Electrode Assembly Inner-Outer Tabs for Fix-Free Battery Stacking
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for manufacturing rechargeable batteries require additional processes and facilities for fixing electrodes, increasing manufacturing costs and time, which is inefficient for high-speed production.
Innovation Solution
The electrode assembly includes first and second electrodes with protruding uncoated portions featuring inner and outer tabs that are bent in opposite directions, allowing for efficient stacking and alignment without additional fixing processes, using a bundle-type fixation body.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a process of fixing the electrode is added to properly stack electrodes, then the alignment and stacking quality is improved, but the manufacturing cost and manufacturing time are increased
Solution Approach 1:
The electrodes are designed with protruding uncoated portions and tabs that extend beyond the electrode body in advance. This preliminary structural preparation enables the electrodes to be stacked and aligned directly without requiring additional fixing processes during manufacturing, thereby resolving the contradiction between alignment quality and manufacturing time
Solution Approach 2:
The protruding tabs on the electrodes serve a dual function: they act as both structural alignment features and electrical connection terminals. The electrodes self-align through their own tab structures during stacking, eliminating the need for separate fixing facilities or processes, thus reducing both manufacturing time and cost while maintaining alignment precision
2Manufacturing precision
If a process of fixing the electrode is added to properly stack electrodes, then the alignment and stacking quality is improved, but the manufacturing cost is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The uncoated portions of the electrodes are designed to serve multiple functions simultaneously: they provide alignment features for proper stacking, act as structural support elements, and serve as electrical connection terminals. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate fixing components and processes, reducing manufacturing cost while maintaining alignment quality
Solution Approach 2:
The fixing function is extracted from the electrode structure itself and integrated into the uncoated portion and tab design. By taking out the alignment and connection requirements and incorporating them directly into the electrode geometry, the patent eliminates the need for additional fixing facilities and materials, thereby reducing manufacturing cost
Data Source
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AI summary
An electrode assembly includes a first electrode having a first electrode uncoated portion with a protruding shape, a second electrode having a second electrode uncoated portion with a protruding shape, and a separator disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode, wherein the first electrode uncoated portion includes a first inner tab and a first outer tab separated by a cut line provided inside the first electrode uncoated portion, and wherein the second electrode uncoated portion includes a second inner tab and a second outer tab separated by a cut line provided inside the second electrode uncoated portion.