Battery Module Current Shut-Off Cell for Overcharge Safety
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional battery modules lack a safety element at the lead connected part, making them vulnerable to overcharge, which can lead to explosions and fires, posing risks to devices and users.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a battery current shut-off cell between adjacent battery cells that ruptures upon overcharge to disconnect the electrical connection, using a gas generating material in the positive electrode plate to increase internal pressure and break the battery case, thereby shutting off the current flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional battery modules are used without additional safety elements, then the device complexity is low, but the reliability is poor due to vulnerability to overcharge
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the safety function into an existing battery cell by designating one battery cell as a current shut-off cell. This cell combines the functions of energy storage and safety protection, eliminating the need for separate safety devices while maintaining reliability against overcharge conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The current shut-off cell serves multiple functions: it acts as a regular battery cell during normal operation and automatically functions as a safety device when overcharge conditions occur. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by improving reliability without adding separate components that would increase device complexity
2Reliability
If fuses or additional safety components are added to protect against overcharge, then the reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of adding separate fuse components, the patent combines the safety function within an existing battery cell structure. The current shut-off cell integrates protection functionality into the battery module itself, avoiding additional components and maintaining simplicity while improving reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The battery module performs its own safety function through the current shut-off cell, which automatically detects and responds to overcharge conditions. This self-service approach eliminates the need for external safety components, resolving the contradiction by improving reliability without increasing device complexity
3Strength
If the battery case is made stronger to prevent rupture, then the strength is improved, but the ability to shut off current through controlled rupture is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different structural qualities to different parts of the battery system. The current shut-off cell has a specifically designed case with controlled weakness at certain locations, allowing it to rupture at predetermined points under overcharge conditions. This local quality differentiation enables the case to be strong enough for normal operation but capable of controlled rupture for safety shutdown
Solution Approach 2:
The battery case is pre-designed with predetermined rupture points or weakened sections before the battery is put into service. This preliminary action ensures that when overcharge occurs, the case will rupture in a controlled manner at these pre-designed locations, allowing the safety function to operate effectively while maintaining overall structural integrity during normal use
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
The battery module ensures safety by automatically disconnecting the current flow during overcharge without altering existing battery cells, enhancing safety without increasing resistance or requiring additional components like fuses.
Implementation Method 1
using a gas generating material in the positive electrode plate to increase internal pressure and break the battery case
Data Source
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AI summary
A safety element is provided to a lead connected part of a battery module in the event of overcharge, to improve safety of the battery module. The battery module according to the present disclosure includes two or more battery cells, and the battery module includes a current shut-off battery cell which electrically connects adjacent first and second battery cells, and when overcharge occurs, ruptures to disconnect the electrical connection.