Energy Storage Electrode Deposition Structure

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Solution Overview

Problem

Energy storage systems, such as flow batteries, face challenges in enhancing electrolyte mixing and material deposition efficiency within cells, which affects the overall performance and longevity of the energy storage process.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating a three-dimensional structure with outer layers and an intermediate support arrangement between them, positioned proximate to the electrodes, to facilitate electrolyte mixing and material deposition, while also supporting the separator and potentially increasing current density by masking electrode portions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If a three-dimensional structure with outer layers and intermediate support is positioned proximate to the electrode, then electrolyte mixing is enhanced and material deposition is facilitated, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrolyte mixing efficiencyVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The three-dimensional structure is segmented into multiple functional layers: outer layers that interact with electrolyte and electrode, and an intermediate support arrangement that provides structural integrity. This segmentation allows each layer to be optimized for its specific function while collectively achieving enhanced mixing and deposition without requiring a completely complex new structure

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The three-dimensional structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it enhances electrolyte mixing, facilitates material deposition, provides structural support, and can mask electrode portions to increase current density. By making the structure multi-functional, the patent avoids adding separate components for each function, thereby improving productivity without proportionally increasing device complexity

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

2Power

If the three-dimensional structure masks portions of the electrode, then current density is increased, but the active electrode area is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecurrent densityVSAvoidelectrode area
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The three-dimensional structure selectively masks specific portions of the electrode rather than covering the entire surface. This local masking approach concentrates current flow through specific pathways, increasing current density in those regions without completely sacrificing total electrode area. The structure creates localized high-current-density zones that improve power output while maintaining sufficient overall electrode surface area

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

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 enhances electrolyte mixing, supports material deposition, acts as a filter for particles, and increases current density, thereby improving the efficiency and durability of the energy storage system.

Implementation Method 1

deposition facilitating structure proximate the electrode for facilitating deposition of material on the electrode

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDeposition: Deposition (physical)

Implementation Method 2

three-dimensional structure is configured to enhance mixing of the electrolyte proximate the electrode

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectConvection: Convection

Implementation Method 3

The separator may permit ionic flow between the cathode and anode to facilitate energy storage in the system, as well as discharge of energy from the system

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectIon transport: Ion Exchange

Data Source

PatentEP2817841B8Screen arrangement for an energy storage system
Publication Date: 2017.12.13 VIZN ENERGY SYSTEMS INC

AI summary

An energy storage system according to the present disclosure includes a cell having an electrode and a deposition facilitating structure proximate the electrode for facilitating deposition of material on the electrode. The deposition facilitating structure includes first and second outer layers and an intermediate support arrangement positioned between the outer layers and connected to the outer layers.