Rechargeable Battery Side Retainer Arc Debris Exhaust Guide
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Solution Overview
Problem
Rechargeable batteries face damage from arc debris generated when the cell fuse melts due to high-voltage conditions, which can penetrate the electrode assembly or fall onto the case, causing damage.
Innovation Solution
A rechargeable battery design featuring a side retainer with an exhaust guide member that collects or guides arc debris away from the electrode assembly and case, preventing damage by channeling it between the side retainer and the case.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a fuse is installed in the lead tab to interrupt current under high-voltage conditions, then current protection is improved, but arc debris is generated that can penetrate the electrode assembly or damage the case
Solution Approach 1:
The harmful arc debris is extracted from the general battery interior space and directed into a specific containment region. The side retainer with exhaust guide member separates the arc debris generation zone from the electrode assembly and case, allowing the fuse to maintain its protective function while isolating its harmful byproduct (arc debris) into a designated area between the side retainer and case.
Solution Approach 2:
The side retainer acts as an intermediary structure between the fuse and the electrode assembly/case. It introduces a new component that mediates the interaction by providing a physical barrier and guidance path, preventing direct contact between arc debris and sensitive components while maintaining the fuse's current-interrupting function.
2Reliability
If the fuse melts to interrupt current, then electrical safety is improved, but the arc debris can fly into lateral or lower sides of the electrode assembly causing damage
Solution Approach 1:
The harmful arc debris is converted from a damaging factor into a contained element. Instead of allowing arc debris to randomly scatter and damage components, the exhaust guide member channels it into a specific region between the side retainer and case, where it cannot cause harm. The harmful kinetic energy of arc debris is redirected into a controlled path that benefits overall system safety.
Solution Approach 2:
The problem is solved by introducing a spatial dimension consideration. Rather than relying solely on the horizontal placement of components, the invention utilizes the vertical dimension by positioning the side retainer and exhaust guide member to create a three-dimensional containment space. Arc debris is directed into this vertical space between the side retainer and case, preventing lateral penetration into the electrode assembly.
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
Effectively protects the electrode assembly and case from arc debris, preventing penetration and damage during fuse operation, thereby enhancing the battery's reliability and longevity.
Implementation Method 1
Arc debris generated when the fuse is operated (melted) may penetrate inside the electrode assembly thereby damaging the electrode assembly or fly into a lateral side or a lower side of the electrode assembly
Data Source
AI summary
The described technology has been made in an effort to provide a rechargeable battery having advantages of protecting an electrode assembly and a case from arc debris generated from a cell fuse. A rechargeable battery in accordance with exemplary embodiment includes: an electrode assembly configured to perform charging and discharging operations; a case configured to accommodate the electrode assembly therein; a cap plate coupled to an opening of the case; an electrode terminal installed on the cap plate; a lead tab configured to connect the electrode assembly to the electrode terminal, and including a fuse; and a side retainer supported in an inner surface of the case to be coupled to the lead tab. The side retainer includes an exhaust guide member that is opened toward the cell fuse and a sidewall of the case.


