housed a rotation member (232) configured to rotate said aligning roller (220) about a rotation axis (220Y) perpendicular to said first longitudinal axis (220X), so as to be able to align said strip (80) with respect to said predefined feed path (PA), said rotation member (232) comprising a fixed component (232a), integrally constrained with said body (230), and a movable component (232b) constrained to said aligning roller (220) and selectively displaceable relative to said fixed component (232a), so as to allow the rotation of said aligning roller (220) about said rotation axis (220Y),

- a rod (231 ) constrained in proximity to a first portion thereof (231 a) to said movable component (232b) of said rotation member (232) and in proximity to a second portion thereof (231 b) to said aligning roller (220),

- a motor element (234) constrained to said body (230) at said second portion (231 b) of said rod (231 ) and configured to selectively rotate said rod (231 ) about said rotation axis (220Y). wherein said aligning roller (220) is configured so that its projection (220P) on a reference plane (XZ) perpendicular to said rotation axis (220Y) intersects said rotation axis (220Y) and the projection (232P) of said rotation member (232) on said reference plane (XZ).

2. Alignment device (205) according to the preceding claim, wherein said fixed component (232a) comprises a first and a second abutment surface (232a1 , 232a2), intended to receive at least partially the forces acting on said movable component (232b), whose projections on said reference plane (XZ) intersect the projection of said aligning roller (220) on said reference plane (XZ).

3. Alignment device (205) according to the preceding claim, wherein said first abutment surface (232a1 ) extends along the direction of said rotation axis (220Y) by at least 5mm and said second abutment surface (232a2) extends in a direction substantially perpendicular to the rotation axis (220Y).

4. Alignment device (205) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein

- said rod (231 ) is made in the form of a rotating bracket,

- said aligning roller (220) is connected at its axial ends respectively to a first and a second sensor device (1001 , 1002) housed in said rotating bracket, said first and second sensor devices (1001 , 1002) comprising respectively a pair of annular load cells (1001 a, 1002a) or a pair of load cells (218c¹, 218d') for compression to detect forces acting on said aligning roller (220).

5. Alignment device (205) according to the preceding claim, wherein said first and second sensor devices (1001 , 1002) are housed within a support portion (215d') to which said aligning roller (220) is constrained with an allowed rotation about said first longitudinal axis (220X), each of said first and second annular load cells (1001 a, 1002a) surrounds a first part of a connection body (601 ), which has a second part (602) internally fixed to a rotoidal joint (610) configured to allow the rotation about said first longitudinal axis (220X) and in turn externally fixed to said aligning roller (220).

6. Alignment device (205) according to claim 4, wherein said first and second load cells (218c¹, 218d') for compression are housed externally to said support portion (215d') and on sides axially opposite with respect to said aligning roller (220), said support portion (215d') comprising a first and a second support bracket at or proximity to which the two axial ends of said aligning roller (220) are constrained with an allowed rotation, and said first and second load cells (218c¹, 218d') for compression being respectively interposed between said first and second support brackets and said rotating bracket (231 ).

7. Alignment device (205) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein said strip (80) is partially wound about said aligning roller (220) for at least 90°.

8. Alignment device (205) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein said aligning roller (220) has a concave or convex development.

9. Alignment device (205) according to any preceding claim, wherein said aligning roller (220) has a zone of maximum concavity or convexity defined at a central longitudinal zone equidistant from the longitudinal ends of said aligning roller (220).

10. Alignment device (205) according to claim 8, wherein said aligning roller (220) has a zone of maximum concavity or convexity spaced from a central longitudinal zone of said aligning roller (220).

11. Apparatus (100) for creating an internal assembly (3) comprising

- a dispensing unit (200) configured to dispense at least one strip (80) along a predefined feed path (PA),

- an alignment device (205) made in accordance with one of the preceding claims, positioned along said predefined feed path (PA) and configured to displace said strip (80) along a transverse direction with respect to said predefined feed path (PA) so as to align said strip (80) relative to said predefined feed path (PA).

12. Apparatus (100) according to the preceding claim, comprising: a supply unit (2) for said strip (80) placed downstream of said dispensing unit (200) along said predefined feed path (PA) and comprising said alignment device (205), a coupling unit (300), placed downstream of said supply unit (2), configured to combine a plurality of conductor elements (7, 8) and at least one separator element (9), in a predefined structure so as to form said internal assembly (3) of said electrochemical cell, wherein said strip (80) is at least one of said conductor elements (7, 8) and said at least one separator element (9).

13. Apparatus (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein said supply unit (2) comprises a movable portion (250) configured to reversibly move along a displacement direction (d) between a first configuration distal to said dispensing unit (200) and a second configuration proximal to said dispensing unit (200), wherein said movable portion (250) comprises said alignment device (205).

14. Apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein: said strip (80) is a separator strip, said internal assembly (3) of said electrochemical cell is a structure formed by a stack of conductor foils individually separated by said separator strip, said coupling unit (300) is a stacking unit of said conductor foils separated by said separator strip, and said supply unit (2) comprises said alignment device (205).

15. Apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein: said strip (80) is at least one of a plurality of strips (N1 , N2, N3, N4) comprising a pair of conductor strips and a pair of separator strips, said internal assembly (3) of said electrochemical cell is a coil (B) consisting of said conductor strips and said separator strips, said coupling unit (300) is a winding unit of said pair of conductor strips and said pair of separator strips, and said supply unit (2) comprises said alignment device (205).

16. Method for aligning a strip (80), the latter intended for creating an internal assembly (3) of an electrochemical cell for producing batteries, comprising:

Dispensing said strip (80) along a predefined feed path (PA), Arranging an alignment device (205) of said strip (80) which comprises a rotation unit (210) comprising o an aligning roller (220) rotatable about a first longitudinal axis (220X) and configured to be in contact with said strip (80) along said predefined feed path (PA), o a body (230) on which there is housed a rotation member (232) configured to rotate said aligning roller (220) about a rotation axis (220Y) perpendicular to said first longitudinal axis (220X), so as to be able to align said strip (80) with respect to said predefined feed path (PA), said rotation member (232) comprising a fixed component (232a), integrally constrained with said body (230), and a movable component (232b) constrained to said aligning roller (220) and selectively displaceable relative to said fixed component (232a), so as to allow the rotation of said aligning roller (220) about said rotation axis (220Y), o a rod (231 ) constrained in proximity to a first portion thereof (231 a) to said movable component (232b) of said rotation member (232) and in proximity to a second portion thereof (231 b) to said aligning roller (220), o a motor element (234) constrained to said body (230) at said second portion (231 b) of said rod (231 ) and configured to selectively rotate said rod (231 ) about said rotation axis (220Y), Identifying an alignment difference (AAII) between said strip (80) and said feed path (PA), and in the event that said alignment difference (AAII) is different from zero,

Aligning said strip (80) to said predefined feed path (PA) by rotating said aligning roller (220) about said rotation axis (220Y) while maintaining the projection of said aligning roller (220) on a reference plane (XZ), perpendicular to said rotation axis (220Y), intersecting said rotation axis (220Y) and the projection of said rotation member (232) on said reference plane (XZ).

17. Method according to the preceding claim, comprising:

- Arranging along said predefined feed path (PA) a movable portion (250) comprising said alignment device (205) and configured to reversibly displace along a displacement direction (d) between a first configuration distal to said dispensing unit (200) and a second configuration proximal to said dispensing unit (200),

- Aligning said strip (80) while said movable portion (250) moves along said displacement direction (d).

18. Method according to claim 16 or 17, comprising:

- Arranging along said predefined feed path (PA) a supply unit (2) comprising said alignment device (205) and a coupling unit (300) configured to combine a plurality of conductor elements (7, 8) and at least one separator element (9), in a predefined structure so as to form said internal assembly (3) of said electrochemical cell, wherein said strip (80) is at least one of said conductor elements (7, 8) and said at least one separator element (9).

19. Method according to the preceding claim, comprising:

- Arranging a stacking unit as a coupling unit (300),

- Dispensing said strip (80) as a separator strip,

- Stacking said separator strip by means of said stacking unit creating a structure comprising a stack of conductor elements (7, 8) in the form of conductor foils individually separated by said separator strip,

- Creating thereby said internal assembly (3) of said electrochemical cell for a prismatic battery.

20. Method according to claim 18, comprising: - Arranging a winding unit as a coupling unit (300),

- Dispensing a plurality of strips (N1 , N2, N3, N4) comprising a pair of conductor strips and a pair of separator strips of which said strip (80) is at least one thereof, - Winding said plurality of strips (N1 , N2, N3, N4) by means of said winding unit, isolating each one of said pair of conductor strips with a respective separator strip of said pair of separator strips,

- Creating thereby said internal assembly (3) in the form of a coil (B) of said electrochemical cell for a cylindrical battery.