Secondary Battery Terminal Connection Structure for Simpler Assembly

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing assembly structure for secondary batteries is complicated due to the large number of accessories required for electrical connection between components.

Innovation Solution

A secondary battery design that reduces the number of components by directly coupling the first and second current collectors without intermediate components, and electrically connecting the terminal to the current collector through a simplified structure.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a separate rivet and gasket are used to electrically connect the terminal to the current collector, then reliable electrical connection is achieved, but the number of accessories increases and the assembly structure becomes complicated

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrical connection reliabilityVSAvoidassembly structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The terminal connection part integrates multiple functions into a single component: it serves as both the electrical connector and the mechanical fastener, eliminating the need for separate rivets and gaskets. The terminal connection part directly contacts the current collector and passes through the cap plate to secure the terminal, combining electrical connectivity and mechanical attachment in one element.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The terminal connection part performs multiple functions simultaneously: it provides electrical connection between the terminal and current collector, acts as a mechanical fastener to secure the terminal assembly, and serves as a structural support element. This multi-functional design reduces the total number of components needed in the battery assembly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If multiple intermediate components are used for electrical connection, then connection reliability is improved, but the number of components increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrical connection reliabilityVSAvoidnumber of components
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The invention merges the terminal connection part with the current collector assembly, creating an integrated structure where the terminal connection part is directly formed on or attached to the current collector. This integration eliminates intermediate connection components while maintaining reliable electrical contact through direct metal-to-metal contact between the terminal connection part and current collector surface.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Productivity

If a simplified connection structure is used, then the number of components is reduced and assembly efficiency is improved, but electrical connection complexity may increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly efficiencyVSAvoidelectrical connection complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The terminal connection structure is segmented into distinct functional zones: the terminal connection part on the current collector, the cap plate with opening, and the terminal itself. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall simplicity, with clear interfaces between components that facilitate assembly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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 simplified structure reduces the number of components and enhances the assembly efficiency, while maintaining effective electrical connectivity between the terminal and the current collector.

Implementation Method 1

a first current collector welded to the negative electrode tab or the positive electrode tab of the electrode assembly

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectWelding: Welding

Data Source

PatentUS20250046968A1Secondary battery
Publication Date: 2025.02.06 SAMSUNG SDI CO LTD
  • US20250046968A1 patent drawing
  • US20250046968A1 patent drawing
  • US20250046968A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A secondary battery including: an electrode assembly including a negative electrode tab and a positive electrode tab at opposite ends thereof in a longitudinal direction; a case accommodating the electrode assembly, both ends of the case in the longitudinal direction being open; a pair of cap plates respectively coupled to the open ends of the case; and a negative electrode terminal and a positive electrode terminal respectively electrically connected to the negative electrode tab and the positive electrode tab and exposed at an outside of the cap plates, respectively. A current collector is on an upper portion of the negative electrode tab or the positive electrode tab, a terminal connection part is on the current collector, and the terminal connection part passes through a plate hole in the cap plate to be electrically connected to the negative electrode terminal or the positive electrode terminal.