Solid-State Layer System for High Power Density Energy Storage

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Solution Overview

Problem

Lithium-ion batteries face limitations in power levels due to low active material quantities in thin two-dimensional layers, and conventional three-dimensional batteries require complex manufacturing processes and materials that can be environmentally harmful.

Innovation Solution

A layer system comprising a top and bottom electrode layer with a paste-like composite layer and a solid-state electrolyte layer in between, which enhances ion storage capacity and simplifies manufacturing by eliminating the need for liquid electrolytes, while using a substrate for stability and structuring for increased power density.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If thin two-dimensional layers are used for lithium-ion batteries, then the manufacturing process is simplified, but the power levels are limited due to low active material quantities

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanufacturing process simplicityVSAvoidpower level
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSPower

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from traditional two-dimensional planar layers to a three-dimensional stacked layer architecture. Multiple electrode layers and electrolyte layers are stacked vertically to create a multi-layered structure, thereby increasing the active material quantity and power capacity while maintaining the simplicity of thin-film manufacturing processes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a nested structure where multiple functional layers (electrode layers, electrolyte layers, current collectors) are stacked and integrated within a compact three-dimensional assembly. Each layer is nested within the overall structure, maximizing space utilization and active material density without complicating the manufacturing approach.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Power

If conventional three-dimensional batteries are used, then higher power is available, but the manufacturing process becomes complex and uses environmentally harmful materials

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower availabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the physical state parameter of the electrolyte from liquid to solid, eliminating the need for complex sealing and safety mechanisms required for liquid electrolytes. This parameter change simplifies the manufacturing process and device structure while maintaining high power capabilities through the three-dimensional stacked architecture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs composite material structures where solid-state electrolytes are integrated with electrode materials in a stacked configuration. This composite approach combines the high power density benefits of three-dimensional structures with the manufacturing simplicity and environmental advantages of solid-state technology.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

3Power

If thicker electrode layers are used to increase active material quantity, then power level improves, but ion transport distance increases reducing efficiency

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower levelVSAvoidion transport efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the electrode structure into multiple thinner layers stacked in sequence, with solid-state electrolyte layers positioned between them. This segmentation reduces the ion transport distance within each individual electrode layer while accumulating sufficient active material across the entire stacked structure, thereby maintaining both high power and efficient ion transport.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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 layer system achieves higher ion storage capacity and power density with a compact design, improved service life, and reduced environmental impact, suitable for various applications from mobile devices to electromobility.

Implementation Method 1

an electrolyte layer (20) arranged between the top electrode layer (18) and the bottom electrode layer (16), which has a solid-state electrolyte

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectIon conduction: Conduction (electrical)

Data Source

PatentUS9590250B2Layer system, energy store, and method for manufacturing an energy store
Publication Date: 2017.03.07 ROBERT BOSCH GMBH
  • US9590250B2 patent drawing
  • US9590250B2 patent drawing
  • US9590250B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A layer system includes at least three layers, the three layers including a top electrode layer, a bottom electrode layer, and an electrolyte layer situated between the top electrode layer and the bottom electrode layer. The electrolyte layer has a solid-state electrolyte, and at least one of the top and bottom electrode layers includes a paste-like composite layer. A layer system of this type may be used to manufacture in particular energy stores, such as rechargeable lithium-ion accumulators, having an enhanced capacity. Moreover, a method for producing a layer system or an energy store is described.