Electrode assembly of rechargeable battery

Abstract

An electrode assembly of a rechargeable battery includes: first and second electrode plates in a stacked structure, each of the first and second electrode plates including a coated portion and an uncoated region tab, and the uncoated region tab being drawn out; and a plurality of diaphragms between the first electrode plate and the second electrode plate, each of the plurality of diaphragms including a spare portion protruding beyond the coated portion of each of the first electrode plate and the second electrode plate, the spare portion surrounding end portions of the first electrode plate and the second electrode plate, and a protruding length of the spare portion gradually changes in a stacking direction of the first electrode plate and the second electrode plate in the stacking structure.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an electrode assembly of a rechargeable battery. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to an electrode assembly of a rechargeable battery provided with a separator. Background Art

[0002] Unlike primary batteries, rechargeable batteries are batteries that are repeatedly charged and discharged. Small-capacity rechargeable batteries can be used in small and portable electronic devices such as mobile phones, laptop computers, and video cameras. Rechargeable batteries with large capacity and high density can be used as power for driving motors in hybrid and electric vehicles or for energy storage.

[0003] A rechargeable battery may include an electrode assembly for charging and discharging current, a case or bag containing the electrode assembly and an electrolyte solution, and an electrode terminal connected to the electrode assembly and led out to the outside of the case or bag. The electrode assembly may be formed as a core type formed by winding an electrode plate and a separator, or as a stack type formed by stacking electrode plates and separators. Summary of the invention

[0004] According to one embodiment, an electrode assembly of a rechargeable battery includes: a first electrode plate and a second electrode plate in a stacked structure, each of the first electrode plate and the second electrode plate includes a coated portion and an uncoated area tab, and the uncoated area tab is led out; and a plurality of separators, between the first electrode plate and the second electrode plate, each of the plurality of separators includes a spare portion protruding beyond the coated portion of each of the first electrode plate and the second electrode plate, the spare portion surrounds an end portion of the first electrode plate and an end portion of the second electrode plate, and a protruding length of the spare portion gradually changes in a stacking direction of the first electrode plate and the second electrode plate in the stacked structure.

[0005] The uncoated region tab of the first electrode plate and the uncoated region tab of the second electrode plate may be led out in the same direction.

[0006] The spare portion may include: a first protective portion on a first side, the first side being on the same side as the uncoated area terminal tab of the first electrode plate and the uncoated area terminal tab of the second electrode plate, and the first protective portion being configured to protect the first end portion of the first electrode plate and the first end portion of the second electrode plate; and a second protective portion on a second side, the second side being opposite to the first side, and the second protective portion being configured to protect the second end portion of the first electrode plate and the second end portion of the second electrode plate.

[0007] In the first protection portion, the protrusion length may gradually increase in the stacking direction, and in the second protection portion, the protrusion length may gradually decrease in the stacking direction.

[0008] The first protective portion may include a first portion, a second portion, and a third portion separated by an uncoated area tab of the first electrode plate and an uncoated area tab of the second electrode plate, the first portion, the second portion, and the third portion are sequentially arranged on the first side, the first portion is wound and wrapped with a first tape, the second portion is wound and wrapped with a second tape, and the third portion is wound and wrapped with a third tape.

[0009] The second protective portion may be rolled up and wrapped with an additional tape.

[0010] The second protection portion may be rolled and wrapped with the first bottom tape and the second bottom tape sequentially arranged on the second side.

[0011] The first protective portion may include a first portion, a second portion, and a third portion separated by an uncoated area tab of the first electrode plate and an uncoated area tab of the second electrode plate, the first portion, the second portion, and the third portion are arranged sequentially on the first side, the second portion is wound and wrapped with a second tape, and the second protective portion is wound and wrapped with another tape.

[0012] The first protective portion may include a first portion, a second portion, and a third portion separated by an uncoated area tab of the first electrode plate and an uncoated area tab of the second electrode plate, the first portion, the second portion, and the third portion are sequentially arranged on the first side, the second portion is wound and wrapped with a second tape, and the second protective portion is wound and wrapped with a first bottom tape and a second bottom tape sequentially arranged on the second side.

[0013] The uncoated region tab of the first electrode plate and the uncoated region tab of the second electrode plate may be led out in opposite directions in a crossing direction intersecting the stacking direction.

[0014] The spare portion may include: a first protective portion on a first side, the first side being on the same side as the uncoated area terminal tab of the first electrode plate, and the first protective portion being configured to protect a first end portion of the first electrode plate and a first end portion of the second electrode plate; and a second protective portion on a second side, the second side being on the same side as the uncoated area terminal tab of the second electrode plate, and the second protective portion being configured to protect a second end portion of the first electrode plate and a second end portion of the second electrode plate.

[0015] In the first protection portion, the protrusion length may gradually increase in the stacking direction, and in the second protection portion, the protrusion length may gradually decrease in the stacking direction.

[0016] According to one embodiment, an electrode assembly of a rechargeable battery includes: a first electrode plate and a second electrode plate in a winding structure, each of the first electrode plate and the second electrode plate includes a coated portion and an uncoated area tab, and the uncoated area tab is led out; and a plurality of separators, between the first electrode plate and the second electrode plate, each of the plurality of separators includes a spare portion protruding beyond the coated portion of each of the first electrode plate and the second electrode plate, the spare portion surrounds an end portion of the first electrode plate and an end portion of the second electrode plate, and a protruding length of the spare portion gradually changes from the center of the winding structure to the outside of the winding structure.

[0017] The uncoated region tab of the first electrode plate and the uncoated region tab of the second electrode plate may be led out on the same side of the winding structure in the winding axis direction.

[0018] The spare portion may include: a first protective portion on a first side, the first side being on the same side as the uncoated area terminal tab of the first electrode plate and the uncoated area terminal tab of the second electrode plate, and a protruding length in the first protective portion gradually decreases from the center of the winding structure to the outside of the winding structure; and a second protective portion on a second side, the second side being opposite to the first side, and a protruding length in the second protective portion gradually increases from the center of the winding structure to the outside of the winding structure.

[0019] The plurality of separators may include a cut portion exposing an uncoated region tab of each of the first and second electrode plates, and a depth of the cut portion gradually increases from one side of the plurality of separators to the other side of the plurality of separators in a length direction of the plurality of separators.

[0020] The uncoated region tab of the first electrode plate and the uncoated region tab of the second electrode plate may be led out at different sides of the winding structure in the winding axis direction.

[0021] The spare portion may include: a first protective portion on a first side, the first side being on the same side as the uncoated area terminal tab of the first electrode plate, and a protruding length in the first protective portion gradually decreases from the center of the winding structure to the outside of the winding structure; and a second protective portion on a second side, the second side being opposite to the first side and on the same side as the uncoated area terminal tab of the second electrode plate, and a protruding length in the second protective portion gradually increases from the center of the winding structure to the outside of the winding structure.

[0022] The plurality of diaphragms may include: a first cutting portion exposing an uncoated area terminal tab of a first electrode plate, wherein a depth of the first cutting portion gradually increases from one side of the plurality of diaphragms to the other side of the plurality of diaphragms in a length direction of the plurality of diaphragms; and a second cutting portion exposing an uncoated area terminal tab of a second electrode plate, wherein a depth of the second cutting portion gradually decreases from one side of the plurality of diaphragms to the other side of the plurality of diaphragms in a length direction of the plurality of diaphragms. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] Various features will become apparent to those skilled in the art by describing in detail exemplary embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0024] Figure 1 FIG. 4 is a top view of an electrode assembly of a rechargeable battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] Figure 2 for Figure 1 Left side view.

[0026] Figure 3 Wrap the first belt to the third belt Figure 1 A top view of the state of the first protective part.

[0027] Figure 4 for Figure 1 Left side view of the second protective part being wrapped by another belt.

[0028] Figure 5 for Figure 3 and Figure 4 A top view of the completed state of the entanglement.

[0029] Figure 6 An electrode assembly of a rechargeable battery according to an exemplary modification of an embodiment is shown, and is a top view of a state in which winding of a second protection portion is completed.

[0030] Figure 7 An electrode assembly of a rechargeable battery according to another exemplary modification of an embodiment is shown, and is a top view of a state in which winding of a first protection portion is completed.

[0031] Figure 8 An electrode assembly of a rechargeable battery according to still another exemplary modification of an embodiment is shown, and is a top view of a state in which winding of a second protection portion is completed.

[0032] Fig. 9 is a top view of an electrode assembly of a rechargeable battery according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] Fig.10 for Fig. 9 Left side view.

[0034] Fig.11 is a top view of an electrode assembly of a rechargeable battery according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] Fig.12 For application Fig.11 Top view of the diaphragm.

[0036] Fig.13 for Fig.11 Left side view.

[0037] Fig.14 An enlarged top view of the first protective portion formed by the meandering of the diaphragm.

[0038] Fig.15 An enlarged top view of the second protection portion formed by the meandering of the diaphragm.

[0039] Fig.16 FIG. 4 is a top view of an electrode assembly of a rechargeable battery according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0040] Fig.17 For application Fig.16 Top view of the diaphragm.

[0041] Fig.18 for Fig.16 Left side view. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0042] Example embodiments will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings; however, they may be embodied in different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey exemplary implementations to those skilled in the art.

[0043] In the drawings, the dimensions of layers and regions may be exaggerated for clarity of illustration. It will also be understood that when a layer or substrate is referred to as being "on" another layer or substrate, it can be directly on the other layer or substrate, or there may be intervening layers. Additionally, it will be understood that when a layer is referred to as being "between" two layers, it can be the only layer between the two layers, or there may be one or more intervening layers. Like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout.

[0044] Figure 1 is a top view of an electrode assembly of a rechargeable battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 2 for Figure 1 Left side view of the . Figure 1 and Figure 2 , the electrode assembly 1 of one embodiment may be formed in a stack type including a first electrode plate 10, a second electrode plate 20, and a separator 30. A rechargeable battery is formed by embedding the electrode assembly 1 in a pouch or a case together with an electrolyte.

[0045] For example, the first electrode plate 10 may be formed as a negative electrode plate and may have a coating portion (e.g., a coated portion) having an active material layer on both sides of an electrode collector and a first uncoated region tab 11 protruding to one side of the electrode collector. When the rechargeable battery is assembled, the first uncoated region tab 11 may be led out to the outside of a bag or a case. The electrode collector may be formed of a thin plate and may be formed of copper.

[0046] The second electrode plate 20 may be formed as a positive electrode plate, and may have a coating portion having an active material layer on both sides of an electrode current collector and a second uncoated region tab 21 protruding to one side of the electrode current collector. When the rechargeable battery is assembled, the second uncoated region tab 21 may be led out to the outside of a bag or a case. The electrode current collector may be formed of a thin plate, and may be formed of aluminum.

[0047] The material of the electrode collector forming the first electrode plate 10 and the second electrode plate 20 may be any material that does not react with lithium, that is, any non-conductive material that does not form an alloy or compound with lithium. For example, the material may be a metal or an alloy. The first electrode plate 10 and the second electrode plate 20 are described as a positive electrode plate and a negative electrode plate, but they may be interchangeable depending on the situation.

[0048] The metal of the electrode current collector may be, for example, indium (In), copper (Cu), magnesium (Mg), stainless steel, titanium (Ti), iron (Fe), cobalt (Co), nickel (Ni), zinc (Zn), aluminum (Al), germanium (Ge), lithium (Li) or an alloy thereof. The electrode current collector may have any form selected from, for example, sheets, foils, films, plates, porous materials, mesoporous materials, perforated materials, polygonal rings, mesh materials, foams and non-woven fabric materials.

[0049] For example, refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 , the separator 30 may be cut corresponding to the first uncoated region tab 11 and the second uncoated region tab 21. In another example, the separator 30 may be used by cutting a portion corresponding to the first uncoated region tab 11 and the second uncoated region tab 21 in a state where the separator 30 is disposed between the first electrode plate 10 and the second electrode plate 20 and is stacked. In this case, a portion of the separator 30 disposed between the first uncoated region tabs 11 of the first electrode plate 10 and a portion of the separator 30 disposed between the second uncoated region tabs 21 of the second electrode plate 20 need to be removed.

[0050] The first uncoated region tab 11 and the second uncoated region tab 21 may be led out at the same side or opposite sides of the electrode assembly 1. Figure 1, the first uncoated region terminal tab 11 and the second uncoated region terminal tab 21 may be led out on the same side. That is, the first uncoated region terminal tab 11 and the second uncoated region terminal tab 21 may be on the same side (e.g., Figure 1 and Figure 2 in the upward direction) is drawn out.

[0051] A plurality of first uncoated region tabs 11 may be gathered into one (e.g., a plurality of first uncoated region tabs 11 may be stacked to overlap each other in the z-axis direction to define a group) and led out to the outside of the bag or housing. In addition, a plurality of second uncoated region tabs 21 may be gathered into one (e.g., a plurality of second uncoated region tabs 21 may be stacked to overlap each other in the z-axis direction to define a group) and led out to the outside of the bag or housing. The second uncoated region tabs 21 are electrically separated from the first uncoated region tabs 11 in the x-axis direction.

[0052] refer to Figure 1 , the separator 30 may form a spare portion 30a that protrudes more than the coating portion from the lead-out side (i.e., the side from which the first uncoated region terminal tab 11 and the second uncoated region terminal tab 21 of the electrode assembly 1 are led out) and from the opposite sides of the first uncoated region terminal tab 11 and the second uncoated region terminal tab 21, and may surround the end portion of the first electrode plate 10 and the end portion of the second electrode plate 20. For example, referring to Figure 1 The spare portion 30a of the separator 30 may be a portion of the separator 30 that, when viewed in the xy plane, extends much more than the first electrode plate 10 and the second electrode plate 20 in each of the x-axis direction and the y-axis direction (for example, extends beyond the first electrode plate 10 and the second electrode plate 20 in each of the x-axis direction and the y-axis direction) around the entire periphery of the stacked first electrode plate 10 and the second electrode plate 20 (beyond the first electrode plate 10 and the second electrode plate 20) except for the first uncoated region terminal tab 11 and the second uncoated region terminal tab 21. Figure 1 ).

[0053] exist Figure 1 In the diaphragm 30, the top portion (e.g., Figure 2 The first diaphragm 301 (the leftmost in the z-axis direction) may be set to be most downwardly biased in the y-axis direction (for example, may be located at the bottom in the y-axis direction) and arranged at the bottom (for example, at Figure 2The last diaphragm 303 (the rightmost diaphragm in the z-axis direction) may be set to be most upwardly biased in the y-axis direction (for example, it may be located at the top in the y-axis direction). In addition, the middle diaphragm 302 disposed between the first diaphragm 301 and the last diaphragm 303 may be more gradually biased upwardly in the y-axis direction as it moves upward (for example, it may be located at the top in the z-axis direction). Figure 2 ) are spaced apart from each other in the y-axis direction ( Figure 1 and Figure 2 ) are positioned at gradually increasing heights in a direction oriented from the first diaphragm 301 toward the last diaphragm 303).

[0054] Therefore, the diaphragm 30 may have a margin of different lengths in the y-axis direction (for example, the diaphragm 30 may have a margin of increased length in the y-axis direction in the region beyond the stacked first electrode plate 10 and second electrode plate 20). In other words, the protruding length of the spare portion of each of the diaphragms 30 in the y-axis direction gradually changes in the stacking direction (z-axis direction) of the first electrode plate 10 and the second electrode plate 20. The spare portion of each of the diaphragms 30 may include a first protective portion 31 and a second protective portion 32, which will be described later. For example, referring to Figure 2 Two adjacent diaphragms 30 in the z-axis direction (ie, two adjacent first protection portions 31 of two adjacent diaphragms 30 ) may extend to different lengths in the y-axis direction in an area outside the stacked first and second electrode plates 10 and 20 .

[0055] Because the protruding length of the spare portion gradually changes in the separator 30 along the stacking direction to further surround the end portion of the first electrode plate 10 and the end portion of the second electrode plate 20, it is possible to prevent or substantially minimize an electrical short circuit between the first electrode plate 10 and the second electrode plate 20. If the rechargeable battery is dropped, the first electrode plate 10 and the second electrode plate 20 may move on both sides of the separator 30, and the spare portion of the separator 30 (i.e., the first protective portion 31 and the second protective portion 32 of the separator 30) may absorb the impact of the drop and minimize damage to the first electrode plate 10 and the second electrode plate 20, thereby further preventing an electrical short circuit.

[0056] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 In the spare part of the separator 30 in one embodiment, the first protection part 31 protects (e.g., surrounds) the first electrode plate 10 and the second electrode plate 20 on the first uncoated region terminal tab 11 and the second uncoated region terminal tab 21 side (i.e., Figure 1 and Figure 2 The end portion of the first protective portion 31 (in the y-axis direction upward side) can be minimized from damage and movement due to impact. For this purpose, in the first protective portion 31, the protrusion length in the stacking direction (toward Figure 2The z-axis direction in the figure gradually increases to the right.

[0057] The second protection portion 32 protects (eg, surrounds) the first electrode plate 10 and the second electrode plate 20 on opposite sides of the first uncoated region tab 11 and the second uncoated region tab 21 (ie, Figure 1 and Figure 2 To this end, the second protective portion 32 has a protruding length in the stacking direction (ie, toward the lower side of the y-axis direction) to minimize damage and movement due to impact. Figure 2 The z-axis direction in the figure gradually decreases to the right.

[0058] Figure 3 for Figure 1 A top view of a state where the first protective portion is wrapped with the first to third belts. Figures 1 to 3 The first protection portion 31 may include a first portion 311, a second portion 312, and a third portion 313, which are separated from each other by the first uncoated region tab 11 and the second uncoated region tab 21 in the x-axis direction and are sequentially arranged along the x-axis direction on one side. Figure 3 , the first portion 311 may be wound and wrapped with a first tape 411 to strengthen the buffering and insulating structure in the first portion 311. The second portion 312 may be wound and wrapped with a second tape 412 to strengthen the buffering and insulating structure in the second portion 312. The third portion 313 may be wound and wrapped with a third tape 413 to strengthen the buffering and insulating structure in the third portion 313.

[0059] Figure 4 A left side view of the second protective portion being wrapped with another tape, and Figure 5 for Figure 3 and Figure 4 A top view of the completed winding state. Figures 1 to 5 The second protective portion 32 may be wrapped with an additional tape 42 (eg, a protective gear tape) to strengthen the cushioning and insulation structure in the second protective portion 32 .

[0060] Hereinafter, various exemplary variations and embodiments of the present disclosure will be described. Figures 1 to 5 Compared with the embodiments in the present invention, the description of the same configuration is omitted, and the description of different configurations is provided.

[0061] Figure 6 Show according to Figures 1 to 5 1 is an electrode assembly of a rechargeable battery according to an exemplary variation of the embodiment, and is a top view of a state in which winding of a second protective portion is completed.

[0062] refer to Figure 6In the electrode assembly 2, the second protective portion 32 on the side of the electrode assembly 2 opposite to the first uncoated region terminal tab 11 and the second uncoated region terminal tab 21 may be wrapped with the first bottom tape 421 and the second bottom tape 422. The first bottom tape 421 and the second bottom tape 422 may be wound and sequentially disposed on the same side of the electrode assembly 2 to strengthen the buffer and insulation structure in the second protective portion 32. Because the first bottom tape 421 and the second bottom tape 422 are formed separately (e.g., the first bottom tape 421 and the second bottom tape 422 may be spaced apart from each other along the x-axis direction), it is easier to wind and wrap the second protective portion 32 (e.g., with the electrode assembly 2). Figures 1 to 5 4 is formed as a single long strip that continuously overlaps the first uncoated area terminal piece 11 and the second uncoated area terminal piece 21).

[0063] Figure 7 Show according to Figures 1 to 5 1 is an electrode assembly of a rechargeable battery according to another exemplary variation of the embodiment, and is a top view of a state in which winding of a first protective portion is completed.

[0064] refer to Figure 7 In the electrode assembly 3, the first protective portion 31 on one side of the electrode assembly 3 including the first uncoated region tab 11 and the second uncoated region tab 21 may be divided into a first portion 311, a second portion 312, and a third portion 313 sequentially arranged on the same side along the x-axis direction by the first uncoated region tab 11 and the second uncoated region tab 21 in the x-axis direction. The first protective portion 31 in the electrode assembly 3 may be wrapped only with the second tape 412.

[0065] refer to Figure 7 , the first portion 311 can be wound without being wound and form a reinforced buffer and insulation structure. The second portion 312 can be wound and wound with the second tape 412 to form a reinforced buffer and insulation structure in the second portion 312. The third portion 313 can be wound without being wound and form a reinforced buffer and insulation structure. Since the first protective portion 31 is provided with a second tape 412, the winding work (for example, with Figures 1 to 5 compared to the multiple bands in the embodiments in FIG. 1 ).

[0066] The second protective portion 32 may be rolled and wrapped with an additional tape 42 to form a reinforced buffer and insulation structure in the second protective portion 32. The second protective portion 32 may have a Figures 1 to 5 The same effect as in the embodiment.

[0067] Figure 8 Show according to Figures 1 to 50014] An electrode assembly of a rechargeable battery according to still another exemplary variation of the embodiment in FIG. 10 is a top view of a winding completion state of a second protective portion.

[0068] refer to Figure 8 In the electrode assembly 4, the first portion 311 can be wound without being wound and the buffer and insulation structure can be strengthened. The second portion 312 can be wound and wound with the second tape 412 to form a strengthened buffer and insulation structure in the second portion 312. The third portion 313 can be wound without being wound and the buffer and insulation structure can be strengthened. Since the first protective portion 31 is provided with a second tape 412, the winding work (for example, with Figures 1 to 5 Compared with the embodiment in which a first belt 411 and a third belt 413 are further provided).

[0069] The second protection part 32 can be wrapped with the first bottom tape 421 and the second bottom tape 422 which are wound and sequentially arranged on the same side, and the buffer and insulation structure in the second protection part 32 can be strengthened. Since the first bottom tape 421 and the second bottom tape 422 are formed separately, the second protection part 32 can be more easily wound and wrapped (for example, with Figures 1 to 5 Compared to the additional belt 42 formed as one in the embodiment in FIG.

[0070] Fig. 9 is a top view of an electrode assembly of a rechargeable battery according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.10 for Fig. 9 Left side view.

[0071] refer to Fig. 9 and Fig.10 , the electrode assembly 5 may include a first uncoated region terminal tab 12 of the first electrode plate 10 and a second uncoated region terminal tab 22 of the second electrode plate 20 led out at opposite sides. That is, the first uncoated region terminal tab 12 and the second uncoated region terminal tab 22 may be led out at opposite sides (in the intersecting direction (y-axis direction)) of the stacking direction (z-axis direction) Fig. 9 and Fig.10 The upward direction and the downward direction in the image are drawn out.

[0072] A plurality of first uncoated area tabs 12 may be gathered together at the top and led out to the outside of the bag or housing. In addition, a plurality of second uncoated area tabs 22 may be gathered together at the bottom and led out to the outside of the bag or housing.

[0073] refer to Fig. 9 and Fig.10, the separator 230 may protrude from the coating portion at the lead-out side of the first uncoated region tab 12 and the lead-out side of the second uncoated region tab 22 to form a spare portion that further surrounds the end portion of the first electrode plate 10 and the end portion of the second electrode plate 20. The separator 230 may include a first separator 304, a last separator 306, and an intermediate separator 305 between the first separator 304 and the last separator 306.

[0074] refer to Fig. 9 , is disposed at the top in the diaphragm 230 (e.g., at Fig.10 The first diaphragm 300 (leftmost in the z-axis direction) can be formed in the y-axis direction ( Fig. 9 ) is set to the most downward bias, and is set at the bottom (for example, at Fig.10 The last diaphragm 306 (the rightmost one in the z-axis direction) can be arranged in the y-axis direction ( Fig. 9 ) is set to be biased most upward. In addition, the middle diaphragm 305 arranged between the first diaphragm 304 and the last diaphragm 306 can be biased upward more gradually in the y-axis direction as it moves upward.

[0075] Therefore, the diaphragm 230 may have margins of different lengths in the y-axis direction. In other words, the protruding length of the spare portion of the diaphragm 230 gradually changes in the stacking direction (z-axis direction) of the first electrode plate 10 and the second electrode plate 20. The spare portion includes a first protective portion 33 and a second protective portion 34, which will be described later.

[0076] Because the protruding length of the spare portion gradually changes in the stacking direction in the separator 230 to further surround the end portion of the first electrode plate 10 and the end portion of the second electrode plate 20, an electrical short circuit between the first electrode plate 10 and the second electrode plate 20 can be prevented or substantially minimized. If the rechargeable battery is dropped, the first electrode plate 10 and the second electrode plate 20 can move on both sides of the separator 230, and the spare portion of the separator 230 (i.e., the first protective portion 33 and the second protective portion 34) can absorb the impact of the drop and minimize damage to the first electrode plate 10 and the second electrode plate 20, thereby further preventing an electrical short circuit.

[0077] refer to Fig. 9 and Fig.10 In the spare part of the separator 230, the first protective part 33 can protect (e.g., surround) the end part of the first electrode plate 10 and the second electrode plate 20 on the first uncoated area terminal tab 12 side (i.e., the upward side in the y-axis direction) so that damage and movement from impact can be minimized. For this purpose, in the first protective part 33, the protrusion length in the stacking direction (toward Fig.10In addition, the first protective portion 33 may be cut at the first uncoated region terminal sheet 12 and separated on both sides in the x-axis direction, thereby allowing separate winding on both sides. The separated portions of the first protective portion 33 are each wound to strengthen the buffer and insulation structure in the first protective portion 33.

[0078] The second protective portion 34 may protect (e.g., surround) the end portions of the first electrode plate 10 and the second electrode plate 20 on the second uncoated region tab 22 side (the downward side in the y-axis direction) to minimize damage and movement from impact. For this purpose, in the second protective portion 34, the protrusion length in the stacking direction (towards Fig.10 The second protective portion 34 is gradually reduced on the right side of the z-axis direction in the z-axis direction. In addition, the second protective portion 34 can be cut at the second uncoated area terminal piece 22 and separated on both sides in the x-axis direction, thereby allowing separate winding on both sides. The separated parts of the second protective portion 34 can be wound separately to form a reinforced buffer and insulation structure in the second protective portion 34.

[0079] Fig.11 is a top view of an electrode assembly of a rechargeable battery according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.12 For application Fig.11 Top view of the diaphragm. Fig.13 for Fig.11 Left side view. Fig.14 An enlarged top view of the first protective portion formed by the meandering of the diaphragm. Fig.15 An enlarged top view of the second protection portion formed by the meandering of the diaphragm.

[0080] refer to Figures 11 to 15 The electrode assembly 6 may be formed as a core type including a first electrode plate 50 , a second electrode plate 60 , and a separator 70 .

[0081] The first electrode plate 50 may be formed as a negative electrode plate, and may be provided with coated portions having an active material layer on both sides of a rod-shaped electrode current collector and one or more first uncoated region tabs 51 protruding to one side of the electrode current collector. The second electrode plate 60 may be formed as a positive electrode plate, and may be provided with coated portions having an active material layer on both sides of a rod-shaped electrode current collector and one or more second uncoated region tabs 61 protruding to one side of the electrode current collector.

[0082] The first uncoated region terminal tab 51 and the second uncoated region terminal tab 61 may be led out on the same side or opposite sides of the electrode assembly 6. In the electrode assembly 6, the first uncoated region terminal tab 51 and the second uncoated region terminal tab 61 may be led out on the same side. That is, the first uncoated region terminal tab 51 and the second uncoated region terminal tab 61 may be on the same side (in the cross direction (y-axis direction) intersecting the stacking direction (z-axis direction) Figures 11 to 13 is drawn out in the upward direction).

[0083] A plurality of first uncoated region tabs 51 may be gathered into one and led out to the outside of the bag or housing. In addition, a plurality of second uncoated region tabs 61 may be gathered into one and led out to the outside of the bag or housing. The second uncoated region tab 61 may be spaced apart from the first uncoated region tab 51 in the x-axis direction and electrically separated.

[0084] refer to Fig.11 , the separator 70 may protrude from the coating portion at the lead-out side (i.e., the side including the first uncoated region terminal tab 51 and the second uncoated region terminal tab 61) and the opposite side of the first uncoated region terminal tab 51 and the second uncoated region terminal tab 61 to form a spare portion further surrounding the end portion of the first electrode plate 50 and the end portion of the second electrode plate 60. The separator 70 may include an outermost separator 701, a central separator 703, and a middle separator 702.

[0085] exist Fig.11 In the embodiment of the present invention, the outermost diaphragm 701 disposed at the outermost part of the diaphragm 70 can be set to be biased most downward in the y-axis direction, and the central diaphragm 703 disposed at the center can be set to be biased most upward in the y-axis direction. In addition, the middle diaphragm 702 disposed between the outermost diaphragm 701 and the central diaphragm 703 can be set to be biased more gradually upward as it moves upward in the y-axis direction. Therefore, the diaphragm 70 can have margins of different lengths in the y-axis direction. In other words, the protruding length of the spare part gradually changes from the center of the winding structure to the outside of the winding structure, for example, from the winding center of the first electrode plate 50 and the winding center of the second electrode plate 60 to the outside (z-axis direction). The spare part may include a first protective portion 71 and a second protective portion 72, which will be described later.

[0086] The protruding length of the spare portion in the separator 70 gradually changes from the winding center toward the outside to further surround the end portions of the first electrode plate 50 and the second electrode plate 60, thereby preventing or substantially minimizing an electrical short circuit between the first electrode plate 50 and the second electrode plate 60. If the rechargeable battery is dropped, the first electrode plate 50 and the second electrode plate 60 may move on both sides of the separator 70, and the spare portion of the separator 70 (i.e., the first protective portion 71 and the second protective portion 72) may absorb the impact of the drop and minimize damage to the first electrode plate 50 and the second electrode plate 60, thereby further preventing an electrical short circuit between the first electrode plate 50 and the second electrode plate 60.

[0087] refer to Fig.11 In the spare part of the separator 70, the first protective part 71 surrounds the end parts of the first electrode plate 50 and the second electrode plate 60 on the first uncoated region terminal tab 51 and the second uncoated region terminal tab 61 side (upward side in the y-axis direction), thereby minimizing damage and movement from impact. For this purpose, in the first protective part 71, the protrusion length gradually decreases from the winding center to the outside ( Fig.13 The second protective portion 72 surrounds the end portions of the first electrode plate 50 and the second electrode plate 60 on the opposite sides (downward sides in the y-axis direction) of the first uncoated region terminal tab 51 and the second uncoated region terminal tab 61 to minimize damage and movement due to impact. For this purpose, in the second protective portion 72, the protrusion length gradually increases from the winding center to the outside ( Fig.13 ).

[0088] refer to Fig.12 , the diaphragm 70 may expose the first uncoated region terminal tab 51 and the second uncoated region terminal tab 61 using the cut portions 713, 714 cut to correspond to the first uncoated region terminal tab 51 and the second uncoated region terminal tab 61 (e.g., overlap the first uncoated region terminal tab 51 and the second uncoated region terminal tab 61). The depth of the cut portions 713, 714 gradually increases from one side of the diaphragm 70 to the other side in the length direction of the diaphragm 70. Therefore, the depth of the cut portions 713, 714 provided on the first protective portion 71 side increases with a slope of a predetermined angle θ.

[0089] The diaphragm 70 may be disposed between the first electrode plate 50 and the second electrode plate 60 and disposed on one outer surface (e.g., on the outer surface of at least one of the first electrode plate 50 and the second electrode plate 60), and may be wound in a zigzag manner (e.g., the diaphragm 70 and the first electrode plate 50 and the second electrode plate 60 may be wound into a pole core or a winding structure). Therefore, in the first protective portion 71, the protruding length gradually decreases from the winding center to the outside, and in the second protective portion 72, the protruding length gradually increases from the winding center to the outside. The first protective portion 71 and the second protective portion 72 may be wound and entangled to form a reinforced buffer and insulation structure in the first protective portion 71 and the second protective portion 72.

[0090] Fig.16 FIG. 4 is a top view of an electrode assembly of a rechargeable battery according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.17 For application Fig.16 Top view of the diaphragm. Fig.18 for Fig.16 Left side view.

[0091] refer to Figures 16 to 18 In the electrode assembly 7, the first uncoated region tab 52 of the first electrode plate 50 and the second uncoated region tab 62 of the second electrode plate 60 may be led out at different sides, such as opposite sides. That is, the first uncoated region tab 52 and the second uncoated region tab 62 may be led out at different sides in the winding axis direction (y-axis direction).

[0092] A plurality of first uncoated region tabs 52 may be gathered together at the upper portion in the y-axis direction and led out of the bag or housing. In addition, a plurality of second uncoated region tabs 62 may be gathered together at the lower portion in the y-axis direction and led out of the bag or housing.

[0093] refer to Fig.16 The separator 270 may protrude from the coated portion at the lead-out side of the first uncoated region tab 52 and the lead-out side of the second uncoated region tab 62 to form a spare portion further surrounding the end portion of the first electrode plate 50 and the end portion of the second electrode plate 60 .

[0094] In the spare part, the first protective part 73 surrounds the end part of the first electrode plate 50 and the second electrode plate 60 on the side of the first uncoated area terminal tab 52 (upward side in the y-axis direction) to minimize damage and movement caused by impact. For this purpose, in the first protective part 73, the protrusion length gradually decreases from the winding center to the outside. In addition, the first protective part 73 can be cut at the first uncoated area terminal tab 52 and separated on both sides in the x-axis direction, thereby allowing separate winding on both sides. The separated parts of the first protective part 73 can be wound separately to form a reinforced buffer and insulation structure in the first protective part 73.

[0095] The second protective portion 74 may surround the end portion of the first electrode plate 50 and the second electrode plate 60 on the side of the second uncoated region tab 62 (the downward side in the y-axis direction) to minimize damage and movement due to impact. For this purpose, in the second protective portion 74, the protrusion length gradually increases from the winding center to the outside. In addition, the second protective portion 74 may be cut at the second uncoated region tab 62 and separated on both sides in the x-axis direction, thereby allowing separate winding on both sides. The separated portions of the second protective portion 74 may be each wound to form a reinforced buffer and insulation structure in the second protective portion 74.

[0096] refer to Fig.17 , the diaphragm 270 may expose the first uncoated region terminal tab 52 and the second uncoated region terminal tab 62 using the first cut portion 723 and the second cut portion 724 cut to correspond to the first uncoated region terminal tab 52 and the second uncoated region terminal tab 62 (e.g., to overlap the first uncoated region terminal tab 52 and the second uncoated region terminal tab 62). The depth of the first cut portion 723 increases as the length of the diaphragm 270 (e.g., in the Fig.17 The depth of the second cutting portion 724 gradually increases from one side (the left side of the drawing) to the other side (the right side of the drawing) in the x-axis direction in the figure. Therefore, the depth increase of the first cutting portion 723 provided on the side of the first protective portion 73 may have a slope of a predetermined first angle θ1. In addition, the depth of the second cutting portion 724 gradually increases from one side (the right side in the drawing) to the other side (the left side in the drawing) in the length direction of the diaphragm 270. Therefore, the depth increase of the second cutting portion 724 provided on the side of the second protective portion 74 may have a slope of a predetermined second angle θ2.

[0097] The separator 270 may be disposed between the first electrode plate 50 and the second electrode plate 60 and disposed on one outer surface, and may be wound in a zigzag manner. Therefore, in the first protection portion 73, the protrusion length gradually decreases from the winding center to the outside, and in the second protection portion 74, the protrusion length gradually increases from the winding center to the outside. The first protection portion 73 and the second protection portion 74 may be wound and entangled to form a reinforced buffer and insulation structure in the first protection portion 73 and the second protection portion 74.

[0098] By way of summary and review, the electrode assembly may include a separator that forms an area larger than the electrode plate. Regardless of the winding or stacking position of the positive electrode plate and the negative electrode plate, the separator may protrude outside the positive electrode plate and the negative electrode plate, and may electrically insulate the positive electrode plate and the negative electrode plate from each other. In this case, separators having the same length may be produced.

[0099] However, when the rechargeable battery is dropped, the electrode assembly may move, resulting in damage to the positive electrode plate and the negative electrode plate. In this case, the separator disposed between the positive electrode plate and the negative electrode plate may be deformed, and the insulating properties of the separator may be deteriorated, thereby causing an electrical short circuit between the positive electrode plate and the negative electrode plate.

[0100] In contrast, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides an electrode assembly of a rechargeable battery that strengthens the structure of a diaphragm to prevent electrical short circuit of an electrode plate. An embodiment of the present disclosure provides an electrode assembly of a rechargeable battery that can prevent electrical short circuit of an electrode plate even when the electrode plate moves on both sides of the diaphragm due to the falling of the rechargeable battery.

[0101] Exemplary embodiments have been disclosed herein, and although specific terms are employed, they are used and interpreted in a general and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation. In some cases, as will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art at the time of filing this application, features, characteristics, and / or elements described in conjunction with a particular embodiment may be used alone or in combination with features, characteristics, and / or elements described in conjunction with other embodiments, unless otherwise specifically indicated. Therefore, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various changes may be made in form and detail without departing from the scope of the invention as set forth in the claims.

Claims

1. An electrode assembly for a rechargeable battery, comprising: A first electrode plate and a second electrode plate in a stacked structure, each of the first electrode plate and the second electrode plate comprising a coated portion and an uncoated region tab, and the uncoated region tab is led out; as well as A plurality of diaphragms are provided between the first electrode plate and the second electrode plate, each of the plurality of diaphragms includes a spare portion protruding beyond the coated portion of each of the first electrode plate and the second electrode plate, the spare portion surrounds an end portion of the first electrode plate and an end portion of the second electrode plate, and a protruding length of the spare portion gradually changes in the stacking direction of the first electrode plate and the second electrode plate in the stacking structure. 2 . The electrode assembly of a rechargeable battery according to claim 1 , wherein the uncoated region tab of the first electrode plate and the uncoated region tab of the second electrode plate are led out in the same direction.

3. The electrode assembly of a rechargeable battery according to claim 2, wherein the spare part comprises: a first protection portion on a first side, the first side being on the same side as the uncoated region tab of the first electrode plate and the uncoated region tab of the second electrode plate, and the first protection portion being configured to protect a first end portion of the first electrode plate and a first end portion of the second electrode plate; as well as A second protecting portion is provided at a second side opposite to the first side and configured to protect a second end portion of the first electrode plate and a second end portion of the second electrode plate.

4. The electrode assembly of a rechargeable battery according to claim 3, wherein: In the first protection portion, the protrusion length gradually increases in the stacking direction, and In the second protecting portion, the protruding length gradually decreases in the stacking direction.

5. The electrode assembly of a rechargeable battery according to claim 4, wherein: The first protection portion includes a first portion, a second portion, and a third portion separated by the uncoated region tab of the first electrode plate and the uncoated region tab of the second electrode plate, the first portion, the second portion, and the third portion being sequentially arranged on the first side, The first portion is wound and wrapped with a first tape, The second portion is wound and wrapped with a second tape, and The third portion is rolled up and wrapped with a third tape. 6 . The electrode assembly of a rechargeable battery according to claim 5 , wherein the second protection portion is wound and wrapped with an additional tape. 7 . The electrode assembly of a rechargeable battery according to claim 5 , wherein the second protection portion is wound and wrapped with a first bottom tape and a second bottom tape sequentially disposed on the second side.

8. The electrode assembly of a rechargeable battery according to claim 4, wherein: The first protection portion includes a first portion, a second portion, and a third portion separated by the uncoated region tab of the first electrode plate and the uncoated region tab of the second electrode plate, the first portion, the second portion, and the third portion being sequentially arranged on the first side, The second portion is wound and wrapped with a second tape, and The second protective portion is rolled up and wrapped with a further tape.

9. The electrode assembly of a rechargeable battery according to claim 4, wherein: The first protection portion includes a first portion, a second portion, and a third portion separated by the uncoated region tab of the first electrode plate and the uncoated region tab of the second electrode plate, the first portion, the second portion, and the third portion being sequentially arranged on the first side, The second portion is wound and wrapped with a second tape, and The second protection portion is rolled and wrapped with a first bottom tape and a second bottom tape sequentially arranged on the second side. 10 . The electrode assembly of a rechargeable battery according to claim 1 , wherein the uncoated region tab of the first electrode plate and the uncoated region tab of the second electrode plate are led out in opposite directions in a crossing direction intersecting the stacking direction.

11. The electrode assembly of a rechargeable battery according to claim 10, wherein the spare part comprises: a first protection portion on a first side, the first side being on the same side as the uncoated region tab of the first electrode plate, and the first protection portion being configured to protect a first end portion of the first electrode plate and a first end portion of the second electrode plate; and A second protection portion is at a second side that is on the same side as the uncoated region tab of the second electrode plate and is configured to protect second end portions of the first electrode plate and the second electrode plate.

12. The electrode assembly of a rechargeable battery according to claim 11, wherein: In the first protection portion, the protrusion length gradually increases in the stacking direction, and In the second protecting portion, the protruding length gradually decreases in the stacking direction.

13. An electrode assembly for a rechargeable battery, comprising: a first electrode plate and a second electrode plate in a wound structure, each of the first electrode plate and the second electrode plate including a coated portion and an uncoated region tab, and the uncoated region tab is led out; as well as A plurality of separators are provided between the first electrode plate and the second electrode plate, each of the plurality of separators includes a spare portion protruding beyond the coated portion of each of the first electrode plate and the second electrode plate, the spare portion surrounds an end portion of the first electrode plate and an end portion of the second electrode plate, and a protruding length of the spare portion gradually changes from the center of the winding structure to the outside of the winding structure. 14 . The electrode assembly of a rechargeable battery according to claim 13 , wherein the uncoated region tab of the first electrode plate and the uncoated region tab of the second electrode plate are led out on the same side of the winding structure in a winding axis direction.

15. The electrode assembly of a rechargeable battery according to claim 14, wherein The spare part comprises: a first protection portion at a first side, the first side being on the same side as the uncoated region tab of the first electrode plate and the uncoated region tab of the second electrode plate, and the protrusion length in the first protection portion gradually decreases from the center of the wound structure to the outside of the wound structure; and In a second protection portion at a second side, the second side is opposite to the first side, and the protrusion length in the second protection portion gradually increases from the center of the winding structure to the outer portion of the winding structure.

16. An electrode assembly of a rechargeable battery according to claim 13 or 15, wherein the plurality of separators include a cut portion exposing the uncoated area terminal tab of each of the first electrode plate and the second electrode plate, and the depth of the cut portion gradually increases from one side of the plurality of separators to the other side of the plurality of separators in the length direction of the plurality of separators. 17 . The electrode assembly of a rechargeable battery according to claim 13 , wherein the uncoated region tab of the first electrode plate and the uncoated region tab of the second electrode plate are led out at different sides of the winding structure in a winding axis direction.

18. The electrode assembly of a rechargeable battery according to claim 17, wherein the spare part comprises: a first protection portion at a first side, the first side being on the same side as the uncoated region tab of the first electrode plate, and the protrusion length in the first protection portion gradually decreases from the center of the wound structure to the outer portion of the wound structure; as well as A second protective portion on a second side, the second side being opposite to the first side and on the same side as the uncoated area tab of the second electrode plate, and the protrusion length in the second protective portion gradually increases from the center of the winding structure to the outside of the winding structure.

19. The electrode assembly of a rechargeable battery according to claim 13 or 18, wherein the plurality of separators comprises: a first cutting portion exposing the uncoated region tab of the first electrode plate, wherein a depth of the first cutting portion gradually increases from one side of the plurality of diaphragms to the other side of the plurality of diaphragms in a length direction of the plurality of diaphragms; as well as A second cutting portion exposes the uncoated region tab of the second electrode plate, and a depth of the second cutting portion gradually decreases from one side of the plurality of separators to the other side of the plurality of separators in the length direction of the plurality of separators.

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