Inhibiting battery instability

Abstract

The present invention relates to methods, systems, devices, controllers, software, and compositions of matter for inhibiting (e.g., preventing) adverse effects associated with a battery cell, such as can occur during the life of the battery cell. The adverse effects can be associated with a triggering event (e.g., a melting temperature) affecting at least one material of the battery cell or at least one material of a battery including the battery cell. The at least one material can be an insulating material.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] priority

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 618,675, filed January 8, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This invention relates to methods, systems, apparatuses, controllers, software, and material compositions (e.g., materials). This invention relates to structures for energy manipulation (e.g., energy storage and / or energy release) devices, said energy manipulation devices comprising individual battery cells (also referred to herein as "battery units"), for example, disposed within a battery. In an example, this invention relates to structures such as electrode assemblies for energy manipulation devices (e.g., secondary batteries). This invention relates to energy manipulation (e.g., energy storage) devices employing such structures. This invention relates to methods (e.g., for) manufacturing such structures and / or energy devices. In an example, this invention relates to methods and structures such as electrode assemblies for energy manipulation (e.g., energy storage) devices (e.g., secondary batteries), energy manipulation (e.g., energy storage) devices employing such structures, and methods for manufacturing such structures and energy devices. Background Technology

[0004] In some cases, such batteries, their use, their storage, their maintenance, and / or their manufacture (e.g., the process of manufacturing such batteries) may have disadvantages. In the example, the batteries and the methods of manufacturing them have many disadvantages. A problem arising in energy manipulation (e.g., energy storage) devices (e.g., batteries) is their heating, for example, due to battery abuse. Battery abuse can include thermal, electrical, or mechanical abuse that causes an increase in temperature. The increase in temperature is at least partly attributed to an increase in current between the two opposing electrodes of the battery cell, for example, at least partly attributed to a short circuit. During normal operation of the battery cell, current is transferred from one electrode to its opposing electrode through a separation space mainly between the two electrodes, which contacts the two opposing surfaces of the battery. There may be residual current through the volume contacting one or more sides of the two opposing electrodes. The increase in heat is at least partly attributed to Joule heating. This heating can have adverse effects on the energy manipulation (e.g., energy storage) device and / or its environment. The adverse effects are at least partly attributed to the instability of the battery cells and / or the battery. This heating can be caused by an increase in current between the opposing electrodes. This heating can occur during thermal runaway reactions (e.g., uncontrolled chain reactions). This heating can occur within the battery at a rate exceeding the battery's heat dissipation rate. The rapidly increasing heat may trigger a chemical (e.g., exothermic) reaction, generating additional heat. This heat may lead to adverse effects such as the release of toxic gases, fire, or explosion. Adverse effects may have adverse effects on the battery cell, the battery itself, and / or objects (living or non-living) disposed in the environment outside the battery cell. The exterior of the battery cell may include the exterior of the battery casing, such as in the ambient atmosphere. Adverse effects may be defined according to the jurisdiction in which the battery is manufactured, stored, used, and / or is located. Suppressing (e.g., preventing) the occurrence of such adverse effects may be advantageous. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In some aspects, this disclosure addresses one or more of the difficulties described above. In some embodiments, this disclosure provides solutions for suppressing adverse effects. In some embodiments, the present invention relates to methods (e.g., techniques), apparatuses, devices, systems, and designs for constructing a battery comprising battery cells. The battery may be configured to suppress adverse effects, for example, at least partially by shutting off residual currents and / or load currents, which are the main currents of the battery during normal operation. In an example, the battery cells may contact a dynamic insulator having sensitivity to triggering events (e.g., reaching a temperature threshold). The triggering event may trigger a material change in the dynamic insulator that suppresses an increase in temperature of the battery cells (and / or the battery), the rate of charge carriers flowing through the dynamic insulator, the concentration of charge carriers in the dynamic insulator, or any combination thereof. In an example, at least one material type of the dynamic insulator may be sensitive to the triggering event. The triggering event may cause a substantial (e.g., material) change in (i) the flow rate and / or (ii) the concentration of charge carriers in the dynamic insulator. The sensitivity of at least one material type may depend at least in part on (a) a temperature threshold, (b) a charge carrier concentration threshold, or (c) the charge carrier flow rate. In the example, the battery cell may contact a dynamic insulator having at least one temperature-sensitive material that suppresses (e.g., prevents) the flow of residual current based at least in part on the temperature of the dynamic insulator. This (e.g., temperature-dependent) event-triggered characteristic of the dynamic insulator can induce a substantial reduction and / or shutdown of residual current paths that would otherwise pass through the dynamic insulator and between the opposing electrodes of the battery cell. This suppression of residual current can (a) reduce overall (e.g., Joule and / or other) heating of the battery cell during adverse effects, and / or (b) reduce the extent of runaway reactions, e.g., during external short circuits. This suppression of residual current flow can improve the overall safety of the battery.

[0006] In another aspect, an energy manipulation device includes: a reference electrode having a reference surface, the reference surface including a first reference surface opposite to a second reference surface and a first reference side opposite to a second reference side; a counter electrode opposite to the reference electrode, the counter electrode having a counter surface, the counter surface including a first counter surface opposite to a second counter surface and a first counter side opposite to a second counter side; a separation space including a diaphragm disposed between the reference electrode and the counter electrode, the separation space having a separation surface, the separation surface including a first separation surface opposite to a second separation surface and a first separation side opposite to a second separation side, the first separation surface contacting the second reference surface, the second separation surface contacting the first counter surface; and at least one insulator, the at least... An insulator occupies an insulating volume, the at least one insulator contacting (a) the first reference side, the first opposing side, and the first separation side, (b) the second reference side, the second opposing side, and the second separation side, or (c) a combination of (a) and (b), the at least one insulator comprising at least one material type susceptible to a triggering event indicating at least one adverse effect on the device and / or the external environment of the device, the at least one material type being configured to change one or more properties of the at least one material type at least partially based on the occurrence of the triggering event, the at least one insulator being configured to dynamically change at least partially in response to the triggering event, the device being configured for the flow of current between the reference electrode and the opposing electrode. In some embodiments, the at least one insulator is an electrical insulator, for example, configured to have poor conductivity under normal operating conditions (e.g., excluding the triggering event). In some embodiments, the triggering event is associated with an uncontrollable reaction leading to the at least one adverse effect. In some embodiments, the triggering event is associated with a runaway reaction. In some embodiments, the triggering event is associated with the initiation of a runaway reaction. In some embodiments, the triggering event occurs at least partially within the at least one insulator, and the triggering event includes a threshold value that includes attributes such as temperature, current flow, or ion concentration. In some embodiments, the current flow in the device includes a load current and a residual current. In some embodiments, the device is configured to allow the load current to flow from the second reference surface to the first opposing surface and / or from the first opposing surface to the second reference surface, the load current flowing through the separation space. In some embodiments, the device is configured to allow the residual current to flow from the second reference surface to the first opposing surface and / or from the first opposing surface to the second reference surface, the residual current flowing through the at least one insulator. In some embodiments, the triggering event includes a melting point or glass transition.In some embodiments, upon the occurrence of the triggering event, the at least one material type is configured to change such that the at least one adverse effect is suppressed, becomes controllable, or a combination thereof, wherein suppression includes effective cessation or detectable cessation. In some embodiments, upon the occurrence of the triggering event, the at least one material type is configured to change such that the generated heat is equal to or substantially equal to the heat generated in the device. In some embodiments, upon the occurrence of the triggering event, the at least one material type is configured to change such that ion propagation through it is suppressed, including mitigation, effective cessation, or detectable cessation. In some embodiments, upon the occurrence of the triggering event, the at least one material type is configured to change such that the current flowing through the at least one insulator is suppressed, including mitigation, effective cessation, or detectable cessation. In some embodiments, upon the occurrence of the triggering event, the at least one material type is configured to change such that the current flowing through it is suppressed, including mitigation, effective cessation, or detectable cessation. In some embodiments, upon the occurrence of the triggering event, the at least one material type is configured to change from a harder material to a softer material. In some embodiments, the softer material comprises a flowing (e.g., liquid) material. In some embodiments, upon the occurrence of the triggering event, the at least one material type is configured to transform, the transformation comprising joining. In some embodiments, joining comprises melting, fusion, sintering, or other bonding. In some embodiments, upon the occurrence of the triggering event, the at least one material type is configured to transform from a softer material to a harder material. In some embodiments, (i) the softer material comprises a flowing material, (ii) the harder material comprises a gel, or (iii) a combination of (i) and (ii). In some embodiments, upon the occurrence of the triggering event, the at least one material type is configured to transform from a liquid to a gel. In some embodiments, the diaphragm is configured to allow current flow through the diaphragm at least partially by allowing ions to propagate through the pores of the diaphragm. In some embodiments, the at least one material type is at least one first material type; wherein the separation space contains at least one second material type, the second material type being configured to inhibit current flow through the separation space at least partially due to the triggering event occurring in the separation space; and wherein the first material type and / or the second material type is susceptible to the triggering event. In some embodiments, the first material type is the second material type. In some embodiments, the first material type and the second material type differ in at least one physical and / or chemical property. In some embodiments, the first material type comprises particulate material. In some embodiments, the second material type comprises sheet or matrix; and wherein the volume occupied by the second material type is the volume of the separation space.In some embodiments, upon the occurrence of the triggering event, (i) the first material type, (ii) the second material type, or (iii) a combination of (i) and (ii) is configured to switch such that the at least one adverse effect will be suppressed, including mitigation, effective cessation, or detectable cessation. In some embodiments, upon the occurrence of the triggering event, (i) the first material type, (ii) the second material type, or (iii) a combination of (i) and (ii) is configured to switch such that the heat generated is equivalent to or substantially equivalent to the heat generated in the device. In some embodiments, upon the occurrence of the triggering event, (i) the first material type, (ii) the second material type, or (iii) a combination of (i) and (ii) is configured to switch such that ions (e.g., metal cations, such as Li) are affected. +The propagation therethrough will be suppressed, including mitigation, effective cessation, or detectable cessation. In some embodiments, upon the occurrence of the triggering event, (i) the first material type, (ii) the second material type, or (iii) a combination of (i) and (ii) is configured to transition such that the current flowing therethrough is suppressed, including mitigation, effective cessation, or detectable cessation. In some embodiments, upon the occurrence of the triggering event, (i) the first material type, (ii) the second material type, or (iii) a combination of (i) and (ii) is configured to transition such that the current flowing therethrough is suppressed, including mitigation, effective cessation, or detectable cessation. In some embodiments, upon the occurrence of the triggering event, (i) the first material type, (ii) the second material type, or (iii) a combination of (i) and (ii) is configured to transition from a harder material to a softer material. In some embodiments, the softer material comprises a flowing material. In some embodiments, upon the occurrence of the triggering event, (i) the first material type, (ii) the second material type, or (iii) a combination of (i) and (ii) is configured to transition, the transition including connection. In some embodiments, the connection includes melting, fusion, sintering, or other bonding. In some embodiments, upon the occurrence of the triggering event, (i) the first material type, (ii) the second material type, or (iii) a combination of (i) and (ii) is configured to transition from a softer material to a harder material. In some embodiments, the softer material comprises a flowing material, and the harder material comprises a gel. In some embodiments, upon the occurrence of the triggering event, the first material type and / or the second material type is configured to transition from a liquid to a gel upon the occurrence of the triggering event. In some embodiments, the at least one material type comprises an electrolyte. In some embodiments, the at least one insulator is an insulator that contacts (a) the first reference side, the first opposite side, and the first separation side, and (b) the second reference side, the second opposite side, and the second separation side. In some embodiments, the at least one insulator comprises a first insulator and a second insulator, the first insulator contacting (i) the first reference side, (ii) the first opposite side, and (iii) the first separation side, and the second insulator contacting (iv) the second reference side, (v) the second opposite side, and (vi) the second separation side.In some embodiments, the reference electrode is elongated and has a long axis having a first end at the first reference side and a second end at the second reference side, the first end being opposite to the second end at the second reference side, the long axis being the length of the reference electrode. The reference electrode also has a short axis having a third end at the first reference surface and a fourth end at the second reference surface, the third end being opposite to the fourth end at the second reference surface, the short axis being the width of the reference electrode, wherein the aspect ratio of the width to the length is at least about 1:8, 1:15, or greater. In some embodiments, the counter electrode is elongated and has a long axis having a first end at a first opposite side and a second end at a second opposite side, the first end being opposite to the second end at the second opposite side, the long axis being the length of the counter electrode. The counter electrode also has a short axis having a third end at a first opposite surface and a fourth end at a second opposite surface, the third end being opposite to the fourth end at the second opposite surface, the short axis being the width of the counter electrode, wherein the aspect ratio of the width to the length is at least about 1:8, 1:15, or greater. In some embodiments, the separation space is elongated, having a long axis having a first end at a first opposite side and a second end at a second opposite side, the first end being opposite to the second end at the second opposite side, the long axis being the length of the separation space; the separation space also has a short axis having a third end at a first opposite surface and a fourth end at a second opposite surface, the third end being opposite to the fourth end at the second opposite surface, the short axis being the width of the separation space, wherein the aspect ratio of the width to the length is at least about 1:8, 1:15, or greater. In some embodiments, the reference electrode comprises one or more types of metal oxides. In some embodiments, the counter electrode comprises an allotrope of carbon or silicon. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon comprises graphite, carbon fiber, graphene, carbon nanotubes, amorphous carbon, or fullerene. In some embodiments, the reference electrode is smaller than the counter electrode in at least one (e.g., Cartesian) direction. In some embodiments, the device is configured such that, during use of the device, the expansion of the reference electrode is less than the expansion of the counter electrode. In some embodiments, the device is configured such that, during use of the device, the volume of the electrode and / or the device expands by up to about 10%, 20%, 30%, 35%, 40%, or 50%, the electrode including the reference electrode, the counter electrode, and the separation space. In some embodiments, the device is configured such that, during use of the device, the volume of the electrode and / or the device expands by up to about 35%.In some embodiments, the battery cell includes the reference electrode, the counter electrode, and the separation space, the battery cell having a stacking axis, the faces being stacked along the stacking axis, the faces including the first reference face, the first counter face, and the first separation face. In some embodiments, the stacking axis symmetrically divides each of the faces. In some embodiments, the battery cell includes battery sidewalls, the battery sidewalls including a first battery sidewall or a second battery sidewall, wherein each of the battery sidewalls includes a misalignment; wherein the first battery sidewall includes (i) the first reference side, (ii) the first counter side, and (iii) the first separation side; and wherein the second battery sidewall includes (a) the second reference side, (b) the second counter side, and (c) the second separation side. In some embodiments, the misalignment constitutes a corrugation. In some embodiments, the misalignment is due to staggered long and short sides of components of the battery cell, the components including the reference electrode, the counter electrode, and the separation space. In some embodiments, at least one component of the device includes a composite material, the at least one component including the reference electrode, the counter electrode, the separation space, or the at least one insulator. In some embodiments, the at least one component includes at least one partition space contacting the reference electrode and / or the counter electrode. In some embodiments, the battery cell includes the reference electrode, the counter electrode, and the separation space, wherein the device is a battery, the battery including a battery cell group comprising two or more of the battery cells. In some embodiments, in the battery, each of the two or more battery cells is separated by a separation space. In some embodiments, the separation space and the separation space comprise at least one of the same or substantially the same material type. In some embodiments, the separation space, the separation space, and the at least one insulator have at least one of the same material type. In some embodiments, the separation space, the separation space, and the at least one insulator have at least one different material type. In some embodiments, the zoning space includes the partition space or the separation space, and the zoning space (A) extends along a reference major axis of the reference surface and beyond the reference surface, the reference surface including the first reference surface or the second reference surface; and (B) extends along an opposing major axis of the opposing surface and beyond the opposing surface, the opposing surface including the first opposing surface or the second opposing surface; and wherein the zoning space extends along the major axis into an extension, the extension including a separation extension or a partition extension, the major axis including the reference major axis or the opposing major axis. In some embodiments, (i) the partition extension and (ii) the separation extension are separated from each other by a gap, the partition extension and the separation extension being on one side of the battery cell.In some embodiments, the separating extension bends toward or away from the separation extension. In some embodiments, the separating extension bends toward or away from the separation extension. In some embodiments, the volume disposed between the separating extension and the separation extension includes at least a portion of the at least one insulator. In some embodiments, in the battery, the two or more battery cells are connected in parallel. In some embodiments, in the battery, the two or more battery cells are connected in series. In some embodiments, in the battery, the two or more battery cells are stacked along a stacking axis perpendicular to or substantially perpendicular to (i) the first reference plane, (ii) the second reference plane, (iii) the first separation plane, (iv) the second separation plane, (v) the first opposing plane, (vi) the second opposing plane, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the battery includes a support bar configured to suppress expansion of the battery at least along the stacking axis. In some embodiments, the battery includes a support bar configured to suppress expansion of the battery non-uniformly along the stacking axis and in a direction perpendicular to the stacking axis. In some embodiments, the battery includes a support bar configured to suppress expansion of the battery more along the stack axis than along a direction perpendicular to the stack axis. In some embodiments, this more is at least about 10%, 20%, or 30%. In some embodiments, the battery cell group includes a first battery side opposite to a second battery side; wherein the first battery side includes a first reference side, a first separation side, and a first opposing side; and wherein the second battery side includes a second reference side, a second separation side, and a second opposing side. In some embodiments, the at least one insulator contacts the first battery side and the second battery side. In some embodiments, the at least one insulator includes a first insulator and a second insulator; wherein the first insulator contacts the first battery side; and wherein the second insulator contacts the second battery side. In some embodiments, (I) the first battery side extends along the direction of the stack axis and is parallel or substantially parallel to the stack axis, (II) the second battery side extends along the direction of the stack axis and is parallel or substantially parallel to the stack axis, and (III) a combination of (I) and (II). In some embodiments, (a) the first battery side is corrugated, and / or (b) the second battery side is corrugated. In some embodiments, each of the two or more battery cells has a reference electrode coupled to a reference current collector; wherein each of the two or more battery cells has a counter electrode coupled to a counter electrode current collector; wherein each of the reference current collectors is coupled to a main reference current collector; and wherein each of the counter electrode current collectors is coupled to a main counter electrode current collector.In some embodiments, the main reference current collector and the main counter electrode current collector are disposed on one side of the battery cell group, the side being adjacent to a battery side including the first battery side or the second battery side. In some embodiments, each of the main reference current collector and the main counter electrode current collector is disposed on an opposite side of the battery cell group, each of the opposite sides being adjacent to a battery side including the first battery side or the second battery side. In some embodiments, the battery has an XY plane type, a YZ plane type, and an XZ plane type; wherein the stacking direction of the battery cells is along the X direction; and wherein the XY plane type has a surface area that is (i) larger than the surface area of ​​the YZ plane type and (ii) larger than the surface area of ​​the XZ plane type. In some embodiments, the battery side of the battery cell group faces the XY plane type, the battery side including the first battery side or the second battery side. In some embodiments, the device is configured for use in an electronic device including a wireless device. In some embodiments, the device is configured for use in an electronic device including a control device. In some embodiments, the device is configured for leisure or for work. In some embodiments, the device is configured for use in electronic devices including telephones, laptops, tablets, consoles, computer mice, wearable devices, or toys. In some embodiments, the device is configured for use in vehicles. In some embodiments, the vehicle includes automobiles, aircraft, ships, trains, or spacecraft. In some embodiments, the spacecraft is unmanned. In some embodiments, the spacecraft is manned. In some embodiments, the aircraft includes drones or airplanes. In some embodiments, the device is configured for use in a medical setting. In some embodiments, the device is configured to apply an electric current to a subject. In some embodiments, the subject is a living being. In some embodiments, the application of the electric current is for medical or other life-saving purposes. In some embodiments, the device is configured for use in an environment harmful to the subject. In some embodiments, the device is configured for use in an environment beneficial to the subject.

[0007] In another aspect, a method for energy manipulation in the device, the method comprising: (a) providing any of the devices described above, and (b) storing the device, maintaining the device, transporting the device, precharging the device, or using the device for energy manipulation, while suppressing the at least one adverse effect.

[0008] In another aspect, an apparatus for energy manipulation in said device, the apparatus comprising: at least one configured controller, said at least one configured controller (a) for operatively coupling with any of the aforementioned devices, and (b) performing or directing the execution of at least one component of said device to perform one or more operations related to said energy manipulation, while suppressing said at least one adverse effect. In some embodiments, said at least one controller is configured to be operatively coupled with a power supply and / or a communication platform.

[0009] In another aspect, one or more non-transitory computer-readable media containing program instructions physically etched thereon, which, when read by one or more processors operatively coupled to one or more components of any of the aforementioned devices, are configured to perform or direct the performance of one or more operations related to the energy manipulation while suppressing the at least one adverse effect.

[0010] In another aspect, a method for manufacturing a device for energy manipulation includes: (a) depositing the at least one insulator onto a battery cell to manufacture any of the aforementioned devices, the battery cell including (i) the reference electrode, the counter electrode, and the separation space. In some embodiments, depositing the at least one insulator includes using methods including printing, stencil printing, or heat transfer. In some embodiments, during the deposition of the at least one insulator onto the battery cell, the at least one insulator is in a flowable form. In some embodiments, the flowable form includes a slurry or a spray coating.

[0011] In another aspect, an apparatus for energy manipulation in said device, the apparatus comprising: at least one controller configured to perform or direct the performance of one or more operations to implement any of the methods described above to manufacture said device. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to be operatively coupled to a power supply and / or a communication platform.

[0012] In another aspect, one or more non-transitory computer-readable media contain program instructions physically recorded thereon, which, when read by one or more processors, are configured to perform or direct the performance of any of the methods described above to manufacture one or more operations of the device.

[0013] In another aspect, a system is provided for implementing the operation of the methods and apparatus disclosed herein and / or operations recorded by non-transitory computer-readable program instructions (e.g., recorded on one or more media).

[0014] In another aspect, a system is provided for implementing the operation of the methods, apparatuses, devices, and / or operations recorded by non-transitory computer-readable program instructions (e.g., recorded on one or more media).

[0015] In another aspect, an apparatus (e.g., a device) for implementing the methods, apparatus operations, and / or operations recorded by non-transitory computer-readable program instructions (e.g., recorded on one or more media).

[0016] In other respects, systems, apparatuses (e.g., controllers) and / or non-transitory computer-readable program instructions (e.g., software) implement any of the methods disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the program instructions are recorded on at least one medium (e.g., on one medium or on multiple media).

[0017] In other respects, methods, systems, apparatuses (e.g., controllers) and / or non-transitory computer-readable program instructions (e.g., software) implement any device disclosed herein and / or any operation of such devices. In some embodiments, the program instructions are recorded on at least one medium (e.g., on one medium or on multiple media).

[0018] In another aspect, an apparatus includes at least one controller configured (e.g., programmed) to direct mechanisms used in the methods disclosed herein to implement (e.g., facilitate) any of the methods and / or operations disclosed herein, wherein the controller is operatively coupled to the mechanisms. In some embodiments, the controller implements any of the methods and / or operations disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the at least one controller includes, or is operatively coupled to, a hierarchical control system. In some embodiments, the hierarchical control system includes at least three, four, or five control levels. In some embodiments, at least two operations are performed or directed by the same controller. In some embodiments, at least two operations are performed or directed by different controllers.

[0019] In another aspect, an apparatus includes at least one controller configured (e.g., programmed) to implement (e.g., facilitate) the methods, processes, and / or operations disclosed herein, or to direct the implementation of the methods, processes, and / or operations disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the at least one controller implements any of the methods, processes, and / or operations disclosed herein.

[0020] On the other hand, non-transitory computer-readable program instructions, when read by one or more processors, are configured to perform, or instruct to perform, the methods, processes, and / or operations disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the at least one controller implements any of the methods, processes, and / or operations disclosed herein. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the one or more processors is part of the apparatus disclosed herein, outside the apparatus, or at a location remote from the apparatus (e.g., in the cloud).

[0021] In another aspect, a system includes an apparatus and at least one controller configured (e.g., programmed) to direct the operation of the apparatus, wherein the at least one controller is operatively coupled to the apparatus. In some embodiments, the apparatus includes any apparatus or device disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the at least one controller implements any method disclosed herein, or directs the implementation of any method disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the at least one controller directs any apparatus (or components thereof) disclosed herein. In some embodiments, at least two operations (e.g., instructions) of the apparatus are directed by the same controller. In some embodiments, at least two operations (e.g., instructions) of the apparatus are directed by different controllers. In some embodiments, at least two operations (e.g., instructions) are performed by the same processor and / or the same sub-computer software product. In some embodiments, at least two operations (e.g., instructions) are performed by different processors and / or different sub-computer software products.

[0022] In another aspect, a computer software product includes a (e.g., non-transitory) computer-readable medium storing program instructions that, when read by a computer, direct the computer to implement (e.g., facilitate) any method disclosed herein, wherein the non-transitory computer-readable medium is operatively coupled to the mechanism. In some embodiments, the mechanism includes means or means components.

[0023] In another aspect, a computer system includes one or more computer processors and a non-transitory computer-readable medium coupled thereto. In some embodiments, the non-transitory computer-readable medium includes machine-executable code that, when executed by the one or more computer processors, implements (e.g., performs) any methods and / or operations disclosed herein, and / or facilitates instructions (e.g., as disclosed herein) of a controller.

[0024] In another aspect, a method includes performing one or more operations associated with at least one configuration of an apparatus (e.g., a device) disclosed herein.

[0025] In another aspect, an apparatus includes at least one controller configured to (i) be operatively coupled to the device, and (ii) direct the execution of one or more operations relating to at least one configuration of the device disclosed herein.

[0026] In another aspect, at least one controller is associated with the methods, apparatus, and software disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the at least one controller includes at least one connector configured to connect to a power source. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to be operatively coupled to a power source at least partially by (I) having a power outlet and / or (II) being configured to perform wireless power transfer using inductive charging. In some embodiments, the at least one controller includes non-volatile memory, such as a solid-state device (SSD), e.g., flash memory. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is included in or comprises a hierarchical control system. In some embodiments, the hierarchical control system includes at least three hierarchical control levels. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is included in the control system disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to control at least one other component of the apparatus disclosed herein (e.g., a system, apparatus, or device). In some embodiments, the apparatus disclosed herein is a component of a system, wherein the at least one controller is configured to (i) be operatively coupled to another component of the system and (ii) direct the operation of the other component. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to at least partially direct the operation of the other component to enable the other component to participate in the methods disclosed herein.

[0027] In another aspect, a non-transitory computer-readable program instruction for the method disclosed herein, when read by one or more processors operatively coupled to the device, causes the one or more processors to direct the execution of one or more operations relating to at least one configuration of the device disclosed herein.

[0028] In some embodiments, the program instructions are program instructions of a computer program product.

[0029] Various embodiments of any of the foregoing aspects are composable (e.g., within one aspect), as appropriate. Individual features disclosed herein (e.g., embodiments) are composable, as applicable, as required and / or desired.

[0030] Other aspects and advantages of this disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description, in which only illustrative embodiments of the disclosure are shown and described. It should be understood that the disclosure may have other different embodiments, and certain details thereof may be modified in various obvious ways without departing from the disclosure. Therefore, the drawings and descriptions should be considered illustrative in nature and not restrictive.

[0031] By incorporating references

[0032] All publications, patents and patent applications mentioned in this specification are incorporated herein by reference to the extent that each individual publication, patent or patent application is specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.

[0033] It should be understood that any patent, publication, or other disclosure incorporated herein by reference, whether in whole or in part, is incorporated only to the extent that the incorporated material does not conflict with the existing definitions, expressions, or other disclosures set forth in this disclosure. Therefore, to the extent necessary, the disclosure expressly set forth herein supersedes any conflicting material incorporated herein by reference. Any material or portion thereof incorporated herein by reference that conflicts with the existing definitions, expressions, or other disclosures set forth in this disclosure is incorporated only to the extent that it does not create a conflict between the incorporated material and the existing disclosures. Attached Figure Description

[0034] According to one or more various embodiments, this disclosure is described in detail with reference to the following drawings. The drawings are for illustrative purposes only and depict only typical or exemplary embodiments. These drawings are intended to facilitate understanding of the concepts disclosed in this disclosure and should not be construed as limiting the breadth, scope, or applicability of these concepts. It should be noted that these drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale for clarity and ease of illustration.

[0035] The novel features of this disclosure are specifically set forth in the appended claims. The features and advantages of this disclosure will be better understood by referring to the following detailed description, which illustrates illustrative embodiments utilizing the principles of this disclosure, and the accompanying drawings or figures (also referred to herein as “Figures” and “various Figures”), wherein:

[0036] Figure 1 The diagrams and various battery configurations are shown schematically.

[0037] Figure 2 The diagram schematically illustrates battery cells in a battery under various conditions;

[0038] Figure 3 Various batteries are shown schematically;

[0039] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the battery cell assembly within the battery;

[0040] Figure 5 A battery cell in a battery is schematically shown in perspective. According to some embodiments of this disclosure, the battery is formed by using an alumina paste on the battery cell;

[0041] Figure 6 An insulator is shown schematically;

[0042] Figure 7 A cross-sectional image of a dynamic insulator as an alumina slurry deposited on a battery cell according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown.

[0043] Figure 8 A cross-sectional image of a dynamic insulator as an alumina slurry deposited on a battery cell according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown.

[0044] Figure 9 Cross-sectional images of a dynamic insulator comprising polymer particles deposited on a battery cell, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, are shown; and

[0045] Figure 10 The graphs depict the changes in current, voltage, and temperature experienced by different batteries over time.

[0046] Figure 11 The control system is shown;

[0047] Figure 12 The processing system is shown; and

[0048] Figure 13 The cross-section of the battery is shown.

[0049] The diagrams and their components may not be drawn to scale. Various components in the diagrams described herein may not be drawn to scale. Detailed Implementation

[0050] While various embodiments of the invention have been shown and described herein, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that such embodiments are provided by way of example only. Numerous variations, modifications, and substitutions can be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the invention. It should be understood that various alternatives to the embodiments of the invention described herein may be employed. The various embodiments disclosed herein are composable, as appropriate.

[0051] The terms "various embodiments," "some embodiments," "one embodiment," "some exemplary embodiments," "one exemplary embodiment," or "embodiment" throughout the specification refer to a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in association with any embodiment, which is included in at least one embodiment. Therefore, the appearance of the phrases "in various embodiments," "in some embodiments," "in one embodiment," "some exemplary embodiments," "one exemplary embodiment," or "in an embodiment" throughout the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Furthermore, specific features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments.

[0052] Terms such as “a,” “an,” and “the” are not intended to refer to a single entity, but rather to encompass its general categories; specific examples may be used for illustration. The terminology used herein is to describe specific embodiments of this disclosure, but its use is not limited to those specific embodiments. The term “includes” means including but not limited to, the term “including” means including but not limited to, and the term “based on” means at least partially based on.

[0053] When referring to a range, unless otherwise specified, a range means an inclusive range. For example, the range between value 1 and value 2 means an inclusive range that includes both value 1 and value 2. An inclusive range will span any value from about value 1 to about value 2. The terms “adjacent” or “adjacent to” as used herein include “closely adjacent,” “next to,” “contact,” and “near.” When referring to a range (e.g., between, at least, at most, etc.), the endpoints of the range are also claimed. For example, when the range is X to Y, the values ​​of X and Y are also claimed. For example, when the range is at most Z, the value of Z is also claimed. For example, when the range is at least W, the value of W is also claimed.

[0054] The conjunction “and / or” used in “X and / or Y” (including in the specification and claims) means including options (i) X, (ii) Y, and (iii) X and Y, as applicable. The phrase “including X and / or Y” means the same as the phrase “including X or Y”.

[0055] When a range is specified for an attribute, this document means that the attribute can include values ​​specified at the end of the range. For example, when an attribute is a value of at least about X, the attribute can be X or any value greater than X. For example, when an attribute is a value of at most about Y, the attribute can be Y or any value less than Y. For example, when an attribute is a value from V to Z, the attribute can be V, the attribute can be Z, or the attribute can be any value between V and Z.

[0056] The terms "operably coupled," "operably configurable," or "operably connected" refer to a first mechanism coupled (or connected) to a second mechanism to allow the intended operation of the second mechanism and / or the first mechanism. Coupling can include physical coupling or non-physical coupling. Non-physical coupling can include signal-induced coupling (e.g., wireless coupling).

[0057] When the phrase “constructed as” or “configured as” modifies an article, it refers to a structure in the article that enables the achievement of the stated result.

[0058] The basic length scale (abbreviated as "FLS" hereafter) includes any suitable scale (e.g., size) of an object. For example, the FLS of an object may include length, width, height, diameter, equivalent diameter of a sphere, diameter of a boundary circle, equivalent diameter of a boundary sphere, radius, equivalent radius of a sphere, or radius of a boundary circle or boundary sphere.

[0059] In this article, central tendency is understood to include the mean, median, or mode. The mean can include the geometric mean.

[0060] In this text, performing a reversible first operation is understood to mean performing the first operation and being able to perform an operation opposite to that first operation (e.g., a second operation). For example, when the controller instructs the shutter to open reversibly, the shutter can also close, and the controller can selectively instruct the shutter to close. For example, when an attractor reversibly binds to a charge carrier, the attractor can also release the charge carrier after binding.

[0061] As described herein, embodiments of this disclosure relate to (e.g., secondary) batteries, structures constituting (e.g., secondary) batteries, and methods and processes for manufacturing structures and batteries. The term "anode" as used herein, in the context of a secondary battery, can refer to (e.g., the negative electrode in a secondary battery). The terms "anode material" or "anode activity" as used herein can refer to a material suitable for use as the negative electrode in a secondary battery. The term "cathode" as used herein, in the context of a secondary battery, can refer to the positive electrode in a secondary battery. The terms "cathode material" or "cathode activity" as used herein can refer to a material suitable for use as the positive electrode in a secondary battery.

[0062] In some embodiments described herein, the term "electrode" may be used to refer to either an anode or a cathode, and the term "counter electrode" may refer to another or the opposite electrode. For illustrative purposes (e.g., for educational purposes), embodiments may be described using the terms "electrode" and "counter electrode." It should be understood that in these embodiments, the term "electrode" may be replaced by the term "anode," and the term "counter electrode" may be replaced by the term "cathode." Alternatively, in these embodiments, the term "electrode" may be replaced by the term "cathode," and the term "counter electrode" may be replaced by the term "anode."

[0063] Inhibition can include blocking, mitigating, hindering, limiting, suspending, cutting off, terminating, or stopping.

[0064] In some embodiments, the battery is configured to suppress (e.g., reduce or prevent) the occurrence of battery temperature rise and / or runaway reactions, such as due to residual current. Sometimes, when the residual current in a single cell exceeds the activation barrier, a thermal runaway (e.g., exothermic) reaction begins, causing the battery to heat up (further), which may be uncontrollable. Such uncontrollable heating and / or reaction can lead to the adverse effects disclosed herein. Adverse effects can include material damage, such as failure. Adverse effects can be irreversible, uncontrollable, causing the single cell to operate outside its specified specifications and / or causing the battery to operate outside its specified specifications. Specifications may be specified by the battery manufacturer and / or customer. In the example, material damage is directed against the battery, against inanimate objects in the external environment, against persons in the external environment, or any combination thereof. Material damage is caused at least in part by a single cell ignition and / or explosion. Therefore, suppressing (e.g., preventing) such material temperature rise and / or runaway reactions within the battery may be beneficial. The battery may be a primary or secondary battery. The battery may be rechargeable or non-rechargeable. The battery may be a single-use battery or a non-single-use battery. The battery may include primary or secondary battery cells. The battery may be cylindrical or prismatic in configuration. The battery may include one or more battery cells. Battery cells may be folded, in an (e.g., substantially) planar configuration, or folded, for example, in folds including spiral, sinusoidal, zigzag, or top-hat shaped folds. Battery cell groups may be arranged one on top of another.

[0065] Figure 1Example 100 shows a schematic diagram illustrating the variation of battery current (I) over time (t) and battery temperature (T) over time (t), where the battery undergoes an external short-circuit (ESC) test, e.g., outside of normal battery operation. Segment 111 during time window t1 shows the initial heating of the battery, which has little effect on current 101, followed by a significant reduction in current above a threshold temperature, as shown in time window t2. This rapid reduction in current can be attributed to the effective elimination of load current, e.g., due to the diaphragm shut-off. Segment 102 of the current diagram shows a sharp reduction in current in the battery as the temperature approaches the threshold temperature 112, which occurs during time window t2. While the main current may decrease significantly, residual current 104 may still remain in the battery. This residual current can contribute to a continuous increase in battery temperature above the threshold temperature 112. This temperature increase can trigger a runaway reaction, leading to an uncontrollable temperature rise as shown in 113, which occurs in time window t3. When the residual current is also reduced, for example, as shown in 105, the temperature of the battery can remain (e.g., substantially) constant, for example, as shown in 114, or it can decrease, as shown in 115. When the current (e.g., 105) is sufficiently suppressed, for example, effectively reduced to zero or a measurable zero current, the temperature may decrease.

[0066] Figure 1 Example 150 shows a schematic vertical cross-section of a battery, illustrating the arrangement and / or folding of battery cells relative to a Cartesian coordinate system. In Example 151, the battery cells are arranged parallel to each other. Examples 152-155 illustrate various folding arrangements of a sheet comprising one or more battery cells, where 152 shows a zigzag fold, 153 shows a top hat fold, 154 shows a sinusoidal fold, and 155 shows a spiral (e.g., winding) fold. A battery may include battery cells folded in a winding (e.g., core) configuration, which has... Figure 13 The rectangular or cylindrical structure shown in 1350.

[0067] In some embodiments, the battery includes at least one battery cell. The battery cell may include two opposing electrodes (anode and cathode) separated from each other by a separation space. The separation space may include an electrolyte or a separator. The separation space may include more than one separator. In an example, the separation space includes an electrolyte and a separator, such as a polymer or resin. Under normal conditions, the separator may be configured to (a) impede (e.g., prevent) contact between the two opposing electrodes of the battery cell and (b) allow charge carriers to pass through the separator as they propagate (e.g., advance or travel) from one electrode to its opposing electrode. Normal conditions may include normal operation, storage (e.g., physical storage in a warehouse), maintenance, or transportation conditions, such as environmental conditions. Under normal conditions, charge carriers may be transferred at least partially from one opposing electrode to the other using the electrolyte. The electrolyte may include one or more different chemical types. Charge carriers may include positively charged ions (cations), such as metal cations of alkali metals or alkaline earth metals. In an example, the charged ion is lithium. A lithium-based battery (e.g., a lithium-based rechargeable battery) is an energy manipulation (e.g., energy storage) device having one or more battery cells. In some embodiments, the battery cell includes charge carrier ions that, during use, propagate at least partially between opposing electrodes using an electrolyte, for example, at least partially between a cathode structure and an anode structure using an electrolyte. In the example, a lithium-based rechargeable battery is an energy manipulation (e.g., energy storage) device having battery cells in which charge carrier ions (e.g., lithium ions, sodium ions, potassium ions, calcium ions, or magnesium ions) travel between the cathode structure and the anode structure via an electrolyte within each battery cell. The charge carrier ions may include lithium ions, sodium ions, potassium ions, calcium ions, or magnesium ions. The opposing electrodes (e.g., the anode structure and the cathode structure) are separated by a membrane structure (also referred to herein as a “membrane”) disposed in a separation space. Separation between the opposing electrodes can occur under normal conditions. Normal conditions may include time during use, such as during (a) battery assembly or (b) battery operation. A current collector (e.g., a wire) can draw current from a corresponding current-carrying electrode and transfer the current from the battery cell to the external environment, such as the environment outside the battery casing. The electrode can be operatively coupled to one or more current collectors. In the example, the electrode is operatively coupled (e.g., connected) to at least one current collector (e.g., a wire). In the example, the current collector draws current from a corresponding active electrochemical electrode and enables the current to be transferred to the external environment of the battery. In the example, each of the anode and cathode current collectors draws current from a corresponding active electrochemical electrode and enables the current to be transferred to the external environment of the battery, such as the environment outside the battery casing.In the example, the anode current collector is configured to draw current from the anode, for example, to transfer current to the environment outside the battery cell and / or the environment outside the battery, such as the environment outside the battery casing. In the example, the cathode current collector is configured to draw current from the cathode, for example, to transfer current to the environment outside the battery cell and / or the environment outside the battery, such as the environment outside the battery casing. The battery may include one or more battery cells. The battery may include a casing. The current collector can carry current to the outside of the battery cell and the inside of the battery casing, the outside of the battery casing, or a combination thereof. The current collectors of the anodes in a group of battery cells may be coupled to the main anode current collector (e.g., in parallel). The current collectors of the cathodes in a group of battery cells may be coupled to the main cathode current collector (e.g., in parallel). The main cathode current collector may be disposed on the same group of battery cells as the main anode current collector. The main cathode current collector may be disposed on a different group of battery cells than the main anode current collector (e.g., on an opposing surface). External battery contacts may be disposed on a surface parallel or perpendicular to the long axis of the electrodes of the battery cell.

[0068] In some embodiments, the battery cell includes a pair of counter electrodes and a separation space disposed between the pair of counter electrodes. In some embodiments, the electrodes are sheet-shaped. The sheet may be planar. The sheet may be substantially two-dimensional. The thickness of the sheet may be substantially less than the length of the sheet and substantially less than the width of the sheet. The separation space may include a separator, for example, a separator having a sheet shape. The electrodes and / or separator may be elongated. The target surface may be a surface of the battery cell or a component of the battery cell, having the largest surface area of ​​the component's surface (e.g., surface type). The component of the battery cell may include a reference electrode, its counter electrode, or a separator. The target surface may be a surface of the battery cell. The width-to-length ratio of the target surface of the component (which has the largest surface area among the surfaces of the component) may be at least about 1:2, 1:5, 1:10, 1:50, 1:100, or 1:500. The surface may be a surface of an electrode (e.g., an anode) of the battery cell or a surface of a separator of the battery cell. The battery cell can be configured to be housed within a prismatic (e.g., cuboid) housing. Target faces can be shaped to fit the cross-section of a face of the prism, different from the face with the largest cross-sectional area. Target faces can also be shaped to fit the cross-section of a face of the prism with the smallest cross-sectional area. A maximum integer number of target faces can be fitted to the face of the prism with the smallest cross-sectional area, which is at most approximately 5, 4, 3, 2, or 1. In the example, a maximum of one target face can be fitted to the face of the prism with the smallest cross-sectional area. Target faces can also be shaped to fit the cross-section of a face of a prism with a medium-sized cross-sectional area. A maximum integer number of target faces can be fitted to the face of the prism with a medium cross-sectional area, which is at most approximately 5, 4, 3, 2, or 1. In the example, a maximum of one target face can be fitted to the face of the prism with the largest cross-sectional area. A maximum integer number of target faces can be fitted to the face of the prism with the largest cross-sectional area, which is at most approximately 5, 4, 3, 2, or 1. In the example, the face of the prism with the largest cross-sectional area can fit at most one target face. The largest cross-sectional area of ​​the target face can be slender, for example, rectangular.

[0069] In some embodiments, the battery cell includes a separator. The separator can be configured to (a) inhibit (e.g., impede or prevent) cathode-anode contact and (b) allow ions to pass through the separator from one electrode to its counter electrode, the ions being transferred at least partially by using an electrolyte disposed at least between the counter electrodes in a separation space. In an example, the separator is disposed between the counter electrodes in the battery cell (also referred to herein as a “battery cell”). The separator can extend beyond the surfaces of the counter electrodes, which face each other. The electrolyte can be disposed (e.g., placed or positioned) within the battery housing. The electrolyte can be disposed within the battery cell. The electrolyte can be disposed within the immediate location of the battery cell. The electrolyte can include polymers and polymer mixtures. The polymer can be a copolymer. The electrolyte can (e.g., also) contact the battery cell outside the separation space. The electrolyte can be disposed in the volume in contact with the battery cell. In an example, the electrolyte is disposed within the battery housing, for example, in a volume isolated (e.g., separated) from the external environment outside the battery housing. The isolated environment can include one or more battery cells.

[0070] In some embodiments, the separator is configured to (i) be electrically insulating and (ii) allow ionic conduction of charge carriers. In the example, ionic conduction can begin once the electrolyte fills the pore space. The separator can be configured to allow charge carriers (e.g., lithium ions) to pass from one side of the separator to its opposite side. Ionic conduction can be facilitated (e.g., carried out) at least partially by charge carriers. Ionic conduction can be facilitated (e.g., carried out) at least partially by the electrolyte. Ionic conduction can occur under the conditions of the battery cell, including during use or storage. Ionic conduction can occur during the operation and / or electrode buffering of the battery cell, such as during pre-charging of the anode with charge carriers. Charge carriers can be one or more chemical types. In the example, ionic conduction occurs during the operation and / or pre-lithiation (or buffering) of the battery cell, such as pre-lithiation of the anode.

[0071] In some embodiments, a battery cell includes an electrode (e.g., a reference electrode), a counter electrode, and a separation space. The separation space may include a separator, such as a separator having a material comprising channels or pores (e.g., microchannels or micropores). The pores and / or channels may be configured to facilitate ion propagation through the pores. The channels may be conduits. The pores of the separator may be coupled to form channels. The battery cell may include, or be coupled to, a dynamic insulator. The battery cell may include, or be coupled to, a separation space. At least one component may be electrically insulating, such as at least one component of the separator body, the insulator, or the separation space. The separation space and the separation space may have the same material content, or may not have the same material content.

[0072] Figure 2 Example 200 shows a schematic diagram of a battery cell including electrodes 202a-C (e.g., cathodes) and counter electrodes 205a-A (e.g., anodes). A separator is disposed in a separation space 203-B. The battery cell is disposed within a battery having a housing 209. The battery may optionally have an insulator 204, which may or may not be a dynamic insulator. Under normal conditions during battery use, the main current is a load current 206 flowing from one electrode through the separation space 203 to its counter electrode. A residual current 201 may be carried outside the separation space B and through the volume 204, for example, through the dynamic insulator. When the temperature rises, the separator in the separation space 203 can be shut off, significantly reducing (e.g., eliminating) the flow of the load current 206. Triggering events for the current shutdown through the volume may include temperatures above a threshold, charge carrier flow above a threshold, or charge carrier concentration above a threshold. When the insulator in space 204 is insensitive to a triggering event, residual current will continue to flow between the counter electrodes even if the components of the separation space (e.g., 203) are susceptible to a triggering event, such as the load current being (e.g., effectively) turned off. When the insulator in space 204 is less sensitive to a triggering event than the components of the separation space (e.g., the diaphragm), residual current can continue to flow between the counter electrodes even if the load current is (e.g., effectively) turned off. In these cases, the turn-off of the diaphragm in separation space 203 will not affect the flow of residual current 201. If volume 204 contains an insulator, the insulator contacts at least the opposing sides 202b and 202c of electrode 202a and the opposing sides 205b and 205c of counter electrode 205a.

[0073] Figure 2 Example 210 shows a schematic diagram of a battery cell including an electrode 212-C (e.g., a cathode) and a counter electrode 215-A (e.g., an anode). A separator is disposed in a separation space 213-B. The battery cell is disposed in a battery having a housing 219. The separation space extends 221 beyond the electrode 212 and extends 222 beyond the counter electrode 215, the extensions being along the long axis of the electrodes. Figure 2As shown in the diagram. The battery has a dynamic insulator 204 that is triggered by a triggering event experienced within the dynamic insulator. Triggering events may include temperatures above a threshold, charge carrier flow above a threshold, or charge carrier concentration above a threshold. Under the event triggering condition, the load current 216 may or may not pass through the separation space 203. In the example, under the triggering condition, the load current is (e.g., substantially and / or effectively) turned off. The triggering event can cause the dynamic insulator to suppress (e.g., effectively stop) residual current. In the example shown in 210, the residual current 211 does not pass through space 214 and outside the separation space B, volume 214 contains (e.g., is filled with) the dynamic insulator. Variations between interiors 204 and 214 can depict changes in the dynamic insulator due to the triggering event. The triggering event for the material (e.g., a separator) in the separation space (B) may be the same as or different from (e.g., substantially the same as) the triggering event for the dynamic insulator (e.g., an insulating material). The dynamic diaphragm can be configured to shut off the residual current before, after, or during the load current is turned off, for example, due to changes in the diaphragm and / or electrolyte in the separation space.

[0074] In some embodiments, one or more battery cells are disposed within a housing to form a battery. The housing can isolate the battery from one or more reactive substances in the external environment of the battery. The reactants can include oxygen, water, alcohols, thiols, sulfuric acid, phosphoric acid, carboxylic acid, or hydrogen sulfide. The reactants can be oxygen-containing, sulfur-containing, and / or phosphorus-containing. The reactants can contain water or oxygen. In an example, the reactants contain water in liquid and / or vapor form. Water can be in droplet form. The housing can be configured to isolate the battery cells from reactants in the external environment of the battery, for example, to limit (e.g., impede or prevent) the reach of reactants to the battery cells, including, for example, to the electrodes.

[0075] Figure 3These examples illustrate schematic perspective views of battery and cell structures relative to a Cartesian coordinate system. Example 300 shows a cylindrical battery housing having a length 302 and a height 301, where height 301 is the diameter. The battery may include cell units forming a coil. In Example 300, the surface area of ​​each of the bottom and top surfaces of the cylinder is smaller than the surface area of ​​the side surfaces—the curved surfaces of the cylinder. Example 330 shows a prismatic battery housing, which is a rectangular prism or cuboid. The battery has a length 332, a height 331, and a width 333. Cell units 335 are stacked in the battery along height 331 and the Z-direction. In Example 330, the surface area of ​​face XY is greater than the surface area of ​​face XZ, and the surface area of ​​face XY is greater than the surface area of ​​face YZ. Example 350 shows a prismatic battery housing, which is a rectangular prism or cuboid. The battery has a length 352, a height 351, and a width 353. Cell units 355 are stacked in the battery along length 352 and the X-direction. In Example 350, the surface area of ​​plane XY is greater than the surface area of ​​plane XZ, and the surface area of ​​plane XY is greater than the surface area of ​​plane YZ.

[0076] In some embodiments, the battery cells are arranged (e.g., substantially) perpendicular to the face of the prismatic (e.g., cuboid) battery with the largest surface area. Sometimes, the anode's largest surface area face, separation space, separator, cathode, and / or partition space are arranged (e.g., substantially perpendicular to the face of the battery with the largest surface area). Figure 3 Example 350 illustrates an example of a battery cell (e.g., cell 335) arranged perpendicular to the XY plane of the battery, which has the largest surface area among the battery's planes. In example 350, the surface area of ​​the battery cell is at most the surface area of ​​the YZ plane of the battery or less. A battery cell arranged perpendicular to the plane of the battery with the largest surface area (e.g., Figure 3 ,350) has a combined battery side (e.g., edge) surface area larger than the following battery cells: (a) battery cells arranged parallel to the battery with the largest surface area (e.g., Figure 3 (a) 330) and / or (b) cylindrical batteries, such as wound battery cells (e.g., core batteries) Figure 3 (300). In some embodiments, the larger the combined side surface area (e.g., edge) of the battery cell, the greater the effect of the residual current on the total current of the battery. When the battery cell includes at least one uneven side, such as... Figure 2 As shown in Figure 220, uneven (e.g., misaligned) sides create wavy sides for the battery cell array. Wavy sides may contribute to or not contribute to the amount of residual current passing through the insulator between the anode and cathode of the battery cell.

[0077] In some embodiments, the battery includes individual battery cells. These individual battery cells may be stacked along an axis. Separator spaces may be provided between every two adjacent battery cells, such that a first battery cell contacts a first surface of the separator space, and a second battery cell contacts a second surface of the separator space opposite the first surface. The separator spaces may include an insulator, such as any insulator disclosed herein. The insulator may or may not include a dynamic insulator. The separator spaces may be configured to electrically isolate one battery cell from another. The battery stack may follow a pattern, which may include a sequence. The sequence may include the arrangement of components of the battery cells relative to each other. The sequence may include an anode, a separation space, a cathode, and a separator space. The sequence may follow a CBAS pattern or a CBASABCS pattern, where C specifies the cathode, B specifies the separation space, A specifies the anode, and S specifies the separator space, for example, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 4 Battery cells can be stacked in one or more groups. A separation space can include two opposing faces. One face of the separation space contacts the anode, and its opposing face contacts the cathode. A battery cell can include an assembly comprising an anode, a cathode, a separation space, and optional partition spaces. The battery cell assemblies can be arranged along an axis. The battery cell assemblies can be arranged symmetrically along an axis (e.g., substantially), for example, in a mirror-symmetric arrangement with a mirror plane extending along the axis, and / or in a rotationally symmetric arrangement with the rotation axis extending along the battery stack axis (e.g., parallel to). Figure 4 (Axis 490 in the middle). At least two components of the battery cell may extend at (e.g., substantially) the same distance in a direction perpendicular to the battery stack axis. At least two components of the battery cell may extend at different distances in a direction perpendicular to the battery stack axis. The extension of the components at different distances forms a corrugated (e.g., misaligned) surface of the battery cell and a corrugated (e.g., misaligned) surface of the battery cell assembly, such as... Figure 2 As shown in 220. See also Figure 4 The sides (e.g., edges) of the battery cell groups in 400 and 450. In the example, the cathode extends less than the anode in the direction perpendicular to the battery stack axis. In the example, the separation space extends more than the anode and / or more than the cathode in the direction perpendicular to the battery stack axis.

[0078] Figure 4A schematic cross-sectional example 400 of a battery comprising a cathode 402, an anode 405, a separation space 403, and a partition space 407 is shown. Cell units are disposed within a battery volume 404, which may include an insulator such as a dynamic insulator. The cell units are stacked along axis 490 in a repeating CBAS arrangement. Each anode A in the battery is operatively coupled (e.g., connected) to a current collector (e.g., 413), which is coupled in parallel to a main anode current collector 414, terminating at a cathode contact 411. Each cathode C in the battery is operatively coupled (e.g., connected) to a current collector (e.g., 416), which is coupled in parallel to a main cathode current collector 417, terminating at an anode contact 412.

[0079] Figure 4 A schematic cross-sectional example 450 of a battery comprising a cathode 452, an anode 455, a separation space 453, and a partition space 457 is shown. Cell units are disposed within a battery volume 454, which may include an insulator such as a dynamic insulator. The cell units are stacked along axis 490 in a repeating CBASABCS arrangement. Each anode A in the battery is operatively coupled (e.g., connected) to a current collector (e.g., 463), which is coupled in parallel to a main anode current collector 464, terminating at a cathode contact 461. Each cathode C in the battery is operatively coupled (e.g., connected) to a current collector (e.g., 466), which is coupled in parallel to a main cathode current collector 467, terminating at an anode contact 462. Figure 4 In this configuration, the main cathode current collector is positioned on a surface different from that of the main anode current collector.

[0080] Figure 5 An example of a battery section with stacked battery cells is shown, the stacked battery cells including a separation space 501 (S), an anode 502 (A), a separation space 503 (e.g., including a separator) (B), and a cathode 504 (C), the battery cells being repeated in the SABC sequence. Figure 5 In the example shown, the separation space 501 is identical to the separation space 503 (e.g., substantially) in terms of, for example, its material content and / or general physical dimensions. Wavy (e.g., misaligned) sides (e.g., edges) of the battery cells in the battery cell group are shown at portions of the stacked battery cells exposed in the battery sequence, such as the battery cells including components 502-504. The content of the separation space may be the same as that of the separation space (e.g., substantially).

[0081] In some embodiments, the battery includes an insulator. The insulator may include a ceramic material. The ceramic may include alumina (Al₂O₃), zirconium oxide (ZrO₂), magnesium oxide (MgO), boron nitride (BN), mullite, boehmite, or silicon carbide (SiC, e.g., pure state). The insulator may include a non-conductive allotrope of carbon. The non-conductive allotrope of carbon may include amorphous carbon, carbon foam (e.g., nanofoam), or Z-ACA allotropes. In examples, some (e.g., secondary) batteries rely on a slurry of alumina to form a porous layer on the XY plane of the battery. The ceramic may be used with or without additives, such as polymers or resins. The ceramic may be deposited during battery formation, for example, as a slurry comprising a solvent, such as a hydrophobic solvent, e.g., naphtha. The hydrophobic solvent may include aromatic or aliphatic compounds. The hydrophobic solvent may be branched. The slurry may include a solvent, a binder (e.g., a polymer), and a ceramic (e.g., alumina). The binder may include anhydrides or olefins. The polymer may be a copolymer. The solvent may include aromatics. The viscosity of the slurry used for depositing the insulator may be at least about 1500 centipoise (cP), 1700 cP, 1750 cP, 2000 cP, 2570 cP, or 3000 cP, for example, at ambient temperature or 37°C. The viscosity of the slurry used for depositing the insulator may be at most about 1700 cP, 1750 cP, 2000 cP, 2570 cP, 3000 cP, or 4000 cP. The viscosity of the slurry used for depositing the insulator may be any viscosity value between the above-mentioned viscosity values, for example, from about to about, or from about to about. Viscosity may be measured at ambient temperature, for example, at 20°C, 25°C, 30°C, or 35°C. During manufacturing (e.g., during deposition), dynamic insulators (e.g., their slurries) may have the same viscosity characteristics as non-dynamic (e.g., ceramic) insulators (e.g., their slurries). In the example, when an external short circuit (ESC) effectively stops the load current, (e.g., ionic) current can continue to flow from the anode to the cathode through the insulator (e.g., through the alumina layer), even after the diaphragm has reached its turn-off temperature. The insulator can exclude dynamic components susceptible to triggering events (e.g., the diaphragm's turn-off temperature). A non-dynamic insulator can exclude dynamic components susceptible to triggering events in an amount sufficient to (e.g., substantially and / or detectably) suppress the flow of residual current and / or ions through the insulator volume. In the example, the non-dynamic insulator excludes dynamic components susceptible to triggering events in an amount sufficient to (e.g., substantially and / or detectably) stop the flow of residual current and / or ions through the insulator volume.In the event of an external short-circuit (ESC) event, ionic current can continue to flow through the electrolyte in the insulator (e.g., containing an alumina layer) from one electrode to its opposite electrode (e.g., from the anode to the cathode), for example, after the diaphragm has reached its turn-off temperature. In this example, the insulator (the porous layer) must be electrically insulating to avoid short circuits and (e.g., but) also allow ion conduction once the electrolyte fills the pore spaces—to allow lithium ions to pass through during pre-lithiation (or buffering). In this example, a dynamic insulator susceptible to triggering events can also help prevent short circuits between the cathode and anode.

[0082] In some embodiments, the battery and / or battery cell includes a polymer. The polymer may include copolymers or polymer mixtures. The polymer may be included in an insulator, in electrodes, in separator gaps, in separation spaces, or any combination thereof. The battery and / or battery cell may include at least one type of polymer. At least two components of the battery cell and / or battery may include the same polymer type. At least two components of the battery cell and / or battery may include different polymer types. In the example, the polymer is hydrophobic. In the example, the polymer is non-aqueous and / or non-polar.

[0083] In some embodiments, the battery and / or battery cell includes a resin. The resin may include a resin mixture. The resin may be present in an insulator, in an electrode, in a separator gap, in a separation space, or any combination thereof. The battery and / or battery cell may include at least one type of resin. At least two components of the battery cell and / or battery may include the same type of resin. At least two components of the battery cell and / or battery may include different types of resin. In the example, the resin is hydrophobic. In the example, the resin is non-aqueous and / or non-polar.

[0084] In some embodiments, the battery and / or battery cell includes an electrolyte. The electrolyte may include an electrolyte mixture. The electrolyte may be present in an insulator, in an electrode, in a separator gap, in a separation space, or any combination thereof. The battery and / or battery cell may include at least one type of electrolyte. At least two components of the battery cell and / or battery may include the same type of electrolyte. At least two components of the battery cell and / or battery may include different types of electrolyte. The electrolyte may be configured to be compatible with battery use, at least under normal conditions. In an example, the electrolyte is hydrophobic. In an example, the electrolyte is non-aqueous and / or non-polar.

[0085] In some embodiments, the insulator is a dynamic insulator. The dynamic insulator may include a polymer, resin, or electrolyte. The dynamic insulator may or may not include ceramic (e.g., it may include ceramic). In an example, the dynamic insulator includes a porous layer. In an example, the battery cell and / or battery includes a dynamic insulator. The dynamic insulator (porous layer) can help suppress (e.g., hinder or prevent) current short-circuit events occurring between the battery's opposing electrodes (cathode and anode).

[0086] In some embodiments, the battery includes (e.g., dependent on) a dynamic insulator (also referred to herein as an “insulating layer”) in which one or more types of insulating material are arranged in a volume. The dynamic insulator may contact one or more surfaces of the battery cell. An example of an insulating layer is a porous polymer layer, for example, as shown in Examples 600 or 650. In the volume of the dynamic insulator, (a) the physical arrangement of the insulating material and / or (b) the chemical type of the insulating material may be configured to allow an electrolyte to occupy (e.g., flow therein) a portion of the volume under certain conditions of the battery (e.g., normal conditions included during battery use or storage). The dynamic insulator may be configured to allow charge carriers (e.g., metal ions) and optionally the electrolyte to pass through the volume of the dynamic insulator under normal conditions (e.g., through the volume in which the insulating material is arranged). In examples, the dynamic insulator includes a semi-solid material (e.g., a gel) or a solid (e.g., a cured material) occupying the volume. In examples, the dynamic insulator includes a particulate material occupying the volume, for example, Figure 6 600. Insulating materials can be in the form of a skeleton or matrix, located within a volume, for example, Figure 6650. The insulator may include portions without insulating material, e.g., also referred to herein as "porosity". The porosity may be at least about 5%, 10%, 20%, or 30% of the volume of the insulator. The porosity may be at most about 35%, 30%, 20%, or 10% of the volume of the insulator. The porosity may be between any of the above percentage values ​​relative to the volume of the insulator, e.g., from about 35% to about 5%, or from about 10% to about 30%. An electrolyte may be disposed in the volume, e.g., in the space between insulating material portions disposed in the volume of the insulator. The insulating material may be porous or non-porous; for example, the particulate material of the dynamic insulator may be porous. The electrolyte in the volume of the dynamic insulator may facilitate the conduction of charge carriers. The dynamic insulator may be included in a battery, e.g., as an integrated and / or internal component of the battery. The dynamic insulator may or may not be disposed in a partition space, if present in the battery. The battery may include a housing containing one or more battery cells, and the dynamic insulator may contact one or more sides of the battery cells. The dynamic insulator can contact the inner surface of the casing. The battery cell can be immersed in the electrolyte. The electrolyte can be arranged (a) between the electrodes, (b) in each of the electrodes, for example, in the space not occupied by the material forming the electrodes, (c) in the separation space, (d) as part of the dynamic insulator, (e) in the space separating one battery cell from an adjacent battery cell, or (f) any combination thereof. During normal operation of the battery cell, the current transferred from one electrode to its opposite electrode passes primarily through the separation space (and through the separator), with residual current passing through the volume occupied by the dynamic insulator.

[0087] Figure 6 Schematic examples of insulators are shown. In example 600, particulate matter comprising insulating material, including particles 601, is disposed in electrolyte 602. In example 650, a substrate 651 comprising insulating material is immersed in electrolyte 652.

[0088] In some cases, the battery cell experiences an ESC event while being charged. During an ESC event, a larger current (e.g., load current) flows between the counter electrodes of the battery cell (e.g., between the cathode and anode). For example, during an ESC event, a larger number of charge carriers (e.g., Li+) pass through the separator and through the separation space between the counter electrodes, for example, from the anode to the cathode. Here, "larger" is relative to the current under normal conditions. After the ESC event, the heat from the larger current can (e.g., eventually) cause the separator to "turn off," thereby blocking most of the ionic conductivity between the counter electrodes (e.g., between the anode and cathode). For example, the load current is significantly reduced (e.g., stops). During an ESC event, a smaller current can flow between the counter electrodes (e.g., between the cathode and anode); and (e.g., simultaneously) charge carriers (e.g., Li+) can pass through the dynamic insulator (e.g., the electrolyte therein) contacting the counter electrodes of the battery cell. This smaller current may be referred to herein as the "residual current." Unless the insulator suppresses this passage, for example, at least during an ESC event, a small (residual) current can be achieved by charge carriers passing through the insulator. A dynamic insulator can contact at least one side of the electrode, for example, it can contact the opposite side of the electrode (e.g., in a direction substantially perpendicular or generally perpendicular to the separation space), see, for example, [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 2 200. In the example, separator turn-off can result in a significant reduction in current between the counter electrodes of the battery cell, e.g., substantially and / or detectably stopping. The turn-off of the current load can be attributed to a triggering event occurring during ESC (e.g., any triggering event disclosed herein) causing a change in one or more components in the separation space. Without being bound by theory, separator turn-off can be attributed at least in part to partial or complete melting of the separator material (e.g., physical and / or chemical changes), e.g., at least in part to high temperatures occurring during a heat increase. Without being bound by theory, separator turn-off can be attributed at least in part to partial or complete melting of the separator, e.g., at least in part to high temperatures occurring during a heat increase. The heat increase can be caused at least in part by a significant current being transferred between the counter electrodes through the separation space. Residual current can propagate between the counter electrodes of the battery cell on the electrode side, e.g., through an insulator. The insulator may or may not contact the separation space. On the electrode side (e.g., the electrode terminal), residual current propagates along the path from one electrode to its opposite electrode in the battery cell, and through the volume of the dynamic insulator contacting the two electrodes, for example, see Figure 2 ,201. In this case, even if the diaphragm will "turn off" to prevent adverse effects caused by the load current (e.g., Figure 2(206) The adverse effects can also be at least partly attributed to the flow of residual current, which may trigger runaway (e.g., exothermic) reactions, leading to adverse heating of the battery cells (e.g., and the battery), for example, Figure 1 113. Adverse effects can be detrimental to the battery cell, the battery, and / or objects (whether living or non-living) disposed in the environment outside the battery cell. Adverse effects can be any of those disclosed herein. The exterior of the battery cell can include the exterior of the battery casing, for example, in the surrounding environment. Adverse effects can be defined according to the jurisdictional definition of the jurisdiction in which the battery is manufactured, stored, used, and / or located. Suppressing (e.g., preventing) the occurrence of such adverse effects may be advantageous, for example, by using dynamic insulators. In some embodiments, this disclosure provides solutions for suppressing adverse effects. In some embodiments, the present invention relates to methods (e.g., techniques), apparatuses, devices, systems, and designs for constructing a battery including a battery cell. The battery can be configured to suppress adverse effects, for example, at least partially by shutting off residual current and / or load current, which is the battery's main current during normal operation.

[0089] In some embodiments, this document discloses a battery that uses a dynamic insulator comprising a material type (e.g., polymer and / or resin) to replace at least a portion of ceramic (e.g., alumina) in the insulator. The volume of the dynamic insulator may be referred to as a “porous volume” or a “porous layer.” The dynamic insulator may be disposed on one or more faces of a battery cell. The faces of the battery cell may include opposing faces of the battery cell. Opposing faces of the battery cell may be opposing XY faces, opposing ZY faces, and / or opposing XZ faces of the battery cell. The dynamic insulator may be disposed in a volume in which residual current will flow when the dynamic insulator is replaced by an insulator that is less susceptible to triggering events (e.g., events triggered during ESC). In some embodiments, the material type of the dynamic insulator is configured for electrical insulation. In an example, the porous layer (dynamic insulator) comprises a material type configured for electrical insulation. The degree of electrical insulation of the dynamic insulator may be triggered by a triggering event, for example, it may be temperature-dependent. The degree of electrical insulation of the dynamic insulator may depend on the triggering event, for example, it may depend on the temperature of the dynamic insulator. A triggering event can cause a dynamic insulator to suppress its ability to conduct current. The extent (e.g., rate) of charge particle flow in the dynamic insulator can depend on the triggering event, for example, on temperature. The dynamic insulator can include a polymer or resin. One or more components of the dynamic insulator can have at least one material property configured to change upon the occurrence of a triggering event (e.g., exceeding a threshold). In an example, the dynamic insulator can undergo a structural change (e.g., melting) upon exceeding a temperature threshold. Material properties dependent on the triggering event (e.g., its threshold) can include changes in the physical state of the material, such as melting or solidification. Material properties can depend on the threshold of the triggering event. Material properties can include changes in the viscosity of fluid materials in the dynamic insulator, such as changes in the viscosity of an electrolyte in the dynamic insulator. Changes in material properties can include physical changes or chemical reactions. Changes in material properties can include bonding, gelation, melting, or any combination thereof. Bonding can include changes in covalent bonds, ionic bonds, hydrogen bonds, and / or polar bonds. Changes can include crosslinking within molecules (e.g., polymer chains) or between molecules (e.g., polymer chains), for example, to form a matrix such as a gel. In the example, at least one component of the dynamic insulator may include cross-linking. The physical shape (e.g., range) of the molecules in the dynamic insulator may depend on temperature. The polymer particles may have (e.g., substantially) similar sizes and shapes. The polymer particles may have (e.g., substantially) uniform size and / or shape distribution. The size and / or shape distribution of the particles may be bell-shaped. In some embodiments, the dynamic insulator comprises particulate material configured to be electrically insulating. The dynamic insulator and the diaphragm may have at least one material of the same type, for example, the material type may be different from the electrolyte.Dynamic insulators and separators can differ by at least one material type. The particulate material of the insulator is configured to have a sensitivity similar to (e.g., substantially the same or identical) to the sensitivity of the (e.g., polymer) separator to triggering events, such as the same triggering event threshold. In some embodiments, the particulate material is configured to have thermal properties similar to (e.g., substantially the same or identical) to the thermal properties of the (e.g., polymer) separator. The sensitivity of the dynamic insulator to triggering events can allow the induction (e.g., substitution) of the shutdown of residual current paths. The sensitivity of the dynamic insulator to triggering events can reduce the overall heating of the cell during an ESC event. The sensitivity of the dynamic insulator to triggering events can suppress (e.g., prevent) one or more adverse effects. This property of the dynamic insulator can improve the overall safety of the cell and / or the battery. Heating can include Joule heating, such as resistive or ohmic heating, where heat is generated at least in part due to the resistance encountered by the current passing through the conductor. In the example, the porous layer (dynamic insulator) formed of polymer particles is also electrically insulating and allows ionic conductivity, and has thermal properties similar to those of the polymer separator. In the example, one or more properties of the dynamic insulator allow the induction of the shutdown of the alternative current path, reducing overall Joule heating of the battery cell during external short circuits and improving safety.

[0090] In some embodiments, the dynamic insulator comprises particulate material, such as that disclosed herein. The particulate material may have a particle size distribution. The particulate material (e.g., powder) may have a focal tendency (e.g., average value) of FLS (e.g., diameter) of at least about 1.5 micrometers (μm), 2.5 μm, 3.5 μm, 5 μm, 8 μm, 10 μm, 12 μm, or 15 μm. The particulate material (e.g., powder) may have a focal tendency (e.g., average value) of FLS (e.g., diameter) between the aforementioned values, for example, from about 1.5 micrometers (μm) to about 15 μm, or from about 1.5 μm to about 12 μm. The focal tendency (e.g., median particle size - SD50) of the particulate material of the dynamic insulator may be between the aforementioned values, for example, from about 3.5 μm to about 5 μm, from about 5 μm to about 12 μm, or from about 7 μm to about 19 μm. The particle size distribution may be bell-shaped. The shape of the particles may include spherical, rod-shaped, or disc-shaped. Particulate materials may have (e.g., substantially) spherical particles. Particulate materials may comprise amorphous particles. The particles of a particulate material may have (e.g., substantially) similar sizes and / or shapes. Polymer particles may have a uniform size and / or shape distribution. In some embodiments, a dynamic insulator comprises particulate material configured to be electrically insulating. Particles may be produced by processes including melt mixing and milling, spray drying, or precipitation and drying.

[0091] like Figure 7-9Examples shown and discussed herein (e.g., secondary) batteries use aluminum oxide (“alumina” or AO) to create a dynamic insulator (also referred to herein as a “porous layer”) on both XY planes of the battery. During an external short circuit (ESC) of the rechargeable battery, a large current (also referred to herein as a “load current”) flows between the electrodes (e.g., between the cathode and anode). Simultaneously, charge carriers such as lithium ions move from the anode to the cathode through a separation space (e.g., through a separator). In some examples, (e.g., ultimately), the heat from the large (load) current causes the separator to “turn off,” thereby blocking most of the ionic conductivity between the anode and cathode. However, at the Z-end of the electrode, a current path still exists through the porous AO. Figure 7-9 As shown, some examples of (e.g., secondary) batteries have a "horizontal" arrangement, which means that they are different from wound battery structures (e.g., Figure 1 155 and Figure 3 ,300) or "vertically" stacked batteries (e.g., Figure 3 Compared to the residual current in the secondary battery structure, this side (e.g., edge) current (e.g., residual current) has a larger path—which may result in a more significant (e.g., larger) residual current after shutdown compared to other secondary battery structures. The battery cells can be arranged in a battery pouch.

[0092] Figure 7 A cross-section of a battery comprising an anode 702, which comprises silicon and carbon (e.g., a silicon and carbon composite) coupled to a current collector 701, is shown. The anode contacts a separation space 705. One face of the separation space faces the anode 702, and its opposite face faces and contacts a cathode 703 comprising a metal oxide (e.g., lithium). A current collector 704 is coupled to the cathode 703. The separation space (e.g., 705) extends beyond the side (e.g., edge) of the anode and bends towards the interior of the anode 710a. The anode contacts the separation space on its face and a partition space on its opposite face. The partition space extends beyond the face of the anode it contacts. The partition space bends towards the interior of the anode and towards the separation space 710b. An insulator 706 (e.g., comprising aluminum oxide) contacts the side (e.g., edge) of the battery, for example, (i) the side of the anode, (ii) the side of the cathode, (iii) the side of the separation space, and (iv) the side of the partition space. Separation spaces 705, 710a, and separation space 710b are (e.g., substantially) the same, for example, in terms of their material content and / or general physical dimensions. Particulate material is shown in anode 702, cathode 703, and insulator 706. Figure 7 In the example shown, the separating space and the dividing space (e.g., essentially) are along the passage. Figure 7The axes of the major axes of the anodes shown (e.g., along the current collector of the anode arranged along the major axis) are mirror images of each other. The partition space and the separation space are separated from each other by gap 710c. The partition space separates one battery cell from another. The partition space may comprise (e.g., substantially) the same material as the separation space. Figure 7 In the example shown, the battery comprises battery cells arranged in a repeating ABCS pattern, where A = anode, B = separation space, C = cathode, and S = separation space. Figure 7 In the example shown, the anode has a cross-section longer than that of the cathode, and its thickness is... Figure 7 The long axis of the cathode shown is substantially perpendicular to the direction.

[0093] Figure 8 A cross-section of a battery is shown, comprising an anode 802 coupled to a current collector 801, the anode 802 comprising silicon and carbon (e.g., a silicon and carbon composite). The anode contacts a separation space 805, which, for example, includes a separator. One face of the separation space faces the anode 802, and its opposite face faces and contacts a cathode 803 comprising a metal oxide (e.g., including lithium). A current collector 804 is coupled to the cathode 803. The separation space (e.g., 805) extends beyond the side surface (e.g., edge) of the anode and bends towards the interior of the anode 810a. The anode contacts the separation space on its face and contacts the separation space on its opposite face. The separation space extends beyond the face of the anode it contacts. The separation space bends towards the interior of the anode and towards the separation space 810b. An insulator 806 (e.g., comprising alumina) contacts the side surface (e.g., edge) of the battery, such as the side surface of the anode, the side surface of the cathode, the side surface of the separation space, and the side surface of the separation space. Particulate material is shown in the anode 802, cathode 803, and insulator 806. Figure 8 In the example shown, the separating space and the dividing space (e.g., essentially) are along the passage. Figure 8 The axes of the anodes shown (e.g., along the current collector of the anode arranged along its long axis) are mirror images of each other. The partition space and the separation space are separated from each other by a gap 810c. The partition space separates one cell from another. The partition space may comprise (e.g., substantially) the same material as the separation space. Figure 8In the example shown, the battery comprises battery cells arranged in a repeating ABCS pattern, where A = anode, B = separation space, C = cathode, and S = partition space. Load current is turned off 808 when excessive load current and / or heating occurs in the battery cell. Without being bound by theory, this may be due to changes occurring in the separation space, such as blockage of the separator pores by molten separator material. When load current 808 is turned off, residual currents 807a and 807b may persist in the battery, for example, when the insulator is not a dynamic insulator sensitive to triggering conditions or events (e.g., runaway reaction).

[0094] Figure 9 A cross-section of a secondary battery cell with a dynamic insulator is shown. This dynamic insulator is deposited as a polymer particle slurry within a dynamic insulator volume 906, rather than within a non-dynamic insulator comprising a ceramic insulator (e.g., alumina (AO)). This slurry is used to form an insulator (also referred to as a "porous layer") on both X and Y planes of the battery cell. See, for example, [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 3 350. The polymer particle slurry has particles of similar (e.g., substantially the same) size and shape as those of ceramic (e.g., alumina = AO) slurries. The porous layer formed by the polymer particles (A) is also electrically insulating, (B) allows ionic conductivity (e.g., at least partially through the electrolyte immersed in the volume of the dynamic insulator), and (C) has thermal properties similar (e.g., substantially the same) as the polymer membrane. Once the membrane is shut off (e.g., by melting), the polymer particle slurry also shuts off (e.g., melts), effectively shutting off the (e.g., hypothetical) edge (e.g., residual) current path of the residual current. Shutdown can be associated with the cessation of current flow, for example, a cessation to a substantial, significant, and / or measurable degree. A significant cessation of current makes it impossible for the current to perform the requested / prescribed function achievable by the current. For example, the molten polymer particles melt and block residual ionic conductivity. In some embodiments, Figure 9 These properties of the dynamic insulator shown in the example allow the induction of the shutdown of the alternative current path (e.g., the residual current path), for example, by reducing the overall Joule heating of the battery cell during an external short circuit and improving safety.

[0095] Figure 9A cross-section of a battery is shown, comprising an anode 902 comprising silicon and carbon (e.g., a silicon and carbon composite) and coupled to a current collector 901. The anode contacts a separation space having a curved portion 910a, for example, including a separator. Another example of a separation space is 905. One face of the separation space faces the anode 902, and its opposite face faces and contacts a cathode 903 comprising a metal oxide (e.g., including lithium). A current collector 904 is coupled to the cathode 903. The separation space (e.g., 905) extends beyond the side surface (e.g., edge) of the anode and bends 910a toward the interior of the anode. The anode contacts the separation space on its face and contacts the separation space on its opposite face. The separation space extends beyond the face of the anode it contacts. The separation space bends 910b toward the interior of the anode and toward the separation space. A dynamic insulator 906 (e.g., comprising a polymer) contacts the side surface (e.g., edge) of the battery, such as the side surface of the anode, the side surface of the cathode, the side surface of the separation space, and the side surface of the separation space. Particulate material is shown in anode 902, cathode 903, and dynamic insulator 906. Figure 9 In the example shown, the separating space and the dividing space (e.g., essentially) are along the passage. Figure 9 The axes of the anodes shown (e.g., along the current collector of the anode arranged along its long axis) are mirror images of each other. The partition space and the separation space are separated from each other by a gap 910c. The partition space separates one battery cell from another. The partition space may comprise (e.g., substantially) the same material as the separation space. Figure 9 In the example shown, the battery comprises battery cells arranged in a repeating ABCS pattern, where A = anode, B = separation space, C = cathode, and S = partition space. When excessive load current and / or heating occurs in the battery cell, the load current is turned off 908. Without being bound by theory, this could be due to changes occurring in the separation space, such as molten membrane material clogging the membrane pores. When the load current 908 is turned off, the residual currents 907a and 907b are also turned off, for example, because the dynamic insulator and the membrane comprise (e.g., substantially) the same material sensitive to temperature increases. Changes in one or more properties of the dynamic insulator due to triggering events (e.g., high temperatures) Figure 9 It is schematically shown as box 909. However, any part of the dynamic insulator 906 that experiences a triggering event can undergo change.

[0096] Figure 10 An exemplary time-correlation plot is shown, illustrating the battery's voltage, current, and temperature. The graph with the solid line 1011 illustrates the battery, where individual cells are correlated with... Figure 13 The arrangement shown in 1300 is similar to the stacked arrangement. The graph with dashed line 1012 illustrates the battery, where individual cells are arranged in a manner similar to... Figure 13 1350 or Figure 3 The arrangement shown in 300 is similar to a wound-type arrangement of battery cells (e.g., a winding core). Used for generating... Figure 10 The cells in the graph do not have a dynamic insulator. Graph 1011 was obtained during the discharge of stacked cell units experiencing adverse effects. When the voltage 1001 and current 1003 decrease significantly (e.g., due to load current shutdown), the cell temperature 1005 increases significantly, for example, due to the flow of residual current. The significant temperature increase may be a result of runaway reactions. Without being bound by theory, the increase in runaway reactions in the stacked cell structure corresponding to 1011 can be attributed at least in part to the increased residual current compared to the residual current in the wound cell corresponding to 1012. In the wound cell, when the voltage 1002 and current 1004 decrease significantly (e.g., due to load current shutdown), the cell temperature remains substantially constant 1006, for example, possibly because the residual current in the wound cell is lower than that in the stacked cell.

[0097] In some embodiments, the dynamic insulator comprises a polymer. A polymer slurry can be used to form the dynamic insulator. Polymer particles (e.g., and slurries thereof) can include polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinylidene halogenate, or any combination thereof. The dynamic insulator can include any other similar polymer having similar insulating properties and / or melting temperature to the diaphragm, e.g., any applicable polymer disclosed herein. The triggering event for the dynamic insulator can be a threshold temperature, e.g., a melting temperature. The melting temperature of the material in the dynamic insulator can range from about 100 degrees Celsius (°C) to about 150°C. The slurry of the insulating material of the dynamic insulator can be deposited using (e.g., the same or substantially the same) processes used for depositing non-dynamic insulators (e.g., ceramic insulators without material triggered by a triggering event). The method can include masking processes and / or printing processes, e.g., stencil printing processes. The method can include any suitable processes disclosed herein. In the example, the polymer particle slurry is deposited via a masking process and / or printing process (e.g., stencil printing process). The polymer particle slurry can be deposited using (e.g., the same or substantially the same) processes used for depositing AO slurries. In the example, the polymer particle slurry is deposited via a mask process and / or a printing process (e.g., stencil printing).

[0098] In some embodiments, the dynamic insulator undergoes a transformation due to a triggering event. The triggering event may include (a) a temperature threshold, (b) a charge carrier concentration threshold, or (c) a charge carrier flow rate. The triggering event may occur before (a) a runaway reaction is about to occur, (b) the runaway reaction begins, or (c) the runaway reaction is about to cause an adverse effect (e.g., substantial damage). Before a runaway reaction is about to occur may include (A) at a current plateau with a sharp temperature increase (e.g., Figure 1 (101 and 111), or (B) at a sharp current drop coupled with a temperature plateau period (e.g., Figure 1 (102 and 112). The triggering event can be a material type within the dynamic insulator. The material type can include insulating material, electrolyte, or attractor. At least one material type of the dynamic insulator can be sensitive to the triggering event to cause substantial changes in the material type and / or material changes. The sensitivity of the material type can depend at least in part on (a) a temperature threshold, (b) a charge carrier concentration threshold, or (c) a charge carrier flow rate. The material type can undergo at least in part a change in one or more material properties based on a threshold of the triggering event type. The threshold (e.g., temperature) can be a threshold for a transition of the insulating material within the dynamic insulator. The transition can include any transition disclosed herein that affects the material. The transition can be a transition of at least one material property, such as a physical and / or chemical property. The transition can include a phase transition. The transition can occur under threshold conditions. In the example, the transition can occur at a temperature including melting temperature, bonding (e.g., melting or fusion) temperature, or glass transition temperature. The transition can include, for example, a transition of the electrolyte and / or other solvent within the dynamic insulator. The transition can include three-dimensional (3D) reconfiguration, crosslinking, gelation, or any combination thereof. A change in properties can alter (e.g., suppress) the propagation rate of charge carriers within a dynamic insulator, for example, within its volume.

[0099] In some embodiments, a dynamic insulator is configured to suppress residual current in the battery cell. In some embodiments, a dynamic insulator is configured to suppress current flowing within the dynamic insulator. In some embodiments, a dynamic insulator is configured to suppress (e.g., reduce) current flowing outside a separation space disposed between two opposing electrodes of the battery cell. The dynamic insulator may suppress (e.g., interrupt) current propagating (e.g., having a path) around the separator and / or around the separation space. An insulating material of the dynamic insulator may contact (e.g., coat) one or more surfaces of the battery cell. The insulating material may (e.g., substantially) be excluded from the interior of the battery cell, for example, the insulating material may be excluded from the separation space. The insulating material may be excluded from a majority of the separation space, for example, comprising at most about 10%, 5%, or 2% of the separation space. The separation space may be defined by a volume within the outer surface (e.g., envelope) of the separator. The insulating material may contact a battery cell assembly including an anode, cathode, separation space, or separator. The dynamic insulator may be configured to suppress runaway (e.g., exothermic) reactions, for example, at least in part by being configured to suppress runaway reactions upon the occurrence of a triggering event. The electrolyte of the dynamic separator can penetrate, occupy, and / or adhere to (e.g., wet) the battery cell assembly. The liquid in the dynamic insulator can penetrate between the electrode particles. The cathode can include a metal oxide. The anode can include an allotrope of carbon or silicon, for example, in particulate form. The allotrope of carbon can be conductive or may not be conductive. The allotrope of carbon can include amorphous carbon, carbon foam (e.g., nanofoam), or Z-ACA allotrope. The allotrope of carbon can include graphite, carbon fiber, hard carbon, graphene, carbon nanotubes, or fullerene. The anode can include silicon particles embedded in a carbon matrix or a mixture of silicon and carbon particles. The cathode material can be deposited on a metal sheet, for example, having a thickness of up to about 6 mm, 5 mm, 2.5 mm, 1 mm, or 0.5 mm. The sheet can be a foil, for example, having a thickness of up to about 0.4 mm, 0.2 mm, or 0.1 mm. The anode material can be deposited on a metal sheet. The metal sheets for the anode and cathode can be (e.g., substantially) the same material type. The metal sheets for the anode and cathode can also be different material types. The metal sheets can include elemental metals or metal alloys. The metal sheets can include aluminum, titanium, nickel, stainless steel, or copper. In the example, the cathode material is deposited on a copper sheet, and the anode material is deposited on an aluminum sheet.

[0100] In some embodiments, the dynamic insulator may comprise particulate material. The particulate material may be configured to connect upon the occurrence of a triggering event (e.g., a trigger threshold such as a temperature threshold). The particulate material may be configured to connect prior to (a) a runaway reaction, (b) the onset of a runaway reaction, or (c) before the runaway reaction causes adverse effects such as substantial damage. The connection of the particulate material may include melting, fusion, sintering, or other bonding. In some embodiments, the connection of the particulate material is configured to suppress the flow of charge carriers through the dynamic insulator, for example, from one electrode to its counter electrode.

[0101] In some embodiments, the battery is exposed to a triggering event. Adverse effects may occur when the battery experiences a triggering event (e.g., for a sufficiently long time) or when conditions are more adverse than the triggering event. Adverse effects may include material damage. A triggering event may include a temperature rise within a dynamic insulator. A temperature rise in the dynamic insulator may be due to a temperature rise in the battery and / or battery cells, for example, during their use (e.g., operation), transportation, storage, maintenance, or pre-charging (e.g., buffering). Pre-charging may include buffering charge carriers (e.g., metal ions) into the anode, for example, to increase the performance of the battery cell. Material damage may prevent the battery and / or the affected battery cell from operating under normal conditions, for example, as it would under normal conditions. Normal conditions may be the specifications of the battery, the battery cell, and / or the performance it requires. Material damage may be directed at the battery cell, at the battery, at an object in the external environment, any combination thereof, any other material damage disclosed herein, or any other adverse effect disclosed herein. Objects may include living or inanimate objects, for example, people in the external environment. Material damage is caused at least in part by a fire in the battery cell and / or the battery.

[0102] In some embodiments, the battery includes a dynamic insulator. The material of the dynamic insulator may begin to undergo a transition at a trigger event. The transition may cause charge carrier suppression (e.g., cessation) of their propagation rate through the separator gaps and / or through the separator. The transition may include melting, fusion, sintering, otherwise bonding, or any other transition disclosed herein. The location and / or material properties of the dynamic insulator within the battery may allow the battery cell to be heated to a maximum temperature that suppresses adverse effects that would occur in the absence of the dynamic insulator. The insulating material in the dynamic insulator may replace or be added to ceramics, such as alumina. The dynamic insulator may be disposed on the exterior of the battery cell (e.g., an electrode-separator-cathode structure) and inside the battery casing. The insulating material may include material types. The insulator may include insulating materials of the type of separator separation space. The insulating material of the dynamic insulator may consist of at least one material type different from the material included in separation spaces such as the separator. The insulating material may include polymers or resins. Polymers may include polyolefins. Polymers may include polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), or polyvinylidene halogenate. Halogens may include fluorides, chlorides, or bromides. Polyvinylidene halogen may include one or more halogen types. Insulating materials may include flame retardants. Insulating materials may include materials having a small number of polar groups or no polar groups. Polar groups may include hydroxyl, acid, ketone, aldehyde, thiol, or phosphine, such as primary phosphine. The small number is relative to the number of (a) repeating units and / or the number of carbon atoms in (b) the resin. The small number is relative to the number of (a) repeating units and / or the number of atoms in the polymer backbone. The small number, relative to the number of repeating units in (a), the number of atoms in the polymer backbone, or the number of carbon atoms in (c) the resin, may be at most about 45%, 40%, 30%, 20%, 10%, or 5%. Insulating materials may include organic molecules or silicon-based molecules. In one example, the insulating material includes organic molecules. The battery may undergo one or more heat treatments during its manufacture. The maximum temperature of the heat treatment may be up to about 50 degrees Celsius (°C), 60°C, 70°C, or 75°C. The diaphragm may have a transition point, for example, at least about 120°C, 130°C, 140°C, 150°C, or higher. The transition point may be susceptible to temperature changes. The transition point may include a melting or glass transition. The dynamic insulator may include, for example, a material that undergoes a transition under a triggering event involving a temperature. The triggering event may include a point or a range. The transition may have a threshold temperature, for example, a numerical value or a range. The threshold temperature of the dynamic insulator and / or insulating material may be at least about 70°C, 75°C, 80°C, 90°C, 100°C, 110°C, 120°C, 130°C, 140°C, 150°C, or higher.The threshold temperature of the dynamic insulator and / or insulating material can be at most about 200°C, 180°C, 150°C, 140°C, 130°C, 120°C, or lower. The threshold temperature of the dynamic insulator and / or insulating material can be between any of the aforementioned values, for example, from about 70°C to about 200°C, from about 80°C to about 130°C, from about 70°C to about 90°C, from about 90°C to about 150°C, and from about 100°C to about 180°C. The lowest temperature at which the separator undergoes a transformation triggered by a temperature-inclusive event can be at least the threshold temperature at which the diaphragm undergoes a transformation (e.g., melting) or higher. The threshold temperature can be a plateau temperature prior to the initiation of a runaway reaction. The threshold temperature can be higher than this plateau temperature. The threshold temperature can be prior to or at the initiation of a runaway reaction, for example, as described herein. Figure 1The threshold temperature is defined as "just before it happens." It can be (e.g., just before) the adverse effects occur. In some embodiments, the dynamic insulator comprises at least one type of material that is temperature-sensitive. Sensitivity can include any threshold disclosed herein. The thermal sensitivity of the dynamic insulator can allow the induction (e.g., alternative) shutdown of residual current paths. The thermal sensitivity of the dynamic insulator can reduce overall heating of the cell during an ESC event. The thermal sensitivity of the dynamic insulator can cause residual current to shut off before, after, or during (e.g., substantially) the load current is turned off. The dynamic insulator can include at least one type of material configured to suppress (e.g., slow down) the diffusion of charge carriers through the dynamic insulator according to a triggering event. In an example, the triggering event is a threshold temperature, for example, suppressing the diffusion of charge carriers at or above a temperature threshold. Upon reaching or exceeding the triggering event threshold, the dynamic insulator can form at least a partial (e.g., complete) barrier layer to prevent charge carriers from being transported from one electrode to its opposite electrode. At least one material type of the dynamic insulator can be configured to reduce (e.g., prevent) the occurrence of one or more adverse effects of a battery in which it is disposed, or to reduce the degree of one or more adverse effects. At least one material type of the dynamic insulator can be configured to suppress (e.g., prevent or reduce) the occurrence of a runaway reaction, or to suppress the degree of a runaway reaction. In an example, at least one material type of the dynamic insulator is configured to suppress the degree of heat generated in the battery to (e.g., substantially) equal to the heat dissipated from the battery. In an example, at least one material type of the dynamic insulator is configured such that, upon heating, the battery will reach a maximum temperature, e.g., a steady-state temperature or an equilibrium temperature. The maximum temperature can be a balance between heat dissipation from the battery and heat formation in the battery. The maximum temperature can be below the level that causes one or more adverse effects, e.g., substantial adverse effects and / or significant adverse effects, e.g., any of those disclosed herein. The maximum temperature can make the heat generated by the battery controllable, e.g., manageable. Controllability can be in an environmental setting, with reasonable effort, and / or under reasonable operating conditions, e.g., as permitted in a jurisdiction. The maximum temperature allows the rate of heat generation in the battery to be controlled, e.g., managed. A dynamic insulator can suppress heat generation in at least one component of the battery, such as a single cell. Suppressing heat generation can include preventing, slowing, stopping, or halting the heat generation. A dynamic insulator can be configured to suppress the propagation of charge carriers through the dynamic insulator, e.g., from one electrode in a single cell to its opposite electrode. A dynamic insulator can be configured to undergo changes in one or more material properties of the material itself. These changes can be triggered by events including: an increase in temperature, an increase in the rate of charge carrier increase through the dynamic insulator, or an increase in the concentration of charge carriers through the dynamic insulator.A battery cell covered by an insulator may be disposed within a housing. A battery cell covered by an insulator may be disposed within a bag disposed within a housing. The housing may include struts (e.g., restraining members) that can suppress the expansion of the battery cell in at least one Cartesian direction, for example, during use of the battery cell. The housing may include restraining members that suppress the expansion of the battery cell (e.g., battery pack) in at least one Cartesian direction. Expansion in at least one Cartesian direction may be suppressed by the struts in more than at least one other direction. Compared to other directions, for example, compared to one or more directions perpendicular to the stacking direction (e.g., Z and Y directions), the struts may suppress the expansion of the battery pack in the stacking direction (e.g., X direction) of the battery cells in the pack more. Compared to another direction perpendicular to the stacking direction (e.g., Y), the struts may suppress the expansion of the battery cell in one direction perpendicular to the stacking direction (e.g., Z). The struts may be disposed within or outside the bag. The bag and / or housing may be configured to retain electrolyte inside the bag. The battery may or may not include a bag. The bag and / or casing may be configured to insulate the battery cell from at least one reactant in the surrounding environment. The reactant may be configured to cause corrosion, short circuits, runaway reactions, and / or other chemical reactions. Other chemical reactions may produce harmful gases (e.g., hydrogen). The reaction may be a reaction of metals or metal ions within the battery cell. Sometimes, the temperature that triggers the event is measured externally to the battery cell, such as at the battery bag and / or casing. Sometimes, the temperature that triggers the event is measured internally to the battery cell. The temperature may be measured using a thermocouple. The temperature inside the battery cell may be up to approximately 20°C, 30°C, 40°C, or 50°C higher than the temperature outside the battery cell (e.g., at the battery bag or casing).

[0103] In some embodiments, a triggering event can cause a transition in the attractor of the dynamic insulator. The attractor can be configured to bind at least one type of charge carrier, for example, reversibly or (e.g., substantially) irreversibly. Irreversible binding can occur during the predetermined lifetime of the cell and / or battery. The charge carrier can have a strong affinity for the binding site of the attractor. The charge carrier can have a high binding constant for the binding site of the attractor. The attractor can include a polar group, for example, as disclosed herein. The polar group can include ions, lone pairs of electrons, or volatile atoms. The polar group can include cations. The polar group can have volatile atoms (e.g., hydrogen) for example, to participate in hydrogen-type bonding. The attractor can include a chelating group. The attractor can have a higher affinity for charge carriers. The affinity can depend at least in part on (a) a temperature threshold, (b) a charge carrier concentration threshold, or (c) the charge carrier flow rate. For example, the attractor can be positively charged at or above the threshold temperature. For example, the binding groups of the attractor can be more exposed to charge carriers at or above the threshold temperature.

[0104] In some embodiments, a dynamic insulator is added to the battery cell, for example, during battery manufacturing. The dynamic insulator may be added as a precursor. The precursor may comprise a homogeneous mixture or slurry of insulating materials. The precursor may be applied to the surface of the battery cell, for example, to one or more of its sides, such as... Figure 3 The ZX opposite sides of the battery shown in 330 or 350. Applications may include printing, stencil printing, or heat transfer. Applications may include deposition. Printing may include stencil printing, direct printing, or sublimation printing. Direct printing may include additive manufacturing. Deposition may be performed after forming the anode-separator-cathode structure. Application may be performed after the cell units are condensed so that they will fit into the battery case. Application may be performed after folding, winding, or otherwise packaging the cell units. The application of dynamic insulators may be performed before placing the cell units into the battery case, straps (e.g., restraining members), or any combination thereof. Straps may suppress (e.g., hinder, limit, or prevent) the expansion of the battery, for example, during its operation. Straps may be metallic. Straps may include stainless steel, Inconel, Monel, Hastelloy, aluminum alloy (e.g., 6061), or high-strength low-alloy steel (HSLA). The alloy may have a weight, density, and / or strength similar to that of stainless steel (e.g., the 300 series, including 301, 304, or 316). The confinement member comprises a strap of material compatible with the electrolyte. The battery manufacturing process may be guided by a control system. At least a portion of the battery manufacturing process may be carried out in an environment different from the ambient atmosphere, which differs from the surrounding environment in one or more properties. One or more properties may be a reduced amount of reactants, for example, as disclosed herein. In examples, at least a portion of the battery manufacturing process is carried out in a dry air, nitrogen, or argon atmosphere. Dry air may include clean dry air (CDA). The manufacturing process may be carried out at ambient pressure and / or temperature.

[0105] In some embodiments, the systems, devices, and / or apparatuses disclosed herein include control systems. A control system may include one or more controllers. A control system may include a system of one or more devices, apparatuses, and / or mechanisms disclosed herein (e.g., systems, devices, or apparatuses), or be operatively coupled to said systems, including any components of the devices, apparatuses, and / or systems. A controller may include a hierarchical control system, or be operatively coupled to a hierarchical control system. A hierarchical control system may include at least three, four, or five control levels. In some embodiments, at least two operations are performed or directed by the same controller. In some embodiments, at least two operations are performed or directed by different controllers. A control system may include a control system. A control system may include a laser control system. A controller may include a feedback control scheme. A feedback control scheme may include an open-loop control scheme. A feedback loop control scheme may include a closed-loop feedback control scheme. A feedback control scheme may include hardware compensation. A feedback control scheme may include software compensation. A control system may include a metrology system, or be operatively coupled to a metrology system and configured to receive measurement data from the metrology system. A control system may be configured to generate control signals in response to measurement data acquired by the metrology system.

[0106] In some embodiments, the systems, apparatuses, devices, and / or components thereof disclosed herein include one or more controllers. One or more controllers may include one or more central processing units (CPUs), input / output (I / O), and / or communication modules. A CPU may include electronic circuitry that executes computer program instructions by performing arithmetic, logic, control, and I / O operations specified by the instructions. A controller may include suitable software (e.g., an operating system). A control system may optionally include feedback control loops and / or feedforward control loops. A controller may be shared among one or more systems or apparatuses. Each apparatus or system may have its own controller. Two or more systems and / or components thereof may share a controller. Two or more apparatuses and / or components thereof may share a controller. A controller may monitor and / or direct changes in the operating conditions (e.g., physical) of the apparatuses, software, and / or methods described herein. A controller may be manual or non-manual. A controller may be automatic. A controller may operate on request. A controller may be programmable. A controller may be programmable. A controller may include a processing unit (e.g., a CPU or GPU). A controller may receive input (e.g., from a sensor). A controller may deliver output. A controller may include multiple controllers. The controller can receive multiple inputs. The controller can generate multiple outputs. The control system may include a single-input single-output (SISO) controller or a multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) controller. The controller can interpret the received input signals. The controller can acquire data from one or more sensors. Acquisition may include receiving or extracting. Data may include measurement, estimation, determination, generation, or any combination thereof. The controller may include feedback control. The controller may include feedforward control. Control may include switching control, proportional control, proportional-integral (PI) control, or proportional-integral-derivative (PID) control. Control may include open-loop control or closed-loop control. The controller may include closed-loop control. The controller may include open-loop control. The controller may include a user interface. The user interface may include a keyboard, keypad, mouse, touchscreen, microphone, voice recognition component, camera, imaging system, or any combination thereof. Outputs may include a display (e.g., a screen), speaker, or printer.

[0107] Figure 11A schematic example of process 1120 controlled using a control system in a feedback loop control scheme (e.g., in a closed-loop control scheme) is shown. The control system receives a setpoint 1105 to a comparator 1106, which generates an error signal that is fed 1145 to a controller 1140. In other control systems, the comparator may be part of the controller. The controller 1140 generates a control signal that is fed to a control element 1130. The control element may include mechanisms for its control functions to control process 1120. The control element 1130 provides input to process 1120. The mechanisms may cause physical and / or chemical changes that are input to process 1120. Physical changes may include mechanical, magnetic, electromagnetic, piezoelectric, electrical, pressure, or temperature changes. Chemical changes may include changes in chemical gradients or changes in chemical entities. Process 1120 may be any process disclosed herein, such as any method, for example, a manufacturing method. Process 1120 generates an output detected by measuring element 1110, for example, using its sensor. The output provided by process 1120 may be a process response to an input provided by control element 1130. Measuring element 1110 generates a variable amplitude signal, which is fed back to comparator 1106 and compared again with a setpoint. Measuring element 1110 optionally also generates a controlled variable 1181. Control element 1130 optionally also receives a manipulated variable 1182, for example, from an external source, such as a processor and / or communication system. The sensor may be used by measuring element 1110 to measure process parameters, such as 1120. Sensor measurements may be the determination of the amplitude of parameters of materials, such as those disclosed herein. In the example, the measured values ​​are consistent and repeatable. The sensor can convert physical parameters (e.g., repeatedly and reliably) into a form usable by the control system, for example, into electrical signals, such as digital electrical signals. A comparator can perform error detection by, for example, determining the difference between the amplitude of the measured variable and a set reference point (e.g., setpoint 1105), which is the error signal. The error signal can be amplified and / or conditioned, for example, filtered. Signal amplification and / or conditioning can be performed by an external component of the controller (e.g., 1140) or within the controller. The reference point (e.g., the setpoint) can be stored in the controller's memory or in memory operatively coupled to the controller. The controller can be a processor-based (e.g., micro) system that determines the next action to be taken in a process. The process can be sequential. The controller can evaluate the error signal in a continuous process control system, for example, to determine what action to take. The controller (e.g., 1140) can condition the signal or be operatively coupled to a unit that conditions the signal. Signal conditioning can include noise filtering.Signal conditioning may include correcting for nonlinearities in the sensor. The controller may include parameters of the process input control elements. The controller may condition error signals to guide control elements, such as 1130. The controller may monitor input signals. Input signals may be correlated. The controller may be configured to coordinately guide at least two control elements. The controller may be configured to simultaneously guide at least two control elements. The controller may be configured to sequentially control at least two control elements. A control element (e.g., 1130) may be a device that controls the feed to the process or any other property of the process that includes physical or chemical properties. Physical properties may include mechanical, magnetic, piezoelectric, electromagnetic, electrical, pressure, or temperature properties. Chemical properties may include chemical gradients or chemical entities. The control element may be a flow control element. The control element may be a temperature control element. The control element may have switching (e.g., on / off) characteristics. The control element may provide linear or nonlinear control. The control element may be used to regulate inputs to the process, for example, bringing an output variable to a setpoint. Measuring elements (e.g., 1110) may include sensors for measuring the physical properties of variables, transducers for converting sensor signals into electrical signals, and / or transmitters for amplifying electrical signals. Signal amplification may be achieved with minimal loss (e.g., no measurement loss). Control elements may include actuators that convert electrical signals from a controller into signals for operating and / or controlling physical devices (e.g., valves). Controllers may include or be operatively coupled to memory. Control systems may include summing circuitry, for example, for comparing a setpoint with a sensed signal so that it can generate an error signal. The summing circuitry may be part of a comparator. The controller may use the error signal to generate a correction signal to control the control elements. In the example, the controller controls the valve via an actuator and an input variable. Sensors for measuring elements may include optical sensors, temperature sensors, pressure sensors, chemical sensors, proximity sensors, viscosity sensors, or any other sensors disclosed herein. Chemical sensors may sense materials containing oxygen, water, or any other reactants disclosed herein. Sensors may be configured to sense one or more properties of the methods disclosed herein (e.g., manufacturing methods).

[0108] Control can include regulation, modulation, adjustment, maintenance, alteration, modification, control, management, restriction, constraint, guidance, instruction, supervision, management, maintenance, continuation, inhibition, harmonization, or change.

[0109] In some embodiments, the devices, systems, and / or apparatuses disclosed herein include a processor. A processor may be a processing unit. A controller may include a processing unit. A processing unit may be a central processing unit (CPU). A controller or control mechanism (e.g., including a computer system) may be programmed to implement the methods of this disclosure. A processor may be programmed to implement the methods of this disclosure. A controller may control at least one component of the systems and / or apparatuses disclosed herein. Figure 12An exemplary schematic diagram of a computer system 1200 is shown, which is programmed or otherwise configured to facilitate the performance of any of the methods provided herein. The computer system 1200 can control (e.g., direct, monitor, and / or regulate) various features of the methods, apparatuses, devices, and / or systems of this disclosure. The computer system 1200 may be part of, or communicate with, the devices, systems, and / or devices disclosed herein. The computer may be coupled to one or more of the mechanisms and / or any parts thereof disclosed herein. The computer system 1200 may include a processing unit 1206 (also referred to herein as a “processor,” “computer,” and “computer processor”). The computer system may include memory or memory location 1202 (e.g., random access memory, read-only memory, flash memory), electronic storage unit 1204 (e.g., hard disk), communication interface 1203 for communicating with one or more other systems (e.g., network adapter), and peripheral devices 1205, such as cache, other memory, data storage, and / or electronic display adapters. Memory 1202, data storage unit 1204, interface 1203, and peripheral device 1205 communicate with processing unit 1206 via a communication bus (solid line), such as a motherboard. The storage unit may include a data storage unit (or data repository) for storing data. The computer system may be operatively coupled to a computer network (“network”) 1201, for example, via a communication interface. The network may be the Internet, the Internet and / or an extranet, or an intranet and / or extranet communicating with the Internet. In some cases, the network is a telecommunications network and / or a data network. The network may include one or more computer servers that can enable distributed computing, such as cloud computing. In some cases, the network may enable a peer-to-peer network via the computer system, where devices coupled to the computer system can act as clients or servers. The processing unit can execute machine-readable sequences of instructions, which may be embodied in a program or software. The instructions may be stored in a storage location, such as memory 1202. The instructions may be directed to the processing unit, which may then be programmed or otherwise configured to implement the methods of this disclosure. Examples of operations performed by the processing unit may include instruction fetching, decoding, execution, and write-back. The processing unit can interpret and / or execute instructions. A processor may include a microprocessor, data processor, central processing unit (CPU), graphics processing unit (GPU), system-on-a-chip (SoC), coprocessor, network processor, application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), application-specific instruction set processor (ASIP), controller, programmable logic device (PLD), chipset, field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or any combination thereof. The processing unit may be part of a circuit, such as an integrated circuit. One or more other components of the system (e.g., 1200) may be included in the circuit.

[0110] In some embodiments, the storage unit (e.g., 1204) stores files, such as drivers, libraries, and saved programs. The storage unit may store user data (e.g., user preferences and user programs). In some cases, the computer system may include one or more additional data storage units located outside the computer system, such as on a remote server communicating with the computer system via an intranet or the Internet. The processor may be configured to process control protocols, such as using control protocols to communicate with one or more components of the entities disclosed herein (e.g., devices, apparatuses, and / or systems). The control protocol may be one or more of the Internet Protocol suite, such as Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) or Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol (TCP / IP). The control protocol may be one or more serial communication protocols. The control protocol may be one or more of Controller Area Network (CLAN) or another message-based protocol, such as for communicating with microcontrollers and devices. The control protocol may interface with one or more serial bus interfaces to communicate with the entities disclosed herein, such as communicating with any components of the entities disclosed herein. The control protocol may be any control protocol disclosed herein.

[0111] In some embodiments, the systems, devices, and / or apparatuses disclosed herein include communication via a network. A computer system can communicate with one or more remote computer systems via a network. For example, a computer system can communicate with a user's (e.g., an operator's) remote computer system. Examples of remote computer systems include personal computers (e.g., portable PCs), tablet PCs (e.g., Apple® iPad, Samsung® Galaxy Tab), telephones, smartphones (e.g., Apple® iPhone, Android devices, Blackberry®), or personal digital assistants. A user (e.g., a client) can access the computer system via a network.

[0112] In some embodiments, a computer system utilizes program instructions to perform or direct operations. The program instructions may be recorded in machine-executable code. The methods described herein can be implemented using machine-executable code stored on an electronic storage location within the computer system (e.g., memory 1202 or electronic (e.g., data) storage unit 1204). The machine-executable or machine-readable code may be provided in software form. When in use, a processor (e.g., 1206) can execute the code. In some cases, the code can be retrieved from a storage unit and stored in memory for quick processor access. In some cases, an electronic storage unit may be excluded, and the machine-executable instructions are stored in memory. The code may be pre-compiled and configured for use on a machine with a processor adapted to execute the code, or it may be compiled at runtime. The code may be provided in a programming language, which may be selected to enable the code to be executed in a pre-compiled or just-in-time (JIT) compiled manner.

[0113] In some embodiments, a computer system utilizes a machine-readable medium to perform or direct operations. Program instructions may be recorded in machine-executable code. Machine-readable media (e.g., computer-executable code) can take many forms, including but not limited to tangible storage media, carrier media, or physical transmission media. Non-volatile storage media include, for example, optical or magnetic disks, any processor-dependent storage device such as any computer that can be used to implement a database. Volatile storage media may include dynamic memory, such as the main memory of such a computer platform. Tangible transmission media may include coaxial cables, wires (e.g., copper wires), and / or optical fibers, including wires that form a bus in a computer system. Carrier transmission media may take the form of electrical or electromagnetic signals, or sound or light waves, such as those generated during radio frequency (RF) and infrared (IR) data communications. Therefore, common forms of computer-readable media include, for example: floppy disks, flexible disks, hard disks, magnetic tapes, any other magnetic media, CD-ROMs, DVDs or DVD-ROMs, any other optical media, punched cards, paper tapes, any other physical storage media with a perforated pattern, RAM, ROM, PROM and EPROM, FLASH-EPROM, any other memory chips or cartridges, carrier waves for transmitting data or instructions, cables or links for transmitting such carrier waves, any other media from which a computer can read program code and / or data, or any combination thereof. Memory and / or data storage can include external and / or removable storage devices, such as Universal Serial Bus (USB) memory sticks and / or hard disks. Many of these forms of computer-readable media can be involved in transmitting one or more sequences of instructions to a processor for execution.

[0114] In some embodiments, the devices, systems, and / or apparatuses disclosed herein include, or are operatively coupled to, communication technologies, such as optical fibers other than those disclosed herein. Communication may include wired or wireless communication. For example, the system, apparatus, and / or components thereof may include Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Global Positioning System (GPS), or radio frequency (RF) technologies. RF technologies may include ultra-wideband (UWB) technologies. The system, apparatus, and / or components thereof may include communication ports. Communication ports may be serial or parallel ports. Communication ports may be Universal Serial Bus ports (i.e., USB). The system, apparatus, and / or components thereof may include USB ports. USB may be micro-USB or mini-USB. Surface identification mechanisms may include plugs and / or receptacles, such as electrical plugs / receptacles, AC power plugs / receptacles, and DC power plugs / receptacles. The system, apparatus, and / or components thereof may include power adapters (e.g., AC power adapters and / or DC power adapters). The system, apparatus, and / or components thereof may include power connectors. Power connectors may be electrical connectors. Power connectors may include magnetic power connectors. Power connectors may be dock connectors. Connectors may be data and power connectors. Connectors may include pins. The connector may include at least about 10, 15, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 40, 42, 45, 50, 55, 80 or 100 pins.

[0115] Figure 13 Examples of cross-sections of various batteries relative to a Cartesian coordinate system are shown. Example 1300 shows battery cells (e.g., cell 1302) stacked along a direction perpendicular to the z-axis, for example, the height of a battery with a housing 1301. Example 1350 shows battery cell 1352 wound around itself about an axis perpendicular to the drawing page, for example, configured as a wound battery cell (e.g., a core). Battery cell 1352 is positioned (e.g., located) within battery housing 1351.

[0116] Example 1: Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries were tested in an isolated environment including clean, dry air (CDA) at an ambient temperature of approximately 23°C, and five samples were tested at 55°C. The batteries exhibited characteristics similar to... Figure 3 The 300 and 350 have similar configurations. One of the batteries (leading to...) Figure 10 The actions of 1011 include those related to Figure 13 1300 or Figure 3 The 350 cells in the diagram are similar to a stacked battery structure. Each cell comprises (a) a non-dynamic insulator containing aluminum oxide without a separator-type polymer, and (b) an anode, which is a silicon-based anode (Si-C). The silicon-based anode contains carbon. The cell is shown in [illustration]. Figure 8In the middle. Another battery (exhibiting...) Figure 10 The behavior shown in 1012 includes the behavior shown in the image. Figure 13 The 1350 is a similar wound battery (e.g., a wound-core battery) with a graphite anode. The temperature error range is ±5°C. After temperature equilibrium is reached, testing begins between 1 and 4 hours (inclusive). The batteries are positioned opposite each other to prevent accidental short circuits. Thermocouples contact the battery casing. The battery is connected to wires, and current is circulated within the battery. Figure 10 As shown, voltage, current, and temperature are recorded. The battery undergoes pre-treatment charge-discharge cycles at the highest and lowest temperatures, and the circuit is verified to be open-circuit with a resistance of 80 ± 20 milliohms. The battery cell is then connected to an open-circuit circuit for short-circuit testing. After temperature stabilization, measurement conditions for each temperature and voltage are established, with data acquisition starting at 0.12-second intervals. The circuit is closed to establish a short circuit. Temperature is monitored to detect any peaks, such as evidence of thermal runaway. After a specified time and / or when a temperature threshold is reached, the circuit is disconnected to stop the short circuit, and the battery cell is allowed to reach ambient temperature (e.g., within ±10°C of ambient temperature). Not wishing to be bound by theory, corresponding to… Figure 10 The curve of the stacked battery cell type of Zhong1011 and the corresponding Figure 10 The observed differences between the curves of the wound cell type in the 1012 may be due to (a) the surface area of ​​the side (e.g., edge) of the cell in the stacked cell is significantly larger than that of the side (e.g., edge) of the wound cell, (b) the number of cells in the stacked cell is significantly larger than that in the wound cell, (c) the surface area of ​​the cathode-anode junction on the side (e.g., edge) of the stacked cell is significantly larger than that of the cathode-anode junction in the wound cell, or (d) any combination thereof.

[0117] The methods discussed herein are intended to be illustrative, not restrictive. Those skilled in the art will understand that the operations (e.g., steps) of the methods discussed herein can be omitted, modified, combined, and / or rearranged, and any additional operations (e.g., steps) can be performed without departing from the scope of the invention. More generally, the above disclosure is intended to be illustrative (e.g., including examples) rather than restrictive. Furthermore, it should be noted that the features and limitations described in any embodiment can be applied to any other embodiment herein, and flowcharts or examples associated with one embodiment can be combined with any other embodiment in a suitable manner, performed in a different order, or performed in parallel. Moreover, the systems and methods described herein can be performed in real time. It should also be noted that the above systems and / or methods can be applied to other systems and / or methods, or used according to other systems and / or methods.

[0118] While preferred embodiments of the invention have been shown and described herein, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that such embodiments are provided by way of example only. This disclosure is not intended to be limited to the specific examples provided herein. Although this disclosure has been described with reference to the foregoing description, the description and illustration of embodiments herein are not intended to be construed as limiting. Numerous variations, modifications, and substitutions can be made by those skilled in the art without departing from this disclosure. Furthermore, it should be understood that all aspects of this disclosure are not limited to the specific descriptions, configurations, or relative proportions set forth herein, which depend on various conditions and variables. It should be understood that various alternatives to the embodiments described herein can be employed to practice this disclosure. Therefore, this disclosure is contemplated to also cover any such alternatives, modifications, variations, or equivalents. The following claims are intended to define the scope of this disclosure and are intended to cover methods and structures falling within the scope of these claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An energy manipulation device, the device comprising: A reference electrode having a reference surface, the reference surface including a first reference surface opposite to a second reference surface and a first reference side opposite to a second reference side; The counter electrode is opposite to the reference electrode, and the counter electrode has a counter surface, which includes a first counter surface that faces the second counter surface and a first counter side that faces the second counter side. A separation space, the separation space including a diaphragm disposed between the reference electrode and the counter electrode, the separation space having a separation surface, the separation surface including a first separation surface facing a second separation surface and a first separation side facing a second separation side, the first separation surface contacting the second reference surface, the second separation surface contacting the first opposing surface; as well as At least one insulator, the at least one insulator occupying an insulating volume, the at least one insulator contacting (a) the first reference side, the first opposite side and the first separation side, (b) the second reference side, the second opposite side and the second separation side, or (c) a combination of (a) and (b), the at least one insulator comprising at least one material type susceptible to a triggering event indicating at least one adverse effect, the at least one material type being configured to change one or more properties of the at least one material type at least partially based on the occurrence of the triggering event, the at least one insulator being at least partially dynamic relative to the triggering event, the device being configured for the flow of current between the reference electrode and the opposite electrode, the at least one adverse effect being (i) to the device, (ii) to the external environment of the device, or (iii) a combination of (i) and (ii).

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The triggering event involves an uncontrollable reaction that leads to the at least one adverse effect.

3. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The triggering event occurs at least partially in the at least one insulator, and the triggering event includes a property threshold related to temperature, current flow, or ion concentration.

4. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The triggering events include melting point or glass transition.

5. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, When the triggering event occurs, the at least one material type is configured to change such that the at least one adverse effect is suppressed, becomes controllable, or a combination thereof, wherein the suppression includes effective stopping or detectable stopping.

6. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, When the triggering event occurs, the at least one material type is configured to change from a harder material to a softer material; and optionally, the softer material includes a flowing material.

7. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, When the triggering event occurs, the at least one material type is configured to transform, the transformation including joining; and optionally, the joining includes melting, fusion, sintering or other bonding.

8. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, When the triggering event occurs, the at least one material type is configured to change from a softer material to a harder material; and optionally, wherein (i) the softer material comprises a flowable material, (ii) the harder material comprises a gel, or (iii) a combination of (i) and (ii).

9. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, When the triggering event occurs, the at least one material type is configured to change from a liquid to a gel.

10. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The at least one material type is at least one first material type; wherein the separation space contains at least one second material type, the second material type being configured to suppress current flow through the separation space at least in part due to the triggering event occurring in the separation space; and wherein the first material type and / or the second material type is susceptible to the triggering event; and optionally, wherein (I) the first material type is the second material type, (II) the first material type differs from the second material type in at least one physical property, chemical property, or physical and chemical property, (III) the first material type contains particulate material, (IV) the second material type contains sheet or matrix, and the volume occupied by the second material type is the volume of the separation space, or any combination of (I) to (IV), as applicable.

11. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, Upon occurrence of the triggering event, (i) a first material type, (ii) a second material type, or (iii) both the first and second material types are configured to transition to: (A) such that at least one adverse effect is suppressed, including mitigation, effective cessation, or detectable cessation; (B) such that the heat generated is equal to or substantially equal to the heat generated in the device; (C) such that ion propagation through it is suppressed, including mitigation, effective cessation, or detectable cessation; (D) such that currents flowing through it are suppressed, including mitigation, effective cessation, or detectable cessation; (E) such that currents flowing through it are suppressed, including mitigation, effective cessation, or detectable cessation; (F) such that a transition from a harder material to a softer material is made; (G) such that a connection is made; (H) such that a transition from a softer material to a harder material is made; (I) such that a transition from a liquid to a gel is made upon occurrence of the triggering event; or (J) such that any combination of (A) to (I) is made, as applicable.

12. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The at least one insulator is an insulator that contacts (a) the first reference side, the first opposite side and the first separation side and (b) the second reference side, the second opposite side and the second separation side.

13. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The at least one insulator includes a first insulator and a second insulator, the first insulator contacting (i) the first reference side, (ii) the first opposite side and (iii) the first separation side, and the second insulator contacting (a) the second reference side, (b) the second opposite side and (c) the second separation side.

14. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, (I) The reference electrode is elongated and has a long axis, which has a first end located on the first reference side and a second end located on the second reference side opposite to the first end, the long axis being the length of the reference electrode. The reference electrode also has a short axis, which has a third end located on the first reference surface and a fourth end located on the second reference surface opposite to the third end, the short axis being the width of the reference electrode. The aspect ratio of the width to the length is at least about 1:

8. (II) The counter electrode is elongated and has a long axis, which has a first end located on the first opposite side and a second end located on the second opposite side opposite to the first end, the long axis being the length of the counter electrode. The counter electrode also has a short axis, which has a third end located on the first opposite surface and a fourth end located on the second opposite surface opposite to the third end, the short axis being the width of the counter electrode, wherein the aspect ratio of the width to the length is at least about 1:

8. (III) The separation space is elongated, having a long axis with a first end located on the first opposite side and a second end located on the second opposite side, the long axis being the length of the separation space. The separation space also has a short axis with a third end located on the first opposite surface and a fourth end located on the second opposite surface, the short axis being the width of the separation space. The aspect ratio of the width to the length is at least approximately 1:8; or (IV) Any combination of (I) to (III) above.

15. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The reference electrode comprises one or more types of metal oxides; and the counter electrode comprises an allotrope of carbon or silicon; and optionally, the allotrope of carbon comprises graphite, carbon fiber, graphene, carbon nanotubes, amorphous carbon, or fullerene.

16. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The device is configured such that, when the device is used, the volume of the electrode and / or the volume of the device expands by up to about 35%, the electrode including the reference electrode, the counter electrode, and the separation space.

17. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The battery cell includes the reference electrode, the counter electrode, and the separation space. The battery cell has a stacking axis, and the faces are stacked along the stacking axis. The faces include the first reference face, the first counter face, and the first separation face. The battery cell also includes battery side faces, which include either a first battery side face or a second battery side face, wherein each of the battery side faces includes a misalignment. The first battery side face includes (i) the first reference side, (ii) the first counter face, and (iii) the first separation side. The second battery side face includes (a) the second reference side, (b) the second counter face, and (c) the second separation side.

18. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, At least one component of the device comprises a composite material, the at least one component comprising the reference electrode, the counter electrode, the separation space, or the at least one insulator; and optionally, wherein the at least one component comprises at least one separation space contacting the reference electrode and / or the counter electrode.

19. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The battery cell includes the reference electrode, the counter electrode, and the separation space; wherein the device is a battery, the battery includes a battery cell group, the battery cell group including two or more of the battery cells; wherein, in the battery, each of the two or more battery cells is separated by a separation space; wherein (a) the separation space, the separation space, and the at least one insulator have at least one of the same material type, and (b) the partition space includes the separation space or the separation space, and the partition space (A) extends along a reference major axis of the reference surface and beyond the reference surface, the reference surface including the first reference surface or the second reference surface; and (B) extends along an opposing major axis of the opposing surface. And extending beyond the opposing surface, the opposing surface including the first opposing surface or the second opposing surface; wherein, the partition space extends along the long axis into an extension, the extension including a separation extension or a dividing extension, the long axis including the reference long axis or the opposing long axis; and wherein, (a) (i) the dividing extension and (ii) the separating extension are separated from each other by a gap, the dividing extension and the separating extension are on one side of the battery cell, (b) the dividing extension is bent toward or away from the separating extension, (c) the dividing extension is bent toward or away from the separating extension, or (d) any combination of (a) to (c), as applicable.

20. The apparatus according to claim 19, wherein, The volume disposed between the dividing extension and the separating extension includes at least a portion of the at least one insulator.

21. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The battery cell includes the reference electrode, the counter electrode, and the separation space; wherein the device is a battery, the battery includes a battery cell group, the battery cell group includes two or more of the battery cells, and wherein the two or more battery cells are connected in parallel in the battery.

22. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The battery cell includes the reference electrode, the counter electrode, and the separation space; wherein the device is a battery, the battery includes a battery cell group comprising two or more of the battery cells, and wherein, in the battery, the two or more battery cells are stacked along a stacking axis perpendicular to or substantially perpendicular to (i) the first reference plane, (ii) the second reference plane, (iii) the first separation plane, (iv) the second separation plane, (v) the first counter plane, (vi) the second counter plane, or any combination thereof; and wherein (a) the battery includes a support bar configured to suppress expansion of the battery at least along the stacking axis, (b) the battery includes a support bar configured to suppress expansion of the battery non-uniformly along the stacking axis and in a direction perpendicular to the stacking axis, (c) the battery cell group includes a first battery side opposite to a second battery side; wherein the first battery side includes the first reference side, the first separation side, and the first counter side, and the second battery side includes the second reference side, the second separation side, and the second counter side, or (d) any combination of (a) to (c).

23. The apparatus according to claim 22, wherein, The battery has an XY plane type, a YZ plane type, and an XZ plane type; wherein the stacking direction of the battery cells is along the X direction; and wherein the XY plane type has a surface area that is (i) larger than the surface area of ​​the YZ plane type and (ii) larger than the surface area of ​​the XZ plane type; and wherein the battery side of the battery cell group faces the XY plane type, and the battery side includes the first battery side or the second battery side.

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