Rovcal, Inc.

Rayovac Corporation

Spectrum Brands, Inc. ( Fka Rayovac Corporation)

Aaron J Rositch

Marc Syvertsen

Thomas M Kaufman

Michael J Root

William C Bushong

Viet H Vu

Paul Cheeseman

Denis D Carpenter

Bruce Weldum

Cheeseman Paul

William H Bushong

Thomas P Anderson

An electrochemical cell is provided having a cathode can that fits over an anode can to define an anode cavity for retaining active anode material. A cathode assembly is disposed proximal the base of the anode can, and is separated from the anode cavity via a separator. A radial seal is provided at the remote region between the outer periphery of the anode side wall and cathode side wall to prevent the leakage of electrolyte material. An insulator is disposed between the anode and cathode to provide electrical insulation therebetween.

Electrochemical cell having improved radial seal

A rechargeable electrochemical cell is provided having a pressure-responsive apparatus for determining a charge termination point. In particular, a reversible pressure-responsive switch may be disposed in a cap at the open end of a rechargeable metal hydride cell. The reversible pressure-responsive switch may also contain a vent system for releasing the cell internal pressure. Alternatively, a rechargeable cell may include a strain gauge disposed in its outer surface whose resistance changes as the outer surface of the battery expands due to internal pressure accumulation during charging. Additionally, a rechargeable cell is used combination with a charging source that can supply constant voltage, constant current, alternating current, or voltage that varies between a minimum threshold and a maximum threshold.

Method and apparatus for regulating charging of electrochemical cells

A rechargeable electrochemical cell is provided having a pressure-responsive apparatus for determining a charge termination point. In particular, a reversible pressure-responsive switch may be disposed in a rechargeable cell. A sensor determines when the switch has reacted in a predetermined manner, thus indicating that the internal pressure within the cell has reached a predetermined threshold. The sensor is part of sensing circuitry that is linked to a charger having automatic charging modes depending on the status of the sensing circuit.

Growing community of inventors

Edgerton, WI, United States of America

Aaron J Rositch