Secondary Battery Case-Coupled Tabs for Higher Cell Capacity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing secondary batteries face limitations in maximizing the capacity of the electrode assembly relative to the size of the case, often requiring separate current collectors that increase complexity and reduce efficiency.
Innovation Solution
The secondary battery design eliminates the need for a separate current collector by directly connecting the electrode tabs to the case, utilizing a first and second case configuration with an insulating member to ensure electrical isolation and improved capacity utilization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a separate current collector is used to connect electrode tabs to the case, then electrical connectivity is ensured, but device complexity increases and capacity relative to case size decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the current collector function with the case structure by making the case itself electrically conductive and using it as the current collector. The electrode tabs are directly connected to the case, eliminating the need for separate current collector components. This integration reduces structural complexity while maintaining electrical connectivity and maximizing the capacity relative to case size.
2Quantity of substance
If electrode tabs are directly connected to the case, then capacity relative to case size increases, but electrical isolation between positive and negative terminals may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The case is divided into electrically isolated segments corresponding to different terminals. Insulating structures are positioned at specific locations within the case to electrically isolate the positive and negative electrode tabs while allowing each to maintain direct connection to the case for current collection. This segmentation enables direct connection for maximum capacity while ensuring proper electrical isolation for reliability.
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
This design enhances the capacity of the electrode assembly within a given case size by eliminating the need for separate current collectors, improving electrical connectivity and sealing, thereby enhancing overall battery performance.
Implementation Method 1
The first electrode tab may be directly connected to the first case by being in contact with and welded to the first case, and the second electrode tab may be in contact with and welded to the second case.
Data Source
AI summary
A secondary battery includes an electrode assembly that is directly coupled to a case without a separate current collector to increase in capacity of the electrode assembly relative to an internal capacity of the secondary battery. The electrode assembly includes a first electrode tab protrudes that in a first direction, and a second electrode tab that protrudes in a second direction opposite to the first direction. A first case accommodates the electrode assembly and an opening is formed in the first case. A second case is formed in a cap shape, with an opening being formed in the second case that is larger than the opening of the first case. The second case is configured to cover the electrode assembly and surround an outer surface of a sidewall of the first case. The first electrode tab is electrically connected to the first case, and the second electrode tab is directly connected to the second case.