Inclined Electrode Tab Layout for Electrolyte Flow in Micro Batteries
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Solution Overview
Problem
Ultra-small rechargeable batteries face challenges in allowing easy flow of electrolyte solution into the electrode assembly due to their compact size, which can obstruct the electrolyte supply and affect battery performance.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates electrode tabs with inclined portions connected at specific angles to the case and electrode terminal, ensuring the tabs do not obstruct the electrolyte flow, and a thermal-fusion layer for insulation and potential ventilation in case of overheating.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the battery size is reduced to ultra-small dimensions, then the energy density and portability are improved, but the electrolyte solution cannot be easily supplied into the electrode assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode tab is designed with an asymmetric inclined portion that slopes downward toward the electrode assembly. This asymmetric geometry creates a favorable flow path for the electrolyte solution, allowing it to easily follow the inclined surface into the electrode assembly without being blocked by the tab structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrode tab extends into the internal space of the battery case rather than being confined to a single plane. By positioning the tab in three-dimensional space with appropriate clearance from the electrode assembly, the design creates additional spatial dimensions for electrolyte flow paths, preventing obstruction despite the ultra-small overall battery dimensions.
2Quantity of substance
If the electrode tab is positioned close to the electrode assembly to maximize space utilization, then the battery capacity is improved, but the electrolyte solution flow is obstructed
Solution Approach 1:
The inclined portion of the electrode tab creates an asymmetric configuration that maintains a consistent clearance gap between the tab and the electrode assembly. This asymmetric design allows the tab to be positioned close to the electrode assembly for space optimization while the inclined geometry ensures electrolyte solution can flow along the tab surface without being blocked.
3Reliability
If the electrode tab is made longer to improve electrical connection, then the electrical conductivity is improved, but the electrolyte solution flow path is blocked
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode tab features an asymmetric inclined portion that extends toward the electrode assembly while maintaining a controlled clearance. This asymmetric geometry allows the tab to achieve sufficient length for reliable electrical connection while the inclined surface orientation ensures that the electrolyte solution can flow along the tab and into the electrode assembly without obstruction.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrode tab is positioned in three-dimensional space with vertical clearance from the electrode assembly. By utilizing the vertical dimension and creating spatial separation, the design allows the tab to be sufficiently long for electrical connection while maintaining electrolyte flow paths through the available vertical space.
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
Facilitates easy electrolyte solution supply into the electrode assembly, enhancing battery performance and safety by preventing obstruction and providing a ventilation channel in case of thermal issues.
Implementation Method 1
The thermal-fusion layer may melt at a predetermined temperature
Data Source
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AI summary
A rechargeable battery includes: an electrode assembly including a first electrode, a second electrode, and a separator between the first electrode and the second electrode; a case including an inner space accommodating the electrode assembly, and an opening; a cap plate coupled to the case at the opening and including a terminal hole exposing the inner space; an electrode terminal electrically connected to the electrode assembly through the terminal hole and overlapping the cap plate; electrode tabs respectively connected to the first electrode and the second electrode; and an electrolyte solution in the inner space, and at least one electrode tab of the electrode tabs has an inclined portion that is inclined at a first angle with respect to a surface of the electrode assembly facing the at least one electrode tab.