Bent Current-Collecting Tab Structure for Space-Efficient Batteries
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Solution Overview
Problem
Secondary batteries face challenges in reducing costs and increasing capacity, particularly in the design of electrode assemblies where expensive current collector plates are used and inner space is not optimally utilized.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a current collecting tab structure with multiple bent current collection parts and lead tabs that increase in width and height from the center to the outside, allowing for the elimination of a costly current collector plate and maximizing inner space, thereby enhancing capacity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a current collector plate is used to collect current from the electrode, then the electrical conductivity is improved, but the cost increases and the inner space is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The current collection function is segmented from the traditional current collector plate and distributed to multiple current collecting tabs extending from the current collector. These tabs are positioned at different locations on the electrode, allowing current collection without requiring a separate plate structure, thus reducing cost while maintaining conductivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The current collector serves multiple functions: it collects current through the extended tabs and simultaneously acts as a structural support for the electrode assembly. The tabs integrate the current collection function directly into the existing current collector component, eliminating the need for a separate current collector plate.
2Reliability
If a current collector plate is used to collect current, then the electrical conductivity is improved, but the inner space utilization is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The current collector's tabs extend directly into the electrode structure, combining current collection with structural support functions. This eliminates the need for a separate current collector plate that would occupy additional inner space, thereby maximizing the volume available for active materials while maintaining effective current collection.
Solution Approach 2:
The current collection function is transitioned from a two-dimensional plate structure to a three-dimensional tab structure that extends from the current collector. This dimensional change allows current collection at multiple points in space without requiring a large planar area, thus preserving inner space while maintaining conductivity.
3Productivity
If the current collection parts are increased in number and size, then the current collection efficiency is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The current collecting tabs are pre-formed as integral parts of the current collector during the electrode manufacturing process. This preliminary formation of the tab structure eliminates the need for separate assembly steps, reducing manufacturing complexity despite the increased number of current collection points.
Solution Approach 2:
The current collecting tabs are merged with the current collector as a single integrated component rather than separate parts. This combination simplifies the manufacturing process by eliminating additional assembly steps while providing multiple current collection points for improved efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a secondary battery capable of reducing costs and increasing capacity. For example, disclosed is a secondary battery characterized by comprising: an electrode assembly including a first electrode, a second electrode, and a separator; a case accommodating the electrode assembly; and a cap assembly coupled to the upper portion of the case, wherein the first electrode comprises: a first current collector; a first current collecting tab structure extending from the first current collector and having a plurality of bent current collection parts; and a first lead tab electrically connected to the first current collecting tab structure, wherein, in the first current collecting tab structure, the width of the current collection parts increases from the center of the electrode assembly to the outside, and the distance between the current collection parts increases.