Rounded DLC Electrode Gripper for Scratch-Free Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electrode transferring methods often scratch the surface of lithium metal electrodes during the assembly process, compromising their safety.
Innovation Solution
An electrode transferring apparatus featuring vertically movable grippers with rounded ends coated with DLC, designed to grip and transfer lithium metal electrodes without causing damage, using a pair of gripper handles that contact both ends of the electrode edge.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional electrode transferring device is used to grip and transfer the lithium metal electrode, then the electrode can be transferred, but the surface of the electrode may be scratched due to the loose characteristic of lithium metal
Solution Approach 1:
The gripper handle is designed with a rounded end instead of a sharp or flat edge. This curved surface distributes the gripping force over a larger area and prevents concentrated stress points that would cause scratches on the lithium metal electrode surface during transfer operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The contact surface of the gripper handle is coated with DLC (diamond-like carbon) material, which changes the surface properties to provide lower friction and higher hardness. This coating modification allows effective gripping while preventing surface damage to the electrode.
2Strength
If the electrode gripper applies sufficient gripping force to hold the electrode during transfer, then the electrode can be securely transferred, but the stress on the electrode surface increases causing potential damage
Solution Approach 1:
The rounded end of the gripper handle increases the contact area with the electrode edge, distributing the gripping force more evenly and reducing stress concentration that would lead to surface damage while maintaining secure holding capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The gripper handle combines a structural base material with a DLC coating layer, creating a composite structure that provides both the mechanical strength needed for secure gripping and the surface properties that minimize stress and friction on the electrode.
3Device complexity
If the electrode gripper uses a sharp or flat edge to grip the electrode, then the gripping mechanism is simple, but the edge may scratch the electrode surface
Solution Approach 1:
The gripper handle features a rounded end geometry that eliminates sharp edges while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure. This curved design prevents scratches without requiring complex multi-component constructions.
Solution Approach 2:
The DLC coating on the gripper handle provides a protective surface layer that is relatively thin and can be applied cost-effectively. This coating serves as a sacrificial or protective interface that prevents direct contact between the base material and the electrode surface.
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
Prevents surface scratches and ensures the safety of lithium metal electrodes during transfer by reducing stress and friction, thereby minimizing damage.
Implementation Method 1
the end of electrode gripper in contact with the at least one electrode may be coated by DLC
Data Source
AI summary
An electrode transferring apparatus of a battery cell includes: a transferring body configured to transfer at least one electrode of the battery cell; and an electrode gripper mounted to the transferring body to be vertically movable, the electrode gripper being configured to grip at least one electrode of the battery cell and having a rounded end in contact with the at least one electrode.