Before the popularization of in-built batteries a few years ago, one of the most common issues with smartphone batteries is battery bulge. This is usually a sign of battery aging but could also indicate other battery risks. According to recent information, Xiaomi Mobile Software Co., Ltd. applied for a patent on January 20, 2017 but this application was approved on February 9, 2021. The patent title is “Battery Expansion Prompt Method and Device”, and its invented by Luo Wenhui. Just like the title suggests, it is a method of detecting battery buldge and alerting the user.
The description of the patent reads
“The present disclosure relates to a method for prompting battery expansion. The device includes: a battery compartment, a battery back cover, piezoelectric ceramics, and a current detection circuit; wherein the piezoelectric ceramic is arranged on the inner side of the battery back cover at a position facing the battery; or the bottom of the battery compartment. The current detection circuit is connected to the piezoelectric ceramic and is used to detect a current signal generated by the piezoelectric ceramic. When the piezoelectric ceramic generates a current signal, it indicates that the degree of battery expansion exceeds an expansion threshold”.
The description above suuggests that this technology can effectively predict when there is a battery buldge. With this, users can avoid the risk of over-expansion of lithium batteries.
Content retrieved from: https://www.gizchina.com/2021/02/09/xiaomi-patents-a-technology-that-can-detect-battery-health/.