Thread Battery Structure for Flexible Current Collection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing thread-type batteries face limitations in flexibility and functionality due to fixed current collection points and insufficient flexibility when deformed, leading to potential battery function disruption upon electrolyte breakdown.
Innovation Solution
A thread battery design featuring a thread-like solid electrolyte with non-contacting electrodes and external current collectors that can be extended and flexibly positioned, along with a connector-attached configuration to enhance flexibility and prevent battery function loss during deformation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If an internal current collector is present inside the battery, then current collection is achieved, but the position from which current can be drawn is fixed and degree of freedom in extended position of external electrode is low
Solution Approach 1:
The current collection function is moved from an internal three-dimensional structure to an external surface configuration. The external electrode extends along the longitudinal direction of the solid electrolyte, allowing current to be drawn from multiple positions along the length rather than from a fixed internal point, thereby increasing positional freedom.
Solution Approach 2:
The current collection function is extracted from the internal current collector and implemented externally through the external electrode. This allows the current collection point to be positioned flexibly along the longitudinal direction rather than being constrained by internal structural limitations.
2Reliability
If a sulfide-based solid electrolyte is used, then battery function is achieved, but flexibility is insufficient and the solid electrolyte is broken when deformed, stopping battery function
Solution Approach 1:
The battery structure is designed to accommodate dynamic deformation. The external electrode and current collector configuration allows the battery to be deformed along the longitudinal direction without causing internal short circuits, as the current collection points are distributed along the length rather than concentrated at fixed internal positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The external electrode extends beyond the solid electrolyte along the longitudinal direction, creating a buffer zone. This extension provides a safety margin that prevents short circuits even when the solid electrolyte is deformed or broken, as the current collection function is maintained through the extended external electrode structure.
3Power
If electrodes are positioned to maximize current collection, then power output is improved, but flexibility in positioning and adaptability to different configurations is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The external electrode is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as an active current collection element and as a flexible positioning component. By extending along the longitudinal direction, it can be positioned at various locations to optimize current collection while maintaining adaptability to different battery configurations and deformation states.
Data Source
AI summary
A thread battery that includes: a thread-like solid electrolyte that extends in a longitudinal direction between a first end and a second end that face each other in the longitudinal direction; a first electrode on a first part of an outer peripheral surface of the solid electrolyte along the longitudinal direction; a second electrode on a second part of the outer peripheral surface of the solid electrolyte along the longitudinal direction, wherein the first electrode and the second electrode do not contact each other; a first current collector on an outer peripheral surface of the first electrode along the longitudinal direction; and a second current collector on an outer peripheral surface of the second electrode along the longitudinal direction.