Secondary Battery Switch Plate Prevents Overcharging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Secondary batteries lack effective mechanisms to prevent overcharging, which can lead to reduced electric stability and potential safety issues due to temperature increases during charging.
Innovation Solution
A switch plate made of shape-memory alloy is integrated into the battery design, which contacts the cap plate when the internal temperature reaches a predetermined range (80° C to 150° C), creating an electric short circuit to prevent overcharging by altering its shape in response to temperature changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If no temperature-based switching mechanism is installed, then the battery structure remains simple, but overcharging cannot be prevented leading to reduced electric stability and safety issues
Solution Approach 1:
The switch plate utilizes the temperature changes occurring during battery charging to automatically activate or deactivate itself. When the battery temperature reaches a predetermined threshold, the switch plate's resistance changes, causing it to automatically connect or disconnect the charging circuit without requiring external control systems, sensors, or power sources.
Solution Approach 2:
The switch plate's electrical resistance changes in response to temperature variations during charging. As the battery temperature increases to a predetermined level, the switch plate's resistance changes, causing it to automatically connect or disconnect the charging circuit, thereby preventing overcharging and enhancing electric stability.
2Reliability
If a complex temperature sensing and control system is installed, then overcharging can be prevented, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The switch plate serves as both the temperature-responsive element and the circuit switching element. It automatically senses temperature changes through its own resistance variation and self-activates to control the charging circuit, eliminating the need for separate temperature sensors, control circuits, or external power sources.
Solution Approach 2:
The switch plate performs multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as an electrical connector, a temperature sensor, and a circuit controller. This multi-functionality simplifies the overall battery structure by consolidating what would traditionally require multiple separate components into a single integrated element.
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 solution effectively prevents overcharging by ensuring the switch plate contacts the cap plate at elevated temperatures, thereby enhancing the electric stability and safety of the secondary battery.
Implementation Method 1
The switch plate may be formed of a shape-memory alloy. The switch part may be bent upward and downward in an S-shape. The switch plate may be brought into contact with a bottom surface of the cap plate when the secondary battery is in a temperature range from 80° C. to 150° C.
Data Source
AI summary
A secondary battery includes an electrode assembly, a case accommodating the electrode assembly and including an opening, an electrode terminal connected to the electrode assembly and protruding outwardly from the case; a cap assembly including a cap plate in sealing engagement with the opening of the case, and a switch plate connected to the electrode terminal.