Piezoelectric Ion Transport Layer for Self-Charging Batteries
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional energy storage systems require external recharging, which can be impractical or impossible in certain applications such as biomedical and space-based scenarios, and existing mechanical-to-electrical energy conversion methods are inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A self-charging energy storage system incorporating a piezoelectric ion transport layer between the anode and cathode, which generates a piezoelectric field upon mechanical force application, facilitating the direct conversion and storage of mechanical energy as chemical energy within the system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If external charging circuits are used to recharge batteries, then batteries can be recharged reliably, but the system becomes complex and impractical for certain applications such as biomedical and space-based scenarios
Solution Approach 1:
The battery system performs its own charging function through the piezoelectric material that converts mechanical stress directly into electrical energy within the battery structure, eliminating the need for external charging circuits and enabling self-sufficient operation in remote applications
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the conventional electrical charging system with a piezoelectric mechanism that uses mechanical stress to generate electrical energy, substituting complex electrical infrastructure with a simpler mechanical-to-electrical conversion process integrated into the battery
2Use of energy by moving object
If spring-driven generators are used to convert mechanical energy to electrical energy for battery recharging, then some energy can be generated, but the energy production is limited and requires intentional human input
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of energy conversion by using piezoelectric materials that directly convert mechanical stress into electrical energy at the material level, rather than using macroscopic mechanical generators, thereby increasing energy generation capacity and enabling passive energy harvesting
Solution Approach 2:
The piezoelectric material acts as an intermediary between mechanical stress and electrical energy generation, converting ambient mechanical energy from the environment directly into usable electrical charge that can be stored in the battery without requiring external mechanical input devices
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
Enables efficient and autonomous recharging of batteries and supercapacitors by converting mechanical energy into chemical energy without the need for external charging circuits, enhancing energy storage capacity and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The piezoelectric ion transport layer has a piezoelectric property that generates a piezoelectric field when a mechanical force is applied thereto. The piezoelectric field causes transportation of ions in the electrolyte through the piezoelectric ion transport layer towards the anode.
Data Source
AI summary
A self-charging power pack (300) includes a cathode (312) and an anode (310) that is spaced apart from the cathode (312). An electrolyte (318) is disposed between the anode (310) and the cathode (312). A piezoelectric ion transport layer (322) is disposed between the anode (310) and the cathode (312). The piezoelectric ion transport layer (322) has a piezoelectric property that generates a piezoelectric field when a mechanical force is applied thereto. The piezoelectric field causes transportation of ions in the electrolyte (318) through the piezoelectric ion transport layer (322) towards the anode (310).