3D Network Rechargeable Battery for High Energy Density and Output
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional rechargeable batteries with two-dimensional electrode structures face a trade-off between energy density per volume and output, where increasing energy density lowers output, and existing three-dimensional batteries are limited to the micrometer-scale.
Innovation Solution
A rechargeable battery design featuring a conductive porous base with a three-dimensional network structure, where a first electrode layer, an ionic conductor layer, and a second electrode layer are stacked in a three-dimensional configuration, allowing for a centimeter-scale or larger battery with improved energy density and output.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If the thickness of electrodes is increased to increase energy density per volume, then the energy density per volume is improved, but the output deteriorates due to increased charge carrier travel distance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional planar electrode structure to a three-dimensional network structure. The electrodes are arranged in a three-dimensional configuration with multiple layers stacked in the thickness direction, allowing charge carriers to travel shorter distances within each layer while maintaining high energy density through increased volumetric utilization. This dimensional change resolves the trade-off by enabling both high energy density and high output simultaneously.
2Power
If a three-dimensional battery structure is implemented to increase reaction area and shorten charge carrier travel distance, then both energy density and output are improved, but the battery size is limited to micrometer-scale
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested structure where multiple electrode layers are stacked within a three-dimensional network framework. The first and second electrodes are arranged in a nested configuration with ionic conductor layers interspersed between them, allowing the battery to achieve centimeter-scale dimensions while maintaining the high surface-area-to-volume ratio and short charge carrier paths characteristic of three-dimensional structures.
3Quantity of substance
If a simple current-collecting structure is used to increase space for electrodes, then the energy density is improved, but the structural integrity and conductivity may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The three-dimensional network structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as the structural framework, provides current collection pathways, and supports the electrode layers. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate current collector components, maximizing the space available for active electrodes while ensuring reliable current collection through the conductive network itself.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The design achieves a high energy density and high output while maintaining a simple current-collecting structure, enabling a practical capacity suitable for applications such as hybrid and electric vehicles.
Implementation Method 1
an ionic conductor layer which is interposed between the first electrode layer and the second electrode layer
Data Source
AI summary
A rechargeable battery includes at least a porous base, a first electrode layer, an ionic conductor layer, and a second electrode layer. The porous base includes a conductive framework. The framework has a three-dimensional network structure. On at least part of a surface of the framework in the interior of the porous base, the first electrode layer, the ionic conductor layer, and the second electrode layer are stacked in this order. The first electrode layer and the second electrode layer have opposite polarities.