Introduction
Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence, in collaboration with Fraunhofer ITWM, has launched a cutting-edge software solution aimed at revolutionizing the way battery cell research and development are conducted. This new solution empowers R&D departments to streamline their processes, reduce costly lab testing, and accelerate the discovery of advanced battery technologies by simulating the electrochemical performance of new cell designs.
Virtual Design Exploration
The software facilitates virtual design exploration by offering insights into how changes in a cell's internal morphology, such as particle size, shape, and surface area, impact its performance. By leveraging this technology, manufacturers can mitigate the need for extensive trial-and-error processes, thus saving time and resources.
Integration of Technologies
Hexagon's solution integrates Fraunhofer ITWM's electrochemical simulation technology with multi-physics material simulation and metrology software. This integration enables efficient exploration of cell designs while considering the effects of manufacturing processes. Through a user-friendly interface, users can model the microstructure of electrodes down to the complete assembly of the cell, allowing them to explore the impact of material properties and battery microstructure alterations.
Key Benefits
The virtual laboratory created by this collaboration offers significant cost and productivity benefits to users. It allows for the enhancement of performance outcomes, optimal charging protocol selection, and examination of manufacturing process effects on cell microstructure. Moreover, it facilitates the investigation of battery aging and safety implications to inform the creation of efficient battery management protocols.
Expert Insights
According to Guillaume Boisot, Senior Director Materials & Platforms at Hexagon, the traditional trial-and-error approach to battery cell design presents significant challenges. However, through the new solution, R&D teams can achieve better performing designs with rapid feedback from prototypes. Hexagon's Vice President Multiphysics, Subham Sett, emphasizes the importance of battery performance and quality in competitive markets, particularly in automotive sectors.
Future of Battery Innovation
The collaborative efforts between Hexagon and Fraunhofer ITWM have opened up new avenues for battery innovation. By integrating BEST solver into Hexagon's material behavior modeling software, users gain a comprehensive simulation workflow that enables electrochemical modeling of various cell configurations. This advancement paves the way for battery design teams to optimize mechanical properties, enhance structural analyses, and boost the overall safety and performance of battery cells.