Magnetic sensor technique helps identify original batteries

Researchers at the University of Tsukuba have developed a non-destructive method to identify the authenticity of individual batteries by attaching a magnetic sensor to the battery casing and measuring the magnetic field generated by the associated battery.

Lithium-ion batteries are used in smartphones, PCs and electric vehicles, making them an essential part of day-to-day life. However, fires and other incidents can occur in relation to the use of compatible batteries as an alternative to original equipment manufacturer (OEM) batteries. With the widespread use of lithium-ion batteries, their shapes have become standardised and as a result, distinguishing OEM batteries from the non-original ones based on their appearance has become challenging. While marks, certification displays, QR codes and IC chips are used to identify OEM products, they can be copied. Therefore, developing identification methods based on electrical characteristics and internal structures is essential.

Researchers from the University of Tsukuba had previously developed a method for detecting fuel cell failures using magnetic sensors; they applied this method and developed a system for identifying lithium-ion batteries based on the differences in the current path caused by the internal structure of these batteries. This method involves attaching a magnetic sensor to the exterior of a lithium-ion battery and measuring the magnetic field generated by the current during charging and discharging. This method can identify single cells and multiple batteries connected in series.

The researchers will now establish a system for identifying the battery within an actual battery module. They also aim to develop a system that can identify batteries even in cases of deterioration and identical structures.

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