Segmented Flexible Battery Structure for Durable Wearables
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Solution Overview
Problem
Wearable devices face design constraints due to the size and bulk of traditional batteries, which hinder the development of compact and comfortable wearable technology.
Innovation Solution
The design of flexible batteries that incorporate alternating positively charged and negatively charged layers separated by gaps and insulated by separators, allowing for flexibility and durability by maintaining structural integrity through a pouch package and additional adhesives and stiffeners.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of moving object
If traditional batteries are used in wearable devices, then power capacity is sufficient, but device size and bulk increase
Solution Approach 1:
The battery is divided into multiple discrete electrode segments (positive and negative) that are separated by insulating separators. This segmentation allows the battery to be flexible and conform to wearable device contours while maintaining sufficient power capacity through the collective contribution of all segments.
Solution Approach 2:
The battery transitions from a traditional three-dimensional volumetric structure to a more two-dimensional planar configuration with electrode layers arranged in alternating positive-negative sequences. This dimensional change enables the battery to be integrated into thin wearable devices while maintaining adequate energy density.
2Volume of moving object
If electrode layers are placed close together to reduce size, then battery volume decreases, but structural integrity and safety deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
Insulating separators are introduced as intermediary elements between adjacent positive and negative electrode layers. These separators prevent direct electrical contact and short circuits while maintaining compact spacing between layers, thus reducing battery volume without compromising safety or structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The battery employs thin film electrode layers and flexible separator materials that can be closely spaced while maintaining structural integrity. The flexible nature of these thin films allows them to conform to various shapes and withstand mechanical stress without compromising the battery's structural strength.
3Adaptability or versatility
If battery is made flexible for wearable integration, then adaptability to wearable forms increases, but durability and structural stability decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The battery utilizes composite material structures combining flexible electrode substrates, adhesive layers, and protective coatings. This composite construction provides both the flexibility needed for wearable integration and the durability required for long-term reliability, as each material layer contributes specific properties that complement the others.
Solution Approach 2:
Protective adhesive layers and structural elements are incorporated beforehand into the battery construction to cushion and protect the flexible electrode segments during wear and handling. This pre-built protection ensures durability is maintained even as the battery flexes and conforms to wearable device contours.
Data Source
AI summary
A flexible battery comprising (1) at least one positively charged layer, (2) at least one negatively charged layer, (3) a coated electrode segment that includes a segment of the positively charged layer and a segment of the negatively charged layer, and (4) an additional coated electrode segment movably coupled to the coated electrode segment, wherein the additional coated electrode segment includes an additional segment of the positively charged layer and an additional segment of the negatively charged layer. Various other apparatuses, devices, systems, and methods are also disclosed.