Electrode Assembly Tab Geometry for Higher-Capacity Secondary Batteries
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing secondary batteries face challenges in achieving increased capacity and improved process characteristics, particularly in the design and manufacturing of electrode assemblies.
Innovation Solution
The secondary battery design includes a unique configuration of first and second tabs formed in different shapes and directions, with the first tab protruding from the top and the second tab from the bottom of the electrode assembly, and these tabs are formed as stripe type, notched, or overlapping base material tabs, which are connected to distinct current collector plates and a cap plate, enhancing the electrode assembly's processability and capacity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If tabs are formed in different shapes and directions, then processability and capacity are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode assembly is segmented into multiple tabs (first tab and second tab) with different shapes and directions, allowing each tab to be optimized for specific manufacturing processes and capacity requirements, thereby improving overall processability without compromising the electrode assembly's integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The first tab and second tab are deliberately designed with asymmetric characteristics - different shapes, directions, and positions - to optimize manufacturing processes and increase battery capacity. This asymmetric design allows for improved processability by facilitating easier manufacturing operations
2Quantity of substance
If tabs are formed in different shapes and directions, then capacity is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tab configuration extends into multiple spatial dimensions with tabs protruding in different directions (first tab in first direction, second tab in second direction). This dimensional diversification increases the effective active material utilization and battery capacity while the systematic arrangement keeps manufacturing complexity manageable
3Reliability
If first tab is connected to case and second tab to cap plate, then electrical connection is improved, but structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The case and cap plate serve multiple functions: they provide structural containment, electrical connection points, and thermal management interfaces. By connecting first tab to case and second tab to cap plate, the design utilizes these universal components for both mechanical support and electrical conductivity, improving reliability without adding separate connection structures
Data Source
AI summary
A secondary battery includes a case and an electrode assembly accommodated in a space inside of the case. The electrode assembly includes a first tab connected to a first electrode plate and a second tab connected to a second electrode plate. A cap plate seals the case. The first tab and the second tab are formed in different shapes.