Electrode Assembly Structure for Pouch Deformation Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Pouch-type rechargeable batteries face deformation issues due to gas discharging and pressure differences during charging and discharging, leading to installation defects and pack tape dropout.
Innovation Solution
An electrode assembly with a shape maintaining member formed at one side, where the end portions of the electrodes and separator are exposed, helps minimize pouch deformation by maintaining the assembly's shape and supporting the pouch.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-generated harmful factors
If gas is discharged through the pouch during formation process, then gas is removed from the battery, but the pouch shape becomes deformed
Solution Approach 1:
The separator protrusion extends into the pouch cavity in advance before gas discharge, creating a pre-positioned structural support that prevents pouch deformation during the subsequent gas discharge process. This preliminary structural preparation counteracts the harmful effect of gas accumulation on pouch shape.
2Manufacturing precision
If the separator is cut to fit the electrode width, then the separator fits the electrode, but the pouch deforms during gas discharge
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of solving the fit issue in the plane dimension by cutting the separator to electrode width, the solution extends the separator in the third dimension (protrusion into pouch cavity). This dimensional change provides both proper fit and structural support to prevent deformation.
3Reliability
If the pouch is sealed tightly, then the battery is protected, but deformation causes installation defects and tape dropout
Solution Approach 1:
The separator protrusion acts as a pre-positioned cushioning structure inside the pouch that absorbs and distributes internal pressure during gas discharge, preventing the pouch from deforming to the point of causing installation defects or tape dropout.
Data Source
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AI summary
An electrode assembly includes: an assembly in which a first electrode, a separator overlapping the first electrode, and a second electrode overlapping the separator are alternately stacked; and a shape maintaining member at one side of the assembly where end portions of the first electrode, the separator, and the second electrode are exposed, wherein the shape maintaining member is a distance (e.g., a set or predetermined distance) away from both side surfaces of the assembly that are at both sides around the shape maintaining member.