Battery including a pressurized structure, and method for manufacturing and controlling the same.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- JP2026047866
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2025-09-12
- Filing Date
- 2026-03-23
- Publication Date
- 2026-10-22
AI Technical Summary
【0135】 前記課題を解決するための本発明の加圧構造を含むバッテリー、そして、この製造方法および制御方法は、コアに対して機械的支持力による加圧力を提供することによってバッテリーのより向上した構造的性能と電気化学的性能を同時に確保できるという長所を有し、また、バッテリーのスウェリング現象を効果的に抑制してバッテリーの電気化学的性能低下を防止し、クーロン効率を向上させることができるためサイクル寿命を顕著に延長させ得るという長所を有する。
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Figure 2026170856000001_ABST
Abstract
Description
[Technical Field]
[0001] The present invention relates to a battery, and more particularly to a battery that includes a pressurizing structure that provides a mechanically supported force or actively controlled applied pressure to a core, and thereby can improve performance and lifespan, as well as a method for manufacturing and controlling the same. [Background technology]
[0002] In modern society, batteries as energy storage devices are used in a wide range of applications, from portable electronic devices to electric vehicles and the aerospace industry. Recently, with the development of mobile robotic systems such as walking robots, drones, and electric aircraft, the concept of structural batteries—which can support structural loads simultaneously beyond simple energy storage—has attracted particular attention.
[0003] The structural battery is a composite system that departs from existing methods of independently designing separate structures and batteries, and instead is designed so that the battery itself simultaneously performs the role of a structural member that supports mechanical loads.
[0004] This approach offers the advantage of significantly reducing the overall system weight and maximizing volumetric efficiency. Early structural battery research mainly involved physically coupling composite materials and electrochemical elements, with designs primarily based on simple layered structures.
[0005] For example, in conventional structural batteries, the composite materials perform only mechanical functions, and the electrochemical elements perform only electrochemical functions. This is not a highly functional form, and it is the biggest difference from next-generation structural batteries where all components perform both mechanical and electrochemical functions simultaneously.
[0006] However, these existing structural battery technologies expose many limitations. One of the biggest problems is the volume expansion, or swelling, that occurs during the charging and discharging process of the battery.
[0007] In lithium-ion batteries, volume changes in the electrode active material during charge-discharge cycles can cause expansion of approximately 10-15%, which is a major cause of simultaneous degradation of the battery's mechanical and electrochemical properties.
[0008] Furthermore, due to the properties of composite materials, delamination is prone to occur in laminated structures, and the volume expansion phenomenon of the battery can easily induce fracture of the composite material, potentially impairing the mechanical stability of the structural battery.
[0009] This battery swelling phenomenon occurs through a variety of mechanisms. The lattice structure of the electrode active material changes during the insertion / deinsertion process of lithium ions, and the resulting volume changes accumulate, causing the entire battery to swell.
[0010] In particular, while modern commercial lithium-ion batteries are being developed with the goal of improving high-speed charge and discharge technology, a problem has arisen where the rate of cell degradation accelerates and the degree of expansion becomes more severe as the charge and discharge speed increases. During the rapid charge and discharge process, an imbalance between the ion migration rate and the electrode reaction rate can cause localized stress concentration and non-uniform volume changes, which is a major cause of impeding the structural stability of the battery.
[0011] Furthermore, in the case of lithium metal batteries, which are next-generation batteries, dendritic shapes are more likely to form during the lithium deposition process when charging and discharging at high speeds. Such non-uniform shape changes further accelerate cell degradation. The formation of dendrites causes localized pressure imbalances, complicating the expansion pattern of the electrolyte and resulting in dynamic changes that are difficult to address with existing static expansion suppression methods.
[0012] Furthermore, when lithium metal, which is attracting attention as a next-generation battery anode material, is used as the anode, battery swelling of 40-50% occurs during battery operation, which is higher than that of commercially available lithium-ion batteries, due to factors such as the formation of porous structures, solid electrolyte interphases (SEI), heterogeneous reactions, and deactivated lithium.
[0013] Furthermore, in the case of silicon-based anode materials, one of the other next-generation battery anode materials, it is known that volume expansion of up to approximately 300% can occur, making the problem even more serious. In addition, gas generation due to electrolyte decomposition and thermal expansion due to temperature rise are also factors that affect battery swelling.
[0014] Most existing battery swelling control technologies utilize external devices designed separately from the battery system. This approach significantly increases the overall system weight and volume, largely negating the advantages of the integrated design pursued by structural batteries. Furthermore, the presence of separate, complex devices reduces system reliability and makes maintenance difficult.
[0015] From a structural standpoint, the biggest problem with existing technologies is the isolated design structure between the battery and the structure. Electrochemical and mechanical functions are optimized independently, preventing the full utilization of the interaction and synergistic effects between the two functions. In particular, the excellent mechanical properties of composite materials cannot be directly applied to the battery system, and are mostly limited to the role of an external housing.
[0016] As mentioned earlier, in the development of structural battery technology, conventional structural batteries mainly adopted a design method that utilized laminated composite materials, but this approach inherently contained fundamental structural limitations. Due to its properties that depend on the adhesive force between each layer, laminated structures are vulnerable to delamination, and the degree of freedom in shape design is significantly low because it is constrained in the realization of complex three-dimensional shapes.
[0017] Even now, with the development of next-generation structural batteries underway, the design limitations persist, still adhering to a simple stacking method where each material is manufactured in a plate-like form. This planar stacking method fundamentally restricts the improvement of battery energy density and the maximization of structural efficiency, making it particularly difficult to meet the requirements of modern application fields that demand curved surfaces and complex geometric shapes.
[0018] From a control technology perspective, existing systems have static and passive characteristics. They cannot adapt in real time to the dynamic expansion characteristics of batteries and changes in the operating environment, and operate only in a pre-set, fixed manner. This presents a limitation, making it difficult to achieve optimal performance in application areas such as walking robots that are exposed to diverse operating conditions and environmental changes.
[0019] Furthermore, despite advancements in sensor technology, existing systems still struggle to accurately sense the internal state of batteries in real time. In particular, precisely sensing and responding to localized changes occurring within the complex three-dimensional structure of batteries remains a technical challenge. For this reason, even now, systems are limited to reactive measures taken after a problem has occurred, rather than early detection and proactive response to swelling phenomena.
[0020] Therefore, there is an urgent need for methods to solve these diverse problems. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]
[0021] [Patent Document 1] Korean Registered Patent No. 10-1449307 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]
[0022] The present invention has been devised to solve the problems of the prior art described above, and has an object to provide an integrated battery system that can simultaneously secure improved structural performance and electrochemical performance by applying a pressing force to the battery core.
[0023] Furthermore, the present invention has an object to improve the service life and reliability of the battery by implementing an intelligent pressure control system that can respond in real time to the expansion characteristics of each part of the battery.
[0024] Furthermore, the present invention has an object to achieve differentiated performance improvement adapted to the characteristics of each battery type through the intelligent pressure control system.
[0025] The problems of the present invention are not limited to the problems mentioned above, and other problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the following description. [Means for Solving the Problems]
[0026] To achieve the above object, the battery including the structural pressing force providing part of the present invention may include a core including a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and an electrolyte part electrically connecting the positive electrode and the negative electrode, and a structural pressing force providing part that generates a pressing force by mechanical supporting force on the core.
[0027] Furthermore, the electrolyte part may include a solid electrolyte.
[0028] At this time, the solid electrolyte may include a shape memory polymer (SMP) having shape memory characteristics. In this case, a honeycomb-shaped partition portion for improving the mechanical performance of the electrolyte part may be applied.
[0029] Furthermore, the core may further include a first inner skin that surrounds one side of the solid electrolyte and on which a positive electrode active material is cast as the positive electrode, and a second inner skin that faces the first inner skin, surrounds the other side of the solid electrolyte, and on which a negative electrode active material is cast as the negative electrode.
[0030] On the other hand, the first internal skin and the second internal skin may include one or more of the following: carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP), glass fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP), and metal composite material.
[0031] In addition, the first internal skin and the second internal skin may be formed with a curved cross-section in the width direction so that deformation occurs in a direction that prevents separation from the solid electrolyte.
[0032] The core may further include a plurality of fixing pins that provide a fixing force in the thickness direction to prevent separation between the solid electrolyte, the first internal skin, and the second internal skin.
[0033] Furthermore, the core can be processed into a predetermined repetitive bending shape so as to form a mounting space in which the structural pressure-providing portion is provided.
[0034] In this case, the structural pressure-providing portion may include a volume-expanding foam that provides fixed pressure after expansion.
[0035] Furthermore, the volume-expanding foam may include heat-resistant polymer foams, such as one or more of urethane foam, epoxy foam, and phenolic foam.
[0036] On the other hand, the structural pressure-providing portion may include a shape memory material that provides pressure to the core by changing its shape in response to the temperature rise of the electrolyte portion.
[0037] In addition, the shape memory material can be heat-treated so that it can be deformed by temperature changes in the electrolyte portion and the pressure can be adjusted, based on a predetermined calculation of the appropriate pressure corresponding to each temperature range of the electrolyte portion.
[0038] Furthermore, the structural pressure-providing portion may be formed to have an elastic restoring force and may include an elastic body that provides a repulsive force by being compressed and deformed by the expansion of the core.
[0039] Furthermore, the elastic body may contain one or more of the following: silicon, rubber, and elastic polymer.
[0040] In this case, the elastic body may include an elastic module that provides a repulsive force through mechanical deformation during compression.
[0041] Furthermore, the elastic module may include one or more of the following: a spring, a bellows, and a diaphragm.
[0042] On the other hand, the present invention may further include a rigid reinforcing member provided so as to surround the outside of the core and the structural pressure-providing portion.
[0043] In addition, the rigid reinforcing material may include one or more of the following: carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP), glass fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP), and metal composite material.
[0044] The rigid reinforcing material may include a first outer skin arranged to surround one side of the core and the structural pressure-providing portion, and a second outer skin arranged opposite the first outer skin to surround the other side of the core and the structural pressure-providing portion.
[0045] Furthermore, the first outer skin and the second outer skin can be stacked in the thickness direction of the electrolyte portion.
[0046] At this time, the first outer skin and the second outer skin can be stacked in the width direction of the electrolyte portion.
[0047] Furthermore, a method for manufacturing a battery including the structural pressure-providing unit of the present invention for achieving the above objectives may include the steps of (a1) manufacturing a core by electrically connecting a positive electrode and a negative electrode with an electrolyte unit, and (a2) installing a structural pressure-providing unit in contact with the core to generate a pressure due to mechanical support force on the core.
[0048] On the other hand, step (a1) may include step (a1-1) of forming a solid electrolyte as the electrolyte portion.
[0049] In addition, step (a1-1) can include a shape memory polymer (SMP) having shape memory properties in the solid electrolyte.
[0050] The (a1) step may further include the steps of casting a positive electrode active material into the first internal skin (a1-2), casting a negative electrode active material into the second internal skin (a1-3), installing the first internal skin so as to surround one side of the solid electrolyte (a1-4), and installing the second internal skin so as to surround the other side of the solid electrolyte (a1-5).
[0051] Furthermore, in step (a1-4), the first internal skin can be formed and installed in a curved shape in the width direction so that it deforms in a direction that prevents separation from the solid electrolyte, and in step (a1-5), the second internal skin can be formed and installed in a curved shape in the width direction so that it deforms in a direction that prevents separation from the solid electrolyte.
[0052] At this time, step (a1) may further include step (a1-6) of installing a plurality of fixing pins that provide a fixing force in the thickness direction to prevent separation between the solid electrolyte, the first internal skin and the second internal skin.
[0053] Furthermore, step (a1) allows the core to be formed in a semi-cured state.
[0054] On the other hand, between steps (a1) and (a2), step (a1.1) may be performed, in which the core is formed into a predetermined repetitive bending shape to form a mounting space in which the structural pressure-providing portion is provided.
[0055] In addition, the (a1.1) step can pressurize the core through a roller unit on which a processing pattern is formed on the outer surface to form a preset repetitive bending shape.
[0056] Furthermore, after step (a1.1), a step (a1.2) of post-curing the core may be performed.
[0057] Furthermore, in step (a2), a volumetric expansion type foam can be installed as the structural pressure-providing part, which provides pressure that is fixed after expansion.
[0058] In this case, the volume-expanding foam may contain one or more of urethane foam, epoxy foam, and phenolic foam.
[0059] Furthermore, in step (a2), a shape memory material can be installed as the structural pressure-providing part so as to change shape in response to temperature changes in the electrolyte part.
[0060] On the other hand, step (a2) may include a step (a2-1) of heat-treating the shape memory material so that its shape changes in response to a temperature change in the electrolyte portion, and a step (a2-2) of installing the heat-treated shape memory material into the core.
[0061] In conjunction with this, the (a2) step can be configured to have an elastic restoring force as the structural pressure-providing part, and an elastic body can be installed that provides a repulsive force by being compressed and deformed by the expansion of the core.
[0062] Furthermore, the elastic body may contain one or more of silicon, rubber, and elastic polymers.
[0063] Furthermore, the elastic body may include an elastic module that provides a repulsive force through mechanical deformation during compression.
[0064] In this case, the elastic module may include one or more of the following: a spring, a bellows, and a diaphragm.
[0065] Furthermore, the present invention may further include the step of installing a rigid reinforcing material on the outside of the core and the structural pressure-providing portion (a3).
[0066] On the other hand, the rigid reinforcing material may include one or more of the following: carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP), glass fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP), and metal composite material.
[0067] In addition, step (a3) may include the steps of (a3-1) positioning the first outer skin on one side of the core and the structural pressure-providing portion, and (a3-2) positioning the second outer skin on the other side of the core and the structural pressure-providing portion so as to face the first outer skin.
[0068] Furthermore, step (a3) allows the first outer skin and the second outer skin to be stacked in the thickness direction of the electrolyte portion.
[0069] Furthermore, step (a3) allows the first outer skin and the second outer skin to be stacked in the width direction of the electrolyte portion.
[0070] Furthermore, the battery of the present invention, which includes an active pressure-providing unit for achieving the above objectives, may include a core comprising a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and an electrolyte unit electrically connecting the positive electrode and the negative electrode; an expansion sensing unit for sensing the expansion state of the core; and an active pressure-providing unit whose characteristics change according to a control signal generated based on the sensing signal of the expansion sensing unit to provide pressure to the core.
[0071] Furthermore, the expansion sensing unit may include a deformation sensing sensor that detects deformation due to the expansion of the core.
[0072] On the other hand, the deformation sensing sensor may be a fibrous sensor that measures the degree of expansion of the core in real time through the change in resistance that occurs when the electrolyte portion is deformed.
[0073] In addition, the expansion sensing unit may include a temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the electrolyte unit.
[0074] Furthermore, the expansion sensing units are distributed at multiple locations to sense the partial expansion state of the core.
[0075] Furthermore, the electrolyte portion may include a solid electrolyte.
[0076] In this case, the solid electrolyte may include a shape memory polymer (SMP) having shape memory properties.
[0077] The core may further include a first internal skin surrounding one side of the solid electrolyte, from which a positive electrode active material is cast as the positive electrode, and a second internal skin facing the first internal skin and surrounding the other side of the solid electrolyte, from which a negative electrode active material is cast as the negative electrode.
[0078] On the other hand, the first internal skin and the second internal skin may include one or more of the following: carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP), glass fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP), and metal composite material.
[0079] In addition, the first internal skin and the second internal skin may be formed with a curved cross-section in the width direction so that deformation occurs in a direction that prevents separation from the solid electrolyte.
[0080] The core may further include a plurality of fixing pins that provide a fixing force in the thickness direction to prevent separation between the solid electrolyte, the first internal skin, and the second internal skin.
[0081] Furthermore, the core can be processed into a predetermined repetitive bending shape so as to form a mounting space in which the active pressure-providing section is provided.
[0082] In this case, the active pressure-providing unit may include a shape-memory material that provides pressure to the core by changing its shape in response to a rise in temperature.
[0083] Furthermore, the active pressure-providing unit may further include a heat-generating unit that is internally designed in the shape memory material and provides thermal energy for deformation of the shape memory material in accordance with the control signal.
[0084] On the other hand, the heat generation section may be formed in the form of a conductor that converts electrical energy into thermal energy.
[0085] In conjunction with this, the active pressure-providing portion may include an elastic body formed to have an elastic restoring force, which provides a repulsive force according to the control signal by being compressed and deformed in response to the expansion of the core.
[0086] Furthermore, the elastic body may contain one or more of silicon, rubber, and elastic polymers.
[0087] Furthermore, the elastic body may include an elastic module that provides a repulsive force through mechanical deformation during compression.
[0088] In this case, the elastic module may include one or more of the following: a spring, a bellows, and a diaphragm.
[0089] Furthermore, the present invention may further include a rigid reinforcing member provided so as to surround the outside of the core and the active pressure-providing portion.
[0090] On the other hand, the rigid reinforcing material may include one or more of the following: carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP), glass fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP), and metal composite material.
[0091] In addition, the rigid reinforcing material may include a first outer skin arranged to surround one side of the core and the active pressure-providing portion, and a second outer skin arranged opposite the first outer skin to surround the other side of the core and the active pressure-providing portion.
[0092] The first outer skin and the second outer skin can be stacked in the thickness direction of the electrolyte portion.
[0093] Furthermore, the first outer skin and the second outer skin can be stacked in the width direction of the electrolyte portion.
[0094] In this case, the present invention may further include a pressure control unit that processes the sensing signal from the expansion sensing unit to generate the control signal.
[0095] Furthermore, the pressure control unit may be configured to work in conjunction with a battery management system (BMS).
[0096] On the other hand, a battery manufacturing method including a structural pressure supply unit of the present invention for achieving the above objective may include the steps of: (b1) manufacturing a core by electrically connecting a positive electrode and a negative electrode with an electrolyte unit; (b2) installing an expansion sensing unit that senses the expansion state of the core; (b3) installing an active pressure supply unit whose characteristics change according to a control signal generated based on the sensing signal of the expansion sensing unit in contact with the core; and (b4) electrically connecting the expansion sensing unit and the active pressure supply unit.
[0097] In addition, step (b1) may include step (b1-1) of forming a solid electrolyte as the electrolyte portion.
[0098] Furthermore, step (b1-1) allows for the inclusion of a shape memory polymer (SMP) having shape memory properties in the solid electrolyte.
[0099] Furthermore, step (b1) may further include steps of casting a positive electrode active material into the first internal skin (b1-2), casting a negative electrode active material into the second internal skin (b1-3), installing the first internal skin so as to surround one side of the solid electrolyte (b1-4), and installing the second internal skin so as to surround the other side of the solid electrolyte (b1-5).
[0100] At this time, step (b1-4) involves forming and installing the first internal skin in a curved shape in the width direction so that it deforms in a direction that prevents separation from the solid electrolyte, and step (b1-5) involves forming and installing the second internal skin in a curved shape in the width direction so that it deforms in a direction that prevents separation from the solid electrolyte.
[0101] Furthermore, step (b1) may further include steps (b1-6) of installing a plurality of fixing pins that provide a fixing force in the thickness direction to prevent separation between the solid electrolyte, the first internal skin and the second internal skin.
[0102] On the other hand, step (b1) allows the core to be formed in a semi-cured state.
[0103] Along with this, between steps (b1) and (b2), a step (b1.1) may be performed in which the core is formed into a predetermined repetitive bending shape to form a mounting space in which the active pressure-providing part is provided.
[0104] Then, in step (b1.1), the core can be pressed through a roller unit on which a processing pattern is formed on its outer surface to form a preset repeating bend shape.
[0105] Furthermore, after step (b1.1), a step (b1.2) of post-curing the core may be performed.
[0106] At this time, step (b2) can be configured with a deformation sensing sensor as the expansion sensing unit, which detects deformation due to the expansion of the core.
[0107] Furthermore, the deformation sensing sensor may be a fibrous sensor that measures the degree of expansion of the core in real time through the change in resistance that occurs when the electrolyte portion is deformed.
[0108] On the other hand, in step (b2), a temperature sensor can be installed as the expansion sensing unit to measure the temperature of the electrolyte unit.
[0109] In addition, step (b2) allows the expansion sensing units to be dispersed and arranged at different positions within the electrolyte unit.
[0110] Furthermore, in step (b3), a shape memory material can be installed as the active pressure-providing part, which is formed to change shape in response to temperature changes in the electrolyte part.
[0111] Furthermore, in step (b3), a heat generation unit can be internally designed into the shape memory material to provide thermal energy for deformation of the shape memory material in accordance with the control signal.
[0112] In this case, the heat generation unit may be formed in the form of a conductor that converts electrical energy into thermal energy.
[0113] Furthermore, in step (b3), an elastic body can be installed as the active pressure-providing unit, which provides a repulsive force according to the control signal by being compressed and deformed in response to the expansion of the core.
[0114] On the other hand, the elastic body may contain one or more of silicon, rubber, and elastic polymers.
[0115] In addition, the elastic body may include an elastic module that provides a repulsive force through mechanical deformation during compression.
[0116] The elastic module may include one or more of the following: a spring, a bellows, and a diaphragm.
[0117] Furthermore, the present invention may further include the step of installing a rigid reinforcing material on the outside of the core and the active pressure-providing portion (b5).
[0118] In this case, the rigid reinforcing material may include one or more of the following: carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP), glass fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP), and metal composite material.
[0119] Furthermore, step (b5) may include the steps of (b5-1) positioning the first outer skin on one side of the core and the active pressure-providing section, and (b5-2) positioning the second outer skin on the other side of the core and the active pressure-providing section so as to face the first outer skin.
[0120] On the other hand, step (b5) allows the first outer skin and the second outer skin to be stacked in the thickness direction of the electrolyte portion.
[0121] In addition, step (b5) allows the first outer skin and the second outer skin to be stacked in the width direction of the electrolyte portion.
[0122] Furthermore, the present invention may further include the step of electrically connecting a pressurization control unit, which processes the sensing signal of the expansion sensing unit and generates the control signal, to the expansion sensing unit and the active pressurization supply unit (b6).
[0123] Furthermore, the present invention may further include the step of linking the pressurization control unit with a battery management system (BMS) (b7).
[0124] Furthermore, the battery control method of the present invention, which includes an active pressure supply unit for achieving the above objective, includes a core including a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and an electrolyte unit electrically connecting the positive electrode and the negative electrode, an expansion sensing unit for sensing the expansion state of the core, and an active pressure supply unit whose characteristics change according to a control signal generated based on the sensing signal of the expansion sensing unit to provide pressure to the core, and the method may include the steps of (c1) sensing the expansion state of the core through the expansion sensing unit, (c2) generating a control signal based on the sensed expansion state, and (c3) transmitting the control signal to the active pressure supply unit to change the characteristics of the active pressure supply unit to provide pressure to the core.
[0125] Furthermore, the expansion sensing unit is a deformation sensing sensor that senses deformation due to the expansion of the core, and the (c1) step can measure the change in resistance of the deformation sensing sensor and calculate the degree of core expansion in real time.
[0126] On the other hand, the expansion sensing unit is a temperature sensor that measures the temperature of the electrolyte unit, and the (c1) step can measure the temperature change of the temperature sensor and calculate the degree of expansion of the core in real time.
[0127] In addition, the expansion sensing units are distributed to correspond to multiple positions in the electrolyte unit, and step (c1) can individually calculate the degree of expansion of each part of the electrolyte unit through the multiple expansion sensing units.
[0128] Furthermore, the (c2) step can generate the control signal if the detected expansion state of the core exceeds a preset critical value.
[0129] Furthermore, the (c2) step can adjust the intensity of the control signal in proportion to the degree of core expansion.
[0130] At this time, the active pressure-providing unit is a shape memory material formed to change shape in response to temperature changes in the electrolyte unit, and a heat-generating unit that provides thermal energy by the control signal is internally designed, and the (c3) step can transmit the control signal to the internally designed heat-generating unit in the shape memory material to provide thermal energy to the shape memory material.
[0131] Furthermore, the active pressure-providing unit is an elastic body that provides a repulsive force by compressive deformation in response to the expansion of the core, and the (c3) step can transmit a control signal to the elastic body to generate a repulsive force in the elastic body.
[0132] On the other hand, steps (c2) and (c3) can be performed by a pressurization control unit that processes the sensing signal from the expansion sensing unit and generates the control signal.
[0133] In addition, in steps (c2) and (c3), the pressurization control unit can generate the control signal in conjunction with the battery management system (BMS).
[0134] Then, in step (c2), the pressurization control unit can receive one or more pieces of information from the battery management system, including the temperature, charge / discharge state, and voltage of the electrolyte unit, and reflect this information in the generation of the control signal. [Effects of the Invention]
[0135] The battery, manufacturing method, and control method for the pressurized structure of the present invention, which solve the aforementioned problems, have the advantage of simultaneously ensuring improved structural and electrochemical performance of the battery by providing an applied pressure to the core by mechanical support force, and also have the advantage of significantly extending the cycle life by effectively suppressing the swelling phenomenon of the battery, preventing a decrease in the electrochemical performance of the battery, and improving the Coulomb efficiency.
[0136] In particular, the present invention can provide a pressurization effect optimized for the characteristics of different types of batteries. Specifically, when applied to lithium-ion batteries, the structural stability of the active material can be ensured by suppressing expansion through pressurization, preventing capacity reduction and significantly extending cycle life. When applied to lithium metal batteries, uniform pressure can be applied to the lithium metal negative electrode to suppress dendrite formation and improve Coulomb efficiency and ensure safety by controlling the shape of lithium deposition. When applied to all-solid-state batteries, interfacial contact between the solid electrolyte and the electrode can be continuously maintained to minimize interfacial resistance and improve ionic conductivity, maximizing electrochemical performance.
[0137] Furthermore, because the structural pressure supply unit of this invention is designed to be integrated with the battery core, a separate external pressurizing device or complex mechanical system is not required. Nevertheless, precise control is possible as needed through the expansion sensing unit and the active pressure supply unit, significantly reducing the weight and volume of the overall battery system while simultaneously ensuring structural rigidity and control accuracy. Consequently, it can demonstrate excellent performance, particularly in application fields where weight reduction and precise control are important, such as walking robots, drones, and electric aircraft.
[0138] Furthermore, the present invention can dramatically improve the mechanical properties and structural stability of a battery by inserting a honeycomb core or an insulating core with various lattice structures into the electrolyte. In particular, the honeycomb insulating core provides high compressive and shear strength in the in-plane direction while maintaining appropriate flexibility in the thickness direction, thereby securing the ion conduction path of the electrolyte and performing a mechanical support function. Through this, the battery of the present invention can perform the role of a structural battery on its own, and has the advantage of simultaneously achieving weight reduction and maximization of structural efficiency in various application fields.
[0139] Furthermore, in addition to the basic expansion suppression function through the structural pressure supply unit, the present invention has the advantage of significantly improving the reliability and stability of the system because, in addition to the expansion sensing unit sensing the expansion state of the battery in real time, the active pressure supply unit adaptively adjusts the pressure in response, thereby being able to actively respond to the dynamic changes in the expansion characteristics of the battery and various operating environments.
[0140] Furthermore, when the structural pressure supply unit of the present invention is applied, the mechanical support force is generated by utilizing the structural change due to core expansion itself, so a separate power supply is not required for basic expansion suppression. When the active pressure supply unit is applied, precise control can be performed only when necessary, thereby maximizing energy efficiency and significantly improving the overall reliability and stability of the system.
[0141] Consequently, the present invention offers versatility applicable not only to all-solid-state batteries but also to various types of batteries such as lithium-ion batteries, lithium-metal batteries, lithium-sulfur batteries, and silicon anode substrate batteries. Furthermore, it allows for the selective use of structural or active anti-swelling functions suited to the characteristics of each battery type, thereby overcoming the limitations of existing battery technology and making a broad contribution to improving the performance of next-generation energy storage systems.
[0142] Furthermore, the present invention has the advantage of significantly increasing the degree of system integration compared to existing methods in which the structure and battery are designed separately, by simultaneously providing passive and active expansion suppression functions while the battery itself performs the function of a structural battery that supports structural loads, thereby simplifying the manufacturing process and significantly improving productivity and economic efficiency.
[0143] The effects of the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and any further effects not mentioned can be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the claims. [Brief explanation of the drawing]
[0144] [Figure 1]This is a conceptual diagram illustrating a battery including a structural pressure-providing section according to the present invention. [Figure 2] This is a conceptual diagram showing a battery including an active pressure supply unit according to the present invention. [Figure 3] This diagram shows each step of the manufacturing method for a battery including a structural pressure-providing unit according to the present invention. [Figure 4] This diagram shows each step of the manufacturing method for a battery including an active pressure supply unit according to the present invention. [Figure 5] This is a drawing showing a battery including a structural pressure supply unit according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] This diagram shows each step of a method for manufacturing a battery including a structural pressure supply unit according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] This is a drawing showing the detailed steps of step (a1) in a method for manufacturing a battery including a structural pressure supply unit according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] This diagram sequentially shows the process of carrying out each step of (a1) in a method for manufacturing a battery including a structural pressure supply unit according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] This diagram sequentially shows the process of carrying out each step of (a1) in a method for manufacturing a battery including a structural pressure supply unit according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] This drawing further illustrates a method applicable to steps (a1-4) and (a1-5) in a battery manufacturing method including a structural pressure supply unit according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] This is a drawing showing the process of carrying out step (a1.1) and the shape of the core formed thereby in a method for manufacturing a battery including a structural pressure supply unit according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] This is a drawing showing the process of carrying out step (a1.1) and the shape of the core formed thereby in a method for manufacturing a battery including a structural pressure supply unit according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13]This is a drawing showing the process of step (a2) in a method for manufacturing a battery including a structural pressure supply unit according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] This is a drawing showing the detailed steps of step (a3) in a method for manufacturing a battery including a structural pressure supply unit 200 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15] This is a drawing showing the process of step (a3) in a method for manufacturing a battery including a structural pressure supply unit 200 according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 16] This drawing shows an additional method applicable to the process of step (a3) in a method for manufacturing a battery including a structural pressure supply unit 200 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 17] This is a drawing showing a battery including an active pressure supply unit according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 18] This diagram shows each step of the manufacturing method for a battery including an active pressure supply unit according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 19] This is a drawing showing the detailed steps of step (b1) in a method for manufacturing a battery including an active pressure supply unit according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 20] This is a drawing showing the process of steps (b2) and (b3) in a method for manufacturing a battery including an active pressure supply unit according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 21] This is a drawing showing the detailed steps of step (b5) in a method for manufacturing a battery including an active pressure supply unit according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 22] This is a drawing showing the process of carrying out step (b6) in a method for manufacturing a battery including an active pressure supply unit according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 23] This drawing shows an additional method applicable to the process of step (b5) in a method for manufacturing a battery including a structural pressure supply unit according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 24]This diagram shows each stage of a control method for preventing battery swelling, including an active pressure supply unit, according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 25] This drawing shows a honeycomb structure applicable to the core of a battery according to all embodiments of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]
[0145] In this specification, when a component (or region, layer, part, etc.) is referred to as "on top of," "connected to," or "joined with" another component, it means that it may be directly placed on / connected to / joined with the other component or a third component may be placed between them.
[0146] The same drawing number refers to the same component. Furthermore, in the drawings, the thickness, proportions, and dimensions of components are exaggerated for the sake of effectively illustrating the technical content.
[0147] "and / or" includes all combinations of one or more related configurations that can be defined.
[0148] The terms "first," "second," etc., may be used to describe a variety of components, but the components should not be limited by such terms. The terms are used solely for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another. For example, without departing the scope of the invention, the first component may be named the second component, and similarly, the second component may be named the first component. A singular expression includes plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.
[0149] Furthermore, terms such as "down," "on the lower side," "on top," and "on the upper side" are used to describe the correlations between the components shown in the drawing. These terms are relative concepts and are explained based on the direction indicated in the drawing.
[0150] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) have the same meaning as those commonly understood by those skilled in the art in which this invention pertains. Furthermore, terms such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries should be interpreted as having the meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art, and are expressly defined herein unless interpreted in an ideal or overly formal sense.
[0151] Terms such as "includes" or "possesses" are intended to specify the presence of features, numbers, stages, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof as described in the specification, and should be understood not to preemptively exclude the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, stages, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.
[0152] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.
[0153] Figure 1 is a conceptual diagram showing a battery including a structural pressure supply unit 20 according to the present invention.
[0154] As shown in Figure 1, the battery according to the present invention, which includes a structural pressure supply unit 20, may include a core 10 and a structural pressure supply unit 20.
[0155] The core 10 is a core structure for electrochemical energy storage and release, and includes a positive electrode 11, a negative electrode 12, and an electrolyte 13, and through this configuration, it can perform an energy conversion function through electrochemical reactions.
[0156] The positive electrode 11 performs the role of a positive electrode where an oxidation reaction occurs through electrochemical reaction. In the case of a lithium-ion battery, it can contain positive electrode active materials such as lithium cobalt oxide, lithium iron phosphate, lithium manganese oxide, and lithium nickel cobalt manganese oxide. In the case of an all-solid-state battery, such positive electrode active materials can come into direct contact with the electrolyte in a solid state, and ion transfer can occur.
[0157] The negative electrode 12 performs the role of a negative electrode where a reduction reaction occurs through an electrochemical reaction, and can contain negative electrode active materials such as graphite, silicon, and lithium metal, and can perform the role of storing lithium ions during the charging process and releasing lithium ions during the discharging process.
[0158] The electrolyte portion 13 is a component that performs the role of an ion transfer medium between the positive electrode 11 and the negative electrode 12, providing a path for lithium ions to move during the charging and discharging process, maintaining electrical insulation, and blocking the direct movement of electrons.
[0159] The electrolyte section 13 can contain one or more of a liquid electrolyte, gel electrolyte, or solid electrolyte. In the embodiments described below, we will focus on describing an all-solid-state battery structure that includes a solid electrolyte.
[0160] Solid electrolytes can be classified into ceramic electrolytes, sulfide electrolytes, oxide electrolytes, polymer electrolytes, etc., and each electrolyte can exhibit different ionic conductivity, mechanical strength, thermal stability, and electrochemical stability.
[0161] Furthermore, the electrolyte portion 13 may be affected and deformed by the expansion of the positive electrode 11 or the negative electrode 12, or volume changes may occur in the negative electrode 11 and the positive electrode 12 due to temperature changes and ion movement during the charging and discharging process. Such volume changes may cause a decrease in battery performance and a shortened lifespan.
[0162] The structural pressure-providing unit 20 is a component that generates pressure on the core 10 through mechanical support force, and can provide pressure by directly reacting to physical changes in the negative electrode 11, positive electrode 12, and electrolyte unit 13 without the need for external control signals or energy supply.
[0163] Such a structural pressure-providing section 20 plays a role in suppressing volume changes in the core 10, thereby maintaining the structural stability of the battery and preventing a decrease in electrochemical performance.
[0164] In particular, the pressurizing effect provided by the structural pressure-providing section 20 can offer a variety of performance improvements and life-extending effects depending on the type of battery.
[0165] For example, in the case of lithium-ion batteries, by suppressing the expansion caused by volume changes in the active material during the charging and discharging process through pressurization, the structural stability of the active material can be ensured, contact between electrodes can be maintained, capacity reduction can be prevented, and cycle life can be extended.
[0166] In lithium metal batteries, the formation of dendrites generated during the lithium deposition process can be suppressed by providing uniform pressure to the lithium metal negative electrode, thereby controlling the morphology of lithium. This improves Coulomb efficiency, reduces the risk of short circuits, and ensures safety.
[0167] In all-solid-state batteries, the interfacial contact between the solid electrolyte and electrodes is a key factor determining battery performance. Therefore, by maintaining this interfacial contact through pressurization, interfacial resistance can be minimized and ionic conductivity can be improved. This can directly contribute to maximizing the electrochemical performance of all-solid-state batteries.
[0168] Furthermore, the structural pressure-providing section 20 can be embodied in various forms, including volume-expanding foam, shape-memory material, elastic body, etc., and each configuration can provide pressure through a different mechanism from one another.
[0169] In the case of volumetric expansion foam, it can include urethane foam, epoxy foam, phenolic foam, etc., and can have the characteristic of expanding after initial installation to maintain a constant pressure. Such volumetric expansion foam can fill the space around the electrolyte portion 13 during the expansion process, forming a uniform pressure distribution, and can provide a corresponding repulsive force when the core 10 expands.
[0170] In the case of shape memory materials, they have the property of changing shape in response to temperature changes, and can automatically change shape and provide applied pressure as the temperature of the electrolyte section 13 rises. Such shape memory materials may include shape memory polymers (SMP), shape memory alloys (SMA), etc., and the appropriate pressurizing force corresponding to each temperature range can be calculated in advance and programmed through heat treatment.
[0171] Alternatively, it may be regulated using fibrous heating elements contained in the skin or battery material, or by various stimuli such as ultrasound or light.
[0172] In the case of elastic materials, they can include silicon, rubber, elastic polymers, etc., and can provide repulsive force through elastic restoring force against compressive deformation.
[0173] Furthermore, the elastic body may include an elastic module that provides a repulsive force through mechanical deformation during compression. Such an elastic module can immediately generate a repulsive force through mechanical deformation when a compressive force is applied due to the expansion of the core, and can have the property of restoring to its original shape when the compressive force is removed.
[0174] Elastic modules can be embodied in a variety of forms and may include one or more of the following: springs, bellows, and diaphragms.
[0175] In the case of springs, they can be realized in forms such as coil springs, leaf springs, and torsion springs, and can exhibit linear or nonlinear rebound force characteristics in response to compressive forces.
[0176] In the case of bellows, elastic deformation is generated during axial compression through the wrinkled structure, and a variable rebound force can be provided depending on the degree of compression.
[0177] In the case of a diaphragm, it is a membrane-like structure that deforms in response to pressure changes and can maintain a constant applied pressure through a restoring force.
[0178] However, elastic modules can be realized in a variety of forms and are not limited to these forms.
[0179] In the above configuration, the structural pressure supply unit 20 can operate as a passive system that physically responds to the expansion of the core 10 and provides pressure, thereby preventing a decrease in battery performance and ensuring structural stability.
[0180] Furthermore, the structural pressure-providing section 20 forms a uniform pressure distribution at the contact surface with the electrolyte section 13, preventing localized stress concentration and maintaining consistent performance even during repeated charge-discharge processes over a long period.
[0181] Such a structural pressure-providing section 20 can improve the overall energy density of the battery, increase mechanical rigidity, and improve thermal stability.
[0182] Figure 2 is a conceptual diagram showing a battery including an active pressure supply unit according to the present invention.
[0183] As shown in Figure 2, in this embodiment the battery may include a core 10, an active pressure supply unit 30, an expansion sensing unit 40, and a control means 50.
[0184] The core 10 includes a positive electrode 11, a negative electrode 12, and an electrolyte portion 13, identical to those in Figure 1, and can perform electrochemical energy storage and release functions. The core 10 can exhibit ion transfer and volume change characteristics during the charge and discharge process.
[0185] The expansion sensing unit 40 is a sensor system that senses the expansion state of the core 10 in real time, and can quantitatively measure the physical changes of the electrolyte unit 13, convert this into an electrical signal, and transmit it to the control means 50.
[0186] The expansion sensing unit 40 can be implemented based on various sensor technologies and may include deformation sensing sensors, pressure sensors, temperature sensors, displacement sensors, and the like.
[0187] In the case of a deformation sensing sensor, it can be implemented as a fibrous sensor, and the degree of expansion can be calculated in real time by measuring the change in resistance due to the deformation of the electrolyte portion 13. Since such a fibrous sensor is highly flexible and has a thin structure, it can be easily incorporated inside the battery and can be distributed at various locations in the electrolyte portion 13 to individually sense the expansion state of different parts.
[0188] In the case of a pressure sensor, the pressure change due to the expansion of the core 10 can be measured directly, and this can be implemented using a piezoresistive sensor, a capacitive sensor, a piezoelectric sensor, etc.
[0189] In the case of a temperature sensor, it can be implemented as a thermocouple, thermistor, infrared sensor, etc., and the expansion state can be indirectly estimated by measuring the temperature change of the core 10.
[0190] In the case of a displacement sensor, it is possible to measure the thickness change and surface displacement of the positive electrode 11, the negative electrode 12, and the electrolyte portion 13, and this can be implemented using optical sensors, eddy current sensors, laser sensors, etc.
[0191] Furthermore, the expansion sensing unit 40 can be configured by combining multiple sensors, thereby improving measurement accuracy and providing a backup function against sensor errors.
[0192] The active pressure-providing unit 30 is a component that provides pressure to the core 10 by changing its characteristics in response to a control signal generated based on the sensing signal from the expansion sensing unit 40. It actively reacts to external control and can variably provide an appropriate level of pressure according to the expansion state of the core 10.
[0193] Furthermore, precise adjustment of the applied pressure through this type of active control can enable optimized performance improvements tailored to the specific characteristics of each battery type.
[0194] Specifically, the active pressure supply unit 30, like the structural pressure supply unit 20 described above, can maximize the stability of the active material through adaptive pressure control according to the charge / discharge state in the case of lithium-ion batteries, proactively suppress dendrite formation through real-time pressure adjustment based on the lithium deposition pattern in the case of lithium metal batteries, and optimize interfacial contact through dynamic pressure control corresponding to changes in interfacial impedance in the case of all-solid-state batteries.
[0195] The active pressure-providing unit 30 can be implemented based on a variety of active drive mechanisms and may include shape memory materials, electroactive polymers, piezoelectric actuators, electromagnetic actuators, and the like.
[0196] In the case of an active pressure-generating unit 30 utilizing a shape memory material, it is possible to induce a shape change by receiving thermal energy via a control signal through an internally designed heat-generating unit. The heat-generating unit may be formed in the form of a conductor that converts electrical energy into thermal energy, and can provide the necessary temperature to the shape memory material using the Joule heating principle. In such a configuration, the control means 50 supplies an appropriate current to the conductor according to the degree of expansion sensed by the expansion-sensing unit 40, and the resulting thermal energy induces a shape change in the shape memory material, thereby adjusting the pressure.
[0197] In the case of an active pressure-providing unit 30 utilizing an electroactive polymer, a polymer material whose size and shape change upon application of an electric field can be used, and this can include dielectric elastomers, ionic polymer-metal composites, conductive polymers, etc. Since such electroactive polymers can deform immediately upon application of voltage, they can have rapid response characteristics, and the amount of deformation can be precisely controlled according to the magnitude of the applied voltage.
[0198] In the case of an active pressure-providing unit 30 utilizing a piezoelectric actuator, a voltage can be applied to piezoelectric ceramics or piezoelectric polymers to induce mechanical deformation, resulting in high precision and rapid response characteristics.
[0199] In the case of an active pressure-providing unit 30 using an electromagnetic actuator, a mechanical force can be generated by utilizing the interaction between the coil and the magnet, and the direction and magnitude of the pressure can be controlled by adjusting the direction and magnitude of the current.
[0200] The control means 50 is a control system that processes a sensing signal received from the expansion sensing unit 40 and generates a control signal to be transmitted to the active pressure supply unit 30, and may include a microprocessor, a digital signal processor, an analog circuit, etc. The control means 50 can analyze the expansion state of the core 10 and control the active pressure supply unit 30 so that the optimal pressure is provided, and can optimize the performance of the system by applying various control algorithms.
[0201] The control means 50 can apply control techniques such as proportional-integral-derivative (PID) control, fuzzy control, neural network control, and adaptive control, and can adjust the control parameters considering the expansion characteristics of the core 10 and the dynamic characteristics of the active pressure supply unit 30.
[0202] Furthermore, the control means 50 can work in conjunction with the battery management system (BMS) to perform integrated control that takes into account the overall state information of the battery, and can establish an optimal control strategy by comprehensively considering information such as temperature, voltage, current, and charge / discharge status.
[0203] Through this configuration, the battery can actively suppress swelling in response to the real-time changes in the state of the negative electrode 11, positive electrode 12, and electrolyte 13, thereby enabling the battery to maintain its performance over a long period of time.
[0204] The active pressure-providing unit 30 can precisely adjust the pressure according to the degree of expansion of the core 10, thereby providing sufficient pressure while preventing cracks in the negative electrode 12 due to excessive pressure, and maximizing the expansion suppression effect.
[0205] Furthermore, due to the characteristics of the active system, it can adaptively respond to a variety of operating conditions and environmental changes, contributing to extending battery life and improving performance.
[0206] The following describes the process for manufacturing a battery including the structural pressure supply unit 20 and a battery including the active pressure supply unit 30, as explained in Figures 1 and 2.
[0207] Figure 3 is a diagram illustrating each step in the manufacturing method of a battery including the structural pressure supply unit 20 according to the present invention.
[0208] As shown in Figure 3, the method for manufacturing a battery including the structural pressure supply unit 20 according to the present invention may include a core manufacturing step and a structural pressure supply unit installation step.
[0209] During the core fabrication stage, the positive electrode 11, the negative electrode 12, and the electrolyte portion 13 can be electrically connected to form a core 10, which is a basic structure capable of storing electrochemical energy.
[0210] In the core fabrication process, the electrolyte portion 13 can be appropriately arranged and connected so that it can perform its role as an ion transfer medium between the positive electrode 11 and the negative electrode 12.
[0211] Core 10 can exhibit volume change characteristics due to temperature changes and ion transfer that occur during the charge and discharge process, and such volume changes can directly affect the structural stability and electrochemical performance of the battery.
[0212] In particular, in the case of all-solid-state batteries, the interfacial contact resistance between the solid electrolyte and the electrodes can be a crucial factor in determining battery performance, so preventing interfacial separation due to core 10 expansion may be essential.
[0213] Even in batteries using liquid electrolytes, deformation of the outer casing and increased internal pressure due to core 10 expansion can negatively impact the battery's safety and lifespan.
[0214] During the core fabrication stage, a solid electrolyte can be formed as the electrolyte portion 13. Such solid electrolytes can be classified into ceramic-based electrolytes, sulfide-based electrolytes, oxide-based electrolytes, polymer-based electrolytes, and the like.
[0215] Each solid electrolyte can exhibit different ionic conductivity, mechanical strength, thermal stability, and electrochemical stability, allowing for the selection of an appropriate solid electrolyte depending on the intended use and requirements of the battery.
[0216] Furthermore, during the core fabrication stage, a shape memory polymer (SMP) having shape memory properties can be incorporated into the solid electrolyte, thereby giving the electrolyte portion 13 itself smart electrolyte properties that allow it to automatically change shape in response to temperature changes.
[0217] Furthermore, solid electrolytes containing shape memory polymers (SMPs) can also be actively controlled by external mechanisms. For example, by placing heat generating devices such as heating elements, resistance heaters, or Peltier elements inside or near the electrolyte section 13, the shape change of the shape memory polymer can be actively induced through direct temperature control. This active control method can be linked with a battery management system (BMS) to optimize the characteristics of the electrolyte section in real time based on the charge / discharge state, external temperature, and required performance, thereby realizing precise and predictable smart electrolyte control. In particular, during rapid charging and high-power discharge, the characteristics of the shape memory polymer can be pre-adjusted through proactive temperature control via heating elements to improve battery performance.
[0218] During the structural pressure-providing unit installation stage, the structural pressure-providing unit 20, which can generate a pressure on the core 10 due to mechanical support force, can be positioned in contact with the core 10.
[0219] The structural pressure supply unit 20 can operate as a passive system that provides pressure in response directly to physical changes in the electrolyte unit 13 without the need for external control signals or energy supply. Such a structural pressure supply unit 20 plays a role in suppressing volume changes that occur in the core 10, thereby maintaining the structural stability of the battery and preventing a decrease in electrochemical performance.
[0220] The structural pressure-providing section 20 can be embodied in various forms and may include volume-expanding foam, shape-memory material, elastic body, and the like.
[0221] In the case of volumetric expansion foams, urethane foam, epoxy foam, phenolic foam, etc., can be included and have the characteristic of expanding after initial installation to maintain a constant pressure.
[0222] In the case of shape memory materials, they have the characteristic of changing shape in response to temperature changes, and the shape can automatically change as the temperature of the electrolyte portion 13 rises, thereby providing applied pressure.
[0223] In the case of elastic materials, they can include silicon, rubber, elastic polymers, etc., and can provide repulsive force through elastic restoring force against compressive deformation.
[0224] Batteries produced using this manufacturing method will incorporate an automatic pressurization system to accommodate the expansion of core 10, thereby maintaining structural stability even during long-term, repeated charge-discharge processes.
[0225] Furthermore, the structural pressure-providing section 20 can form a uniform pressure distribution at the contact surface with the electrolyte section 13, preventing localized stress concentration and improving the overall mechanical rigidity and durability of the battery.
[0226] Figure 4 is a diagram showing each step of the manufacturing method of a battery including the active pressure supply unit 30 according to the present invention.
[0227] As shown in Figure 4, the manufacturing method of the battery including the active pressure supply unit 30 in this embodiment may include a core manufacturing step, an expansion sensing unit installation step, an active pressure supply unit installation step, and an electrical connection step.
[0228] During the core fabrication stage, the positive electrode 11, negative electrode 12, and electrolyte portion 13 can be electrically connected in the same manner as in Figure 3 to form a core 10, which is a basic structure capable of electrochemical energy storage. The core 10 can exhibit ion transfer and volume change characteristics during the charge and discharge process.
[0229] During the expansion detection unit installation stage, the expansion detection unit 40, which is a sensor system capable of detecting the expansion state of the core 10 in real time, can be placed inside or outside the battery.
[0230] The expansion sensing unit 40 can be implemented based on various sensor technologies and may include deformation sensing sensors, pressure sensors, temperature sensors, displacement sensors, and the like.
[0231] In the case of a deformation sensing sensor, it can be implemented as a fibrous sensor, and the degree of expansion can be calculated in real time by measuring the change in resistance due to the deformation of the electrolyte portion 13. Since such a fibrous sensor is highly flexible and has a thin structure, it can be easily incorporated inside the battery and can be distributed at various locations in the electrolyte portion 13 to individually sense the expansion state of different parts.
[0232] In the case of a temperature sensor, it can be implemented as a thermocouple, thermistor, infrared sensor, etc., and the expansion state can be indirectly estimated by measuring the temperature change of the core 10.
[0233] The expansion sensing units 40 can be dispersed at different locations within the electrolyte unit 13, thereby allowing for the understanding of the overall expansion distribution of the electrolyte unit 13 and precise detection of localized expansion phenomena.
[0234] Furthermore, the expansion sensing unit 40 may be composed of a combination of multiple sensors, thereby improving measurement accuracy and providing a backup function against sensor errors.
[0235] In the active pressure supply stage, an active pressure supply unit 30 can be positioned in contact with the core 10, where its characteristics change based on a control signal generated from the expansion sensing unit 40, thereby providing pressure to the core 10.
[0236] The active pressure supply unit 30 actively responds to external control and can variably provide an appropriate level of pressure according to the expansion state of the core 10.
[0237] Furthermore, the active pressure-providing unit 30 can be implemented based on a variety of active drive mechanisms, and may include shape memory materials, electroactive polymers, piezoelectric actuators, electromagnetic actuators, and the like.
[0238] In the case of an active pressure-providing unit 30 utilizing a shape memory material, it is possible to induce a shape change by receiving thermal energy via a control signal through an internally designed heat generation unit.
[0239] The heat generation section can be formed in the form of a conductor that converts electrical energy into thermal energy, and can provide the necessary temperature for the shape memory material by utilizing the Joule heating principle.
[0240] In the case of the active pressure-providing unit 30 utilizing an electroactive polymer, a polymer material whose size and shape change with the application of an electric field can be used, and the amount of deformation and the pressurizing force can be precisely controlled by adjusting the magnitude and direction of the applied voltage.
[0241] In the electrical connection stage, the expansion sensing unit 40 and the active pressure supply unit 30 are electrically connected to construct a system capable of transmitting sensing signals and generating control signals.
[0242] Such electrical connection can be made through a control means 50, which can process the sensing signal received from the expansion sensing unit 40 and generate a control signal to be transmitted to the active pressure supply unit 30.
[0243] In this case, the control means 50 may include a microprocessor, a digital signal processor, an analog circuit, etc., and various control algorithms can be applied to optimize the system's performance.
[0244] This manufacturing method allows the pressure control unit, which processes the sensing signal from the expansion sensing unit 40 and generates a control signal, to be electrically connected to the expansion sensing unit 40 and the active pressure supply unit 30, and enables the pressure control unit to be linked with a battery management system (BMS).
[0245] Furthermore, batteries manufactured using this method incorporate an intelligent pressurization system that can actively suppress expansion in response to the real-time changing state of the electrolyte section 13, thereby enabling adaptive responses to diverse operating conditions and environmental changes.
[0246] In the following sections, we will describe in detail specific examples of batteries including the structural pressure-providing unit described above, batteries including the active pressure-providing unit, and methods for manufacturing these batteries.
[0247] Figure 5 is a diagram showing a battery including a structural pressure supply unit according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
[0248] As shown in Figure 5, the battery in this embodiment, which includes the structural pressure supply unit 200, may include the core 100, the structural pressure supply unit 200, and the rigid reinforcement member 250.
[0249] The core 100 includes a first internal skin 110, a second internal skin 120, and an electrolyte section 130, and can perform the role of a core component of a battery that performs electrochemical energy storage and release functions.
[0250] The first internal skin 110 is arranged to surround one side of the electrolyte portion 130 and can be formed by casting a positive electrode active material as the positive electrode.
[0251] The second internal skin 120 is positioned opposite the first internal skin 110 and surrounds the other side of the electrolyte portion 130, and can be formed by casting a negative electrode active material as the negative electrode.
[0252] The electrolyte section 130 acts as a mediator that electrically connects the positive electrode and the negative electrode, and can provide a path for ion movement during the charging and discharging process.
[0253] In this embodiment, the electrolyte portion 130 may include a solid electrolyte, providing improved safety and structural stability compared to a liquid electrolyte. Furthermore, the electrolyte portion 130 may also include a shape memory polymer (SMP) having shape memory properties, thereby enabling a smart electrolyte function in which properties automatically change in response to temperature changes.
[0254] The structural pressure-providing unit 200 is a component that generates pressure on the core 100 through mechanical support force, and can operate as a passive system that provides pressure in response directly to physical changes in the electrolyte unit 130 without external control signals or energy supply.
[0255] The rigid reinforcement material 250 is provided so as to surround the outside of the core 100 and the structural pressure-providing portion 200, and can perform a role in improving the overall structural stability and mechanical rigidity of the battery.
[0256] The rigid reinforcement material 250 can include carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP), glass fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP), metal composites, etc., and each material can exhibit different mechanical and weight properties.
[0257] In this embodiment, the rigid reinforcing member 250 may consist of a first outer skin 260 and a second outer skin 270, the first outer skin 260 being arranged to surround one side of the core 100 and the structural pressure-providing portion 200, and the second outer skin 270 being arranged opposite the first outer skin 260 to surround the other side of the core 100 and the structural pressure-providing portion 200.
[0258] Figure 6 is a diagram showing each step in the manufacturing method of a battery including a structural pressure supply unit according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
[0259] As illustrated in Figure 6, the battery manufacturing method in this embodiment, which includes the structural pressure supply unit 200, can sequentially include steps (a1), (a1.1), (a1.2), (a2), and (a3). Each step has a specific function and purpose in the battery manufacturing process, and precise control and quality management can be performed at each step.
[0260] (a1) The (a1) step is to electrically connect the positive electrode and the negative electrode with the electrolyte part 130 to manufacture the core 100, and is a step in which the basic structure of the battery is formed.
[0261] In this (a1) stage, a solid electrolyte is formed as the electrolyte portion 130, a positive electrode active material and a negative electrode active material are cast into the first internal skin 110 and the second internal skin 120 respectively, and these can be assembled with the solid electrolyte to form an electrochemically connected core 100.
[0262] (a1) The core 100 can be formed in a semi-cured state, thereby facilitating molding operations in subsequent processes and improving the accuracy of the final shape.
[0263] (a1.1) The (a1.1) step is a molding process that embodies the structural design of the battery, in which the core 100 is formed into a predetermined repetitive bending shape to form a mounting space 101 equipped with a structural pressure supply section 200.
[0264] In this (a1.1) stage, the core 100 can be pressed through a roller unit R on which a processing pattern is formed on its outer surface to form a preset repetitive bending shape, and various forms of bending structures can be realized by adjusting the design of the pattern of the roller unit R and the pressing conditions.
[0265] (a1.2) The (a1.2) stage is a post-curing stage of the core 100, which is a curing process that determines the final shape and mechanical properties of the molded core 100. Through the post-curing process, the core 100 can ensure structural stability and prevent deformation in subsequent processes, and the required mechanical properties can be achieved through optimization of the curing conditions.
[0266] (a2) The (a2) step is to install a structural pressure-providing part 200 in contact with the core 100 to generate a pressure due to mechanical support force on the core 100, and is a step that embodies the expansion suppression function.
[0267] In this (a2) stage, various forms of structural pressure-providing parts 200, such as volumetric expansion foam, shape memory material, and elastic body, can be arranged in the mounting space 101, and the optimal installation method according to the characteristics of each can be applied.
[0268] (a3) The (a3) step is to install rigid reinforcement material 250 on the outside of the core 100 and the structural pressure supply section 200, and is a finishing step to ensure the overall structural completeness of the battery.
[0269] In this (a3) stage, the first external skin 260 and the second external skin 270 are arranged, and an optimal configuration can be realized by considering the performance characteristics depending on the stacking direction.
[0270] Through this manufacturing method, the battery, including the structural pressure supply section 200, incorporates an automatic pressurization system to accommodate the expansion of the core 100, thereby enabling it to maintain stable performance even during repeated charge-discharge processes over a long period.
[0271] Furthermore, systematic management at each stage of the manufacturing process ensures high quality and consistency, allowing for customized solutions to meet the requirements of diverse application fields.
[0272] Figure 7 is a diagram showing the detailed steps of step (a1) in a method for manufacturing a battery including a structural pressure supply unit 200 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
[0273] FIGS. 8 and 9 are drawings sequentially showing the steps of performing each process of step (a1) in the method for manufacturing a battery including the structural pressing force providing unit 200 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
[0274] As illustrated in FIG. 7, in this embodiment, step (a1) is a step of electrically connecting the positive electrode and the negative electrode to the electrolyte unit 130 to fabricate the core 100, which may include step (a1-1), step (a1-2), step (a1-3), step (a1-4), step (a1-5), and step (a1-6).
[0275] Such step (a1) is intended to simultaneously ensure the electrochemical performance and mechanical stability of the battery, and is a process of forming the core 100 structure by utilizing the characteristics of an all-solid-state battery.
[0276] As illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 8, in step (a1-1), a solid electrolyte may be formed as the electrolyte unit 130.
[0277] The solid electrolyte can provide improved safety and structural stability compared to existing liquid electrolytes, and may be implemented in various forms such as a ceramic-based electrolyte, a sulfide-based electrolyte, an oxide-based electrolyte, and a polymer-based electrolyte.
[0278] In the case of a ceramic-based electrolyte, Li7La3Zr2O 12 (LLZO), Li 1+x Al x Ti 2-X (PO4)3 (LATP) and the like may be included, and such a ceramic-based electrolyte can exhibit high ionic conductivity and electrochemical stability.
[0279] In the case of a sulfide-based electrolyte, Li 10 GeP2S 12 (LGPS), Li6PS5Cl and the like may be included, and characteristics of having high ionic conductivity at room temperature can be exhibited. In the case of an oxide-based electrolyte, Li 1+x Al x Ge2-x may include (PO4)3(LAGP) and the like, and can have excellent chemical stability and stability in air.
[0280] In the case of a polymer-based electrolyte, it may include polyethylene oxide (PEO), polyacrylonitrile (PAN) and the like, and can have excellent processability and flexibility.
[0281] Then, in the present embodiment, step (a1-1) may allow a shape memory polymer (SMP) having shape memory properties to be included in the solid electrolyte.
[0282] The shape memory polymer (SMP) has a property of changing its shape in response to temperature changes, through which the electrolyte part 130 itself can perform a smart electrolyte function whose properties automatically change with temperature changes.
[0283] The shape memory polymer (SMP) may be embodied in various forms such as polyurethane-based SMP, epoxy-based SMP, and polystyrene-based SMP, and each SMP may exhibit different transition temperatures and shape recovery properties.
[0284] Such a shape memory polymer (SMP) can simultaneously adjust the mechanical properties and ionic conductivity of the electrolyte part 130 in response to temperature changes generated during the charging and discharging process of the battery, and can be utilized for suppressing battery expansion and optimizing performance. In addition, the ionic conductivity of the shape memory polymer can be increased during charging to increase the charging speed, and the ion paths can be blocked during thermal runaway.
[0285] In step (a1-2), a positive electrode active material may be cast onto the first inner skin 110.
[0286] The first inner skin 110 may include carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP), glass fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP), metal composites and the like, and such materials can exhibit excellent mechanical strength and electrical properties.
[0287] Carbon fiber reinforced plastics (CFRP) offer a high strength-to-weight ratio and excellent electrical conductivity, while glass fiber reinforced plastics (GFRP) offer low cost and excellent insulation properties.
[0288] Furthermore, in addition to carbon fiber, a variety of other materials such as carbon paper, CNT paper, carbon felt, and carbon foam can be applied as carbon-based current collectors.
[0289] In the case of metal composites, metals such as aluminum, copper, and nickel can be included in the form of fibers or a matrix, and they can exhibit excellent electrical and thermal conductivity.
[0290] The positive electrode active material may include lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2), lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4), lithium manganese oxide (LiMn2O4), lithium nickel cobalt manganese oxide (NCM), lithium nickel cobalt aluminum oxide (NCA), etc.
[0291] Lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2) exhibits high energy density and stable charge / discharge characteristics, while lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) exhibits excellent safety and long lifespan characteristics.
[0292] Lithium manganese oxide (LiMn2O4) offers low cost and environmental friendliness, while lithium nickel cobalt manganese oxide (NCM) exhibits high capacity and excellent rate characteristics. Lithium nickel cobalt aluminum oxide (NCA) offers high energy density and a long lifespan.
[0293] During the casting process, conductive materials, binders, solvents, etc., may be used along with the positive electrode active material.
[0294] The conductive material may include acetylene black, Ketjen black, graphene, carbon nanotubes, and the like, and such a conductive material can assist electrical connection between positive electrode active materials and improve the electrical conductivity of the electrode.
[0295] The binder may include polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), and the like, and can perform the role of fixing the positive electrode active material and the conductive material to the first inner skin 110.
[0296] The solvent may include N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP), dimethylformamide (DMF), water, and the like, and can provide appropriate viscosity and fluidity during the casting process.
[0297] In step (a1-3), a negative electrode active material may be cast onto the second inner skin 120.
[0298] The second inner skin 120 may use the same material as the first inner skin 110, and may include carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP), glass fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP), metal composite materials, and the like.
[0299] At this time, the negative electrode active material may include graphite, hard carbon, silicon, silicon oxide, lithium metal, lithium titanate, and the like.
[0300] Graphite can exhibit excellent electrical conductivity and stable charge-discharge characteristics, and hard carbon can have high capacity and fast charge-discharge rates.
[0301] Silicon can have an extremely high theoretical capacity, but may undergo large volume changes during the charge-discharge process, and silicon oxide can exhibit more stable cycle characteristics compared to silicon.
[0302] While lithium metal can offer the highest theoretical capacity, it may have dendrite formation issues. Lithium titanate, on the other hand, is very safe and has a long lifespan.
[0303] Conductive materials and binders may also be used in the casting process of the negative electrode active material, and materials similar to those used for the positive electrode may be applied. However, in the case of the negative electrode, the electrochemical stability of the binder may be important due to the low operating potential, so a combination of carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) and styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) may be used.
[0304] Furthermore, in the case of the negative electrode, since lithium ion insertion and deinsertion occur, particle size and surface treatment can have a significant impact on performance. In lithium metal batteries, the process is driven by lithium plating and stripping, so surface uniformity of the lithium metal surface and surface treatment to suppress dendrite formation may be important.
[0305] Next, as shown in Figures 7 and 9, in step (a1-4), the first internal skin 110 can be installed so as to surround one side of the solid electrolyte.
[0306] Such (a1-4) steps can provide electrochemical connectivity and structural support by positioning the first internal skin 110 in contact with the solid electrolyte portion 130.
[0307] The first internal skin 110 can be positioned to maintain stable contact at the interface with the solid electrolyte portion 130, thereby ensuring the electrochemical performance and mechanical stability of the battery.
[0308] During the installation process of the first internal skin 110, various techniques can be applied to optimize the interfacial contact with the solid electrolyte portion 130.
[0309] In surface treatment technologies, interfacial adhesion can be improved through plasma treatment, chemical etching, mechanical roughening, etc. In the case of adhesive use, interfacial bonding can be strengthened by using electrochemically stable adhesives. In the crimping process, interfacial contact can be improved by applying appropriate pressure and temperature.
[0310] Since the contact pressure between the first internal skin 110 and the solid electrolyte portion 130 can directly affect the performance of the battery, it is possible to ensure a uniform pressure distribution during the installation process.
[0311] (a1-5) In this stage, the second internal skin 120 can be installed so as to surround the other side of the solid electrolyte section 130.
[0312] Such (a1-5) steps can provide electrochemical connectivity and structural support by positioning the second internal skin 120 in contact with the solid electrolyte portion 130.
[0313] The second internal skin 120 can be positioned to maintain stable contact at the interface with the solid electrolyte portion 130, thereby ensuring the electrochemical performance and mechanical stability of the battery.
[0314] The installation process for the second internal skin 120 can follow a procedure similar to that for the first internal skin 110, and it can be symmetrically positioned to evenly support the solid electrolyte portion 130 on both sides.
[0315] The installation order of the first internal skin 110 and the second internal skin 120 can be determined considering manufacturing efficiency and quality control, and generally they can be installed simultaneously on both sides of the solid electrolyte section 130 or installed sequentially.
[0316] After the installation of the first internal skin 110 and the second internal skin 120 is complete, the alignment and contact condition of the overall structure can be checked.
[0317] For alignment checks, the positional accuracy of each component can be confirmed using laser measuring instruments, coordinate measuring instruments, etc. For contact condition checks, the uniformity of interface contact can be evaluated through pressure-sensing films, ultrasonic testing, etc. For electrical connection condition checks, the electrochemical connection state can be confirmed through impedance measurement, resistance measurement, etc.
[0318] (a1-6) In this stage, multiple fixing pins can be installed to provide a fixing force in the thickness direction to prevent separation between the solid electrolyte, the first internal skin 110, and the second internal skin 120.
[0319] Fixing pins can prevent delamination and ensure overall structural stability, and can be implemented in a variety of materials and forms. The materials for fixing pins can include carbon fiber, metal wire, ceramic pins, polymer pins, etc., and each material can exhibit different mechanical properties and electrochemical stabilization.
[0320] In the case of ceramic pins, ceramic materials such as alumina and zirconia can be used, providing high insulation and chemical stability. In the case of polymer pins, high-performance polymers such as polyimide and polyetheretherketone (PEEK) can be used, offering excellent lightness and processability.
[0321] The fixing pin can be implemented in a variety of forms, such as linear, spiral, or annular, and each form can have different fixing forces and installation methods.
[0322] The placement of the fixing pins can be determined by considering the size, shape, and expected load of the solid electrolyte and internal skin. In the case of uniform placement, the fixing pins can be evenly distributed across the entire area, providing a uniform fixing force.
[0323] Furthermore, in the case of stress concentration locations, effective reinforcement can be provided by concentrating fixing pins in the areas where stress is expected to concentrate.
[0324] In the case of concentrated placement at corners, the fixing pins can be concentrated at corners where delamination is likely to begin, thereby preventing initial delamination.
[0325] On the other hand, in this embodiment, step (a1) allows the core 100 to be formed in a semi-cured state.
[0326] The semi-cured state allows the polymer matrix to partially harden, exhibiting deformation capabilities while maintaining a certain shape. This facilitates molding in subsequent processes and improves the accuracy of the final shape.
[0327] The degree of partial hardening can be controlled by adjusting the amount of hardener, curing temperature, curing time, etc., and can generally be set to a level that is a constant ratio to the hardness at the time of complete hardening.
[0328] At this stage, the control of the semi-cured state can be monitored through analytical techniques such as differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), and gel fraction measurement.
[0329] In differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), the degree of curing can be quantitatively evaluated by measuring the residual heat of curing. In dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), the progress of curing can be understood by measuring the changes in the storage modulus and loss modulus. In gel fraction measurement, the crosslinking density can be evaluated by measuring the ratio of polymers in gel form that do not dissolve in the solvent.
[0330] Furthermore, the formation of the semi-cured state of the core 100 can be achieved through a stepwise curing process.
[0331] In primary curing, initial curing can proceed at room temperature for a certain period of time, ensuring shape fixation and handling ease. In secondary curing, partial curing can proceed at an intermediate temperature to achieve a semi-cured state.
[0332] Final curing is carried out at a high temperature in a subsequent process to ensure complete mechanical properties.
[0333] Each detailed process in stage (a1) can determine the electrochemical performance and mechanical stability of the battery, including the structural pressure supply section 200, and optimal performance can be ensured through precise control and quality management of each process.
[0334] Figure 10 is a diagram that additionally shows a method applicable to steps (a1-4) and (a1-5) in a battery manufacturing method including a structural pressure supply unit 200 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
[0335] As shown in Figure 10, in this embodiment, the first internal skin 110 and the second internal skin 120 can be formed with a curved cross-section in the width direction so that deformation occurs in a direction that prevents separation from the solid electrolyte.
[0336] Such a curved shape can present an alternative configuration that can be applied in the process of installing the first internal skin 110 and the second internal skin 120 into the solid electrolyte section 130 in steps (a1-4) and (a1-5).
[0337] The curved shape of the first internal skin 110 can play a role in enhancing interfacial contact with the solid electrolyte portion 130 when it is positioned to surround one side of the solid electrolyte portion 130.
[0338] Such a curved cross-sectional shape may be formed to have curvature in the width direction and designed to deform in a direction that prevents the first internal skin 110 from separating from the solid electrolyte portion 130 when external loads or internal expansion occur.
[0339] The direction and magnitude of the curvature can be optimized considering the expected load conditions and expansion characteristics, thereby effectively suppressing interfacial delamination.
[0340] The curved shape of the second internal skin 120, when positioned opposite the first internal skin 110 and surrounding the other side of the solid electrolyte portion 130, ensures interfacial stability using the same principle.
[0341] The second internal skin 120 can have a curved shape symmetrical to the first internal skin 110, thereby evenly supporting the solid electrolyte portion 130 on both sides and maintaining stable interfacial contact.
[0342] Furthermore, the curved shape of the second internal skin 120 can disperse the stress generated during the charging and discharging process, thereby preventing localized stress concentration.
[0343] In designing curved shapes like this, the radius of curvature, direction of curvature, and degree of curvature can be considered as design variables. A smaller radius of curvature allows for more stable handling of larger deformations, but it can increase the difficulty of manufacturing.
[0344] The curvature direction can be determined by considering the expected load direction and expansion direction, and the degree of curvature can be set considering the required balance between flexibility and stiffness.
[0345] Through the optimization of these design variables, the curved shapes of the first internal skin 110 and the second internal skin 120 can simultaneously improve the mechanical rigidity and electrochemical performance of the battery.
[0346] Furthermore, the curved shapes of the first internal skin 110 and the second internal skin 120 can be realized through a variety of manufacturing processes.
[0347] In press forming, precise curvature can be achieved using a die, and in roll forming, continuous forming is possible, thus improving productivity. Furthermore, thermoforming is applicable when using thermoplastic materials, and it can easily realize complex shapes.
[0348] Furthermore, a molding method utilizing the fiber asymmetry of composite materials can be applied. This method leverages the anisotropic properties of the composite material to arrange fibers in an asymmetrical layering sequence, enabling the fabrication of curved composite material structures without the need for molds.
[0349] The anisotropy of composite materials stems from differences in thermal expansion coefficients, elastic moduli, and shrinkage rates depending on the fiber direction. These properties can be intentionally utilized to induce spontaneous deformation during the curing process. Specifically, by asymmetrically laminating prepregs with different fiber directions, the thermal and chemical shrinkage that occurs during the curing process will differ in each layer, creating an inherent curvature in the overall structure.
[0350] Such asymmetric lamination methods can be implemented in a variety of lamination sequences, each exhibiting a different radius of curvature and deformation pattern. Furthermore, by adjusting the lamination order and the thickness ratio of each layer, the desired curvature and shape can be precisely controlled, enabling the mass production of curved structures with consistent quality while reducing the cost of complex mold manufacturing.
[0351] Each molding method can exhibit different characteristics in terms of accuracy, uniformity, and productivity of curved shapes, and the appropriate method can be selected depending on the battery's required specifications and production conditions.
[0352] Furthermore, the curved first internal skin 110 and second internal skin 120 can provide the effect of increasing the contact area with the solid electrolyte portion 130.
[0353] Compared to planar shapes, curved shapes can secure a larger contact area, thereby improving interfacial adhesion and electrical contact resistance. Furthermore, curved shapes provide a stress distribution effect, mitigating stress concentration at the interface, which can improve durability against fatigue stress generated during repeated charge-discharge processes.
[0354] Similarly, the curved first internal skin 110 and second internal skin 120 in this embodiment can be embodied in a variety of materials such as carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP), glass fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP), and metal composites. Each material can exhibit different mechanical properties and moldability, and a material suitable for embodying the curved shape can be selected.
[0355] Furthermore, the curved shape of the first internal skin 110 and the second internal skin 120 can improve adaptability to the expansion of the solid electrolyte portion 130. When the solid electrolyte portion 130 expands during the charge-discharge process, the curved shape can provide a margin that allows for the maintenance of interfacial contact while accommodating such expansion. Through this, interfacial separation and stress concentration due to expansion can be prevented, thereby improving the battery's lifespan and performance.
[0356] In other words, Figure 10 shows an alternative configuration in which the first internal skin 110 and the second internal skin 120 are formed in a curved shape to ensure interfacial stability with the solid electrolyte portion 130, and presents an additional technical solution applicable in steps (a1-4) and (a1-5).
[0357] Figures 11 and 12 are diagrams showing the process of carrying out step (a1.1) and the resulting core 100 in a method for manufacturing a battery including a structural pressure supply section 200 according to a first embodiment of the present invention.
[0358] As shown in Figure 11, in this embodiment, step (a1.1) is a step in which the core 100 is formed into a predetermined repetitive bending shape to form a mounting space 101 equipped with a structural pressure supply portion 200, and is a molding process that embodies the structural design of the battery.
[0359] For this purpose, in this embodiment, step (a1.1) allows the core 100 to be pressed through a roller unit R on which a processing pattern is formed on its outer surface to form a preset repetitive bending shape.
[0360] The roller unit R can perform precise shaping by applying repetitive and constant pressure to the surface of the core 100, thereby realizing a bent structure of uniform quality.
[0361] The processing pattern formed on the outer surface of the roller unit R can be designed in various ways depending on the target bending shape.
[0362] In the case of a hexagonal pattern, a form similar to a honeycomb structure can provide high structural rigidity and efficient use of space. In the case of a circular pattern, stress concentration can be minimized and uniform load distribution can be achieved. In the case of a triangular pattern, high geometric stability can be provided and rigidity in a specific direction can be maximized.
[0363] Each pattern can exhibit different mechanical and molding properties, allowing for the selection of the optimal pattern depending on the battery's intended use and required performance.
[0364] The pressurizing conditions of the roller unit R can be precisely controlled by the material properties and target shape of the core 100.
[0365] The magnitude of the applied pressure is a crucial variable that determines the degree of deformation and shape accuracy of the core 100. Excessive pressure can cause material damage, while insufficient pressure can lead to incomplete molding. The pressing speed can directly affect molding quality and production efficiency, and temperature conditions can influence the semi-cured state and moldability of the core 100. Through the optimization of these process parameters, it is possible to achieve consistently high-quality iterative bending shapes.
[0366] Furthermore, the repetitive bending shape formed in step (a1.1) can perform the role of providing a mounting space 101 in which the structural pressure-providing portion 200 can be effectively installed.
[0367] The size and shape of the mounting space 101 can be adjusted according to the type and characteristics of the structural pressure-providing part 200, and can be designed to accommodate various forms of structural pressure-providing parts 200, such as volumetric expansion foam, shape memory material, and elastic material.
[0368] Furthermore, the mounting space 101 can be formed to allow for effective contact and transmission of pressure between the structural pressure-providing portion 200 and the core 100.
[0369] Figure 12 shows the state in which the core 100 formed as a result of the execution of step (a1.1) in this embodiment has been processed into a repeatedly bending shape to form the mounting space 101.
[0370] In this embodiment, a honeycomb structure is used as an example. Such a honeycomb shape is composed of a repeating hexagonal pattern and can provide excellent mechanical properties. The honeycomb structure is an efficient structural form found in nature and has the characteristic of achieving maximum rigidity with minimal material, thereby simultaneously ensuring weight reduction and structural stability of the battery.
[0371] As described above, the honeycomb-shaped core 100 is composed of a repeating hexagonal pattern, but the core 100 can be processed into a cut honeycomb shape during the manufacturing process using the roller unit R.
[0372] These cut honeycomb-shaped cores 100 can then be attached to each other to form a perfect hexagon. During the attachment process, the joint surfaces of each cut core 100 can interlock precisely to ensure structural integrity, and various methods such as adhesives, welding, and mechanical bonding can be applied to improve the strength and durability of the joint.
[0373] Such a perfectly hexagonal core 100 increases the mechanical rigidity of the battery, allows for efficient use of internal space, and provides a stable base for forming the mounting space 101 for the structural pressure-providing portion 200.
[0374] However, the honeycomb-shaped core 100 can be realized in a variety of ways and is not necessarily limited to the method described in this embodiment. For example, the core 100 does not have to be a perfect honeycomb shape; a cut honeycomb shape may be used as is, or a method may be used in which the cut honeycomb-shaped core is folded based on predetermined parts and bonded together.
[0375] The honeycomb-shaped cells form a mounting space 101, which can provide space to accommodate the structural pressure-providing section 200. The size and shape of each cell can be adjusted according to the type of structural pressure-providing section 200 and the required pressure, and the hexagonal geometric properties enable uniform stress distribution and efficient space utilization.
[0376] Furthermore, the honeycomb-structured wall surface can effectively transmit the pressurizing force transmitted from the structural pressure supply section 200 to the electrolyte section 130.
[0377] Furthermore, the thickness of the honeycomb-shaped walls can be designed considering the balance between structural rigidity and the capacity of the electrolyte section 130. As the wall thickness increases, mechanical rigidity improves, but the effective volume of the electrolyte section 130 may decrease. Conversely, as the wall thickness decreases, the capacity of the electrolyte section 130 increases, but structural stability may decrease. Therefore, the optimal wall thickness can be determined by the intended use and performance requirements of the battery.
[0378] In this embodiment, the honeycomb pattern can be varied by designing the pattern of the roller unit R and adjusting the pressure conditions, and can be optimized to meet the battery's performance requirements.
[0379] However, in addition to hexagons, repeating patterns of various geometric shapes such as circles, triangles, and squares can be applied, and each shape can exhibit different mechanical and manufacturing properties. Furthermore, through hybrid patterns, cells of different shapes can be combined to impart customized properties to specific parts. In addition, shapes such as hexagons and circles can be optimized according to the load distribution through density gradients.
[0380] On the other hand, as mentioned above, the semi-cured state of the material during the molding process of core 100 can affect the molding quality. In the semi-cured state, the material has both appropriate fluidity and shape retention ability, so precise molding is possible while preventing shape distortion.
[0381] After molding by this process, post-hardening is carried out through step (a1.2) to ensure the final mechanical properties, thereby achieving the structural stability necessary for the installation and operation of the structural pressure supply unit 200.
[0382] (a1.2) The (a1.2) stage is a post-curing stage of the core 100, which is a curing process that determines the final shape and mechanical properties of the molded core 100.
[0383] During the post-curing process, heat treatment and curing may be performed to improve the structural stability and durability of the core 100. Such a process can enhance the quality of the manufacturing process, prevent deformation of the core 100, and maintain the electrochemical and mechanical properties of the battery.
[0384] Post-curing conditions can include parameters such as curing temperature, time, and pressure, and these can be optimized to adjust the physical properties of the core 100.
[0385] Furthermore, the core 100 prevents deformation in subsequent processes during the post-curing process, ensuring the structural stability necessary for the installation and operation of the structural pressure supply unit 200.
[0386] Figure 13 is a diagram showing the process of carrying out step (a2) in a method for manufacturing a battery including a structural pressure supply unit 200 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
[0387] As shown in Figure 13, in this embodiment, step (a2) is the step of installing a structural pressure-providing part 200 that generates a mechanically supported pressure on the core 100 by bringing it into contact with the core 100, and this demonstrates the process of realizing the battery expansion suppression function.
[0388] In this (a2) stage, a structure can be formed in which the structural pressure-providing portion 200 is positioned in the mounting space 101 of the core 100 and can transmit pressurizing force by directly or indirectly contacting the electrolyte portion 130.
[0389] In this embodiment, the structural pressure-providing portion 200 can be stably installed in a mounting space 101 formed by the repeated bending shape of the core 100, and such mounting space 101 can be processed in a form optimized for the type and characteristics of the structural pressure-providing portion 200.
[0390] As mentioned above, the size and shape of the mounting space 101 can be realized in various geometric shapes such as hexagons, circles, and triangles, and each shape can determine the contact area with the structural pressure-providing part 200 and the pressure transmission efficiency.
[0391] Furthermore, the structural pressure-providing unit 200 installed in stage (a2) can be realized through a variety of mechanisms.
[0392] In the case of a structural pressure-providing unit 200 using volumetric expansion foam, it can include urethane foam, epoxy foam, phenolic foam, etc., and can exhibit the characteristic of maintaining a constant pressure while charging the mounting space 101 through chemical reactions or physical expansion after initial installation.
[0393] Such a volume-expanding foam can uniformly fill the space around the electrolyte portion 130 during the expansion process, forming a constant pressure distribution, and can provide a corresponding repulsive force when the core 100 expands.
[0394] In the case of a structural pressure-providing section 200 using a shape memory material, pressure can be applied to the core 100 by changing its shape in response to the temperature rise of the electrolyte section 130.
[0395] Such shape memory materials can be heat-treated so that the appropriate pressure corresponding to each temperature range of the electrolyte section 130 is calculated in advance, and the material deforms in response to temperature changes in the electrolyte section 130, allowing the pressure to be adjusted. The temperature-shape relationship of the shape memory material can be programmed considering the battery operating conditions and the thermal properties of the electrolyte section 130, thereby enabling automatic pressure control.
[0396] In the case of a structural pressure-providing part 200 that utilizes an elastic material, it is formed to have an elastic restoring force and can provide a repulsive force by being compressed and deformed by the expansion of the core 100.
[0397] Such elastic materials can include silicon, rubber, and elastic polymers, and each material can exhibit different elastic moduli and compressive properties.
[0398] Furthermore, the elastic body may include an elastic module that provides a repulsive force through mechanical deformation during compression, and such an elastic module can be embodied in the form of a spring, bellows, diaphragm, or the like.
[0399] However, elastic modules can be realized in a variety of forms and are not limited to these forms.
[0400] On the other hand, in stage (a2), the installation method and position of the structural pressure supply unit 200 can directly affect the performance of the battery, so precise placement and fixing can be performed.
[0401] The structural pressure-providing section 200 can be positioned to form a uniform pressure distribution at its contact surface with the core 100, thereby preventing localized stress concentration and improving the pressurizing effect on the electrolyte section 130. Furthermore, during the installation process of the structural pressure-providing section 200, it is possible to enable effective pressure transfer while maintaining the structural integrity of the core 100.
[0402] After the structural pressure supply unit 200 has been installed, the mechanical stability and electrochemical performance of the entire system can be verified. The installed structural pressure supply unit 200 can operate as an automatic pressurizing system in response to the expansion of the core 100, thereby maintaining stable performance even during repeated charge and discharge processes over a long period of time.
[0403] Furthermore, the structural pressure-providing unit 200 can operate as a passive system that directly responds to physical changes in the electrolyte unit 130 to provide pressure without external control signals or energy supply, thus ensuring the simplicity and reliability of the system.
[0404] Through the above (a2) step, the core 100 on which the structural pressure supply section 200 is installed can perform the role of a base structure for the installation of the rigid reinforcement material 250 in the subsequent (a3) step, and the battery can simultaneously ensure the suppression of expansion of the core 100 and structural stability.
[0405] Figure 14 is a diagram showing the detailed steps of step (a3) in a method for manufacturing a battery including a structural pressure supply unit 200 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
[0406] Figure 15 is a diagram showing the process of carrying out step (a3) in a battery manufacturing method including a structural pressure supply unit 200 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
[0407] As shown in Figures 14 and 15, in this embodiment, step (a3) is the step of installing rigid reinforcing material 250 on the outside of the core 100 and the structural pressure supply section 200, and is a finishing step that ensures the overall structural completeness of the battery.
[0408] In this embodiment, step (a3) may include the steps of (a3-1) positioning the first external skin 260 on one side of the core 100 and the structural pressure-providing portion 200, and (a3-2) positioning the second external skin 270 on the other side of the core 100 and the structural pressure-providing portion 200 so as to face the first external skin 260.
[0409] The rigid reinforcement material 250 can be composed of a variety of materials, such as carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP), glass fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP), and metal composites, and each material can exhibit different mechanical and weight properties.
[0410] Carbon fiber reinforced plastics (CFRP) offer high rigidity and lightweight properties, while glass fiber reinforced plastics (GFRP) provide adequate rigidity while being relatively economical. Metal composites offer excellent electrical and thermal conductivity and are easy to process into complex shapes.
[0411] However, the rigid reinforcing material 250 can be realized in a variety of forms and is not limited to these forms.
[0412] As shown in Figure 15, in this embodiment, the first outer skin 260 and the second outer skin 270 can be stacked in the thickness direction of the electrolyte portion 130 and arranged to surround the outside of the core 100 and the structural pressure-providing portion 200.
[0413] This thickness-direction stacking method can maximize the direct pressurizing effect on the battery and effectively suppress the expansion of the core 100.
[0414] In other words, in the thickness-direction lamination method, the first outer skin 260 and the second outer skin 270 are arranged in the vertical direction of the electrolyte portion 130, allowing compressive force to be directly transmitted, and through this, a synergistic effect can be achieved together with the structural pressure-providing portion 200.
[0415] Furthermore, in the thickness-direction lamination method, the bonding force between the first outer skin 260 and the second outer skin 270 can directly affect the battery's performance, so appropriate adhesives or mechanical bonding methods may be applied.
[0416] When using adhesives, electrochemically stable adhesives can be selected to avoid adversely affecting battery performance, and when using mechanical fastening methods, fastening elements such as bolts, rivets, and clamps can be utilized.
[0417] Furthermore, in thickness-direction lamination, the thickness and rigidity of the first outer skin 260 and the second outer skin 270 can be variables that determine the pressurizing effect, allowing for appropriate design according to the required pressurizing force.
[0418] Figure 16 is a diagram that additionally shows a method applicable to the process of step (a3) in a method for manufacturing a battery including a structural pressure supply unit 200 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
[0419] As shown in Figure 16, in this embodiment, another applicable method of step (a3) may be applied, in which the first outer skin 260 and the second outer skin 270 are stacked in the width direction of the electrolyte portion 130 and arranged to surround the outside of the core 100 and the structural pressure providing portion 200.
[0420] This type of widthwise stacking method can adjust the overall stiffness distribution of the battery, improving its resistance to torsion and bending.
[0421] In other words, in the widthwise lamination method, the first outer skin 260 and the second outer skin 270 are arranged in the left-right direction of the electrolyte portion 130, and can play a role in ensuring overall structural rigidity.
[0422] The widthwise stacking method can be particularly useful for large or long batteries, and may be advantageous in ensuring the overall morphological stability of the battery.
[0423] Furthermore, stacking in the width direction facilitates the modularization of batteries and the connection and support of adjacent batteries when they are configured in a pack, thereby improving structural stability at the system level.
[0424] In widthwise stacking, the distance between the first outer skin 260 and the second outer skin 270 can be more influenced by structural rigidity than by the pressure effect; therefore, appropriate spacing and coupling methods can be selected depending on the intended use of the battery and the required performance characteristics.
[0425] Thus, differences in stacking direction can have different effects on the battery's pressurized and mechanical properties. Therefore, an appropriate stacking direction can be selected depending on the battery's operating environment and required performance, and a hybrid structure combining both methods may be applied if necessary.
[0426] In this embodiment, the structural characteristics of the battery can be adjusted through such diverse stacking methods, and optimal performance can be achieved through the combination of the structural pressure supply section 200 and the rigid reinforcing material 250.
[0427] (a3) After the completion of this stage, the mechanical stability and electrochemical performance of the entire battery system can be comprehensively verified, thereby completing the manufacture of a high-performance structural battery.
[0428] The above describes specific embodiments of a battery including a structural pressure-providing unit and its manufacturing method. Below, we will describe specific embodiments of a battery including an active pressure-providing unit and its manufacturing method.
[0429] Figure 17 is a diagram showing a battery including an active pressure supply unit 300 according to a second embodiment of the present invention.
[0430] As shown in Figure 17, in this embodiment, the battery including the active pressure supply unit 300 may include a core 100, an active pressure supply unit 300, a heat generation unit 310, an expansion sensing unit 330, a pressure control unit 320, and a rigid reinforcing member 350.
[0431] The core 100 includes a first internal skin 110, a second internal skin 120, and an electrolyte section 130, and can perform the role of a basic structure for a battery that performs electrochemical energy storage and release functions.
[0432] The first internal skin 110 is arranged to surround one side of the electrolyte portion 130 and can be formed by casting a positive electrode active material as the positive electrode.
[0433] The second internal skin 120 is positioned opposite the first internal skin 110 and surrounds the other side of the electrolyte portion 130, and can be formed by casting a negative electrode active material as the negative electrode.
[0434] The electrolyte section 130 acts as a mediator that electrically connects the positive electrode and the negative electrode, and can provide a path for ion movement during the charging and discharging process.
[0435] In this embodiment, the electrolyte portion 130 can include a solid electrolyte, providing improved safety and structural stability compared to a liquid electrolyte. Furthermore, the electrolyte portion 130 can include a shape memory polymer (SMP) having shape memory properties, thereby enabling a smart electrolyte function in which properties automatically change in response to temperature changes.
[0436] The core 100 can be processed into a predetermined repetitive bending shape so as to form a mounting space 101 equipped with an active pressure supply section 300.
[0437] Such repetitive bending shapes can be embodied in a variety of geometric forms, such as hexagons, circles, and triangles, and each shape can exhibit different mechanical properties and expansion resistance.
[0438] The mounting space 101 can be precisely formed so that the active pressure supply unit 300 can be stably positioned and effectively transmit the pressurizing force.
[0439] The active pressure-providing unit 300 is a component that provides pressure to the core 100 by changing its characteristics in response to a control signal generated based on a sensing signal received from the expansion sensing unit. It can actively react to external control and provide a variable level of pressure appropriate to the expansion state of the core 100.
[0440] In this embodiment, the active pressure-providing unit 300 can be realized based on a variety of active drive mechanisms such as shape memory materials, electroactive polymers, piezoelectric actuators, and electromagnetic actuators, and each mechanism can provide pressure through different principles and characteristics.
[0441] In this embodiment, an active pressure-providing unit 300 utilizing a shape-memory material was applied.
[0442] In the case of an active pressure-providing unit 300 using a shape memory material, the shape changes in response to temperature changes in the electrolyte unit 130, thereby providing pressure to the core 100, and the shape change can be actively induced by a control signal.
[0443] In such cases, the heat generation unit 310 is internally designed to be part of the active pressure supply unit 300, and can convert electrical energy into thermal energy via a control signal to induce deformation of the shape memory material.
[0444] For example, the heat generating unit 310 can be formed in the form of a wire, and can provide the necessary temperature to the shape memory material using the Joule heating principle. The heat generating unit 310 can be dispersed inside the shape memory material to form a uniform temperature distribution, and precise temperature control can be achieved by adjusting the magnitude and duration of the control signal.
[0445] In addition, in the case of the active pressure-providing unit 300 that utilizes an electroactive polymer, it is possible to use a polymer material whose size and shape change when an electric field is applied, and the amount of deformation and the pressing force can be precisely controlled by adjusting the magnitude and direction of the applied voltage.
[0446] Furthermore, in the case of an active pressure-providing unit 300 utilizing an elastic material, it is formed to have an elastic restoring force and is compressively deformed in response to the expansion of the core 100, thereby providing a repulsive force through a control signal.
[0447] The expansion sensing unit 330 is a sensor system that senses the expansion state of the core 100 in real time, and can quantitatively measure the physical changes of the electrolyte unit 130, convert this into an electrical signal, and transmit it to the pressurization control unit 320.
[0448] The expansion sensing unit 330 can be implemented based on various sensor technologies such as deformation sensing sensors, pressure sensors, temperature sensors, and displacement sensors, and each sensor can be distributed at various locations in the electrolyte unit 130 to individually sense the expansion state of different parts.
[0449] In the case of a deformation-sensing sensor, it can be implemented as a fibrous sensor, and the degree of expansion can be calculated in real time by measuring the change in resistance due to the deformation of the electrolyte portion 130.
[0450] In the case of a temperature sensor, it can be implemented as a thermocouple, thermistor, infrared sensor, etc., and the expansion state can be indirectly estimated by measuring the temperature change of the core 10.
[0451] The expansion sensing unit 330 may be composed of a combination of multiple sensors, thereby improving measurement accuracy and providing a backup function against sensor errors.
[0452] The pressurization control unit 320 is a control system that processes a sensing signal received from the expansion sensing unit and generates control signals to be transmitted to the active pressurization supply unit 300 and the heat generation unit 310, and may include a microprocessor, a digital signal processor, analog circuits, etc.
[0453] Furthermore, the pressurization control unit 320 can analyze the expansion state of the core 100 and control the active pressurization supply unit 300 to provide the optimal pressurizing force, and can optimize the system performance by applying various control algorithms.
[0454] Furthermore, the pressurization control unit 320 can work in conjunction with the battery management system (BMS) to perform integrated control that takes into account the overall state information of the battery.
[0455] Furthermore, the active pressure supply unit 300 of the present invention can actively respond to dynamic expansion characteristics due to charge and discharge speed. Specifically, the pressure control unit 320 can perform adaptive pressure control based on real-time sensing information from the expansion sensing unit 330 in response to rapid expansion changes that occur during high-speed charge and discharge, and to non-uniform pressure distribution due to the formation of dendrites in lithium metal batteries. Through this, the structural stability of the electrolyte unit 130 can be maintained even when the charge and discharge speed increases, the progression of degradation can be suppressed, and the battery life and performance can be improved.
[0456] In particular, when a local pressure imbalance due to dendrite formation is detected in a lithium metal battery, the pressurization control unit 320 can control the active pressurization supply unit 300 to selectively increase the pressurization in the affected area. This can suppress dendrite growth and improve the uniformity of lithium deposition.
[0457] Furthermore, the active pressure supply unit 300 of the present invention can adaptively respond to structural deformation caused by external loads. When a structural battery is applied to an actual application field, external loads due to various causes may be applied, which can cause deformation of the overall structure of the battery, and such deformation can change the pressure distribution and strength of the electrolyte unit 130.
[0458] Therefore, the expansion sensing unit 330 of this embodiment can sense structural deformation due to external load in real time, and the information sensed at this time may include not only the expansion of the electrolyte unit 130, but also complex deformation states such as compression, tension, shear, and torsion due to the external load. The pressurization control unit 320 can analyze such complex deformation information to understand the direction and magnitude of the external load and control the active pressurization supply unit 300 so that the optimal pressurizing force is provided to the electrolyte unit 130 even under deformed structural conditions.
[0459] For example, if an external compressive load is applied and the battery structure is compressed and deformed, the existing pressurizing force may become excessive. In such cases, the pressurizing control unit 320 can reduce the output of the active pressurizing force supply unit 300 to maintain an appropriate pressurizing force on the electrolyte unit 130. Conversely, if a tensile load is applied and the structure stretches, the pressurizing force may become insufficient, so the output can be increased to compensate.
[0460] Through this type of external load adaptive control, the structural battery of the present invention can maintain consistent electrochemical performance even in diverse mechanical environments, ensuring both structural stability and battery performance simultaneously. Furthermore, by monitoring external load conditions at a system level and performing predictive control through linkage with the BMS, the durability and reliability of the structural battery can be improved.
[0461] The rigid reinforcement material 350 is provided to surround the outside of the core 100 and the active pressure supply section 300, and can perform a role in improving the overall structural stability and mechanical rigidity of the battery.
[0462] The rigid reinforcement material 350 can include carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP), glass fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP), metal composites, etc., and each material can exhibit different mechanical and weight properties from one another.
[0463] The rigid reinforcement member 350 may consist of a first outer skin 360 and a second outer skin 370, the first outer skin 360 being arranged to surround one side of the core 100 and the active pressure-providing section 300, and the second outer skin 370 being arranged opposite the first outer skin 360 to surround the other side of the core 100 and the active pressure-providing section 300.
[0464] Thus, in this embodiment, the battery including the active pressurizing unit 300 incorporates an intelligent pressurizing system that can actively suppress expansion in response to the state of the electrolyte unit 130, which changes in real time. Through this, it can adaptively respond to a variety of operating conditions and environmental changes.
[0465] The active pressure-providing unit 300 can precisely adjust the pressure according to the degree of expansion of the core 100, thereby providing sufficient pressure to improve the expansion suppression effect while preventing damage to the electrolyte unit 130 due to excessive pressure.
[0466] Figure 18 is a diagram showing each step of a method for manufacturing a battery including an active pressure supply unit 300 according to a second embodiment of the present invention.
[0467] As illustrated in Figure 18, the battery manufacturing method in this embodiment, which includes the active pressure supply unit 300, can sequentially include steps (b1), (b2), (b3), (b4), (b5), (b6), and (b7), each of which has a specific function and purpose in the battery manufacturing process, and precise control and quality management can be performed at each stage.
[0468] (b1) The (b1) step is the process of electrically connecting the positive electrode and the negative electrode with the electrolyte section 130 to fabricate the core 100, and is the process of forming the basic structure to simultaneously ensure the electrochemical performance and mechanical stability of the battery.
[0469] In this (b1) stage, a solid electrolyte is formed as the electrolyte portion 130, a positive electrode active material and a negative electrode active material are cast into the first internal skin 110 and the second internal skin 120 respectively, and these can be assembled with the solid electrolyte to form an electrochemically connected core 100.
[0470] (b1) The core 100 can be formed in a semi-cured state, thereby facilitating molding operations in subsequent processes and improving the accuracy of the final shape.
[0471] (b1.1) The (b1.1) step is a molding process that embodies the structural design of the battery, in which the core 100 is formed into a predetermined repetitive bending shape to form a mounting space 101 equipped with an active pressure supply section 300.
[0472] In this (b1.1) stage, the core 100 can be pressed through a roller unit R on which a processing pattern is formed on its outer surface to form a preset repetitive bending shape, and various forms of bending structures can be realized by adjusting the design of the pattern of the roller unit R and the pressing conditions.
[0473] (b1.2) The (b1.2) step is a post-curing step of the core 100, which is a curing process that determines the final shape and mechanical properties of the molded core 100. Through the post-curing process, the core 100 can ensure structural stability and prevent deformation in subsequent processes, and the required mechanical properties can be achieved through optimization of the curing conditions.
[0474] (b2) The step involves installing an expansion sensing unit 330 that senses the expansion state of the core 100, and is part of the process of constructing a real-time monitoring system for the battery.
[0475] In this (b2) stage, the system can be configured to place the expansion sensing unit 330 inside or outside the battery to quantitatively measure the physical changes in the electrolyte unit 130 and convert them into an electrical signal.
[0476] The expansion sensing unit 330 can be implemented based on various sensor technologies such as deformation sensing sensors, pressure sensors, temperature sensors, and displacement sensors, and can be distributed and arranged at different locations on the electrolyte unit 130 to individually sense the expansion state of each part.
[0477] (b3) The step is to install the active pressurizing unit 300, whose characteristics change based on a control signal generated from the expansion sensing unit 330, by bringing it into contact with the core 100, and is a process of realizing the active pressurizing system.
[0478] In this (b3) stage, the active pressure supply unit 300 can be arranged to provide a variable level of pressure appropriate to the expansion state of the core 100.
[0479] The active pressure-providing unit 300 can be implemented based on a variety of active drive mechanisms, such as shape memory materials, electroactive polymers, piezoelectric actuators, and electromagnetic actuators. In the case of the shape memory material applied to this embodiment, the heat generation unit 310 can be internally designed to induce active shape changes by control signals.
[0480] (b4) The (b4) step is to electrically connect the expansion sensing unit 330 and the active pressure supply unit 300, and is a process of constructing an integrated system capable of transmitting sensing signals and generating control signals.
[0481] In this (b4) stage, the expansion information of the core 100 measured by the expansion sensing unit 330 is transmitted to the active pressure supply unit 300, and an electrical connection is made so that real-time pressurization control is possible. At this time, appropriate wiring design and shielding treatment may be applied to the electrical connection to ensure the accuracy and stability of signal transmission.
[0482] (b5) The step involves installing rigid reinforcement material 350 on the outside of the core 100 and the active pressure supply section 300, thereby ensuring the overall structural completeness of the battery.
[0483] In this (b5) stage, the first external skin 360 and the second external skin 370 are arranged, and the optimal configuration can be realized by considering the performance characteristics depending on the stacking direction.
[0484] The rigid reinforcement material 350 can include carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP), glass fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP), metal composite materials, etc., and can play a role in improving the mechanical rigidity and durability of the battery.
[0485] (b6) The step involves electrically connecting the pressure control unit 320, which processes the sensing signal from the expansion sensing unit 330 and generates a control signal, to the expansion sensing unit 330 and the active pressure supply unit 300.
[0486] In this (b6) stage, the system can be configured such that the pressurization control unit 320 analyzes the sensing signal received from the expansion sensing unit 330, generates an optimal control signal based on the expansion state of the core 100, and transmits it to the active pressurization supply unit 300.
[0487] The pressurization control unit 320 may include a microprocessor, a digital signal processor, analog circuits, etc., and various control algorithms can be applied to optimize the system's performance.
[0488] (b7) The step involves linking the pressurization control unit 320 with the battery management system (BMS), which enables integrated control that takes into account the overall state information of the battery.
[0489] In this (b7) stage, an interlocking system can be constructed so that the pressurization control unit 320 can receive various information from the battery management system (BMS), such as the temperature, charge / discharge state, and voltage of the electrolyte unit 130, and reflect this information in the generation of control signals. Through interlocking with the battery management system (BMS), it may be possible to optimize the overall performance and ensure the safety of the battery.
[0490] Through this manufacturing method, the battery, including the active pressurizing unit 300, incorporates an intelligent pressurizing system that can actively suppress expansion in response to the real-time changing state of the electrolyte unit 130, thereby enabling it to adaptively respond to diverse operating conditions and environmental changes.
[0491] Furthermore, systematic management at each stage of the manufacturing process ensures high quality and consistency, leading to extended battery life and improved performance.
[0492] Figure 19 is a diagram showing the detailed steps of step (b1) in a method for manufacturing a battery including an active pressure supply unit 300 according to a second embodiment of the present invention.
[0493] As shown in Figure 19, in this embodiment, step (b1) is a step in which the positive electrode and negative electrode are electrically connected to the electrolyte portion 130 to produce the core 100, and may include steps (b1-1), (b1-2), (b1-3), (b1-4), (b1-5), and (b1-6).
[0494] Such (b1) stage is a basic structure formation process for simultaneously ensuring the electrochemical performance and mechanical stability of the battery, including the active pressure supply unit 300, and unlike the structural pressure supply unit 200 of the first embodiment, it is possible to form a core 100 structure that takes into account the interoperability with the active pressure supply unit 300 which will be installed in a subsequent stage.
[0495] (b1-1) In step (b1-1), a solid electrolyte can be formed as the electrolyte portion 130. In this embodiment, the solid electrolyte can be classified as ceramic electrolyte, sulfide electrolyte, oxide electrolyte, polymer electrolyte, etc., as in the first embodiment, and each solid electrolyte can exhibit different ionic conductivity, mechanical strength, thermal stability, and electrochemical stability.
[0496] Furthermore, step (b1-1) allows for the inclusion of a shape memory polymer (SMP) having shape memory properties in the solid electrolyte, thereby enabling the electrolyte portion 130 itself to perform a smart electrolyte function in which its properties automatically change in response to temperature changes.
[0497] In this embodiment, the solid electrolyte containing the shape memory polymer (SMP) can achieve even more precise expansion control through the coordinated action of the expansion sensing unit 330 and the active pressure supply unit 300, which are installed in subsequent steps.
[0498] Shape memory polymers (SMPs) can be realized in various forms, such as polyurethane-based SMPs, epoxy-based SMPs, and polystyrene-based SMPs, and each SMP can exhibit different transition temperatures and shape recovery properties.
[0499] Such shape memory polymers (SMPs) can simultaneously adjust the mechanical properties and ionic conductivity of the electrolyte portion 130 in response to temperature changes that occur during the battery's charging and discharging process, and can perform more precise pressure control in conjunction with the control signal of the active pressure supply unit 300.
[0500] In particular, shape memory polymer electrolytes can be manufactured based on porous shape memory polymers, and such porous structures can be actively controlled by external factors such as temperature, electric field, and mechanical stress. Changes in porosity can simultaneously alter ionic conductivity and mechanical properties by regulating ion transport pathways and pore size distribution within the electrolyte.
[0501] Specifically, increased porosity can expand effective pathways for ion transfer, potentially improving ionic conductivity, while decreased porosity can increase mechanical rigidity, strengthening the expansion-suppressing effect.
[0502] Through this porous control mechanism, the shape memory polymer electrolyte can dynamically adjust to the optimal performance balance point according to the battery operating conditions, and through coordinated control with the active pressure supply unit 300, the electrochemical performance and mechanical stability of the electrolyte unit 130 can be simultaneously optimized.
[0503] Furthermore, solid electrolytes utilizing shape memory polymers (SMPs) as a matrix can be used to construct smart reaction systems. Such systems can support both passive and active control, maximizing battery safety and performance.
[0504] Specifically, in a passive control system, the temperature change pattern that occurs during the charging process can be measured and analyzed in advance, and the shape memory polymer can be programmed accordingly.
[0505] For example, the transition temperature and porosity change profile of the shape memory polymer can be set according to the temperature rise curve during normal charging, allowing the charging speed to be automatically optimized. Through this, the battery can regulate its own charging speed to prevent overheating and ensure safe charging without the need for separate external control.
[0506] Furthermore, in the active control system, the expansion sensing unit 330, temperature sensor, and BMS (Battery Management System) work together to monitor the battery status in real time and determine thermal runaway or other abnormal conditions. When an abnormal condition is detected, an active thermal stimulus is provided to the shape memory polymer via the pressure control unit 320, enabling immediate response.
[0507] For example, when the initial stage of thermal runaway is detected, a specific temperature can be applied to the shape memory polymer through the heat generation unit 310 to rapidly reduce its porosity and block the ion pathway, thereby suppressing the electrochemical reaction. In addition, in the case of overcharging or over-discharging, the porosity of the shape memory polymer can be adjusted to limit ion conductivity, thereby switching the battery to a protection mode.
[0508] (b1-2) In this stage, the positive electrode active material can be cast into the first internal skin 110. The first internal skin 110 may include carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP), glass fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP), metal composite, etc., as in the first embodiment, and a design that takes into account electrical connection with the active pressure supply unit 300 may be applied.
[0509] In this embodiment, since the expansion sensing unit 330 is installed in a subsequent stage, compatibility with the fibrous sensor and temperature sensor of the expansion sensing unit 330 can be considered when selecting the structure and material of the first internal skin 110.
[0510] The positive electrode active material may include lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2), lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4), lithium manganese oxide (LiMn2O4), lithium nickel cobalt manganese oxide (NCM), lithium nickel cobalt aluminum oxide (NCA), etc.
[0511] In the casting process, conductive materials, binders, solvents, etc., may be used along with the positive electrode active material, and these components can be the same materials as in the first embodiment.
[0512] However, in this embodiment, considering the thermal interaction between the active pressure supply unit 300 and the heat generation unit 310, it may be preferable to select a material with excellent thermal stability.
[0513] (b1-3) In this stage, the negative electrode active material can be cast into the second internal skin 120. The second internal skin 120 can be made of the same material as the first internal skin 110, and a structural design that takes into account system integration with the active pressure supply unit 300 can be applied.
[0514] The negative electrode active material can include graphite, hard carbon, silicon, silicon oxide, lithium metal, lithium titanate, etc., and each negative electrode active material can exhibit different capacities and cycle characteristics.
[0515] In this embodiment, precise pressure control is possible using the active pressure supply unit 300, which may be advantageous when using silicon-based anode active materials that undergo large volume changes. The active pressure supply unit 300 can adaptively respond to the expansion of the silicon-based anode based on real-time sensing information from the expansion sensing unit 330, thereby achieving high capacity and stable cycle characteristics simultaneously.
[0516] In stage (b1-4), the first internal skin 110 can be installed so as to surround one side of the solid electrolyte section 130. While the installation method is basically the same as in the first embodiment, additional considerations may be applied for coordination with the active pressure supply section 300.
[0517] Surface treatment techniques, adhesive use, and crimping processes can be applied to optimize the interfacial contact between the first internal skin 110 and the solid electrolyte portion 130. Since such processes can affect the sensing accuracy of the expansion sensing portion 330 installed in a subsequent stage, precise control can be performed.
[0518] In steps (b1-5), the second internal skin 120 can be positioned to surround the other side of the solid electrolyte section 130. Such steps (b1-5) can be carried out symmetrically with respect to the first internal skin 110 and can be positioned to evenly support the solid electrolyte section 130 on both sides.
[0519] In this embodiment, the pressurizing force from the control signal of the active pressurizing force supply unit 300 is transmitted to the solid electrolyte unit 130 through the first internal skin 110 and the second internal skin 120. Therefore, the symmetry and contact uniformity between the two internal skins can directly affect the system performance.
[0520] (b1-6) In this stage, multiple fixing pins can be installed to provide a fixing force in the thickness direction to prevent separation between the solid electrolyte portion 130, the first internal skin 110, and the second internal skin 120.
[0521] In this embodiment, the fixing pin can be embodied in the same material and form as in the first embodiment, but can be designed to accommodate variable pressure from the active pressure supply unit 300. The material of the fixing pin can include carbon fiber, metal wire, ceramic pin, polymer pin, etc., and each material can exhibit different mechanical properties and electrochemical stabilization from one another.
[0522] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the arrangement and fixing force of the fixing pins can be optimized to accommodate the dynamic pressure changes provided by the active pressure supply unit 300. Specifically, the fixing pins can be arranged to prevent stress concentration and maintain structural stability, taking into account the distribution of pressure that changes due to the sensing signal from the expansion sensing unit 330.
[0523] Furthermore, the fixed pins can be implemented in a variety of forms, such as linear, spiral, or annular, and the optimal form can be selected considering the characteristics of the active system.
[0524] In this embodiment, step (b1) can form the core 100 in a semi-cured state, which can be carried out for the same purposes and in the same manner as in the first embodiment.
[0525] The semi-cured state facilitates molding operations in subsequent processes, improves the accuracy of the final shape, and in particular provides a foundation for the precise installation of the active pressure supply unit 300 and the expansion sensing unit 330.
[0526] The degree of partial curing can be controlled by adjusting the amount of curing agent, curing temperature, curing time, etc., and can be optimized considering the installation requirements of the active system.
[0527] Each detailed process in stage (b1) can be a determining factor in the electrochemical performance and mechanical stability of the battery, including the active pressure supply unit 300, and optimal performance can be ensured through precise control and quality management of each process.
[0528] Furthermore, the core 100 formed in step (b1) can serve as a base structure that enables the expansion sensing unit 330 and the active pressure supply unit 300 to function effectively in subsequent steps.
[0529] Since the detailed process of this (b1) stage is similar to that of the first embodiment, we will omit illustrating the detailed process.
[0530] Figure 20 is a diagram showing the process of steps (b2) and (b3) in a method for manufacturing a battery including an active pressure supply unit 300 according to a second embodiment of the present invention.
[0531] As shown in Figure 20, in this embodiment, step (b2) is the step of installing an expansion sensing unit 330, which senses the expansion state of the core 100, inside or outside the battery, and is the process of configuring the system so that the physical changes of the electrolyte unit 130 can be quantitatively measured and converted into an electrical signal to be transmitted to the pressurization control unit 320.
[0532] In this case, the expansion sensing unit 330 may be implemented based on various sensor technologies such as deformation sensing sensors, pressure sensors, temperature sensors, and displacement sensors, and may be distributed and arranged at different locations on the electrolyte unit 130 to individually sense the expansion state of each part.
[0533] When a fibrous sensor is installed as a deformation sensing sensor, the degree of expansion can be calculated in real time by measuring the change in resistance due to the deformation of the electrolyte section 130. Such a fibrous sensor is highly flexible and has a thin structure, so it can be easily built into the battery, and the degree of expansion of the core 100 can be measured in real time through the change in resistance that occurs when the electrolyte section 130 deforms.
[0534] If a temperature sensor is installed, the expansion state can be indirectly estimated by measuring the temperature change of the core 10, and this can be implemented using thermocouples, thermistors, infrared sensors, etc.
[0535] Furthermore, the expansion sensing unit 330 can be configured by combining multiple sensors, thereby improving measurement accuracy and providing a backup function against sensor errors.
[0536] (b3) In this stage, an active pressure supply unit 300, whose characteristics change based on a control signal generated from the expansion sensing unit 330, can be installed in contact with the core 100.
[0537] The active pressure supply unit 300 can react actively to external control and provide a variable level of pressure appropriate to the expansion state of the core 100.
[0538] In this embodiment, the active pressure supply unit 300 includes a shape memory material, and a heat generation unit 310 that supplies thermal energy to such a shape memory material by a control signal may be internally designed.
[0539] The heat generation section 310 may be formed in the form of a conductor that converts electrical energy into thermal energy, and can provide the necessary temperature for the shape memory material by utilizing the Joule heating principle.
[0540] Such heat generating units 310 can be dispersed within the shape memory material to form a uniform temperature distribution, and precise temperature control may be possible by adjusting the magnitude and duration of the control signal.
[0541] In other words, when a control signal is transmitted from the pressurization control unit 320, which will be described later, the heat generation unit 310 generates Joule heating by supplying current in response to the signal, and as a result the temperature of the shape memory material rises, inducing a pre-programmed shape change.
[0542] The shape change of the shape memory material is transmitted by the pressure applied to the electrolyte portion 130, thereby suppressing the expansion of the core 100.
[0543] Shape memory materials can be realized in various forms, such as polyurethane-based SMP, epoxy-based SMP, and polystyrene-based SMP, and each SMP can exhibit different transition temperatures and shape recovery characteristics.
[0544] The thermal energy provided by the heat generation unit 310 can be controlled to an appropriate level considering the transition temperature of the shape memory material, thereby enabling precise adjustment of the applied pressure.
[0545] However, unlike this embodiment, the active pressure-providing unit 300 may include an elastic body in addition to the shape memory material, and such an elastic body can provide a repulsive force by a control signal by being compressed and deformed in response to the expansion of the core 100.
[0546] The elastic material may include silicon, rubber, elastic polymers, etc., and may include an elastic module that provides a repulsive force through mechanical deformation during compression.
[0547] Such elastic modules can be embodied in the form of springs, bellows, diaphragms, etc. However, since elastic modules can be embodied in a variety of forms, they are not limited to these forms.
[0548] Furthermore, the active pressure-providing unit 300 may also contain the active polymer, and such an electroactive polymer may have the property of changing in size and shape when an electric field is applied.
[0549] Electroactive polymers can include dielectric elastomers, ionic polymer-metal composites, conductive polymers, etc., and the amount of deformation and pressure can be precisely controlled by adjusting the magnitude and direction of the applied voltage.
[0550] Since electroactive polymers can deform immediately upon the application of voltage, they can have rapid response characteristics, and through this, they can quickly respond to the rapid expansion of the electrolyte portion 130.
[0551] Through the execution of stages (b2) and (b3), the expansion sensing unit 330 and the active pressure supply unit 300 installed can work in real time to actively suppress the expansion of the core 100.
[0552] Figure 21 is a diagram showing the detailed steps of step (b5) in a method for manufacturing a battery including an active pressure supply unit 30 according to a second embodiment of the present invention.
[0553] As shown in Figure 21, in this embodiment, step (b5) is the step of installing rigid reinforcing material 350 on the outside of the core 100 and the active pressure supply section 30, and is a step of ensuring the overall structural completeness of the battery.
[0554] In this embodiment, step (b5) may include steps (b5-1) of positioning the first external skin 360 on one side of the core 100 and the active pressure-providing unit 30, and steps (b5-2) of positioning the second external skin 370 on the other side of the core 100 and the active pressure-providing unit 30 so as to face the first external skin 360.
[0555] The rigid reinforcement material 350 can be composed of a variety of materials, such as carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP), glass fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP), and metal composites, and each material can exhibit different mechanical and weight properties.
[0556] Carbon fiber reinforced plastics (CFRP) offer high rigidity and lightweight properties, while glass fiber reinforced plastics (GFRP) provide adequate rigidity while being relatively economical. Metal composites offer excellent electrical and thermal conductivity and are easy to process into complex shapes.
[0557] However, the rigid reinforcement material 350 can be realized in a variety of forms and is not limited to these forms.
[0558] In this embodiment, the first outer skin 360 and the second outer skin 370 can be stacked in the thickness direction of the electrolyte portion 130 and arranged to surround the outside of the core 100 and the active pressure supply portion 30.
[0559] This thickness-direction stacking method can maximize the direct pressurizing effect on the battery and effectively suppress the expansion of the core 100.
[0560] In the thickness-direction lamination method, the first outer skin 360 and the second outer skin 370 are arranged vertically above the electrolyte section 130, allowing for direct transmission of compressive force. Through this, a synergistic effect can be achieved together with the active pressure supply section 30.
[0561] Furthermore, in the thickness-direction lamination method, the bonding force between the first outer skin 360 and the second outer skin 370 can directly affect the battery's performance, so appropriate adhesives or mechanical bonding methods may be applied.
[0562] When using adhesives, electrochemically stable adhesives can be selected to avoid adversely affecting battery performance, and when using mechanical fastening methods, fastening elements such as bolts, rivets, and clamps can be utilized.
[0563] Furthermore, in thickness-direction lamination, the thickness and rigidity of the first outer skin 360 and the second outer skin 370 can be variables that determine the pressurizing effect, allowing for appropriate design according to the required pressurizing force.
[0564] In this embodiment, the structural characteristics of the battery can be adjusted through such diverse stacking methods, and optimal performance can be achieved through the combination of the active pressure supply unit 30 and the rigid reinforcing material 350.
[0565] Furthermore, since the active pressure supply unit 30 can adjust the pressure based on real-time sensing information from the expansion sensing unit 330, it can improve the expansion suppression effect of the core 100 through its action related to the rigid reinforcing material 350.
[0566] Figure 22 is a diagram showing the process of carrying out step (b6) in a method for manufacturing a battery including an active pressure supply unit 300 according to a second embodiment of the present invention.
[0567] As shown in Figure 22, in this embodiment, step (b6) is the step of electrically connecting the pressure control unit 320, which processes the sensing signal from the expansion sensing unit 330 and generates a control signal, to the expansion sensing unit 330 and the active pressure supply unit 300.
[0568] In this (b6) stage, the system can be configured such that the pressurization control unit 320 analyzes the sensing signal received from the expansion sensing unit 330, generates an optimal control signal based on the expansion state of the core 100, and transmits it to the active pressurization supply unit 300.
[0569] The pressurization control unit 320 may include a microprocessor, a digital signal processor, analog circuits, etc., and can perform the role of a hardware platform for real-time signal processing and the implementation of control algorithms.
[0570] Microprocessors can be implemented using a variety of processor architectures, including the ARM Cortex-M series, Intel x86 series, and RISC-V architecture, and each architecture can exhibit different performance and power consumption characteristics.
[0571] The digital signal processor is dedicated hardware for high-speed signal processing and can perform functions such as digital conversion of the analog signal received from the expansion sensing unit 330, noise filtering, and signal analysis.
[0572] Analog circuits can handle basic signal processing functions such as amplification of sensor signals, analog-to-digital conversion, and power supply.
[0573] The pressurization control unit 320 can be fitted with a variety of control algorithms, including proportional-integral-derivative (PID) control, fuzzy control, neural network control, and adaptive control.
[0574] Proportional-integral-derivative (PID) control can generate control signals by decomposing the difference between the degree of expansion measured by the expansion sensing unit 330 and the target value into proportional, integral, and differential terms, and the control performance can be optimized by adjusting the coefficients of each term.
[0575] Fuzzy control can perform linguistic rule-based control while considering the uncertainty and nonlinearity of the expansion state of core 100, and can reflect the experience and knowledge of experts in the control rules.
[0576] Neural network control can learn the complex relationship between expansion patterns and optimal pressure through machine learning, and perform adaptive control based on this.
[0577] Adaptive control can adjust control parameters in real time in response to changes in system characteristics due to battery aging or environmental changes.
[0578] In this embodiment, the electrical connection process may include wiring and connectors for signal transmission between the expansion sensing unit 330, the pressurization control unit 320, and the active pressurization supply unit 300.
[0579] Wiring can utilize shielded cables to ensure signal accuracy and stability, and designs can be applied to address electromagnetic interference (EMI) and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) issues.
[0580] Shielding can protect signal lines from external electromagnetic fields and prevent noise intrusion, and can provide shielding effects in particular against high-frequency noise.
[0581] Noise filtering can be implemented by combining analog and digital filters, allowing for the extraction of signals within a desired frequency band through low-pass filters, high-pass filters, band-pass filters, etc.
[0582] Signal amplification can amplify weak sensor signals to an appropriate level so that they can be processed by subsequent circuits. Operational amplifiers and instrumentation amplifiers can be used for this purpose.
[0583] The connectors may be designed to be waterproof, dustproof, and vibration-resistant, and can satisfy the appropriate protection rating (IP rating) depending on the battery's operating environment. Furthermore, surface treatments such as gold plating or nickel plating may be applied to the connectors to minimize contact resistance and maintain a stable electrical connection even during long-term use.
[0584] Wiring routing can be designed to minimize signal interference and distribute mechanical stress, and protective structures can be applied to prevent damage to the wiring due to battery swelling or vibration.
[0585] The pressurization control unit 320 can quantitatively evaluate the expansion state of the core 100 by analyzing the sensing signal received from the expansion sensing unit 330 in real time. In this analysis process, preprocessing steps such as reliability verification of sensor data, removal of outliers, and signal correction can be performed.
[0586] Reliability verification of sensor data can detect sensor failures or malfunctions by comparing data received from multiple sensors, and anomaly removal can identify and remove abnormal measurements through statistical methods and machine learning techniques.
[0587] Signal correction can compensate for measurement errors caused by sensor nonlinearity, temperature drift, aging, etc., and can be implemented through calibration databases and correction algorithms.
[0588] The intensity and timing of the control signal can be precisely adjusted by considering the expansion characteristics of the core 100 and the dynamic characteristics of the active pressure supply unit 300. Since the expansion characteristics of the core 100 can vary depending on temperature, charge / discharge state, type of electrolyte, etc., modeling that comprehensively considers these factors can be performed.
[0589] The dynamic characteristics of the active pressure supply unit 300 may include the response time of the shape memory material, the heating characteristics of the heat generation unit 310, and the deformation characteristics of the elastic body, and an optimal control signal profile can be generated based on these characteristics.
[0590] On the other hand, the pressurization control unit 320 can receive various information such as battery temperature, voltage, and charge / discharge status in conjunction with the battery management system (BMS), and reflect this in the generation of control signals.
[0591] The information provided by the BMS is an indicator of the overall state of the battery and may be directly related to swelling control.
[0592] For example, if the battery temperature rises, the expansion of the core 100 is likely to increase, so this can be detected in advance, and proactive pressurization control can be implemented.
[0593] Furthermore, the charge and discharge state is related to changes in the ion concentration of the electrolyte section 130, which can affect the degree of expansion. Voltage information is an indicator of the battery's charge state and internal resistance, allowing for indirect understanding of the electrochemical state of the electrolyte section 130. Such coordination enables integrated control that takes into account the overall state of the battery, thereby improving battery safety and lifespan.
[0594] Integrated control does not simply suppress expansion, but rather represents optimized control that comprehensively considers battery performance, safety, and lifespan. For example, excessive pressurization can cause damage to the electrolyte section 130, so it is possible to maintain an appropriate level of pressure based on BMS information. Furthermore, it is possible to establish an optimal pressurization strategy from a long-term perspective in conjunction with a battery life prediction model.
[0595] Through the execution of step (b6) described above, an active pressurization system can be constructed in which the expansion sensing unit 330, the pressurization control unit 320, and the active pressurization supply unit 300 work together in real time to actively suppress the expansion of the core 100.
[0596] Unlike existing passive pressurization methods, the active system of this embodiment can actively respond to changes in the battery state and provide adaptability to diverse operating conditions and environmental changes.
[0597] On the other hand, step (b7) is the step in which the pressurization control unit 320 is linked with the battery management system (BMS), and can be described as a process in which integrated control is performed taking into account the overall state information of the battery.
[0598] In this (b7) stage, the pressurization control unit 320 can perform real-time data exchange with the BMS through a communication interface, and the system can be configured to reflect the overall state information of the battery in the control logic.
[0599] The pressurization control unit 320 can receive various information from the BMS, such as the temperature, charge / discharge state, and voltage of the electrolyte unit 130, and reflect this information in the generation of control signals to perform more precise and reliable pressurization control.
[0600] Since temperature information is directly related to the thermal expansion of the electrolyte section 130, an expansion prediction model can be constructed by analyzing the temperature change pattern.
[0601] The charge / discharge state information is related to changes in the ion concentration inside the electrolyte section 130, which can affect the volume change of the core 10.
[0602] Voltage information is an indicator of the battery's internal impedance and electrochemical state, allowing for indirect understanding of changes in the physical state of the electrolyte section 130.
[0603] Interoperability with the BMS can be achieved through various communication protocols such as CAN (Controller Area Network), LIN (Local Interconnect Network), SPI (Serial Peripheral Interface), and I2C (Inter-Integrated Circuit).
[0604] CAN communication is a widely used protocol in automotive and industrial applications, offering high reliability and noise immunity, while LIN communication offers a relatively simple structure and cost-effective communication, making it suitable for transmitting low-speed control signals.
[0605] SPI communication enables high-speed data transmission, making it suitable for control systems requiring real-time performance. I2C communication supports communication between multiple devices with fewer wires, thus reducing system complexity.
[0606] This kind of integration with a BMS allows for comprehensive management of battery safety, lifespan, and performance, and provides a foundation for proactively responding to changes in battery operating conditions.
[0607] Safety management can include functions to detect and prevent dangerous situations such as overcharging, over-discharging, and over-temperature in advance, and the pressurization control unit 320 can perform protective pressurization control based on such safety information.
[0608] Life management may include a function to monitor the aging state of the battery and maintain optimal operating conditions for extending its life, and the pressurization control unit 320 can adjust the pressurization strategy according to the degree of battery aging.
[0609] Furthermore, performance management can include functions to optimize battery capacity, output, efficiency, etc., and the pressurization control unit 320 can provide appropriate pressure for performance improvement.
[0610] Through the execution of this (b7) step, the pressurization control unit 320 can optimize the control signals of the active pressurization supply unit 300 through real-time data exchange with the BMS to support the suppression of core 100 expansion and the stable operation of the battery.
[0611] Real-time data exchange enables rapid response to sudden changes in battery status, and predictive control algorithms allow for forecasting future status changes and taking proactive control measures. Furthermore, integration with the Battery Management System (BMS) can improve the overall energy efficiency of the system and potentially enable integrated management at the battery pack level.
[0612] On the other hand, Figure 23 is a diagram that additionally shows a method applicable to the process of step (b5) in a battery manufacturing method including a structural pressure supply unit 200 according to a second embodiment of the present invention.
[0613] This embodiment, like the first embodiment, is yet another applicable method of step (b5), in which the first outer skin 360 and the second outer skin 370 may be stacked in the width direction of the electrolyte portion 130 and arranged to surround the outside of the core 100 and the active pressure supply portion 30.
[0614] This type of widthwise stacking method can adjust the overall stiffness distribution of the battery, improving its resistance to distortion and bending.
[0615] Furthermore, in the widthwise lamination configuration, the first outer skin 360 and the second outer skin 370 are positioned in the left-right direction of the electrolyte portion 130, thereby fulfilling the role of ensuring overall structural rigidity.
[0616] Therefore, an appropriate stacking orientation can be selected depending on the battery's operating environment and required performance, and a hybrid structure combining the two methods can also be applied if necessary.
[0617] The above describes specific embodiments of a battery including an active pressure supply unit and a method for manufacturing the same. Below, we will describe a control method for preventing the expansion of such a battery including an active pressure supply unit.
[0618] Figure 24 is a diagram showing each step of a control method for preventing battery swelling, which includes an active pressure supply unit 30 according to a third embodiment of the present invention.
[0619] As shown in Figure 24, in this embodiment, the control method for preventing battery swelling will be explained based on the configuration of the second embodiment described above.
[0620] In other words, the battery according to the second embodiment of the present invention includes a core 100 including a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and an electrolyte portion 130 that electrically connects the positive electrode and the negative electrode, an expansion sensing portion 330 that senses the expansion state of the core 100, and an active pressure supply portion 30 that changes its characteristics based on a control signal generated based on the sensing signal of the expansion sensing portion 330 and provides pressure to the core 100.
[0621] Furthermore, the control method for preventing battery swelling according to this embodiment may include the steps of: sensing the swelling state of the core 100 through the swelling sensing unit 330 (c1); generating a control signal based on the sensed swelling state (c2); and transmitting the control signal to the active pressure supply unit 30 to change the characteristics of the active pressure supply unit 30 and provide pressure to the core 100 (c3).
[0622] The control method for preventing battery swelling according to this embodiment intelligently senses the real-time changing swelling state of the core 100 and controls the active pressure supply unit 30 in response, thereby realizing a system that suppresses battery swelling.
[0623] Furthermore, the control method for preventing battery swelling according to this embodiment differs from passive pressurization methods in that it can actively respond to changes in the battery's state, providing adaptability to diverse operating conditions and environmental changes. In addition, precise pressurization control based on the battery's swelling state is possible, thereby achieving extended battery life and improved performance.
[0624] (c1) In this stage, the expansion state of the core 100 can be detected through the expansion sensing unit 330.
[0625] The expansion sensing unit 330 may include a deformation sensing sensor that detects deformation due to the expansion of the core 100. As described above, such a deformation sensing sensor may be a fibrous sensor that measures the degree of expansion of the core 100 in real time through the change in resistance that occurs when the electrolyte unit 130 is deformed.
[0626] The fibrous sensor utilizes the characteristic that the resistance of the internal conductor changes due to the physical deformation of the electrolyte portion 130, and such resistance changes can have a linear or nonlinear relationship with the degree of expansion.
[0627] (c1) In this stage, the degree of expansion of the core 100 can be calculated in real time by measuring the resistance change of the deformation sensing sensor.
[0628] Resistance changes can be measured using a variety of electrical measurement methods, including Wheatstone bridges, potentiometers, and impedance analysis. The measured resistance values can be converted into digital signals and used as data for subsequent processing.
[0629] The resistance change measured through the resistance-deformation relation can be converted into a physical deformation, and based on this, the exact degree of expansion of the electrolyte portion 130 can be calculated.
[0630] Alternatively, the expansion sensing unit 330 may include a temperature sensor that measures the temperature of the electrolyte unit 130, and step (c1) can measure the temperature change of the temperature sensor to calculate the degree of expansion of the core 100 in real time.
[0631] Furthermore, temperature sensors can be implemented in a variety of forms, such as thermocouples, thermistors, resistance temperature detectors (RTDs), and infrared sensors.
[0632] In the case of thermocouples, temperature can be sensed by measuring the thermoelectric force generated at the junctions of different metals, while in the case of thermistors, temperature can be measured by utilizing the change in resistance value due to temperature.
[0633] In the case of resistance temperature detectors (RTDs), precise temperature measurements can be performed by utilizing the temperature coefficient of a metal resistor such as platinum.
[0634] At this time, the correlation between the temperature and expansion of the electrolyte portion 130 can be modeled by considering various factors such as the coefficient of thermal expansion, volume change due to electrochemical reactions, and changes in ion mobility.
[0635] In the case of solid electrolytes, lattice expansion due to temperature increase and changes in ionic conductivity can act in combination.
[0636] Such temperature-expansion relationships can be constructed by combining experimental data and theoretical models, and their accuracy can be improved through machine learning algorithms.
[0637] In this embodiment, the expansion sensing units 330 may be distributed to correspond to multiple locations on the electrolyte unit 130, and step (c1) can individually calculate the degree of expansion of each part of the electrolyte unit 130 through the multiple expansion sensing units 330.
[0638] The dispersed expansion sensing units 330 can precisely sense the non-uniform expansion patterns occurring in different regions of the electrolyte unit 130, thereby enabling the identification of localized expansion phenomena and stress concentration areas.
[0639] The data collected from each expansion sensing unit 330 can be used as mapping information showing the overall expansion distribution of the electrolyte unit 130, and based on this, selective and differential pressurization control may be possible.
[0640] Data collected from multiple expansion sensing units 330 can be integrated and processed through sensor fusion technology, thereby compensating for measurement errors of individual sensors and improving overall measurement reliability.
[0641] Signal fusion can be implemented through probabilistic methods such as Kalman filters, particle filters, and Bayesian estimation, as well as statistical methods such as weighted averages and intermediate filters.
[0642] Furthermore, a fault-tolerant system can be constructed that identifies and eliminates faulty sensors through mutual verification between sensors.
[0643] In stage (c2), a control signal can be generated based on the expansion state detected in stage (c1).
[0644] In this (c2) stage, a control signal can be generated when the sensed expansion state of the electrolyte section 130 exceeds a preset critical value.
[0645] In this case, the critical value can be set by comprehensively considering the battery's safe operating range, performance requirements, and lifespan targets, and can be implemented as a single critical value or a multi-stage critical value structure. In the case of a single critical value, simple on / off control is possible, while in the case of a multi-stage critical value, differentiated control intensities can be applied for each stage.
[0646] The critical value setting can vary depending on the battery type, electrolyte characteristics, and operating conditions, and adaptive critical value adjustment can be used to respond to battery aging and environmental changes.
[0647] For example, while lithium-ion batteries generally allow for a certain degree of expansion, all-solid-state batteries may require a stricter critical value to maintain interfacial contact. Furthermore, the critical value may be adjusted upward in high-temperature environments due to increased thermal expansion, and downward in low-temperature environments to account for electrolyte contraction.
[0648] Furthermore, in stage (c2), the intensity of the control signal can be adjusted in proportion to the degree of expansion of the core 100.
[0649] Such proportional control can be implemented by setting a linear or nonlinear relationship between the degree of expansion and the control signal, and can provide sufficient pressure while preventing damage to the electrolyte section 130 due to excessive pressurization.
[0650] At this time, the proportionality constant can be determined by considering the characteristics of the active pressure supply unit 30, the mechanical properties of the electrolyte unit 130, the structural rigidity of the battery, and so on.
[0651] The intensity of the control signal can be adjusted through various modulation techniques such as pulse width modulation (PWM), amplitude modulation (AM), and frequency modulation (FM). In the case of pulse width modulation, the average power can be controlled by adjusting the duty cycle at a fixed frequency, and in the case of amplitude modulation, the magnitude of the signal can be directly adjusted. In the case of frequency modulation, the control performance can be optimized by utilizing the dynamic response characteristics of the active pressure supply unit 30.
[0652] (c3) In this stage, the control signal is transmitted to the active pressure supply unit 30 to change the characteristics of the active pressure supply unit 30 and provide pressure to the core 100.
[0653] As described above, the active pressure supply unit 30 applied to this embodiment is exemplified by a shape memory material formed to change shape in response to temperature changes in the electrolyte unit 130, and a heat generation unit 310 that provides thermal energy by a control signal can be internally designed.
[0654] Accordingly, in this embodiment, step (c3) transmits a control signal to the heat generation unit 310 internally designed in the shape memory material, thereby providing thermal energy to the shape memory material.
[0655] Shape memory materials can be realized in various forms, such as shape memory polymers (SMPs), shape memory alloys (SMAs), and shape memory ceramics (SMCs). In the case of shape memory polymers (SMPs), polyurethane, epoxy, polystyrene, etc. are used as a base, and shape changes can occur near the glass transition temperature (Tg) or melting point (Tm).
[0656] In the case of shape memory alloys (SMA), they are composed of alloys such as nickel-titanium (NiTi) and copper-zinc-aluminum (CuZnAl), and shape changes can occur through austenite-martensite image transformation.
[0657] The heat generation section 310 may be formed in the form of a conductor that converts electrical energy into thermal energy, and can provide the necessary temperature for the shape memory material using the Joule heating principle.
[0658] The conductors can be made from high-resistance materials such as nichrome, tungsten, and tantalum, and the amount of heat generated can be adjusted in proportion to the resistance value and the square of the current. The arrangement of the conductors can be designed to form a uniform temperature distribution inside the shape memory material and can be implemented in various patterns such as spiral, zigzag, and matrix.
[0659] The control signal is transmitted to the heat generation unit 310 to adjust the temperature of the shape memory material, which in turn induces a shape change and applies pressure to the core 100.
[0660] Temperature control can be achieved through proportional control, integral control, differential control, or a combination thereof, such as PID control, and precise temperature control may be possible through feedback from temperature sensors.
[0661] The degree of shape change can be expressed as a function of temperature and time, and can be determined by the properties of the shape memory material and its heat treatment history.
[0662] Furthermore, in a configuration different from this embodiment, the active pressure-providing unit 30 may include an elastic body that provides a repulsive force by control signal by being compressed and deformed in response to the expansion of the core 100.
[0663] In such cases, the (c3) step can transmit a control signal to the elastic body to generate a repulsive force. The elastic body can include silicon, rubber, elastic polymers, etc., and each material can exhibit different elastic moduli, viscosity moduli, and temperature dependencies.
[0664] In the case of silicon elastic materials, stable elastic properties can be maintained over a wide temperature range, and they may exhibit excellent chemical stability and durability.
[0665] In the case of rubber elastic materials, elastic recovery is possible even at high deformation rates, and vibration absorption and shock mitigation effects can be provided.
[0666] In the case of elastic polymers, desired elastic properties can be realized through the design of the molecular structure, thereby imparting smart material properties.
[0667] Alternatively, an elastic body may include an elastic module that provides a repulsive force through mechanical deformation during compression, and such an elastic module may be embodied in the form of a spring, bellows, diaphragm, or the like.
[0668] In the case of springs, they can have linear or nonlinear load-displacement characteristics and can be embodied in various forms such as compression springs, tension springs, and torsion springs.
[0669] In the case of bellows, the wrinkled structure allows for flexible response to axial compression, and it can provide variable rebound force depending on the amount of compression.
[0670] In the case of a diaphragm, it is a membrane-like structure that deforms in response to pressure differences and can maintain a constant applied pressure through a restoring force.
[0671] In this case, the adjustment of the repulsive force of the elastic body by a control signal can be realized through active control mechanisms such as electroactive polymers (EAPs), piezoelectric actuators, and electromagnetic actuators.
[0672] Electroactive polymers have the property of changing in size and shape when an electric field is applied, and can include dielectric elastomers, ionic polymer-metal composites, and conductive polymers.
[0673] In the case of piezoelectric actuators, the piezoelectric effect can be used to convert electrical signals into mechanical deformation, resulting in high precision and rapid response characteristics.
[0674] In the case of electromagnetic actuators, electromagnetic force can be used to generate mechanical motion, providing large forces and displacements.
[0675] On the other hand, steps (c2) and (c3) described above can be carried out by a pressurization control unit 320 that processes the sensing signal from the expansion sensing unit 330 and generates a control signal.
[0676] The pressurization control unit 320 can be implemented based on a hardware platform such as a microprocessor, digital signal processor (DSP), or field-programmable gate array (FPGA), and its control algorithm can be executed through a real-time operating system (RTOS) or embedded software.
[0677] The pressurization control unit 320 can apply a variety of control algorithms, including proportional-integral-derivative (PID) control, fuzzy control, neural network control, adaptive control, and model predictive control (MPC).
[0678] Proportional-Integral-Differential (PID) control generates a control signal by combining the current, past, and predicted values of the error, and can optimize control performance by adjusting the coefficients of each term.
[0679] Fuzzy control can address uncertainty and nonlinearity by expressing the experience and knowledge of experts in linguistic rules.
[0680] Neural network control can learn the dynamic characteristics of complex systems through machine learning and perform adaptive control.
[0681] Adaptive control allows for real-time adjustment of controller parameters in response to changes in system parameters and disturbances, effectively addressing changes in characteristics due to battery aging and environmental changes.
[0682] Model Predictive Control (MPC) can predict future system behavior based on a mathematical model of the system, solve optimization problems, and generate control signals, while also having the advantage of explicitly considering constraints.
[0683] Furthermore, in stages (c2) and (c3), the pressurization control unit 320 can generate control signals in conjunction with the battery management system (BMS).
[0684] Interoperability with the BMS can be achieved through a variety of communication protocols, including CAN (Controller Area Network), LIN (Local Interconnect Network), SPI (Serial Peripheral Interface), I2C (Inter-Integrated Circuit), and Ethernet (registered trademark).
[0685] Each communication protocol has different data transmission speeds, reliability, and noise immunity, so the appropriate protocol can be selected according to the system requirements.
[0686] Then, in (c2), the pressurization control unit 320 can receive one or more pieces of information from the battery management system regarding the temperature, charge / discharge state, and voltage of the electrolyte unit 130 and reflect them in the generation of the control signal.
[0687] Since temperature information is directly related to the thermal expansion of the electrolyte section 130, it can be used as an input variable for an expansion prediction model.
[0688] The charge / discharge state information is related to changes in ion concentration inside the electrolyte section 130, which can affect electrochemical expansion.
[0689] Voltage information is an indicator of the battery's internal impedance and electrochemical state, allowing for indirect understanding of changes in the physical state of the electrolyte section 130.
[0690] The additional information received from the BMS may include the state of charge (SOC), state of health (SOH), state of function (SEF), current, internal resistance, power, and more.
[0691] The State of Charge (SOC) indicates the remaining capacity of the battery, which may be related to the ion distribution in the electrolyte section 130.
[0692] The State of Health (SOH) indicates the degree of battery aging, which may be related to changes in the mechanical properties of the electrolyte portion 130.
[0693] The functional state (SOF) indicates the instantaneous output capability of the battery, which may be related to the ionic conductivity of the electrolyte section 130.
[0694] As described above, the battery control method according to the second embodiment of the present invention embodies an active pressurization system that can actively suppress expansion in response to the real-time changing state of the electrolyte section 130, and can adaptively respond to a variety of operating conditions and environmental changes. Through such a control method, performance degradation due to battery expansion can be prevented, an increase in interfacial contact resistance can be suppressed, and mechanical stability can be ensured.
[0695] Furthermore, by providing sufficient pressure while preventing damage to the electrolyte section 130 due to excessive pressurization, the expansion suppression effect can be maximized, thereby achieving extended battery life and improved performance.
[0696] Figure 25 is a diagram showing a honeycomb structure applicable to the core of a battery according to all embodiments of the present invention.
[0697] As illustrated in Figure 25, the core 400 applied to the battery according to the present invention may itself be composed of a honeycomb structure. Such a honeycomb core 400 can be applied without limitation not only to all the embodiments described above but also to a variety of variations of the present invention not described herein.
[0698] Specifically, the core 400 having a honeycomb structure contains multiple unit cells, each unit cell being able to function as an independent electrochemical cell containing a positive electrode 410, a negative electrode 420, and an electrolyte 430. Such unit cells can simultaneously ensure efficient space utilization and structural stability through their hexagonal geometric shape.
[0699] Furthermore, partition walls 440 are formed between multiple unit cells to physically separate each unit cell and provide electrical isolation. The partition walls 440 can be designed to maintain the structural integrity of the overall core 400 while maintaining the independence of each unit cell.
[0700] Furthermore, a core skin 450 is formed on the outside of the multiple unit cells and partition wall 440 to provide structural protection and electrochemical stability for the entire core 400. The core skin 450 can protect the multiple unit cells inside the core 400 from the external environment and improve the mechanical rigidity of the entire core 400.
[0701] In this case, the partition wall 440 can be composed of a variety of materials such as aramid and ceramic, and can be selected to provide sufficient mechanical strength and insulation without affecting the electrochemical reactions of each unit cell.
[0702] The core skin 450 can be composed of polymer materials, composite materials, metal thin films, etc., and can perform the role of protecting the entire core 400 as well as improving the mechanical stability of the honeycomb structure.
[0703] Such a honeycomb structure has the characteristic of achieving maximum rigidity and spatial efficiency with minimal material. In addition, the repeating hexagonal pattern can provide uniform stress distribution against external loads, and the expansion force generated in each unit cell can be effectively distributed to adjacent cells through the partition wall 440.
[0704] However, this honeycomb structure of Core 400 is presented as just one example, and of course, a variety of shapes other than the hexagonal partition structure can be applied.
[0705] While preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail, it is obvious to those ordinary skill in the art that the present invention can be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or scope. Therefore, the embodiments described above should be considered illustrative rather than restrictive, and accordingly, the present invention is not limited to the above description and may be modified within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalent scope. [Explanation of Symbols]
[0706] 10: Core 11: Positive electrode 12: Negative electrode 13: Electrolyte section 20: Structural pressure-providing section 30: Active pressure supply unit 40: Expansion sensing unit 50: Control means 100: Cores 101: Fitting space 110: First internal skin 120: Second internal skin 130: Electrolyte section 200: Structural pressure-providing section 250: Rigidity reinforcement material 260: First external skin 270: Second external skin 300: Active pressure supply unit 310: Heat generation section 320: Pressurization Control Unit 330: Expansion sensing unit 350: Rigidity reinforcement material 360: First external skin 370: Second external skin 400: Cores 410: Positive electrode 420: Negative electrode 430: Partition wall part 440: Core Skin R: Roller Unit
Claims
1. A core including a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and an electrolyte portion electrically connecting the positive electrode and the negative electrode; and A battery comprising: a structural pressure-providing unit that generates a pressure on the core due to a mechanical support force;
2. The battery according to claim 1, wherein the electrolyte portion includes a solid electrolyte.
3. The battery according to claim 2, wherein the solid electrolyte includes a shape memory polymer (SMP) having shape memory properties.
4. The aforementioned core is A first internal skin surrounding one side of the solid electrolyte, in which the positive electrode active material is cast as the positive electrode, and The battery according to claim 2, further comprising a second internal skin facing the first internal skin and surrounding the other side of the solid electrolyte, the second internal skin from which the negative electrode active material is cast as the negative electrode.
5. The battery according to claim 4, wherein the first internal skin and the second internal skin each include one or more of carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP), glass fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP), and metal composite material.
6. The battery according to claim 4, wherein the first internal skin and the second internal skin are formed in a curved shape in the width direction such that deformation occurs in a direction that prevents separation from the solid electrolyte.
7. The battery according to claim 4, wherein the core further includes a plurality of fixing pins that provide a fixing force in the thickness direction to prevent separation between the solid electrolyte, the first inner skin and the second inner skin.
8. The aforementioned core is The battery according to claim 1, which is processed into a predetermined repetitive bending shape so as to form a mounting space provided with the structural pressure-providing portion.
9. The battery according to claim 1, wherein the structural pressure-providing portion is a volume-expandable foam that provides fixed pressure after expansion.
10. The battery according to claim 9, wherein the volume-expanding foam comprises one or more of urethane foam, epoxy foam, and phenolic foam.
11. The battery according to claim 1, wherein the structural pressure-providing portion includes a shape memory material that provides pressure to the core by changing shape in response to a temperature rise in the electrolyte portion.
12. The battery according to claim 11, wherein the shape memory material is heat-treated so that it can be deformed by temperature changes in the electrolyte portion and the pressure can be adjusted, based on a predetermined calculation of the appropriate pressure corresponding to each temperature range of the electrolyte portion.
13. The battery according to claim 1, wherein the structural pressure-providing portion is formed to have an elastic restoring force and includes an elastic body that provides a repulsive force by being compressed and deformed by the expansion of the core.
14. The battery according to claim 13, wherein the elastic body comprises one or more of silicon, rubber, and elastic polymer.
15. The battery according to claim 13, wherein the elastic body includes an elastic module that provides a repulsive force through mechanical deformation when compressed.
Citation Information
Patent Citations
Battery safety device
KR101449307B1