Wirtz Manufacturing Co., Inc.

United States of America

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2025 (YTD) 3
2024 7
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2021 4
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IPC Class
H01M 4/20 - Processes of manufacture of pasted electrodes 19
B22D 11/06 - Continuous casting of metals, i.e. casting in indefinite lengths into moulds with travelling walls, e.g. with rolls, plates, belts, caterpillars 18
H01M 4/04 - Processes of manufacture in general 16
H01M 10/12 - Construction or manufacture 14
H01M 4/73 - Grids for lead-acid accumulators, e.g. frame plates 13
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Status
Pending 5
Registered / In Force 45
Found results for  patents

1.

BATTERY COMPONENT CONTINUOUS CASTING MACHINE WITH QUICK-CHANGE BELT CASTER WHEEL ASSEMBLY AND METHOD INVOLVING SAME

      
Application Number US2024055328
Publication Number 2025/102028
Status In Force
Filing Date 2024-11-11
Publication Date 2025-05-15
Owner WIRTZ MANUFACTURING COMPANY, INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Romeo, Michael, R.
  • Mrdjenovic, Aleksander
  • Miller, Jason, P.

Abstract

A battery component continuous casting machine is equipped with a quick-change belt caster wheel assembly. Battery components produced include lead-based metal grids for lead-acid battery types, as well as lead-based metal foils for bipolar battery types. Caster wheels of the quick-change belt caster wheel assembly are more readily installed and uninstalled — making removal and replacement procedures easier — while preserving precision tolerances often demanded for proper manufacture of the battery component grids and foils.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B22D 11/06 - Continuous casting of metals, i.e. casting in indefinite lengths into moulds with travelling walls, e.g. with rolls, plates, belts, caterpillars
  • B22D 11/14 - Plants for continuous casting, e.g. for upwardly drawing the strand
  • B22D 11/00 - Continuous casting of metals, i.e. casting in indefinite lengths
  • B22D 25/04 - Casting metal electric battery plates or the like

2.

BATTERY COMPONENT CONTINUOUS CASTING MACHINE WITH QUICK-CHANGE BELT CASTER WHEEL ASSEMBLY AND METHOD INVOLVING SAME

      
Application Number 18942924
Status Pending
Filing Date 2024-11-11
First Publication Date 2025-05-15
Owner Wirtz Manufacturing Company, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Romeo, Michael R.
  • Mrdjenovic, Aleksander
  • Miller, Jason P.

Abstract

A battery component continuous casting machine is equipped with a quick-change belt caster wheel assembly. Battery components produced include lead-based metal grids for lead-acid battery types, as well as lead-based metal foils for bipolar battery types. Caster wheels of the quick-change belt caster wheel assembly are more readily installed and uninstalled—making removal and replacement procedures easier—while preserving precision tolerances often demanded for proper manufacture of the battery component grids and foils.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B22D 11/06 - Continuous casting of metals, i.e. casting in indefinite lengths into moulds with travelling walls, e.g. with rolls, plates, belts, caterpillars
  • H01M 4/68 - Selection of materials for use in lead-acid accumulators
  • H01M 4/73 - Grids for lead-acid accumulators, e.g. frame plates

3.

MANUFACTURE OF PASTED CURRENT COLLECTORS FOR BIPOLAR BATTERIES

      
Application Number 18982324
Status Pending
Filing Date 2024-12-16
First Publication Date 2025-04-24
Owner Wirtz Manufacturing Company, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Romeo, Michael R.
  • Miller, Jason P.

Abstract

In the manufacture of pasted current collectors for bipolar batteries, a method of making pasted substrates includes several steps. The substrates can be a plastic sheet, an embedded plastic mesh, a metal mesh, an absorbent glass mat (AGM), or some other material. One step involves applying paste material to an elongate strip of substrate material. Another step involves cutting the elongate strip of substrate material into multiple individual substrates. Further steps can involve punching via a rotary punch, crush cutting, ultrasonic cutting, laser cutting, concealing lateral sections via folding, and/or using one or more mask overlays.

IPC Classes  ?

4.

BATTERY GRID FEEDER FOR A PASTING MACHINE

      
Application Number 18828013
Status Pending
Filing Date 2024-09-09
First Publication Date 2024-12-26
Owner Wirtz Manufacturing Company, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Nicoara, Sergiu
  • Mercurio, Scott A.
  • Shaw, Thomas J.
  • Hewett, Frederick M.

Abstract

A grid guidance device for guiding battery grids to a battery pasting machine. The grid guidance device includes an assemblage of components that work together to adjust a position of a platform relative to a pasting orifice of the battery pasting machine. The platform receives the battery grids over it amid use of the grid guidance device. Multiple electric motors can be provided to rotate shafts for making the position adjustments. The position adjustments can involve one or more of the following: lateral positioning of the battery grids relative to the pasting orifice, advancement and retraction positioning of the platform relative to the pasting orifice, and/or raising and lowering positioning of the platform relative to the pasting orifice.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01M 10/04 - Construction or manufacture in general
  • B05C 11/02 - Apparatus for spreading or distributing liquids or other fluent materials already applied to a surfaceControl of the thickness of a coating
  • B05C 13/02 - Means for manipulating or holding work, e.g. for separate articles for particular articles
  • H01M 4/20 - Processes of manufacture of pasted electrodes

5.

METHOD OF MAKING PLATES WITH PURE LEAD GRIDS FOR LEAD-ACID BATTERY MANUFACTURE

      
Application Number 18426967
Status Pending
Filing Date 2024-01-30
First Publication Date 2024-09-19
Owner Wirtz Manufacturing Company, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Mendoza, Roel
  • Rocha, Márcio

Abstract

A method of making battery plates of pure lead battery grids for lead-acid battery manufacture is presented. The method has been shown to resolve issues that have long-persisted in the battery manufacture industry involving the use of pure lead material for battery grids. According to an implementation, several processes are performed in succession in order to make pure lead battery grids feasible in commercial and mass production, among them: a continuous casting process to produce battery grids of pure lead material, a compression rolling process of the cast pure lead battery grids, and a battery paste application process to the cast and rolled pure lead battery grids. The pure lead material of the continuous strip of pure lead battery grids can consist of lead (Pb) material in an amount that ranges approximately between 99.85 percent (%) to 99.999% of the overall constituent elements of the pure lead material.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01M 4/84 - Multi-step processes for manufacturing carriers for lead-acid accumulators involving casting
  • B22D 11/06 - Continuous casting of metals, i.e. casting in indefinite lengths into moulds with travelling walls, e.g. with rolls, plates, belts, caterpillars
  • C22F 1/12 - Changing the physical structure of non-ferrous metals or alloys by heat treatment or by hot or cold working of lead or alloys based thereon
  • H01M 4/20 - Processes of manufacture of pasted electrodes
  • H01M 4/22 - Forming of electrodes
  • H01M 4/68 - Selection of materials for use in lead-acid accumulators
  • H01M 4/73 - Grids for lead-acid accumulators, e.g. frame plates

6.

Battery electrode continuous casting drum, shoe, machine and method

      
Application Number 18649097
Grant Number 12489118
Status In Force
Filing Date 2024-04-29
First Publication Date 2024-08-22
Grant Date 2025-12-02
Owner Wirtz Manufacturing Company, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Romeo, Michael R.
  • Miller, Jason P.
  • Mrdenovic, Aleksander
  • Wirtz, John O.
  • Wirtz, Ii, John W.

Abstract

For making battery electrodes, a composite strip of a cast ribbon of an electrically conductive metal attached to and extending along an edge of a web of electrically conductive carbon fiber material, also called a carbon felt in some examples, with a plurality of spaced apart notches cast in the ribbon and opening to an edge of the ribbon spaced from the carbon fiber material. A rotatable drum with a mold cavity and a confronting casting shoe for supplying molten metal, such as liquid lead, to the cavity may be used in a casting machine to continuous cast the composite strip.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B22D 11/06 - Continuous casting of metals, i.e. casting in indefinite lengths into moulds with travelling walls, e.g. with rolls, plates, belts, caterpillars
  • H01M 4/04 - Processes of manufacture in general
  • H01M 4/66 - Selection of materials
  • H01M 4/84 - Multi-step processes for manufacturing carriers for lead-acid accumulators involving casting

7.

Battery electrode continuous casting shoe, machine and method

      
Application Number 18644815
Grant Number 12494475
Status In Force
Filing Date 2024-04-24
First Publication Date 2024-08-15
Grant Date 2025-12-09
Owner Wirtz Manufacturing Company, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Mendoza, Roel
  • Mrdenovic, Aleksandar
  • Romeo, Michael
  • Wirtz, John O.

Abstract

A shoe for dispensing a molten metal such as lead into a mold cavity of a rotating drum to continuously cast a web of a plurality of serially connected grids or battery composite electrodes of a carbon fiber material with a cast metal conductor. The shoe may have at least one elongate orifice slot in a face confronting the drum, a molten metal supply passage communicating with the orifice slot and an excess molten metal return slot opening into the confronting face downstream of the supply slot relative generally to the direction of rotation of the drum.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B22D 11/06 - Continuous casting of metals, i.e. casting in indefinite lengths into moulds with travelling walls, e.g. with rolls, plates, belts, caterpillars
  • H01M 4/04 - Processes of manufacture in general
  • H01M 4/22 - Forming of electrodes
  • H01M 4/583 - Carbonaceous material, e.g. graphite-intercalation compounds or CFx
  • H01M 4/66 - Selection of materials
  • H01M 4/68 - Selection of materials for use in lead-acid accumulators
  • H01M 4/84 - Multi-step processes for manufacturing carriers for lead-acid accumulators involving casting
  • H01M 10/06 - Lead-acid accumulators
  • H01M 10/12 - Construction or manufacture
  • H01M 10/14 - Assembling a group of electrodes or separators
  • H01M 4/02 - Electrodes composed of, or comprising, active material

8.

METHOD OF MAKING PLATES WITH PURE LEAD GRIDS FOR LEAD-ACID BATTERY MANUFACTURE

      
Application Number US2024013517
Publication Number 2024/163452
Status In Force
Filing Date 2024-01-30
Publication Date 2024-08-08
Owner WIRTZ MANUFACTURING COMPANY, INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Mendoza, Roel
  • Rocha, Márcio

Abstract

A method of making battery plates of pure lead battery grids for lead-acid battery manufacture is presented. The method has been shown to resolve issues that have long-persisted in the battery manufacture industry involving the use of pure lead material for battery grids. According to an implementation, several processes are performed in succession in order to make pure lead battery grids feasible in commercial and mass production, among them: a continuous casting process to produce battery grids of pure lead material, a compression rolling process of the cast pure lead battery grids, and a battery paste application process to the cast and rolled pure lead battery grids. The pure lead material of the continuous strip of pure lead battery grids can consist of lead (Pb) material in an amount that ranges approximately between 99.85 percent (%) to 99.999 % of the overall constituent elements of the pure lead material.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01M 4/73 - Grids for lead-acid accumulators, e.g. frame plates
  • H01M 4/84 - Multi-step processes for manufacturing carriers for lead-acid accumulators involving casting

9.

Battery paste hopper and tooling

      
Application Number 18590093
Grant Number 12199262
Status In Force
Filing Date 2024-02-28
First Publication Date 2024-06-20
Grant Date 2025-01-14
Owner Wirtz Manufacturing Company, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Nicoara, Sergiu
  • Mercurio, Scott A.

Abstract

A battery paste application tooling assembly includes a hopper, a connector assembly, and a clamp assembly. The battery paste application tooling assembly can be equipped in a pasting machine. The hopper receives battery paste material. The hopper has an orifice plate with an orifice therein. The connector assembly is engageable with the orifice plate and disengageable therefrom. The clamp assembly is movable between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the clamp assembly releasable secures the orifice plate to the hopper. In the second position, the clamp assembly permits removal of the orifice plate from the hopper.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01M 4/04 - Processes of manufacture in general
  • B05C 5/00 - Apparatus in which liquid or other fluent material is projected, poured or allowed to flow on to the surface of the work
  • B05C 11/02 - Apparatus for spreading or distributing liquids or other fluent materials already applied to a surfaceControl of the thickness of a coating
  • B05C 11/10 - Storage, supply or control of liquid or other fluent materialRecovery of excess liquid or other fluent material
  • H01M 4/20 - Processes of manufacture of pasted electrodes
  • H01M 10/04 - Construction or manufacture in general
  • H01M 4/73 - Grids for lead-acid accumulators, e.g. frame plates

10.

BATTERY PASTE ADHESION PROCESS FOR BATTERIES

      
Application Number US2023034337
Publication Number 2024/076553
Status In Force
Filing Date 2023-10-03
Publication Date 2024-04-11
Owner WIRTZ MANUFACTURING COMPANY, INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Mendoza, Roel
  • Rocha, Marcio

Abstract

A method of making substrates, such as grids, for assembly with lead-acid batteries is set forth herein. The grids can take the form of a strip of a multitude of serially-connected metal grids. The grids can ultimately be employed as positive electrodes or negative electrodes in a larger lead-acid battery assembly. Surfaces of the grids can be contacted with an aqueous solution, such as submergence in a bath thereof, as an example. The aqueous solution can comprise hydrogen peroxide.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01M 4/20 - Processes of manufacture of pasted electrodes
  • H01M 4/04 - Processes of manufacture in general
  • H01M 10/12 - Construction or manufacture

11.

CONTINUOUS CASTING MACHINE AND METHOD FOR BIPOLAR BATTERY FOILS AND BATTERY GRIDS

      
Application Number US2023025744
Publication Number 2023/249950
Status In Force
Filing Date 2023-06-20
Publication Date 2023-12-28
Owner WIRTZ MANUFACTURING COMPANY, INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Romeo, Michael, R.
  • Miller, Jason, P.

Abstract

Equipment and a machine and a process for continuously casting strips of battery foils and/or strips of battery grids. The battery foils and grids are composed of lead or a lead alloy material. The foils, in particular, can be employed as current collectors in bipolar batteries. The machine, per an implementation, has a mold ring, a movable belt, one or more rollers, and one or more shoes. The mold ring rotates and has a mold cavity. The mold cavity can establish foil molds or grid molds. The movable belt moves about the roller(s) with a face in confrontation with the mold ring. The shoe(s) urges the movable belt into engagement with the mold ring. Liquid lead is delivered to the mold cavity adjacent the location in which the movable belt engages the mold ring amid use of the machine.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01M 4/84 - Multi-step processes for manufacturing carriers for lead-acid accumulators involving casting
  • H01M 4/82 - Multi-step processes for manufacturing carriers for lead-acid accumulators
  • H01M 10/12 - Construction or manufacture
  • H01M 10/18 - Lead-acid accumulators with bipolar electrodes
  • B22D 11/06 - Continuous casting of metals, i.e. casting in indefinite lengths into moulds with travelling walls, e.g. with rolls, plates, belts, caterpillars
  • B22D 25/04 - Casting metal electric battery plates or the like

12.

Continuous casting machine and method for bipolar battery foils and battery grids

      
Application Number 18211871
Grant Number 12138681
Status In Force
Filing Date 2023-06-20
First Publication Date 2023-12-21
Grant Date 2024-11-12
Owner Wirtz Manufacturing Company, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Romeo, Michael R.
  • Miller, Jason P.

Abstract

Equipment and a machine and a process for continuously casting strips of battery foils and/or strips of battery grids. The battery foils and grids are composed of lead or a lead alloy material. The foils, in particular, can be employed as current collectors in bipolar batteries. The machine, per an implementation, has a mold ring, a movable belt, one or more rollers, and one or more shoes. The mold ring rotates and has a mold cavity. The mold cavity can establish foil molds or grid molds. The movable belt moves about the roller(s) with a face in confrontation with the mold ring. The shoe(s) urges the movable belt into engagement with the mold ring. Liquid lead is delivered to the mold cavity adjacent the location in which the movable belt engages the mold ring amid use of the machine.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B22D 11/04 - Continuous casting of metals, i.e. casting in indefinite lengths into open-ended moulds
  • B22D 11/00 - Continuous casting of metals, i.e. casting in indefinite lengths
  • B22D 11/06 - Continuous casting of metals, i.e. casting in indefinite lengths into moulds with travelling walls, e.g. with rolls, plates, belts, caterpillars
  • B22D 11/14 - Plants for continuous casting, e.g. for upwardly drawing the strand
  • B22D 11/22 - Controlling or regulating processes or operations for cooling cast stock or mould

13.

BATTERY PASTE APPLICATION HOPPER WITH AUTOMATED CONTROL OF PASTE FEED PARAMETERS

      
Application Number 18198568
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-05-17
First Publication Date 2023-11-23
Owner Wirtz Manufacturing Company, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Wirtz, Ii, John W.
  • Mercurio, Scott A.
  • Nicoara, Sergiu
  • Hewett, Jonmarc J. F.

Abstract

A battery paste application machine is equipped with a battery paste application hopper assembly. The battery paste application machine can be employed in a larger manufacturing operation to produce lead-acid batteries. The battery paste application hopper assembly furnishes automated control of one or more parameters of battery paste delivery. Volume of battery paste at the time of delivery can be automatically controlled, pressure of battery paste at the time of delivery can be automatically controlled, or both volume and pressure can be automatically controlled. Depending on the parameters controlled, the battery paste application hopper assembly can include a housing, a paste delivery roller, a feed roller, a scraper bar, a first actuator, and/or a second actuator.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01M 4/04 - Processes of manufacture in general
  • H01M 4/20 - Processes of manufacture of pasted electrodes
  • B05C 1/02 - Apparatus in which liquid or other fluent material is applied to the surface of the work by contact with a member carrying the liquid or other fluent material, e.g. a porous member loaded with a liquid to be applied as a coating for applying liquid or other fluent material to separate articles

14.

BATTERY PASTE APPLICATION HOPPER WITH AUTOMATED CONTROL OF PASTE FEED PARAMETERS

      
Application Number US2023022540
Publication Number 2023/225086
Status In Force
Filing Date 2023-05-17
Publication Date 2023-11-23
Owner WIRTZ MANUFACTURING COMPANY, INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Wirtz, John, W. Ii
  • Mercurio, Scott, A.
  • Nicoara, Sergiu
  • Hewett, Jonmarc, J.F.

Abstract

A battery paste application machine is equipped with a battery paste application hopper assembly. The battery paste application machine can be employed in a larger manufacturing operation to produce lead-acid batteries. The battery paste application hopper assembly furnishes automated control of one or more parameters of battery paste delivery. Volume of battery paste at the time of delivery can be automatically controlled, pressure of battery paste at the time of delivery can be automatically controlled, or both volume and pressure can be automatically controlled. Depending on the parameters controlled, the battery paste application hopper assembly can include a housing, a paste delivery roller, a feed roller, a scraper bar, a first actuator, and/or a second actuator.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01M 4/20 - Processes of manufacture of pasted electrodes
  • H01M 10/04 - Construction or manufacture in general
  • H01M 10/06 - Lead-acid accumulators

15.

Manufacture of pasted current collectors for bipolar batteries

      
Application Number 17698219
Grant Number 12170378
Status In Force
Filing Date 2022-03-18
First Publication Date 2022-09-22
Grant Date 2024-12-17
Owner Wirtz Manufacturing Company, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Romeo, Michael R.
  • Miller, Jason P.
  • Wood, Edward F.

Abstract

In the manufacture of pasted current collectors for bipolar batteries, a method of making pasted substrates includes several steps. The substrates can be a plastic sheet, an embedded plastic mesh, a metal mesh, an absorbent glass mat (AGM), or some other material. One step involves applying paste material to an elongate strip of substrate material. Another step involves cutting the elongate strip of substrate material into multiple individual substrates. Further steps can involve punching via a rotary punch, crush cutting, ultrasonic cutting, concealing lateral sections via folding, and/or using one or more mask overlays.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01M 4/82 - Multi-step processes for manufacturing carriers for lead-acid accumulators
  • H01M 4/02 - Electrodes composed of, or comprising, active material
  • H01M 10/18 - Lead-acid accumulators with bipolar electrodes

16.

MANUFACTURE OF PASTED CURRENT COLLECTORS FOR BIPOLAR BATTERIES

      
Application Number US2022020896
Publication Number 2022/198011
Status In Force
Filing Date 2022-03-18
Publication Date 2022-09-22
Owner WIRTZ MANUFACTURING COMPANY, INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Romeo, Michael R.
  • Miller, Jason P.
  • Wood, Edward, F.

Abstract

In the manufacture of pasted current collectors for bipolar batteries, a method of making pasted substrates includes several steps. The substrates can be a plastic sheet, an embedded plastic mesh, a metal mesh, an absorbent glass mat (AGM), or some other material. One step involves applying paste material to an elongate strip of substrate material Another step involves cutting the elongate strip of substrate material into multiple individual substrates. Further steps can involve punching via a rotary punch, crush cutting, ultrasonic cutting, concealing lateral sections via folding, and/or using one or more mask overlays.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01M 10/12 - Construction or manufacture
  • H01M 10/18 - Lead-acid accumulators with bipolar electrodes

17.

Battery grid lead scrap melting apparatus and method

      
Application Number 17744829
Grant Number 12125987
Status In Force
Filing Date 2022-05-16
First Publication Date 2022-09-08
Grant Date 2024-10-22
Owner Wirtz Manufacturing Company, Inc. (USA)
Inventor Romeo, Michael

Abstract

An apparatus and process for melting and using scrap pieces of lead or lead alloy from making a web of connected grids for a lead acid battery by forming holes through a solid strip of lead or lead alloy. The scrap pieces may be compacted into briquettes which are submerged in a pool of liquid lead or lead alloy below the top surface of the pool and melt in the pool. Liquid lead from the pool may be cast into solid strips from which webs of grids are made.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01M 10/12 - Construction or manufacture
  • H01M 4/73 - Grids for lead-acid accumulators, e.g. frame plates

18.

Battery grid feeder for a pasting machine

      
Application Number 17677053
Grant Number 12087898
Status In Force
Filing Date 2022-02-22
First Publication Date 2022-08-25
Grant Date 2024-09-10
Owner Wirtz Manufacturing Company, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Nicoara, Sergiu
  • Mercurio, Scott A.
  • Shaw, Thomas J.
  • Hewett, Frederick M.

Abstract

A grid guidance device for guiding battery grids to a battery pasting machine. The grid guidance device includes an assemblage of components that work together to adjust a position of a platform relative to a pasting orifice of the battery pasting machine. The platform receives the battery grids over it amid use of the grid guidance device. Multiple electric motors can be provided to rotate shafts for making the position adjustments. The position adjustments can involve one or more of the following: lateral positioning of the battery grids relative to the pasting orifice, advancement and retraction positioning of the platform relative to the pasting orifice, and/or raising and lowering positioning of the platform relative to the pasting orifice.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01M 4/20 - Processes of manufacture of pasted electrodes
  • B05C 11/02 - Apparatus for spreading or distributing liquids or other fluent materials already applied to a surfaceControl of the thickness of a coating
  • B05C 13/02 - Means for manipulating or holding work, e.g. for separate articles for particular articles
  • H01M 10/04 - Construction or manufacture in general

19.

Battery paste hopper and tooling

      
Application Number 17677246
Grant Number 11949086
Status In Force
Filing Date 2022-02-22
First Publication Date 2022-08-25
Grant Date 2024-04-02
Owner Wirtz Manufacturing Company, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Nicoara, Sergiu
  • Mercurio, Scott A.

Abstract

A battery paste application tooling assembly includes a hopper, a connector assembly, and a clamp assembly. The battery paste application tooling assembly can be equipped in a pasting machine. The hopper receives battery paste material. The hopper has an orifice plate with an orifice therein. The connector assembly is engageable with the orifice plate and disengageable therefrom. The clamp assembly is movable between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the clamp assembly releasable secures the orifice plate to the hopper. In the second position, the clamp assembly permits removal of the orifice plate from the hopper.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01M 4/04 - Processes of manufacture in general
  • B05C 5/00 - Apparatus in which liquid or other fluent material is projected, poured or allowed to flow on to the surface of the work
  • B05C 11/02 - Apparatus for spreading or distributing liquids or other fluent materials already applied to a surfaceControl of the thickness of a coating
  • B05C 11/10 - Storage, supply or control of liquid or other fluent materialRecovery of excess liquid or other fluent material
  • H01M 4/20 - Processes of manufacture of pasted electrodes
  • H01M 10/04 - Construction or manufacture in general
  • H01M 4/73 - Grids for lead-acid accumulators, e.g. frame plates

20.

BATTERY ELECTRODE CONTINUOUS CASTING DRUM, SHOE, MACHINE AND METHOD

      
Application Number US2022016944
Publication Number 2022/178230
Status In Force
Filing Date 2022-02-18
Publication Date 2022-08-25
Owner WIRTZ MANUFACTURING CO., INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Romeo, Michael R.
  • Miller, Jason P.
  • Mrdenovic, Aleksander
  • Wirtz, John O.
  • Wirtz Ii, John W.

Abstract

For making battery electrodes, a composite strip of a cast ribbon of an electrically conductive metal attached to and extending along an edge of a web of electrically conductive carbon fiber material, also called a carbon felt in some examples, with a plurality of spaced apart notches cast m the ribbon and opening to an edge of the ribbon spaced from the carbon fiber material. A rotatable drum with a mold cavity and a confronting casting shoe for supplying molten metal, such as liquid lead, to the cavity may be used in a casting machine to continuous cast the composite strip.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B22D 11/06 - Continuous casting of metals, i.e. casting in indefinite lengths into moulds with travelling walls, e.g. with rolls, plates, belts, caterpillars
  • B22D 25/04 - Casting metal electric battery plates or the like
  • H01M 4/04 - Processes of manufacture in general

21.

BATTERY GRID FEEDER FOR A PASTING MACHINE

      
Application Number US2022017230
Publication Number 2022/178386
Status In Force
Filing Date 2022-02-22
Publication Date 2022-08-25
Owner WIRTZ MANUFACTURING COMPANY, INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Nicoara, Sergiu
  • Mercurio, Scott, A.
  • Shaw, Thomas, J.
  • Hewett, Frederick, M.

Abstract

A grid guidance device for guiding battery grids to a battery pasting machine. The grid guidance device includes an assemblage of components that work together to adjust a position of a platform relative to a pasting orifice of the battery pasting machine. The platform receives the battery grids over it amid use of the grid guidance device. Multiple electric motors can be provided to rotate shafts for making the position adjustments. The position adjustments can involve one or more of the following: lateral positioning of the battery grids relative to the pasting orifice, advancement and retraction positioning of the platform relative to the pasting orifice, and/or raising and lowering positioning of the platform relative to the pasting orifice.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01M 4/20 - Processes of manufacture of pasted electrodes
  • H01M 4/04 - Processes of manufacture in general

22.

BATTERY PASTE HOPPER AND TOOLING

      
Application Number US2022017260
Publication Number 2022/178401
Status In Force
Filing Date 2022-02-22
Publication Date 2022-08-25
Owner WIRTZ MANUFACTURING CO., INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Nicoara, Sergiu
  • Mercurio, Scott, A.

Abstract

A battery paste application tooling assembly includes a hopper, a connector assembly, and a clamp assembly. The battery paste application tooling assembly can be equipped in a pasting machine. The hopper receives battery paste material. The hopper has an orifice plate with an orifice therein. The connector assembly is engageab!e with the orifice plate and disengageahle therefrom. The clamp assembly is movable between a first position and a second position, in the first position, the clamp assembly releasable secures the orifice plate to the hopper. In the second position, the clamp assembly permits removal of the orifice plate from the hopper.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B05C 5/02 - Apparatus in which liquid or other fluent material is projected, poured or allowed to flow on to the surface of the work from an outlet device in contact, or almost in contact, with the work
  • H01M 4/20 - Processes of manufacture of pasted electrodes

23.

Battery carbon fiber electrode making machine and method

      
Application Number 17722505
Grant Number 11831004
Status In Force
Filing Date 2022-04-18
First Publication Date 2022-07-28
Grant Date 2023-11-28
Owner Wirtz Manufacturing Company, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Mendoza, Roel
  • Wirtz, John O.

Abstract

A machine and process for making a composite battery electrode with a conductive lead cast ribbon extending along and attached to a portion of a carbon fiber material. A lead ribbon may be continuously cast along a longitudinally elongate strip of carbon fiber material. The ribbon may be cast along an edge or edges of a longitudinally elongate strip of carbon fiber material.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01M 10/06 - Lead-acid accumulators
  • H01M 10/12 - Construction or manufacture
  • H01M 10/14 - Assembling a group of electrodes or separators
  • H01M 4/04 - Processes of manufacture in general
  • H01M 4/58 - Selection of substances as active materials, active masses, active liquids of inorganic compounds other than oxides or hydroxides, e.g. sulfides, selenides, tellurides, halogenides or LiCoFySelection of substances as active materials, active masses, active liquids of polyanionic structures, e.g. phosphates, silicates or borates
  • H01M 4/68 - Selection of materials for use in lead-acid accumulators
  • H01M 4/583 - Carbonaceous material, e.g. graphite-intercalation compounds or CFx
  • H01M 4/66 - Selection of materials
  • B22D 11/06 - Continuous casting of metals, i.e. casting in indefinite lengths into moulds with travelling walls, e.g. with rolls, plates, belts, caterpillars
  • H01M 4/22 - Forming of electrodes
  • H01M 4/84 - Multi-step processes for manufacturing carriers for lead-acid accumulators involving casting
  • H01M 4/02 - Electrodes composed of, or comprising, active material

24.

Battery electrode continuous casting drum, shoe, machine and method

      
Application Number 17675131
Grant Number 12002966
Status In Force
Filing Date 2022-02-18
First Publication Date 2022-06-30
Grant Date 2024-06-04
Owner Wirtz Manufacturing Company, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Romeo, Michael R.
  • Miller, Jason P.
  • Mrdenovic, Aleksander
  • Wirtz, John O.
  • Wirtz, Ii, John W.

Abstract

For making battery electrodes, a composite strip of a cast ribbon of an electrically conductive metal attached to and extending along an edge of a web of electrically conductive carbon fiber material, also called a carbon felt in some examples, with a plurality of spaced apart notches cast in the ribbon and opening to an edge of the ribbon spaced from the carbon fiber material. A rotatable drum with a mold cavity and a confronting casting shoe for supplying molten metal, such as liquid lead, to the cavity may be used in a casting machine to continuous cast the composite strip.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B22D 11/06 - Continuous casting of metals, i.e. casting in indefinite lengths into moulds with travelling walls, e.g. with rolls, plates, belts, caterpillars
  • H01M 4/04 - Processes of manufacture in general
  • H01M 4/66 - Selection of materials
  • H01M 4/84 - Multi-step processes for manufacturing carriers for lead-acid accumulators involving casting

25.

Battery paste mixer and method

      
Application Number 17603156
Grant Number 12485395
Status In Force
Filing Date 2019-06-06
First Publication Date 2022-06-23
Grant Date 2025-12-02
Owner Wirtz Manufacturing Company, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Baranyai, Stephen G.
  • Wirtz, Robert N.

Abstract

A battery paste mixer condensation assembly includes a duct, a condenser, a basin, and a pipe. The duct is in fluid communication with a battery paste mixer. Exiting gas from the battery paste mixer can travel through the duct. The condenser is situated downstream of the duct. The basin is situated near the condenser. Condensed liquid from the condenser is deposited in the basin. The pipe is in fluid communication with the basin and is in fluid communication with the battery paste mixer. Deposited liquid in the basin can travel from the basin and to the battery paste mixer by way of the pipe.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B01F 35/92 - Heating or cooling systems for heating the outside of the receptacle, e.g. heated jackets or burners
  • B01F 23/50 - Mixing liquids with solids
  • B01F 23/53 - Mixing liquids with solids using driven stirrers
  • B01F 25/50 - Circulation mixers, e.g. wherein at least part of the mixture is discharged from and reintroduced into a receptacle
  • B01F 27/82 - Pan-type mixers, i.e. mixers in which the stirring elements move along the bottom of a pan-shaped receptacle
  • B01F 35/71 - Feed mechanisms
  • B01F 35/90 - Heating or cooling systems
  • H01M 4/20 - Processes of manufacture of pasted electrodes
  • H01M 4/56 - Selection of substances as active materials, active masses, active liquids of inorganic oxides or hydroxides of lead
  • H01M 4/21 - Drying of pasted electrodes

26.

Battery electrode continuous casting shoe, machine and method

      
Application Number 17441053
Grant Number 12002943
Status In Force
Filing Date 2019-10-04
First Publication Date 2022-06-16
Grant Date 2024-06-04
Owner Wirtz Manufacturing Company, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Mendoza, Roel
  • Mrdenovic, Aleksandar
  • Romeo, Michael
  • Wirtz, John O.

Abstract

A shoe for dispensing a molten metal such as lead into a mold cavity of a rotating drum to continuously cast a web of a plurality of serially connected grids or battery composite electrodes of a carbon fiber material with a cast metal conductor. The shoe may have at least one elongate orifice slot in a face confronting the drum, a molten metal supply passage communicating with the orifice slot and an excess molten metal return slot opening into the confronting face downstream of the supply slot relative generally to the direction of rotation of the drum.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B22D 11/06 - Continuous casting of metals, i.e. casting in indefinite lengths into moulds with travelling walls, e.g. with rolls, plates, belts, caterpillars
  • H01M 4/04 - Processes of manufacture in general
  • H01M 4/22 - Forming of electrodes
  • H01M 4/583 - Carbonaceous material, e.g. graphite-intercalation compounds or CFx
  • H01M 4/66 - Selection of materials
  • H01M 4/68 - Selection of materials for use in lead-acid accumulators
  • H01M 4/84 - Multi-step processes for manufacturing carriers for lead-acid accumulators involving casting
  • H01M 10/06 - Lead-acid accumulators
  • H01M 10/12 - Construction or manufacture
  • H01M 10/14 - Assembling a group of electrodes or separators
  • H01M 4/02 - Electrodes composed of, or comprising, active material

27.

Battery electrode plate production line and method

      
Application Number 17058059
Grant Number 11843090
Status In Force
Filing Date 2019-06-04
First Publication Date 2021-06-24
Grant Date 2023-12-12
Owner Wirtz Manufacturing Company, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Wood, Edward F.
  • Mercurio, Scott A.
  • Wirtz, Robert N.

Abstract

A battery electrode plate assembly and a production line and method of making, pasting, and applying separators to substrates of battery electrode plate assemblies. The production line includes, in an embodiment, a paster, a cutter, and a transfer mechanism. The paster is configured to apply a battery paste to a first side of an elongate web of a separator material. The cutter is downstream of the paster and is configured to sever the pasted web into a series of separate and individual separators with paste on their first side. And the transfer mechanism is configured to dispose an individual separator of the series on one of a series of substrates with the pasted first side of the separator facing the substrate on which it is disposed.

IPC Classes  ?

28.

Battery paste mixer and method

      
Application Number 17044114
Grant Number 12168208
Status In Force
Filing Date 2019-04-10
First Publication Date 2021-05-13
Grant Date 2024-12-17
Owner Wirtz Manufacturing Company, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Baranyai, Stephen G.
  • Magee, Timothy D.
  • Wirtz, Robert N.

Abstract

A machine for and method of making a paste of active material for application to a grid to make a plate for a lead acid battery. In the machine and method sulfuric acid, at least one dry additive and red lead or leady oxide are mixed together and the mixture is cooled by a plurality of cooling zones to maintain the mixture at a temperature not greater than a predetermined maximum temperature.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B01F 35/92 - Heating or cooling systems for heating the outside of the receptacle, e.g. heated jackets or burners
  • B01F 23/50 - Mixing liquids with solids
  • B01F 23/53 - Mixing liquids with solids using driven stirrers
  • B01F 25/50 - Circulation mixers, e.g. wherein at least part of the mixture is discharged from and reintroduced into a receptacle
  • B01F 27/82 - Pan-type mixers, i.e. mixers in which the stirring elements move along the bottom of a pan-shaped receptacle
  • B01F 35/71 - Feed mechanisms
  • B01F 35/90 - Heating or cooling systems
  • H01M 4/20 - Processes of manufacture of pasted electrodes
  • H01M 4/56 - Selection of substances as active materials, active masses, active liquids of inorganic oxides or hydroxides of lead
  • H01M 4/21 - Drying of pasted electrodes

29.

Battery machine tool system and method

      
Application Number 17043994
Grant Number 11453050
Status In Force
Filing Date 2019-04-16
First Publication Date 2021-02-04
Grant Date 2022-09-27
Owner Wirtz Manufacturing Company, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Wirtz, Ii, John W.
  • Mercurio, Scott
  • Wirtz, Robert N.

Abstract

A system for setting a specific value of a variable operating parameter of a machine usable with a plurality of different tools each requiring a different specific value of the operating parameter. The system may include a tag associated with a specific tool and containing stored data of a predetermined desired value of an operating parameter of the machine for the specific tool, a reader of the tool stored data of the desired value and a controller of the machine which uses at least some of the stored data to set the predetermined desired value of the variable operating parameter of the machine for its use of the specific tool or of a variable operating parameter of another machine which is dependent on the specific value of at least some of the stored data of the tag of the specific tool used in the machine. The machine may be one of a battery grid casting machine, a battery grid pasting machine, a battery paste making machine, a battery paste drying oven, a battery grid or plate cutting or trimming machine, a battery plate stacking machine, a robotic palletizing machine, or the like.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01M 4/139 - Processes of manufacture
  • H01M 4/84 - Multi-step processes for manufacturing carriers for lead-acid accumulators involving casting
  • H01M 10/04 - Construction or manufacture in general
  • B22D 25/04 - Casting metal electric battery plates or the like
  • B23D 36/00 - Control arrangements specially adapted for machines for shearing or similar cutting, or for sawing, stock while the latter is travelling otherwise than in the direction of the cut
  • H01M 4/72 - Grids
  • H01M 4/88 - Processes of manufacture

30.

Battery grid continuous casting shoe and machine

      
Application Number 17043942
Grant Number 11253914
Status In Force
Filing Date 2019-04-12
First Publication Date 2021-01-28
Grant Date 2022-02-22
Owner Wirtz Manufacturing Co., Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Mendoza, Roel
  • Mrdenovic, Aleksandar
  • Romeo, Michael

Abstract

A shoe for dispensing molten lead into a mold cavity of rotating drum to continuously cast a web of a plurality of serially connected grids for lead acid batteries. The shoe may have an elongate orifice slot in a face confronting the drum, a molten lead supply slot opening into an upper recessed portion of the orifice slot and an excess molten lead return slot communicating with the recessed portion downstream of the supply slot.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B22D 25/04 - Casting metal electric battery plates or the like
  • B22D 11/06 - Continuous casting of metals, i.e. casting in indefinite lengths into moulds with travelling walls, e.g. with rolls, plates, belts, caterpillars

31.

BATTERY GRID CONTINUOUS CASTING MACHINE AND METHOD

      
Application Number US2020029339
Publication Number 2020/219559
Status In Force
Filing Date 2020-04-22
Publication Date 2020-10-29
Owner WIRTZ MANUFACTURING CO., INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Romeo, Michael
  • Miller, Jason

Abstract

A method and machine for continuous casting of a strip of a plurality of serially connected battery grids. The machine may have a rotatable annular mold ring with a cavity at least in part having a plurality of grid molds, and a movable belt overlying at least the axial extent and a portion of the circumferential extent of the mold cavity in at least the area where liquid lead may be supplied to the mold cavity. To supply liquid lead to the mold cavity the mold ring may have a runner system communicating with the mold grids and opening to an end of the mold ring.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B22D 11/06 - Continuous casting of metals, i.e. casting in indefinite lengths into moulds with travelling walls, e.g. with rolls, plates, belts, caterpillars
  • B22D 11/00 - Continuous casting of metals, i.e. casting in indefinite lengths
  • H01M 10/12 - Construction or manufacture
  • H01M 10/06 - Lead-acid accumulators

32.

Battery grid continuous casting machine and method

      
Application Number 16855609
Grant Number 10981218
Status In Force
Filing Date 2020-04-22
First Publication Date 2020-10-29
Grant Date 2021-04-20
Owner Wirtz Manufacturing Co., Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Romeo, Michael
  • Miller, Jason

Abstract

A method and machine for continuous casting of a strip of a plurality of serially connected battery grids. The machine may have a rotatable annular mold ring with a cavity at least in part having a plurality of grid molds, and a movable belt overlying at least the axial extent and a portion of the circumferential extent of the mold cavity in at least the area where liquid lead may be supplied to the mold cavity. To supply liquid lead to the mold cavity the mold ring may have a runner system communicating with the mold grids and opening to an end of the mold ring.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B22D 11/06 - Continuous casting of metals, i.e. casting in indefinite lengths into moulds with travelling walls, e.g. with rolls, plates, belts, caterpillars
  • H01M 4/73 - Grids for lead-acid accumulators, e.g. frame plates

33.

BATTERY PASTE MIXER AND METHOD

      
Application Number US2019035806
Publication Number 2020/209881
Status In Force
Filing Date 2019-06-06
Publication Date 2020-10-15
Owner WIRTZ MANUFACTURING COMPANY, INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Baranyai, Stephen, G.
  • Wirtz, Robert, N.

Abstract

A battery paste mixer condensation assembly includes a duct, a condenser, a basin, and a pipe. The duct is in fluid communication with a battery paste mixer. Exiting gas from the battery paste mixer can travel through the duct. The condenser is situated downstream of the duct. The basin is situated near the condenser. Condensed liquid from the condenser is deposited in the basin. The pipe is in fluid communication with the basin and is in fluid communication with the battery paste mixer. Deposited liquid in the basin can travel from the basin and to the battery paste mixer by way of the pipe.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01M 4/20 - Processes of manufacture of pasted electrodes
  • B05C 11/11 - Vats or other containers for liquids or other fluent materials
  • H01M 4/04 - Processes of manufacture in general
  • H01M 4/16 - Processes of manufacture
  • H01M 4/62 - Selection of inactive substances as ingredients for active masses, e.g. binders, fillers
  • H01M 4/73 - Grids for lead-acid accumulators, e.g. frame plates
  • H01M 10/12 - Construction or manufacture

34.

BATTERY ELECTRODE CONTINUOUS CASTING SHOE, MACHINE AND METHOD

      
Application Number US2019054796
Publication Number 2020/190333
Status In Force
Filing Date 2019-10-04
Publication Date 2020-09-24
Owner WIRTZ MANUFACTURING COMPANY, INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Mendoza, Roel
  • Mrdenovic, Aleksandar
  • Romeo, Michael
  • Wirtz, John O.

Abstract

A shoe for dispensing a molten metal such as lead into a mold cavity of a rotating drum to continuously cast a web of a plurality of serially connected grids or battery composite electrodes of a carbon fiber material with a cast metal conductor. The shoe may have at least one elongate orifice slot in a face confronting the drum, a molten metal supply passage communicating with the orifice slot and an excess molten metal return slot opening into the confronting face downstream of the supply slot relative generally to the direction of rotation of the drum.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B22D 11/06 - Continuous casting of metals, i.e. casting in indefinite lengths into moulds with travelling walls, e.g. with rolls, plates, belts, caterpillars
  • B22D 19/00 - Casting in, on, or around, objects which form part of the product
  • B22D 25/04 - Casting metal electric battery plates or the like
  • C22C 47/08 - Making alloys containing metallic or non-metallic fibres or filaments by contacting the fibres or filaments with molten metal, e.g. by infiltrating the fibres or filaments placed in a mould
  • C22C 2/38 -
  • C22C 6/00 -

35.

BATTERY CARBON FIBER ELECTRODE MAKING MACHINE AND METHOD

      
Application Number US2020023590
Publication Number 2020/191175
Status In Force
Filing Date 2020-03-19
Publication Date 2020-09-24
Owner WIRTZ MANUFACTURING CO., INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Mendoza, Roel
  • Wirtz, John, O.

Abstract

A machine and process for making a composite battery electrode with a conductive lead cast ribbon extending along and attached to a portion of a carbon fiber material. A lead ribbon may be continuously cast along a longitudinally elongate strip of carbon fiber material. The ribbon may be cast along an edge or edges of a longitudinally elongate strip of carbon fiber material.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B22D 19/14 - Casting in, on, or around, objects which form part of the product the objects being filamentary or particulate in form

36.

Battery carbon fiber electrode making machine and method

      
Application Number 16823754
Grant Number 11335898
Status In Force
Filing Date 2020-03-19
First Publication Date 2020-09-24
Grant Date 2022-05-17
Owner Wirtz Manufacturing Co., Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Mendoza, Roel
  • Wirtz, John O.

Abstract

A machine and process for making a composite battery electrode with a conductive lead cast ribbon extending along and attached to a portion of a carbon fiber material. A lead ribbon may be continuously cast along a longitudinally elongate strip of carbon fiber material. The ribbon may be cast along an edge or edges of a longitudinally elongate strip of carbon fiber material.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01M 4/04 - Processes of manufacture in general
  • H01M 4/583 - Carbonaceous material, e.g. graphite-intercalation compounds or CFx
  • H01M 4/68 - Selection of materials for use in lead-acid accumulators
  • H01M 4/66 - Selection of materials
  • H01M 4/02 - Electrodes composed of, or comprising, active material

37.

CONTINUOUS LEAD STRIP CASTING LINE, CASTER, AND NOZZLE

      
Application Number US2019040048
Publication Number 2020/027966
Status In Force
Filing Date 2019-07-01
Publication Date 2020-02-06
Owner WIRTZ MANUFACTURING COMPANY, INC. (USA)
Inventor Romeo, Michael

Abstract

In one embodiment, a lead strip caster for battery grids includes a nozzle, a pair of rollers, and a molten lead supply to the nozzle. The lead strip caster produces a continuous lead strip for making battery grids. The nozzle has at least one passage that communicates with generally opposed faces of the nozzle at least partially received between the rollers to supply molten lead to exterior surfaces of the co-rotating rollers to form a continuous solid strip of lead from which battery grids may be made.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B21B 1/00 - Metal rolling methods or mills for making semi-finished products of solid or profiled cross-sectionSequence of operations in milling trainsLayout of rolling-mill plant, e.g. grouping of standsSuccession of passes or of sectional pass alternations
  • B22D 11/00 - Continuous casting of metals, i.e. casting in indefinite lengths
  • B22D 41/00 - Casting melt-holding vessels, e.g. ladles, tundishes, cups or the like

38.

BATTERY ELECTRODE PLATE PRODUCTION LINE AND METHOD

      
Application Number US2019035332
Publication Number 2019/236542
Status In Force
Filing Date 2019-06-04
Publication Date 2019-12-12
Owner WIRTZ MANUFACTURING COMPANY, INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Wood, Edward F.
  • Mercurio, Scott A.
  • Wirtz, Rob

Abstract

A battery electrode plate assembly and a production line and method of making, pasting, and applying separators to substrates of battery electrode plate assemblies. The production line includes, in an embodiment, a paster, a cutter, and a transfer mechanism. The paster is configured to apply a battery paste to a first side of an elongate web of a separator material. The cutter is downstream of the paster and is configured to sever the pasted web into a series of separate and individual separators with paste on their first side. And the transfer mechanism is configured to dispose an individual separator of the series on one of a series of substrates with the pasted first side of the separator facing the substrate on which it is disposed.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01M 2/14 - Separators; Membranes; Diaphragms; Spacing elements

39.

BATTERY MACHINE TOOL SYSTEM AND METHOD

      
Application Number US2019027613
Publication Number 2019/209578
Status In Force
Filing Date 2019-04-16
Publication Date 2019-10-31
Owner WIRTZ MANUFACTURING COMPANY, INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Wirtz Ii, John, W.
  • Mercurio, Scott
  • Wirtz, Robert N.

Abstract

A system for setting a specific value of a variable operating parameter of a machine usable with a plurality of different tools each requiring a different specific value of the operating parameter. The system may include a tag associated with a specific tool and containing stored data of a predetermined desired value of an operating parameter of the machine for the specific tool, a reader of the tool stored data of the desired value and a controller of the machine which uses at least some of the stored data to set the predetermined desired value of the variable operating parameter of the machine for its use of the specific tool or of a variable operating parameter of another machine which is dependent on the specific value of at least some of the stored data of the tag of the specific tool used in the machine. The machine may be one of a battery grid casting machine, a battery grid pasting machine, a battery paste making machine, a battery paste drying oven, a battery grid or plate cutting or trimming machine, a battery plate stacking machine, a robotic palletizing machine, or the like.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06K 17/00 - Methods or arrangements for effecting co-operative working between equipments covered by two or more of main groups , e.g. automatic card files incorporating conveying and reading operations
  • B23D 25/12 - Shearing machines with blades on coacting rotating drums
  • B23D 33/02 - Arrangements for holding, guiding, or feeding work during the operation
  • G06F 19/00 - Digital computing or data processing equipment or methods, specially adapted for specific applications (specially adapted for specific functions G06F 17/00;data processing systems or methods specially adapted for administrative, commercial, financial, managerial, supervisory or forecasting purposes G06Q;healthcare informatics G16H)
  • G08C 17/00 - Arrangements for transmitting signals characterised by the use of a wireless electrical link

40.

BATTERY PASTE MIXER AND METHOD

      
Application Number US2019026774
Publication Number 2019/199959
Status In Force
Filing Date 2019-04-10
Publication Date 2019-10-17
Owner WIRTZ MANUFACTURING COMPANY, INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Baranyai, Stephen, G.
  • Magee, Timothy, D.
  • Wirtz, Robert, N.

Abstract

A machine for and method of making a paste of active material for application to a grid to make a plate for a lead acid battery. In the machine and method sulfuric acid, at least one dry additive and red lead or leady oxide are mixed together and the mixture is cooled by a plurality of cooling zones to maintain the mixture at a temperature not greater than a predetermined maximum temperature.

IPC Classes  ?

41.

BATTERY GRID CONTINUOUS CASTING SHOE AND MACHINE

      
Application Number US2019027144
Publication Number 2019/200205
Status In Force
Filing Date 2019-04-12
Publication Date 2019-10-17
Owner WIRTZ MANUFACTURING COMPANY, INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Mendoza, Roel
  • Mrdenovic, Aleksandar
  • Romeo, Michael

Abstract

A shoe for dispensing molten lead into a mold cavity of rotating drum to continuously cast a web of a plurality of serially connected grids for lead acid batteries. The shoe may have an elongate orifice slot in a face confronting the drum, a molten lead supply slot opening into an upper recessed portion of the orifice slot and an excess molten lead return slot communicating with the recessed portion downstream of the supply slot.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B22D 11/06 - Continuous casting of metals, i.e. casting in indefinite lengths into moulds with travelling walls, e.g. with rolls, plates, belts, caterpillars
  • B22D 25/04 - Casting metal electric battery plates or the like

42.

Continuous lead strip casting line, caster, and nozzle

      
Application Number 16048907
Grant Number 10957942
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-07-30
First Publication Date 2018-11-29
Grant Date 2021-03-23
Owner Wirtz Manufacturing Co., Inc. (USA)
Inventor Romeo, Michael R.

Abstract

In one embodiment, a lead strip caster for battery grids includes a nozzle, a pair of rollers, and a molten lead supply to the nozzle. The lead strip caster produces a continuous lead strip for making battery grids. The nozzle has at least one passage that communicates with generally opposed faces of the nozzle at least partially received between the rollers to supply molten lead to exterior surfaces of the corotating rollers to form a continuous solid strip of lead from which battery grids may be made.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B22D 11/06 - Continuous casting of metals, i.e. casting in indefinite lengths into moulds with travelling walls, e.g. with rolls, plates, belts, caterpillars
  • H01M 10/12 - Construction or manufacture
  • B22D 11/00 - Continuous casting of metals, i.e. casting in indefinite lengths
  • H01M 4/73 - Grids for lead-acid accumulators, e.g. frame plates
  • H01M 4/22 - Forming of electrodes

43.

Continuous lead strip casting line, caster, and nozzle

      
Application Number 15703330
Grant Number 10960461
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-09-13
First Publication Date 2018-03-15
Grant Date 2021-03-30
Owner Wirtz Manufacturing Co., Inc. (USA)
Inventor Romeo, Michael

Abstract

In one embodiment, a lead strip caster for battery grids includes a ladle, a nozzle, and a pair of rollers. The lead strip caster produces a continuous lead strip for use as battery positive plate grids. The ladle has an inlet to receive molten lead and has an outlet. The nozzle has at least one passage that communicates with the outlet of the ladle in order to receive molten lead from the ladle. The first roller is situated at a first exterior side of the nozzle. The first roller rotates via a first driver. The second roller is situated at a second exterior side of the nozzle. The second roller rotates via a second driver.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B22D 11/06 - Continuous casting of metals, i.e. casting in indefinite lengths into moulds with travelling walls, e.g. with rolls, plates, belts, caterpillars
  • B22D 11/00 - Continuous casting of metals, i.e. casting in indefinite lengths
  • H01M 4/16 - Processes of manufacture
  • H01M 4/22 - Forming of electrodes
  • H01M 4/73 - Grids for lead-acid accumulators, e.g. frame plates
  • H01M 10/12 - Construction or manufacture

44.

Battery plate cutter system and method

      
Application Number 15599686
Grant Number 10232453
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-05-19
First Publication Date 2017-11-30
Grant Date 2019-03-19
Owner Wirtz Manufacturing Company, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Mendoza, Roel
  • Allen, Dustin James

Abstract

A system, apparatus and method for cutting battery grids or plates from a continuous strip of a plurality of connected battery grids. The continuous strip moves toward a rotating cutter with at least two cutter blades with cutting edges equally circumferentially spaced apart and extending parallel to the cutter axis of rotation and a rotating cooperating anvil. The cutting edges and the anvil are rotated at the same tangential speed to cut in a nip between them a plate or grid from the continuous strip of connected grids. At a point upstream of the cutter, an electric signal indicative of each lug of the grid of the continuous strip moving past this point is used to control the speed of movement of the strip through the nip to cut a plate or grid from the continuous strip at a longitudinal speed which is essentially the same as the tangential speed of the cutting edges.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B23D 25/12 - Shearing machines with blades on coacting rotating drums
  • B23D 33/12 - Equipment for indicating where to cut
  • B23D 33/02 - Arrangements for holding, guiding, or feeding work during the operation
  • H01M 4/02 - Electrodes composed of, or comprising, active material
  • G05B 19/18 - Numerical control [NC], i.e. automatically operating machines, in particular machine tools, e.g. in a manufacturing environment, so as to execute positioning, movement or co-ordinated operations by means of programme data in numerical form
  • B23D 36/00 - Control arrangements specially adapted for machines for shearing or similar cutting, or for sawing, stock while the latter is travelling otherwise than in the direction of the cut
  • H01M 4/20 - Processes of manufacture of pasted electrodes
  • H01M 10/12 - Construction or manufacture

45.

Battery grid pasting machine and system

      
Application Number 15181842
Grant Number 09744552
Status In Force
Filing Date 2016-06-14
First Publication Date 2016-10-06
Grant Date 2017-08-29
Owner Wirtz Manufacturing Company, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Mendoza, Roel
  • Wirtz, John O.

Abstract

A battery grid pasting system includes a battery grid pasting machine, a sensing station, and a controller. The battery grid pasting machine includes a conveying apparatus confronting a hopper's dispensing end across a space, and includes a motor actuatable to cause variance of the space and hence variance of the amount of battery paste received on carried battery grids through the space. The sensing station senses a value of a property of a pasted battery grid. And the controller receives the sensed value of the property and controls actuation of the motor based in part or more on the received value.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B05C 11/10 - Storage, supply or control of liquid or other fluent materialRecovery of excess liquid or other fluent material
  • H01M 4/20 - Processes of manufacture of pasted electrodes
  • B05C 11/02 - Apparatus for spreading or distributing liquids or other fluent materials already applied to a surfaceControl of the thickness of a coating
  • B05C 11/11 - Vats or other containers for liquids or other fluent materials
  • H01M 4/04 - Processes of manufacture in general
  • H01M 4/73 - Grids for lead-acid accumulators, e.g. frame plates

46.

Battery plate grid strip pasting assembly

      
Application Number 14507129
Grant Number 09437867
Status In Force
Filing Date 2014-10-06
First Publication Date 2015-04-09
Grant Date 2016-09-06
Owner Wirtz Manufacturing Company, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Mendoza, Roel
  • Wirtz, John O.

Abstract

A battery plate grid strip pasting assembly can include an orifice plate, a support structure, and a belt. The orifice plate has an opening through which battery paste material is dispensed out of a hopper. The support structure underlies a battery plate grid strip and supports the battery plate grid strip upstream of the opening. The belt traverses beneath the orifice plate and carries the battery plate grid strip downstream of the opening and downstream of the support structure. The support structure supports the battery plate grid strip above the belt and a gap is provided between a bottom surface of the battery plate grid strip and a top surface of the belt. Battery paste material is dispensed into the gap, through the battery plate grid strip, and overpastes the bottom surface of the battery plate grid strip.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01M 4/20 - Processes of manufacture of pasted electrodes

47.

Reformed battery grids

      
Application Number 14520790
Grant Number 09755242
Status In Force
Filing Date 2014-10-22
First Publication Date 2015-02-05
Grant Date 2017-09-05
Owner Wirtz Manufacturing Co., Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Wirtz, John W.
  • Wirtz, John O.
  • Mclane, Jack E

Abstract

A method of making a grid for a battery plate of a lead-acid battery. A substantially planar web is manufactured to include a plurality of spaced apart and interconnected wire segments, which at least partially define substantially planar surfaces, have a plurality of transverse lands, and interconnect at a plurality of nodes to define a plurality of open spaces between the wire segments. The web is reformed to change the cross-sectional shape of the wire segments. Other aspects may include simultaneously reducing the thickness of at least a portion of the web while reshaping the wire segments, and/or providing a controlled surface roughness on at least one of the surfaces of the web to increase surface area of the grid and thereby promote adhesion of an electrochemically active material to the grid.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01M 4/72 - Grids
  • H01M 4/73 - Grids for lead-acid accumulators, e.g. frame plates
  • H01M 4/84 - Multi-step processes for manufacturing carriers for lead-acid accumulators involving casting
  • H01M 4/04 - Processes of manufacture in general
  • H01M 10/12 - Construction or manufacture
  • H01M 4/20 - Processes of manufacture of pasted electrodes

48.

Battery grid pasting machine and system

      
Application Number 14035593
Grant Number 09397331
Status In Force
Filing Date 2013-09-24
First Publication Date 2014-03-27
Grant Date 2016-07-19
Owner Wirtz Manufacturing Company, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Mendoza, Roel
  • Wirtz, John O.

Abstract

A battery grid pasting system includes a battery grid pasting machine, a sensing station, and a controller. The battery grid pasting machine includes a conveying apparatus confronting a hopper's dispensing end across a space, and includes a motor actuatable to cause variance of the space and hence variance of the amount of battery paste received on carried battery grids through the space. The sensing station senses a value of a property of a pasted battery grid. And the controller receives the sensed value of the property and controls actuation of the motor based in part or more on the received value.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01M 4/20 - Processes of manufacture of pasted electrodes

49.

Battery bath and joint assembly therefor

      
Application Number 12406606
Grant Number 08308019
Status In Force
Filing Date 2009-03-18
First Publication Date 2010-09-23
Grant Date 2012-11-13
Owner Wirtz Manufacturing Co., Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Paterson, Clinton J.
  • Wirtz, John O.

Abstract

A joint assembly and a tub assembly for a battery bath. The joint assembly has a seal that extends between a first flange of a first section and a second flange of a second section. The seal sealing a gap defined between the first and second flanges.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B65D 6/16 - Containers having bodies formed by interconnecting or uniting two or more rigid, or substantially rigid, components made wholly or mainly of metal, plastics, wood or substitutes therefor collapsible

50.

Reformed battery grids

      
Application Number 12124478
Grant Number 08875361
Status In Force
Filing Date 2008-05-21
First Publication Date 2009-11-26
Grant Date 2014-11-04
Owner Wirtz Manufacturing Co., Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Wirtz, John W.
  • Wirtz, John O.
  • Mclane, Jack E.

Abstract

A method of making a grid for a battery plate of a lead-acid battery. A substantially planar web is manufactured to include a plurality of spaced apart and interconnected wire segments, which at least partially define substantially planar surfaces, have a plurality of transverse lands, and interconnect at a plurality of nodes to define a plurality of open spaces between the wire segments. The web is reformed to change the cross-sectional shape of the wire segments. Other aspects may include simultaneously reducing the thickness of at least a portion of the web while reshaping the wire segments, and/or providing controlled surface roughness on at least one of the surfaces of the web to increase surface area of the grid and thereby promote adhesion of an electrochemically active material to the grid.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01M 4/82 - Multi-step processes for manufacturing carriers for lead-acid accumulators
  • H01M 4/73 - Grids for lead-acid accumulators, e.g. frame plates
  • H01M 4/84 - Multi-step processes for manufacturing carriers for lead-acid accumulators involving casting
  • H01M 10/12 - Construction or manufacture