Battery Reference Electrode Integration for Accurate Potential Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing battery technologies face challenges in accurately measuring the state of charge (SOC) of lithium-ion batteries due to voltage variations and electrode potential shifts, which can lead to safety issues like thermal runaway and explosions, and require a reference electrode that is not accurately positioned, affecting measurement accuracy and increasing manufacturing complexity.
Innovation Solution
A battery design with a built-in detecting apparatus and conducting wire that allows for real-time, accurate measurement of anode and cathode potentials by embedding a reference electrode with an encapsulation layer for electrical insulation, integrated with the cathode and anode, and including temperature and pressure sensing terminals to prevent safety hazards.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a reference electrode is introduced to detect electrode potential, then measurement accuracy of SOC is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional electrodes and terminals
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the reference electrode with existing battery components by integrating it into the separator or electrode structure. This merging approach allows the reference electrode to be incorporated without adding separate leading-out terminals, thus improving measurement accuracy while avoiding increased device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The reference electrode is designed to serve multiple functions: it provides potential measurement reference, acts as part of the battery's structural framework, and can be integrated with the separator's protective functions. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional components and simplifies the overall battery structure
2Measurement precision
If a reference electrode is positioned close to the cathode, then measurement accuracy is improved, but polarization effects increase affecting measurement reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an electrolyte-filled porous material as an intermediary between the reference electrode and the cathode. This intermediary allows ionic conduction while maintaining electrical insulation, enabling the reference electrode to be positioned close to the cathode for accurate measurement without direct electrical contact that would cause polarization
Solution Approach 2:
The reference electrode is enclosed in a porous insulating material shell that is permeable to electrolyte. This thin film structure allows the electrode to be positioned close to the cathode while the porous shell prevents direct contact, eliminating polarization effects while maintaining measurement accuracy
3Measurement precision
If an independent leading-out terminal is added for the reference electrode, then electrode potential can be measured, but manufacturing complexity and leakage risk increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the reference electrode's electrical connection with the existing battery terminal structure. The reference electrode is electrically connected to the current collector or electrode tab that already serves as a leading-out terminal, eliminating the need for an independent reference electrode terminal and simplifying manufacturing
Solution Approach 2:
The existing electrode tab or current collector is made to serve dual functions: as the electrical connection for the main electrode and as the leading-out terminal for the reference electrode. This multi-functionality reduces the number of components and simplifies the manufacturing process while maintaining measurement capability
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 enables accurate and reliable measurement of electrode potentials, reduces the risk of battery leakage, simplifies manufacturing, and allows for timely monitoring of SOC, internal temperature, and pressure, enhancing battery safety and management.
Implementation Method 1
detecting apparatus, located inside the battery on an anode or cathode end of the battery, and configured to detect an electric potential inside the battery
Implementation Method 2
a conducting wire, electrically connected to the detecting apparatus and insulated from the anode and cathode ends of the battery, and configured to export a value of an electric potential
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a battery. The battery includes: a detecting apparatus, located inside the battery and on an anode or cathode end of the battery, and configured to detect an electric potential inside the battery; and a conducting wire, electrically connected to the detecting apparatus and insulated from the anode and cathode of the battery, and configured to export a value of the electric potential measured by the detecting apparatus. The battery according to embodiments of the present invention is provided with a built-in detecting apparatus, which is led out together with the anode and cathode of the battery by using the conducting wire electrically connected to the detecting apparatus. This design achieves accurate and reliable measurement of a potential at a single electrode.