Rechargeable Battery Current Collecting Member Volume Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Rechargeable batteries face challenges in maximizing output power per volume due to the space occupied by uncoated regions and current collecting members, which can lead to increased battery volume and vulnerability to vibration and impact.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a rechargeable battery structure with coated and uncoated regions, where the uncoated regions are strategically positioned and supported by a current collecting member with a side plate and support plate configuration that minimizes space usage and enhances stability through bent extensions and integrated tube-like structures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If uncoated regions and current collecting members are used to connect electrodes to terminals, then electrical connection is achieved, but battery volume increases and output power per volume decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The current collecting member transitions from a conventional linear arrangement to a three-dimensional structure with side plates extending perpendicular to the electrode assembly. This spatial reconfiguration reduces the longitudinal space required while maintaining electrical connectivity, thereby decreasing battery volume without compromising power output.
Solution Approach 2:
The current collecting member is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides electrical connection between electrodes and terminals, offers mechanical support to the uncoated regions, and acts as a structural framework that reduces overall battery volume. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate components, optimizing space utilization.
2Reliability
If uncoated regions are extended to facilitate terminal connection, then electrical connectivity is improved, but the structure becomes more vulnerable to vibration and impact
Solution Approach 1:
The side plates are positioned to extend toward the terminals, creating a protective framework before vibration or impact occurs. This pre-positioned structural support cushions the uncoated regions against mechanical stress, preventing damage while maintaining electrical connectivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The current collecting member is formed as an integral structure combining conductive material with mechanically robust geometry. The side plates and support plates create a composite-like configuration that provides both electrical conductivity and vibration resistance, protecting the uncoated regions without compromising connectivity.
3Ease of manufacture
If conventional current collecting members are used, then manufacturing is simple, but device complexity increases due to space requirements and structural support needs
Solution Approach 1:
The current collecting member integrates multiple previously separate components into a single unified structure. The side plates, support plates, and connection portions are formed as one integral piece, simplifying manufacturing processes while reducing the overall structural complexity by eliminating gaps and additional fastening requirements between separate parts.
Data Source
AI summary
A rechargeable battery includes an electrode assembly including a positive electrode and a negative electrode, each of the positive and negative electrodes including a coated region and an uncoated region at an end of the coated region in a longitudinal direction of the electrode assembly, a case housing the electrode assembly, a terminal coupled to the electrode assembly, and a current collecting member electrically coupling the electrode assembly to the terminal, wherein the uncoated region is fixed to the current collecting member, and includes a portion that is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the electrode assembly.