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.
Gizchina News of the week
Xiaomi spent $10 billion on R&D last year – to increase by 30-40% in 2021
Founder and CEO of Xiaomi, Lei Jun held a talk with Mi Fans earlier this evening. At the event, Mi Fans asked how much Xiaomi will invest in research and development this year? Lei Jun responded that Xiaomi invested $10 billion in research and development last year. In 2021, Xiaomi will continue to maintain high investment in technology research and development. According to lei Jun, the company’s expenditure will rise by 30-40%. This means that it will spend $13 billion to $14 billion this year.
Lei Jun also stated that the company will continue to recruit engineers. This will be the main focus for Xiaomi. In 2021, he expects another 5000 engineers to join Xiaomi’s network. In addition to R&D, Lei Jun also revealed that the Xiaomi Mi MIX 4 will launch this year. Furthermore, there will be a Xiaomi Tablet this year, probably the Xiaomi Mi Pad 5.
According to Lei Jun, there will be more ceramic and other craft designs this year. The Xiaomi Mi MIX 4 may be one of many ceramic Xiaomi phones to hit the market this year. In all, we will have to wait a few months to find out what the Mi MIX 4 will offer.
