Battery Cell Terminal Structure for Shorter Conductive Paths

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing battery cells face challenges in improving overcurrent capability and charging efficiency due to long conductive paths and high internal resistance caused by the conventional connection methods of the electrode terminal to the tab.

Innovation Solution

The electrode terminal is connected to the tab through a first connecting portion that extends between the cover and an annular portion of the tab, forming welded portions to reduce internal resistance and improve current density uniformity, while maintaining a safe and efficient electrical connection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the electrode terminal is connected to the tab through a conventional connection method, then the structure is simple, but the conductive path is long and internal resistance is high

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveovercurrent capabilityVSAvoidconnection structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The first connecting portion transitions from a conventional linear connection to a three-dimensional structure that extends in multiple directions (radially outward from the columnar portion and toward the first annular portion), creating a spatial optimization that shortens the conductive path while maintaining structural integrity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The first connecting portion is pre-configured with an extended structure before assembly, positioning it to directly connect to the first annular portion of the tab. This preliminary configuration ensures optimal electrical connection geometry is established before the battery cell is assembled, reducing internal resistance from the outset

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Productivity

If the first connecting portion extends between the cover and the first annular portion, then the conductive path is shortened and internal resistance is reduced, but the connection structure becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecharging efficiencyVSAvoidelectrode terminal structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The first connecting portion merges the functions of electrical connection and structural support into a single integrated component. It simultaneously serves as the electrical conductor connecting the columnar portion to the first annular portion and as a structural element that maintains the geometric relationship between these components, thereby improving charging efficiency without proportionally increasing complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Reliability

If the first welded portion is annular and arranged around the columnar portion, then the overcurrent area is increased and current density uniformity is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveovercurrent capabilityVSAvoidwelding position precision
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The first welded portion is designed with an annular geometry that changes the distribution parameters of current flow. By arranging the welded portion in a continuous ring around the columnar portion, the current density is evenly distributed across the entire annular area, preventing localized hot spots and improving overall overcurrent capability while maintaining manufacturability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 configuration shortens the conductive path, reduces internal resistance, enhances overcurrent capability, and improves charging efficiency by ensuring a stable and efficient electrical connection between the electrode assembly and the terminal.

Implementation Method 1

the first connecting portion is at least partially located between the cover and the first annular portion and is configured to connect the first annular portion in such a way that the first tab is electrically connected to the electrode terminal

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical conduction: Conduction (electrical)

Implementation Method 2

the first connecting portion is at least partially welded to the first annular portion to form a first welded portion

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectWelding: Welding

Data Source

PatentUS12537250B2Battery cell, method and system for manufacture same, battery, and power consuming device
Publication Date: 2026.01.27 CONTEMPORARY AMPEREX TECHNOLOGY (HONG KONG) LIMITED
  • US12537250B2 patent drawing
  • US12537250B2 patent drawing
  • US12537250B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A battery cell, a method and system for manufacturing the battery cell, a battery, and a power consuming device are provided. The battery cell comprises: an electrode assembly comprising a first tab, wherein the first tab is arranged around a central axis of the electrode assembly; a housing configured to accommodate the electrode assembly, wherein the housing comprises a barrel and a cover connected to the barrel, the barrel is arranged around a periphery of the electrode assembly, the cover is provided with an electrode lead-out hole, the central axis extends in a first direction and passes through the electrode lead-out hole, the first tab comprises a first annular portion, and a projection of the first annular portion in the first direction does not overlap with a projection of the electrode lead-out hole in the first direction; and an electrode terminal comprising a columnar portion.