Rechargeable Battery Insulator Step Structure Moisture Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Rechargeable batteries face challenges in preventing moisture penetration and condensation, which can lead to corrosion of electrode terminals, particularly due to the lack of effective insulation between the electrode terminals and the cap plate.
Innovation Solution
The use of a multi-member insulator structure with a step configuration, comprising a first and second member, where the first member is positioned between the cap plate and the electrode terminal, and the second member encloses the outer surface of the electrode terminal, effectively sealing and insulating it from the cap plate, thereby reducing moisture penetration and corrosion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a simple insulator structure is used between the electrode terminal and cap plate, then the device complexity is reduced, but moisture penetration and condensation cannot be effectively prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The insulator is divided into multiple members (first member, second member, third member) with distinct functions: the first member provides electrical insulation, the second member seals the electrode terminal, and the third member provides additional insulation at the cap plate interface. This segmentation allows each component to optimize its specific function while collectively preventing moisture penetration and condensation.
Solution Approach 2:
The insulator members are nested together in a hierarchical arrangement where the first member is positioned between the electrode terminal and cap plate, the second member encloses the electrode terminal, and the third member completes the insulation structure at the cap plate interface. This nested configuration creates multiple barriers against moisture while maintaining a compact structure.
2Reliability
If no insulator is used between the electrode terminal and cap plate, then the device complexity is minimized, but corrosion of electrode terminals occurs due to moisture penetration
Solution Approach 1:
The insulator members act as intermediary components between the electrode terminal and cap plate, preventing direct contact and blocking moisture pathways. The first member specifically serves as an intermediary barrier that eliminates condensation issues by providing both electrical insulation and moisture sealing.
3Reliability
If a multi-member insulator structure is implemented, then moisture penetration and condensation are reduced, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The insulator is segmented into multiple members that can be manufactured separately using standard molding processes and then assembled through straightforward positioning and coupling. This segmentation enables modular manufacturing, where each member can be produced independently and then combined to form the complete insulation system.
Data Source
AI summary
A rechargeable battery including an electrode assembly performing charging and discharging; a case accommodating the electrode assembly; a cap plate coupled with the case; an electrode terminal in a terminal hole of the cap plate, the electrode terminal being electrically connected to the electrode assembly; and an insulator electrically insulating the electrode terminal and the cap plate, wherein the insulator includes a first member between an outside of the cap plate and a surface of the electrode terminal facing the cap plate, and a second member enclosing an outer surface of the electrode terminal and the first member and being coupled with the first member with a step structure.