Battery module and its method of manufacture

A rechargeable battery comprising:

• an electrode assembly having a first electrode, a second electrode, and a separator interposed between the first and second electrodes;
• a case to receive the electrode assembly, the case including an open portion;
• a cap assembly arranged on the open portion of the case and including a cap plate;
• and
• a lead tab connecting the cap plate to the first electrode;
• wherein a portion of the lead tab separated from a first end to a second end thereof is welded to an edge of one surface of the cap plate;
• and
• wherein an end of a first portion of the lead tab, arranged on one side of the portion of the lead tab welded to the edge, is bent and arran aed closely to a bent portion of a second portion of the lead tab arranged on an opposite side thereof, the first portion supporting the second portion.

A method of manufacturing a rechargeable battery comprising:

• forming a first electrode, a cap plate, and a lead tab connecting the first electrode to the cap plate;
• welding a portion of the lead tab separated from a first end to a second end thereof to an edge of one surface of the cap plate;
• bending an end of a first portion of the lead tab, arranged on one side of the portion of the lead tab welded to the cap plate, toward a second portion of the lead tab arranged on another side of the portion of the lead tap;
• and
• bending the second portion supported by the end of the first portion when bending the second portion.