Terminal-Free Battery Cell Structure for Higher Energy Density
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing battery technologies face challenges in improving energy density due to the presence of electrode terminals, which increase the height and complexity of the battery cell structure.
Innovation Solution
The battery cell design omits electrode terminals by using the first end cover as a first output pole and the shell as a second output pole, allowing for reduced height, simplified electrical connections, and improved energy density.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If electrode terminals are used for electrical connection, then electrical connection reliability is improved, but battery cell height increases and energy density decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the function of the end cover with the function of the positive electrode terminal. The end cover is made of conductive material and is electrically connected to the positive electrode, thereby integrating the terminal function into the end cover structure itself, eliminating the need for separate protruding terminals and reducing battery cell height.
Solution Approach 2:
The end cover serves multiple functions: it seals the battery cell, provides structural support, and acts as the positive electrode terminal for electrical connection. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate terminal components, reducing overall height while maintaining electrical connection reliability.
2Reliability
If electrode terminals are used for electrical connection, then electrical connection reliability is improved, but the number of parts increases and assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the end cover and positive electrode terminal into a single integrated component. This reduces the total number of parts and simplifies the assembly process, as the end cover is installed in one piece rather than requiring separate terminal components to be attached afterward.
Solution Approach 2:
The end cover performs multiple functions including sealing, structural support, and electrical conduction. By making the end cover multi-functional, the patent eliminates the need for separate terminal components, thereby reducing part count and assembly complexity while maintaining reliable electrical connection.
3Power
If electrode terminals are used for electrical connection, then current carrying capacity is improved, but energy density decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the terminal function with the end cover, eliminating the need for separate terminal structures that would occupy additional space. This integration allows the active material volume to be maximized, improving energy density while maintaining adequate current carrying capacity through the end cover's conductive structure.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of extending terminals outward in the vertical dimension (increasing height), the patent utilizes the radial dimension of the end cover to provide electrical connection. The conductive end cover can be connected to busbars or other electrical components at the same vertical level as the battery cell, eliminating the need for height extension while maintaining current carrying capacity.
Data Source
AI summary
A battery cell and a manufacture method for the same, a battery, and an electrical apparatus. The battery cell includes: a shell having a first opening; a first end cover closing the first opening and being insulated from the shell; and an electrode assembly arranged in the shell and including an electrode body, a first tab and a second tab, the first tab and the second tab being led out of the electrode body and having opposite polarities, the first tab being electrically connected to the first end cover, and the second tab being electrically connected to the shell; where the first end cover serves as a first output pole, and the shell serves as a second output pole.