Rechargeable Battery Pressure-Sensitive Short-Circuit Protection
Solution Overview
Problem
Rechargeable batteries face instability issues due to pressure changes, which can lead to malfunctions or explosions, particularly in high-output configurations used for vehicles and large power applications.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a short-circuit tab and member that are electrically connected via a pressure-sensitive mechanism, with a cover and sealing system that allows for controlled opening and closing of the short-circuit tab to manage internal pressure and prevent malfunctions, utilizing a combination of protrusions, grooves, and sealing members for secure sealing and pressure management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a high-output rechargeable battery uses a non-aqueous electrolyte solution of high energy density, then the power output is improved, but the stability and safety deteriorate due to pressure changes causing malfunctions or explosions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary anti-action by pre-installing a short-circuit member that can automatically activate to prevent catastrophic failure. The short-circuit member is positioned and configured in advance to detect pressure changes and establish a safe discharge path before dangerous pressure buildup occurs, counteracting the inherent instability of high-energy-density batteries
Solution Approach 2:
The short-circuit tab acts as an intermediary element between the electrodes, providing a controlled electrical connection that can be activated under specific conditions. This intermediary mechanism allows the battery to safely discharge through a predetermined path when pressure changes occur, mediating between the high-energy-density electrolyte and the battery housing to prevent explosions
2Power
If the battery module uses a plurality of rechargeable batteries connected in series, then the power output is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the short-circuit protection function into the terminal structure itself. The short-circuit member is integrated with the terminal, and the short-circuit tab is formed as part of the terminal assembly, combining multiple functions (electrical connection, protection mechanism, pressure response) into a single integrated component rather than separate elements
Solution Approach 2:
The terminal structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides electrical connection for power output, houses the short-circuit protection mechanism, responds to pressure changes, and maintains structural integrity. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components that would increase device complexity
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 solution enhances the stability and safety of rechargeable batteries by preventing short-circuit malfunctions and potential explosions, ensuring reliable operation under varying pressure conditions, including those encountered during transportation and use in high-power applications.
Implementation Method 1
a short-circuit member electrically connected to the first electrode and transformed according to a change in pressure to be electrically connected to the short-circuit tab
Data Source
AI summary
A rechargeable battery includes an electrode assembly having a first electrode and a second electrode; a case housing the electrode assembly; a cap plate coupled to the case; a short-circuit tab electrically coupled to the second electrode and having an opening; a short-circuit member electrically coupled to the first electrode and configured to be moved by a change in pressure to be electrically coupled to the short-circuit tab; and a cover covering the opening in the short-circuit tab.