CURRENT INTERRUPTER FOR ELECTROCHEMICAL CELLS

摘要

A current interrupter assembly (220) for electrochemical cells (215) may be a self-contained, sealed unit which may be separately inserted into the cell during cell construction. The current interrupter assembly (220) has particular utility for thin rechargeable cells and when inserted in the cell forms a portion of the electrical pathway between a cell electrode (211) and corresponding terminal (245). The current interrupt mechanism comprises a thin thermally responsive member preferably comprising a disk (250) of a shape memory metal alloy having a curved surface. The current interrupt mechanism may include a heat producing electrical resistance means, preferably a Zener diode (600) in proximity to the thermally responsive member. When cell temperature exceeds a predetermined value the disk deflects to cause a break in the electrical pathway within the assembly.