Stepped Connection Electrode for Battery Cell Load Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
In existing battery configurations, the connection electrodes and extraction electrodes are often in the same plane, leading to a high load on the extraction electrode when external forces are applied, which can cause deformation and reduce hermeticity.
Innovation Solution
A cell design with a stepped connection electrode having a first flat portion for the terminal electrode and a second flat portion for the extraction electrode, where the flat portions overlap, and a rivet portion supported by a gasket system to distribute the load and reduce deformation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the connection electrode and extraction electrode are located in the same plane, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but a large load is applied to the extraction electrode when external forces are applied, causing deformation and reduced hermeticity
Solution Approach 1:
The connection electrode is designed with a stepped structure having two flat portions at different levels (first flat portion for terminal electrode connection, second flat portion for extraction electrode connection). This dimensional change from a single-plane to a multi-level structure allows the flat portions to overlap when viewed from the thickness direction, creating a load-distributing configuration that reduces stress on the extraction electrode while maintaining manufacturing feasibility
2Reliability
If the connection electrode is designed with a stepped structure having overlapping flat portions, then the load on the extraction electrode is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection electrode is segmented into distinct functional regions: a first flat portion for terminal electrode connection, a second flat portion for extraction electrode connection, and an inclined portion connecting them. This segmentation allows each portion to perform its specific function optimally while the overall stepped structure remains a single integrated component, balancing complexity with functional performance
3Reliability
If external force is applied to the external terminal, then electrical connection is maintained, but deformation occurs at the extraction electrode attachment portion, reducing hermeticity
Solution Approach 1:
The overlapping flat portions of the stepped connection electrode are designed to absorb and distribute external forces before they reach the extraction electrode attachment portion. The inclined portion acts as a cushioning element that deflects applied loads, preventing direct transmission of stress to the extraction electrode and maintaining hermeticity even when external forces are applied to the terminal
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a cell including: a closed-end tubular case for accommodating a power generation element; a lid for the case; a terminal electrode disposed outside of the case and used for connection with another cell; an extraction electrode passing through the lid and used to extract power of the power generation element to the outside of the case; and a stepped connection electrode disposed outside of the case, the stepped connection electrode having a first flat portion to which the terminal electrode is connected and a second flat portion which is located at a level different from the level of the first flat portion and to which the extraction electrode is connected. The first and second flat portions have regions overlapping each other as viewed in a direction orthogonal to the thickness of the first and second flat portions.