Electrode Tab Segmentation for Impact Protection

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Secondary batteries with electrode assemblies are prone to short circuits and potential ignition or explosion due to external impacts, which can damage the electrode tab, separator, or electrodes, causing deformation and allowing current to flow.

Innovation Solution

The electrode tab is designed with a non-conductive or ductile part surrounding a conductive part, specifically made of aluminum, to prevent damage and short circuits by absorbing impact and preventing current flow, even if deformed.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the electrode tab is made of electrical conductive material to ensure electrical connection, then electrical conductivity is improved, but vulnerability to impact damage and short circuit increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrical connection reliabilityVSAvoidimpact damage susceptibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The electrode tab is divided into two distinct parts: a conductive part for electrical connection and a non-conductive part for impact protection. This segmentation allows each part to fulfill its specific function without compromising the other, resolving the contradiction between electrical conductivity and impact resistance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The electrode tab uses a composite structure combining conductive material (for electrical function) and non-conductive material (for mechanical protection). This composite approach enables the single component to provide both electrical connectivity and impact resistance, eliminating the need for separate protective elements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

Data Source

PatentUS10784489B2Electrode assembly
Publication Date: 2020.09.22 LG ENERGY SOLUTION LTD
  • US10784489B2 patent drawing
  • US10784489B2 patent drawing
  • US10784489B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Provided is an electrode assembly. According to the present invention, a separator or an electrode may be prevented from being damaged by an electrode tab when an external impact is applied to a secondary battery or the electrode assembly to prevent short circuit from occurring in the secondary battery. To achieve the above object, the electrode assembly according to the present invention may include at least one electrode tab, and the electrode tab may include a conductive part and a non-conductive part (or a ductile part).