Micro Battery Cap Plate and Terminal Metals for Safe Venting
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for ultra-small rechargeable batteries with high energy density, particularly for wearable devices, and existing micro batteries do not effectively utilize various metals in their construction to optimize performance and safety.
Innovation Solution
A micro rechargeable battery design that includes a cap plate and electrode terminal made of different metals, with the cap plate having a lower ionization tendency than the electrode terminal, and a thermal bonding layer that melts at a predetermined temperature to provide insulation and venting in case of overheating.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If the battery size is reduced for wearable devices, then the portability and wearability are improved, but the energy density and capacity are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs composite material structures in the electrode assembly, combining different metal materials with optimized properties to achieve high energy density in a compact form. The electrode assembly uses composite structures that maximize energy storage per unit volume while maintaining small overall dimensions suitable for wearable devices.
2Reliability
If various metals are used in battery construction, then the performance and safety can be optimized, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by using different metal materials in specific locations within the battery structure where they are most effective. The cap plate and electrode terminal use different metals optimized for their respective functions, with the cap plate providing structural integrity and the electrode terminal optimized for electrical conductivity and ionization resistance, thereby improving performance without requiring complex manufacturing processes throughout the entire battery.
3Ease of manufacture
If the cap plate and electrode terminal are made of the same metal, then the manufacturing process is simplified, but the ionization tendency and safety are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements local quality by assigning different metal materials to the cap plate and electrode terminal based on their specific functional requirements. The electrode terminal is made of a metal with appropriate ionization tendency for optimal electrochemical performance, while the cap plate uses a different metal that provides structural stability and complementary electrical properties, achieving both safety and manufacturing feasibility.
4Device complexity
If no thermal protection mechanism is included, then the device complexity is reduced, but the safety and explosion risk are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates beforehand cushioning by including a thermal protection mechanism that activates before dangerous conditions develop. The different metal composition of the cap plate and electrode terminal creates inherent thermal management properties, and the structural design includes features that prevent thermal runaway by establishing safe thermal pathways and expansion spaces before overheating can cause explosions.
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 design enhances energy density and safety by allowing for diverse metal combinations and includes a venting mechanism to prevent explosions, making it suitable for wearable devices and other applications.
Implementation Method 1
a thermal bonding layer positioned between the cap plate and the flange portion and insulatingly bonded between the cap plate and the flange portion. The thermal bonding layer may melt at a predetermined temperature.
Data Source
AI summary
A rechargeable battery according to an embodiment 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 to accommodate the electrode assembly and having an opening at a side thereof; a cap plate coupled to the opening of the case and including a terminal hole to expose the inner space; and an electrode terminal electrically connected to the electrode assembly through the terminal hole and overlapping the cap plate, and the cap plate and the electrode terminal are made of different metals.