Abstract: An article includes a ceramic member (5) and a composite member (9) bonded together. The composite member is formed of a substrate member and a deformable metal layer which is mechanically fixed to the substrate member. The substrate member is formed of a material which is harder than the deformable metal. The ceramic member and the deformable metal layer of the composite member are hermetically sealed together by a solid phase bond formed by ultrasonic welding.

Abstract: A plate of a battery is positioned so that a strap connected to the plate is located on a side of the plate, and a pedestal of a resin-wrapped post is fit in a notch formed in the strap. A first protection plate is installed between a contact portion of the pedestal with the notch and a resin portion of the resin-wrapped post, and a second protection plate is installed between the contact portion and the plate. A flame of a burner is applied onto the contact portion from above the strap and the pedestal at a spot between the both protection plates so as to weld the pedestal to the strap without causing the resin portion to become molten or the post from becoming misshapen.

Abstract: A heating platen transfer device and method for use with a battery heat seal machine of the type that is used for sealing a top cover to a battery container. The mobile platen transfer device is used with the machine to quickly and safely remove an outgoing platen and replace it with an incoming platen when changing battery sizes and types on the battery assembly line. There is also disclosed herein a novel method for sealing a battery top cover to a battery container.

Abstract: Two metallic foils each have a continuous band of polyethylene film adhesively bonded thereto. The lithium battery is sandwiched between these two metallic foils and a thermo-seal is provided to join the two polyethylene films. This construction prevents any outside substance from contacting the lithium battery.

Abstract: A method for producing a metallic oxide-hydrogen secondary battery is provided. The method comprises the steps of disposing generating elements consisting of positive electrodes containing metallic oxides, negative electrodes containing hydrogen-absorbing alloys, and separators in a plurality of cell chambers equipped with safety valves, each cell chamber having different capacity; pouring an electrolyte into each cell chamber; and repeating charge and discharge cycles on condition that safety valves work at pressure G in the range of 1<G.ltoreq.6 atm so that the amount of the electrolyte in each cell chamber is kept constant.

Abstract: A battery heat seal machine and method for sealing a top cover to a battery container. The machine has a one-piece heating platen with thermal expansion features which eliminate stress on the platen bearings that support the platen. A new type of top cover holder and pickup device is also employed in the machine to positively grasp the top cover around the center line of the cover and to lift it up and return it as desired. The pickup device design may be used with small automotive batteries and with large commercial batteries. A mobile platen transfer device is used with the machine to quickly and safely remove an outgoing platen and replace it with an incoming platen when changing battery sizes and types on the battery assembly line.

Abstract: A multicell storage battery may be assembled to fit various floor space and height requirements by using standardized multicell modules having keyed connector means such that the modules can be connected only in selected orientations which facilitate the electrical connection of terminals. These standardized modules eliminate the need for standard and reverse polarity modules which existed in the prior art, and simplify battery assembly on site while allowing greater flexibility to adjust to space limitations. The keyed connectors comprise mating structures on the sides of the rectangular frame of the modules, which in combination with the modules being configured to stand vertically, create cooling ducts for the cells. An easily installed safety shield encloses the terminals of the cells and provides a front cooling duct.

Abstract: This invention relates to apparatus for aligning groups of plates and separators in a group for use in an accumulator battery and can more broadly relate to general alignment apparatus.In one construction the alignment apparatus 19 has a table 20 which is mounted on a frame, which can be lifted by a hydraulic ram 21 and vibrated by a vertically acting low frequency vibrator 22 and a cyclically horizontally acting vibrator 23. A head 24 is provided with lug aligning walls, 25, 26 which align the plates 31, while walls 17 and 18 provide lateral alignment of the separators 30. Weights 27 and 27A act on top of the plates 31 and separators 30 respectively to provide vertical alignment. The combined vibrations produced by the vibrators 22, 23 free the plates and separators to allow these alignments to occur.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for fabricating a consolidated assembly of cathode material in a dry cell battery casing having a closed end and an open end are disclosed. The casings are moved in a path to a selected transfer region on a circular locus, into registry with a die assembly, and along an arc of the circular locus in the transfer region at the same angular velocity as the die assembly. Each casing is engaged by a rotating die assembly in which a quantity of fluent cathode material has been deposited in an upwardly open receiving chamber of the lower die assembly. The casing is retained in position on the lower die assembly while a core pin and annular shoulder punch are elevated through the receiving chamber to force the cathode material into the casing and to compact the cathode material into an annular configuration.

Abstract: A method of bonding a metal connection onto an electrode for an electrochemical cell including a foam type substrate (2), which substrate has been filled with active material and then compressed, the method being characterized by the facts that: at least one perforation (3, 4) is formed through said electrode; a metal tongue (5) is compressed against said performation and the surrounding zone, which tongue penetrates superficially into a first face of the electrode; and said connection (11) is welded onto said metal tongue (5) through said perforation (3, 4).

Abstract: An electrochemical cell, such as an alkaline cell, employing a multi-strip separator formed into a closed end cylindrical configuration and where an electrically insulating barrier, such as a plastic film, is disposed at the bottom surface of the separator to prevent electrical shorting between the electrodes of the cell at this location.

Abstract: An apparatus for moving an industrial wet battery cell is disclosed. The apparatus includes a clamping device for gripping the terminals of the cell and a fluid transfer device for reducing pressure within the battery cell by removing electrolyte from the cell. A process for transferring a battery into a container is also disclosed.

Abstract: The invention relates to a spring for maintaining a low internal resistance in a cell employing a consumable electrode, the cell employing such a spring and the method of manufacturing a cell employing such a spring. The spring fits within one electrode and its expansion keeps the cell electrodes close together as one is depleted. The spring has turned-in edges which enable it to be wrapped about and held by a split mandrel. A cell electrode can then be wrapped about the spring and the composite inserted into the cell container. The spring and electrode can be pushed off of the mandrel releasing the spring and forcing the electrode material into close contact with a separator and second electrode.

Abstract: Apparatus for forming stacks of accumulator plates having an endless horizontal conveyor device (13) for accepting and removing the stacks, whcih are each formed from a predetermined number of plates. To the conveyor device, a device for transferring sets of plates (9) is assigned that can be moved in the vertical direction between, in relation to the conveyor device, a raised position and a lowered transfer position. While in the raised position, the transfer device (9) can be charged alternately and cyclically from magazines (2, 6) located opposite one another in pairs with a negative plate, a separator plate, a positive plate and a separator plate, the transfer device (9) being capable of being lowered stepwise in accordance with the height of a set of plates. While in the lowered transfer position, the transfer device transfers to the intermittently movable conveyor device, the stack of plates formed on said transfer device from a predetermined number of sets of plates. (FIG.

Abstract: A method for the manufacture of lead-acid batteries and associated apparatus and a lead-acid battery design resulting therefrom is disclosed. The method involves providing a battery grid and pasting the grid with a battery paste such that a profiled and tapered battery plate is formed. This battery plate is wrapped onto a coil and cured in curing apparatus. A battery element is formed using coils of the finished plate stock, separator material, and winged end plate. After this, several battery elements are then placed into a battery container.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for fabricating a consolidated assembly of cathode material in a dry cell battery casing having a closed end and an open end are disclosed. The casings are moved in a path to a selected transfer region on a circular locus, into registry with a die assembly, and along an arc of the circular locus in the transfer region at the same angular velocity as the die assembly. Each casing is engaged by a rotating die assembly in which a quantity of fluent cathode material has been deposited in an upwardly open receiving chamber of the lower die assembly. The casing is retained in position on the lower die assembly while a core pin and annular shoulder punch are elevated through the receiving chamber to force the cathode material into the casing and to compact the cathode material into an annular configuration.

Abstract: A method of joining thermoplastic frames of a bipolar battery to form a leak-free battery stack. The battery includes a stack of generally rectangular thermoplastic frames, including a series of central frames and a pair of end frames. Each central frame has an opening and a bipolar plate, consisting of a positive electrode and a negative electrode, separated by an electrically conductive substrate, is mounted across the opening. The opposed surfaces of the frame project outwardly beyond the bipolar plate. To join the frames together, a pair of frames is mounted in spaced relation and a pair of back-to-back focused infrared heaters are positioned in the space between the frames and the focal point of each heater is directed into registry with the surface of the respective frame to melt or fuse the surface. The heating unit is then withdrawn and the frames are moved into contact with each other to weld the fused surfaces together.

Abstract: A method of making a lead-acid battery includes providing continuous lengths of end separator stock, positive plate stock, intermediate separator stock and negative plate stock with optional use of end separators. The separators, positive plates and negative plates are individually severed from the continuous length of stock and sequentially formed into an assembly. The assembly is introduced into a battery cell container. A plurality of assemblies may be established prior to introduction into the battery cell container. In a preferred embodiment, the assembly zone moves relative to the cutting stations for the respective continuous lengths of stock and facilitates sequential establishment of the assembly without intermediate storage of the individual separators and elements.The apparatus includes equipment for supplying continuous lengths of end separator stock, positive plate stock, intermediate separator stock and negative plate stock.

Abstract: A battery heat seal machine and method for sealing a top cover to a battery container. The machine has a one-piece heating platen with thermal expansion features which eliminate stress on the platen bearings that support the platen. A new type of top cover holder and pickup device is also employed in the machine to positively grasp the top cover around the center line of the cover and to lift it up and return it as desired. The pickup device design may be used with small automotive batteries and with large commercial batteries. A mobile platen transfer device is used with the machine to quickly and safely remove an outgoing platen and replace it with an incoming platen when changing battery sizes and types on the battery assembly line.

Abstract: A method of making a lead-acid battery includes providing continuous lengths of end separator stock, positive plate stock, intermediate separator stock and negative plate stock with optional use of end separators. The separators, positive plates and negative plates are individually severed from the continuous length of stock and sequentially formed into an assembly. The assembly is introduced into a battery cell container. A plurality of assemblies may be established prior to introduction into the battery cell container. In a preferred embodiment, the assembly zone moves relative to the cutting stations for the respective continuous lengths of stock and facilitates sequential establishment of the assembly without intermediate storage of the individual separators and elements.The apparatus includes equipment for supplying continuous lengths of end separator stock, positive plate stock, intermediate separator stock and negative plate stock.

Abstract: A tool holder useful in storage battery assembly is disclosed whose jaws are activated by an internally located piston in one of the jaws. The jaws are mounted on a multiplicity of guide rods floatingly such that when the jaws are closed a work piece will cause them to center up over the work piece despite design variations in the work piece.

Abstract: This invention relates to handling apparatus and methods and in particular, but not exclusively, to the handling of groups of battery plates.Thus handling apparatus 10 includes a main upright 11 supporting a transport mechanism 12 from which depends a plurality of spaced gripping devices 13. These devices are used to remove groups of battery plates from a jig box 14 to hold the plates in their alignment while moving them to a position 17 where they can be loaded in to the cells 18 of a battery box 19. A guide 21 is provided for providing the plates in to the cells 18. The loading procedure is carried out in two stages, a first set of cells being loaded in the first operation and a second set in the second operation.

Abstract: This invention relates to a cell construction for alkaline batteries, to alkaline batteries utilizing such cells and to methods for the manufacture thereof. Each cell has a positive electrode, a negative electrode in the form of a paste contained within a sealed bag, and a dielectric positioned at least between the electrodes. The electrodes and dielectric are sealed within a flexible package and a pointed conductor is provided which is electrically connected to the positive electrode of the cell, extends therefrom, and is adapted to pierce the package and negative electrode bag of an adjacent cell to make electrical contact with the negative electrode paste of such cell when the cells are pressed together to form a battery. The invention provides improved sealing between the cells by inhibiting the denting of the packaging and negative electrode bag prior to piercing by use of a stiff supporting plate mounted to the negative electrode side of the cell.

Abstract: Apparatus for simultaneously fusing both positive and negative side terminal posts of a lead acid storage battery having a pair of tombstones of L-shape. Each of the terminal posts has an inwardly extending projection extending into a substantially U-shaped opening at the top of the vertical legs of the tombstones. A pair of spaced induction coils are connected in series. A mold surrounds each coil for confining fused metal to fill the substantially U-shaped opening in the top of the tombstones for providing an integral connection between the terminal posts and the vertical portions of the tombstones when the terminal posts and tombstones are lifted into the molds and the induction coils are energized.

Abstract: A galvanic cell stack including a plurality of alternately interleaved positive and negative polarity plates each including a conductive lug projecting therefrom for electrically coupling to other plates of like polarity in the cell stack. Each set of like polarity plate lugs includes a polymer strip pressure molded in situ about the roots of the lugs.

Abstract: An apparatus for sealing a cylindrical storage cell comprises a main holder accommodating the storage cell, an auxiliary holder accommodating a rod, and a means for rolling-in the housing of the cylindrical storage cell including two shafts secured coaxially in the wall of the auxiliary holder. Mechanically linked with each such shaft are a seaming roller and an element for adjusting the distance between the seaming rollers interconnected therebetween, a stop means for limiting the movement of the seaming roller being in turn connected to the element for adjusting the distance between the rollers.

Abstract: A method of making intercell connections in a lead-acid storage battery. The battery has a plurality of pairs of vertical risers of lead or other readily feasible material, each pair sandwiching an electrically insulating vertical partition. The method comprises forming a horizontal hole in a partition, squeezing together such as by hydraulic cylinders, a pair of risers against its corresponding partition and applying coils energized by high frequency electrical current against the outer surfaces of the risers adjacent the hole and simultaneously squeezing together said pair of risers against its partition so as to fuse the riser material adjacent the hole and introduce it through and fill the hole. High quality readily reproducible intercell connections are thus formed successively throughout the battery.

Abstract: The plate (10) comprises a matrix or binder resin phase (12) in which is dispersed particulate, conductive tin oxide such as tin oxide coated glass fibers (14). A monopolar plate (11) is prepared by coating a layer (18) of electrolytically active material onto a surface of the plate (10). Tin oxide is prevented from reduction by coating a surface of the plate (10) with a conductive, impervious layer resistant to reduction such as a thin film (22) of lead adhered to the plate with a layer (21) of conductive adhesive. The plate (10) can be formed by casting a molten dispersion from mixer (36) onto a sheet (30) of lead foil or by passing an assembly of a sheet (41) of resin, a sheet (43) of fiberglass and a sheet (45) of lead between the nip of heated rollers (48, 50).

Abstract: A method for electrically interconnecting a plurality of solar cells in series using a multi-faced drum, a first bus spool having an associated first bus strip, and a second bus spool having an associated second bus strip, wherein the method involves placing a solar cell on the then-current top face of the drum so that its top electrode underlies the first bus strip and its bottom electrode overlies the second bus strip, indexing the drum forward one face as the first bus spool is lowered and the second bus spool is raised, placing a new solar cell on the then-current top face of the drum so that its top electrode underlies the second bus strip and its bottom electrode overlies the first bus strip, indexing the drum forward another face as the first bus spool is raised and the second bus spool is lowered, and continuing the foregoing process as desired to interweave the first and second bus strips between additional solar cells.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing battery plate groups by forming folding habits in a soft, continuous separator at regular intervals so that the folding directions may be alternated, and then alternately inserting positive plates and negative plates between the separator portions.

Abstract: A heat sealing machine for joining a battery casing and battery cover selectively operable in either a heating mode or a bonding mode comprising a battery casing station, a battery cover station and a battery casing/cover heater station operatively supported on a machine support frame, the battery casing station including a substantially horizontal support member to support the battery casing, the battery casing/cover heating station including a heater support frame movable between a first and second position pivotally mounted on the machine support frame having a casing/cover heater mounted on one end thereof and a counter balance mounted on the opposite end thereof, the battery cover station including a battery cover support frame movable between a first and second position pivotally mounted on the machine support frame having a battery cover support to support the battery cover pivotally attached to one end thereof and a counter balance mounted on the opposite end thereof, the machine support frame includi

Abstract: An apparatus for making a photovoltaic module having a plurality of cell strips. The apparatus (10) includes a frame (11) and a support drum (25) rotatably received in the frame (11). The support drum (25) has a substantially curved surface (42) having a plurality of paired dowel guides (45) for registering cell strips (50) relative to the surface (42) and an interconnect mesh (36) relative to the cell strip (50). A plurality of paired complementary clamp sets (51, 52) receive and secure the cell strips (50) and the interconnect mesh (36) to the support drum (25).

Abstract: A system for assembling, processing and transferring battery cell elements including a plurality of element assemblers and an exit conveyor having a plurality of element conveying lanes. Each element assembler includes element transfer and processing apparatus comprising an endless chain conveyor having a plurality of longitudinally spaced element carriers adapted to successively engage an element at a loading station, carry the engaged element through a plurality of process stations, and release the element at a discharge station. In the illustrated apparatus, the carriers each engage a loosely assembled element at the loading station, compress the element to final size, and carry the element through an inspection and manual unload station, a plate alignment station, a plate lug brushing station, a plate alignment after brushing station, and a series of tape applicator stations which bind the element in assembled and processed condition.

Abstract: A strip of electrode material is extended across a through-hole in a supporting surface and pushed through the hole into a container of an electrochemical cell. The strip assumes a generally U-shaped appearance as it is pushed through the hole by a mandril. The mandril preferably includes an elastomeric head which expands radially outward upon pressing contact with the interior base wall of the container so as to press the trailing legs of the U-shaped material outward against the interior container wall.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for induction heating "over-the-partition" intercell connections in a lead/acid storage battery by melting both lead risers so as to form a connection over the top of the insulating partition. A mold is suspended on top of the partition and an induction coil is supported on the mold so as to surround the top portion of the intercell lead risers. High frequency alternating electrical current is applied to the coil so as to melt the top portion of the lead risers so that upon fusion thereof in the mold and cooling, the tops of the risers are interconnected. The interconnection bridges the top of the risers and rests on top of the partition. The invention lends itself to mass production in a very short time as compared to present methods. Excellent fusion quality is reliably obtained as compared to present methods.

Abstract: A method for winding electrode assemblies useable in electrochemical cells is provided wherein first and second winding stations are provided. A first unwound electrode assembly is partially wound at the first winding station into a first partially wound electrode assembly and then transferred to the second winding station where the first partially wound electrode assembly is further wound. A second unwound electrode assembly is partially wound at the first winding station into a second partially wound electrode assembly contemporaneously with the further winding of the first partially wound electrode assembly at the second winding station.

Abstract: A plate for a multi-cell secondary battery incorporating a moulded perimeter frame (10) of thermoplastic material with a metal mesh (18) spanning the area of the frame (10) to provide support for battery paste material. The metal mesh (18) having at least a portion thereof formed into a plurality of corrugations (16) after the frame (10) has been moulded in-situ about the margin of the mesh (18). The forming of the corrugation (16) removing any buckling or distortion of the mesh (18) arising from the moulding of the frame (10).

Abstract: Apparatus is provided for aligning and presenting an electrode strip to the winding arbors of a machine for winding electrode assemblies of an electrochemical cell. A variable width recess is provided on an electrode carrier member for facilitating insertion of the electrode strip into the recess and alignment of the electrode strip for presentation to the winding arbors.

Abstract: A heat sealing machine for joining a battery casing and battery cover comprising a battery casing heating station and a battery cover preheating station operatively supported on a machine support frame, the battery casing heating station including a battery casing heater support frame pivotally mounted on the machine support frame having a battery casing heater pivotally attached to one end thereof and a counter balance mounted on the opposite end thereof, the battery cover preheating station including a battery support frame having a battery cover preheater pivotally attached to one end thereof and a counter balance mounted on the opposite end thereof, the machine support frame including a plurality of rollers for lateral movement of the individual battery casings thereon to move the heated battery casing laterally from the battery casing heating station to the battery cover preheating station to receive the preheated battery cover, such that the upper periphery of the battery casing is heated by the battery

Abstract: An apparatus and method for assembling battery cell elements having a plurality of electrode plates of alternating polarity separated by a continuous interleaved insulating sheet.

Abstract: A storage battery and a method of making same wherein the positive plates of one cell are electrically connected to the negative plates of an adjacent cell without the need of welding. A conventional battery case is utilized and modified to provide an opening through the partitions between the cells. A conductive material, either lead particles or a low-melt alloy in molten form, is added in the cells and through the openings therebetween. The lugs of the positive plates of the cell are all positioned downward in the cell and are aligned with all the lugs of the negative plates in an adjacent cell. The conductive material electrically connects all the positive lugs of the one cell to the negative lugs of the adjacent cell. Where particulate material is utilized as the conductive material, a sealing agent, for example, epoxy resin, is poured onto the conductive material to render the material impermeable and to seal it in place.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for assembling battery components including a battery case (10) having a plurality of divider walls (32) defining a plurality of side-by-side cell spaces (26,27,28,29,30,31) opening through a top portion of the case. A plurality of intermediate cell elements (34,35,36,37) are provided in the cell spaces intermediate the end cell spaces (26,31) and end cell elements (38,39) having terminal post portions (101) are inserted in the end cell spaces (26,31). The apparatus effects an automatic pickup of the cell elements at one or more insert stations from delivery conveyors (19,20) suitably positions the picked-up cell elements for proper polarity relationship in the inserted disposition within the battery case, and after moving the picked-up cell elements to overlying relationship with the battery case, inserts the cell elements automatically into the proper cell spaces.

Abstract: A method of assembling a multicell lead acid battery includes forming a laminated structure from a plurality of flat plate arrays. Each array comprises positive and negative plates connected to at least one further plate in the same array by at least one link. The arrays are superposed so that each plate is in registry with a plate of opposite polarity in the adjacent array and separated from it by separator material. One or more cuts are made to sever selected links to form a plurality of stacks of plates of alternating polarity which constitute the individual cells in the finished battery with each plate, with the exception of every other plate in the two electrical end stacks of plates, electrically connected by one or more integral links to only a plate of opposite polarity in the same array and with every alternate plate in the two electrical end stacks of plates connected to no other plate. In the finished battery each plate in each cell lies in a common plane with one plate in every other cell.

Abstract: A clamp for use in the assembly of multicell electric storage batteries comprises two spaced opposing clamping members each including a plurality of clamping elements which are connected but spaced apart by a gap. The clamping elements are arranged in two spaced parallel lines and are each adapted to contact a surface of a respective cell pack of a battery. Biassing means connects the two clamping members and is adapted to urge each clamping element of each clamping member towards a corresponding clamping element on the other clamping member.

Abstract: Apparatus for the automatic assembly and closure of rechargeable cells packaged in a cylindrical casing, wherein the cell casing, containing a coiled electrode assembly, is advanced by a horizontal rotary index table through a series of operational locations. A connector tab electrically connected to and extending from the top of the electrode coil is automatically oriented at one of the locations and is thereafter welded to a cover assembly at another location to which the cover assembly is advanced by a cover placement including a vertical rotary indexing wheel moving synchronously, or in timed sequence, with the horizontal index table. The vertical rotary index wheel includes forwardly extending spindles spaced about the periphery, each spindle releasably and rotatably carrying a cover assembly. The wheel moves the cover assemblies through a sealant applicator station prior to advancing them for placement at the welding location.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for supplying electrode plates in the assembly of battery cell elements. The apparatus includes a shuttle feed device for containing a plurality of stacks of electrode plates of common polarity and successively dispensing a single plate from each stack, a walking beam transfer device for successively receiving plates from said shuttle device and moving the plates into a row with the plates commonly oriented and in predetermined spaced relation, and a plate loader for simultaneously engaging and removing from said walking beam transfer device the number of plates of common polarity required in the assembly of a battery cell element. The feeding device is adapted for easy plate loading, and in conjunction with the transfer device, is adapted to provide a reliable supply of electrode plates for use in the automated assembly of cell elements.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for reliably assembling battery cell elements having relatively large numbers of electrode plates separated by a single interleaved spacer.

Abstract: A programmable control mechanism for positioning a tool head relative to a battery. The programmable mechanism includes a conveyor means for moving the battery along a first dimensional axis into a work station of the mechanism, a sensing means detects the leading and trailing edges of the battery and means responsive to the sensing means and the conveyor means generates a signal representing the dimensional length of the battery. The signal is utilized by a minicomputer to select a work program suited for that length of battery from a memory bank containing a plurality of such programs. The minicomputer utilizes a selected program to position the tool head relative to the battery so that various successive operations may be performed on the battery by any one of a variety of tools.

Abstract: An apparatus for automatically wrapping a plate for use in a lead acid industrial storage battery, said wrapping comprising a combination of three acid resistant, flexible porous materials forming an envelope adapted to insulate said plate while allowing free access of the battery acid to the surfaces of said plate. As configured, the wrapping apparatus comprises a plurality of regularly spaced, heated die fixtures attached to a servo controlled turntable, said turntable acting to index said dies through a set of six fixed work stations which are disposed on said apparatus around the periphery of said turntable. The six work stations of the apparatus are adpated to feed each of the three wrapping materials and a plate into one of said dies, wrap the materials around the plate, seal the edges of the outermost of said three wrapping materials, discharge the wrapped plate for further processing and measure the temperature of the heated die before it is recycled through the apparatus.

Abstract: The invention relates to improvements in machines employed for enclosing battery plates within a pouch of sheet material. The sheet is positioned so that the center of its length is disposed between the side of a fixture adapted to receive adjacent thereto the bottom edge of a battery plate and a slot and the sheet is enfolded around the battery plate by moving the fixture plate combination horizontally into and through the slot. As the wrapped bottom edge of the plate emerges from the slot, grasping means are engaged with the wrapped end of the battery plate and hold the plastic sheet tightly so as to prevent any displacement relative to the enclosed battery plate. The fixture is then withdrawn from the enfolding sheet. The overlapping lateral edges of the sheet are then sealed and the battery plate is dropped into an inclined position on an intermittently moving horizontal conveyor to produce a horizontal stack of wrapped plates.