Battery Cell End-Face Lithium Replenishment for Uniform Li Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Lithium-ion batteries face issues with irreversible lithium ion consumption during the first charge, leading to reduced energy density and shortened service life due to the formation of a solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) film and ongoing lithium loss during use.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a lithium replenishing apparatus connected to the second end face of the electrode assembly, which also serves as a bottom supporting plate, to uniformly replenish active lithium, thereby enhancing energy density and service life while reducing internal space and production costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a lithium replenishing apparatus is added to replenish active lithium loss, then service life and energy density are improved, but device complexity and internal space increase
Solution Approach 1:
The lithium replenishing apparatus is designed to serve dual functions: it acts as both a lithium replenishing device and a bottom supporting plate for the battery cell. This multi-functionality allows the apparatus to provide structural support while simultaneously replenishing active lithium, thereby improving service life without adding separate supporting structures and avoiding increased device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the lithium replenishing function with the bottom supporting plate function into a single integrated apparatus. By merging these two functions, the design eliminates the need for additional components, thus improving reliability through lithium replenishment while maintaining simple device architecture
2Reliability
If a lithium replenishing apparatus is added to replenish active lithium loss, then service life and energy density are improved, but internal space increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lithium replenishing apparatus serves as both a functional device for lithium replenishment and a structural bottom supporting plate. This dual role allows the system to extend service life through active lithium replenishment while occupying no additional internal space beyond what is already required for structural support
Solution Approach 2:
By integrating the lithium replenishing function with the bottom supporting plate, the patent eliminates the need for separate components. The apparatus occupies the same space that would otherwise be filled by the supporting plate alone, thus extending service life without increasing internal space requirements
3Reliability
If lithium replenishing apparatus is connected to the first end face with tabs, then lithium replenishment occurs, but uniform distribution of lithium to all electrode sheets is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of connecting the lithium replenishing apparatus to the traditional first end face where tabs are located, the patent inverts the connection location to the second end face of the electrode assembly. This inverted configuration enables lithium to be replenished at the opposite end, facilitating more uniform distribution of active lithium across all electrode sheets through the electrolyte, thereby improving both replenishment effectiveness and distribution uniformity
4Strength
If an additional bottom supporting plate is provided, then structural support is improved, but production costs and internal space increase
Solution Approach 1:
The lithium replenishing apparatus is designed to perform both lithium replenishment and structural support functions. By making the apparatus multi-functional, the patent eliminates the need for a separate bottom supporting plate, thereby maintaining structural strength while reducing production costs and simplifying manufacturing
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the structural support function with the lithium replenishing function into a single apparatus. This integration means that the same component provides both mechanical strength and electrochemical function, reducing the total number of parts and lowering production costs without compromising structural integrity
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
The lithium replenishing apparatus effectively increases energy density and extends battery service life by uniformly replenishing lithium, reducing internal space and production costs, and improving the lithium replenishing effect within the battery cell.
Implementation Method 1
active lithium can be relatively easily diffused into the entire battery cell through the second end face
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present application provide a battery cell, a battery, and a power consumption apparatus, which could effectively improve performance of the battery without increasing the internal space of the battery. The battery cell includes: an electrode assembly including a first end face and a second end face opposite to each other, the first end face being provided with tabs; and a lithium replenishing apparatus connected with the second end face.


