| abstract |
The Bipolar Battery Construction disclosed and claimed above solves the problem of constructing a bipolar battery (11,12) with a desired, uniform, constant, pressure between each bipolar plate (20) and separator (30) in the battery cell stack (48). The provision of such a pressure dramatically increases battery life, and increases the power of the cell stack (48). Compressive force is provided by spring-loaded clamping internal to the battery (11,12). A sealed battery case (52) provides common confinement of gases and vapors from all cells (58), minimizing battery sealing requirements. An inhibitor device (80,81) is provided for minimizing or eliminating leakage current between adjacent battery cells (58) through electrolyte (32), avoiding self-discharge of the cells (58). Insulation (54) minimize temperature gradients in the cell stack (48) which assures uniform and stable performance. |