Solid State Energy Storage Devices With Segmented Dielectric Layers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional energy storage devices have limitations in storing energy densely per volume and weight, with low breakdown voltages and field strengths, making them impractical for applications like electric vehicles.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of blocking layers with higher dielectric constants than the dielectric material between electrodes in energy storage devices, which suppress charge carrier injection and delay Fowler-Nordheim tunneling, allowing for higher energy density and breakdown voltages.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If conventional dielectric materials are used between electrodes, then device simplicity is maintained, but energy density and breakdown voltage are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The dielectric layer is segmented into multiple sub-layers with different dielectric constants. A first dielectric sub-layer with higher dielectric constant is positioned adjacent to the first electrode, while a second dielectric sub-layer with lower dielectric constant is positioned adjacent to the second electrode. This segmentation allows each sub-layer to contribute differently to energy storage, with the high-k sub-layer enhancing capacitance near the first electrode and the low-k sub-layer providing stability near the second electrode, thereby increasing overall energy density without requiring complete structural redesign.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the dielectric layer are assigned different dielectric properties to optimize local functions. The first dielectric sub-layer with higher dielectric constant is strategically placed where higher charge storage is needed, while the second dielectric sub-layer with lower dielectric constant is placed where field control and stability are prioritized. This local differentiation of material properties enables the device to achieve higher energy density by concentrating capacitive effects where most beneficial while maintaining overall structural integrity.
2Reliability
If dielectric material with high breakdown field strength is used, then device reliability is improved, but energy density per volume is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The dielectric layer is divided into sub-layers with different dielectric constants, allowing the high-k first sub-layer to provide enhanced capacitance and energy storage capacity while the low-k second sub-layer provides field control and reliability. This segmentation enables the device to achieve high energy density through the high-k material without sacrificing breakdown voltage resistance, as the combined structure optimizes both energy storage and electrical stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The dielectric layer functions as a composite structure combining materials with different dielectric constants in a specific configuration. The first dielectric sub-layer with higher dielectric constant contributes to increased capacitance and energy density, while the second dielectric sub-layer with lower dielectric constant contributes to field distribution control and breakdown resistance. This composite approach allows the device to simultaneously achieve high energy density and high reliability by leveraging the complementary strengths of different materials.
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
This configuration enables energy storage devices to achieve higher energy densities and withstand higher breakdown voltages, enhancing stability and reliability, and potentially making them suitable for high-energy applications such as electric vehicles.
Implementation Method 1
The block layers are characterized by higher dielectric constant than the dielectric material... suppress charge carrier injection
Implementation Method 2
Upon application of a voltage across the electrodes the dielectric material becomes polarized and charges are stored on the electrode plates
Implementation Method 3
delay Fowler-Nordheim tunneling, allowing for higher energy density and breakdown voltages
Data Source
AI summary
Described in this patent application are devices for energy storage and methods of making and using such devices. In various embodiments, blocking layers are provided between dielectric material and the electrodes of an energy storage device. The block layers are characterized by higher dielectric constant than the dielectric material. There are other embodiments as well.