Recently, fires and other accidents caused by the use of non-original equipment manufacturer lithium-ion batteries (i.e., compatible batteries) have become a problem. However, these compatible batteries are difficult to distinguish from the original ones based on their exterior features. Researchers at University of Tsukuba have developed a nondestructive method for identifying the authenticity of individual batteries by attaching a magnetic sensor to the battery casing and measuring the magnetic field generated by the associated battery.

Tsukuba, Japan—Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) are widely used in smartphones, PCs, and electric vehicles, making them indispensable in our daily lives. However, recently, fires and other accidents have occurred in relation to the use of so-called compatible batteries as an alternative to original equipment manufacturer (OEM) batteries. With the widespread use of LIBs, their shapes have become standardized; therefore, distinguishing OEM batteries from the non-original ones based on their appearance has become challenging. Although marks, certification displays, QR codes, IC chips, etc., are used to identify OEM products, they can be copied. Hence, developing identification methods based on electrical characteristics and internal structures is essential.

Researchers at University of Tsukuba previously developed a method for detecting fuel cell failuress using magnetic sensors. In this study, they applied this method and developed a system for identifying LIBs 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 an LIB and measuring the magnetic field generated by the current during charging and discharging. This simple method can identify single cells and multiple batteries connected in series.

The researchers will attempt to establish a system for identifying the battery within an actual battery module. Furthermore, they will also seek to develop a system that can identify batteries even in cases of deterioration and identical structures.

Original Paper

Title of original paper:

Evaluation of lithium-ion batteries with different structures using magnetic field measurement for onboard battery identification

Journal:

Green Energy and Intelligent Transportation

DOI:

10.1016/j.geits.2025.100257

Correspondence

Assistant Professor AKIMOTO Yutaro
Institute of Systems and Information Engineering, University of Tsukuba

Related Link

Institute of Systems and Information Engineering