KR20160073141A - Mobile terminal and method for controlling the same - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a mobile terminal which comprises: a battery unit with a battery cell and a swelling detection sensor configured to detect a swelling state of the battery cell; a charging unit configured to output a charging current to the battery unit when a battery is charged; and a control unit configured to receive a swelling state value of the battery cell from the battery unit and to control the charging unit to apply a predetermined charging current in accordance with the received swelling state value. Therefore, the mobile terminal can reduce an explosion risk of the battery.

Description

[0001] MOBILE TERMINAL AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING THE SAME [0002]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a mobile terminal and a control method thereof, and more particularly, to a mobile terminal that controls a charge current in consideration of a swelling phenomenon of a battery cell and a control method thereof.

A terminal can be divided into a mobile / portable terminal and a stationary terminal depending on whether the terminal is movable or not. The mobile terminal can be divided into a handheld terminal and a vehicle mounted terminal according to whether the user can directly carry the mobile terminal.

The functions of mobile terminals are diversified. For example, there are data and voice communication, photographing and video shooting through a camera, voice recording, music file playback through a speaker system, and outputting an image or video on a display unit. Some terminals are equipped with an electronic game play function or a multimedia player function. In particular, modern mobile terminals can receive multicast signals that provide visual content such as broadcast and video or television programs.

Such a terminal has various functions, for example, a multimedia player having a complex function such as photographing or moving picture shooting, reproduction of music or video file, reception of game or broadcasting, . In order to support and enhance the functionality of such terminals, it may be considered to improve the structural and / or software parts of the terminal.

On the other hand, the safety issue of the battery is one of the biggest social issues related to the battery mounted on the mobile terminal in recent years. In the case of a notebook or a mobile phone, the usage population is rapidly increasing, and explosion of the battery not only leads to breakage of the portable electronic product but also can lead to fire, so it is urgent to secure the safety of the battery. Accordingly, in the past, a variety of protection devices have been used to block the charging / discharging current when the abnormal state of the battery is detected to secure the safety of the battery.

Such a conventional battery pack protecting apparatus is connected to an assembly of cells made up of at least one battery cell and, in general, when an abnormal state such as overcharge, over discharge, short circuit, overcurrent, or the like occurs, charge / discharge current And a sense resistor for detecting the magnitude of the charge / discharge current and a fuse for interrupting the current flow by irreversibly disconnecting the line.

In addition, the conventional battery pack protecting apparatus includes a sensor capable of detecting the swelling phenomenon of the battery cell. Here, the swelling phenomenon of the battery cell refers to a phenomenon in which the pressure in the battery cell rapidly increases and the can swells up. Such swelling phenomenon may occur mainly due to generation of gas in the cell, such as generation of gas due to heat generation or ignition of the lithium ion battery cell electrode, or generation of gas due to decomposition of the electrolyte due to overvoltage.

Such a cell swelling phenomenon may cause explosion of the battery pack, thereby destroying the battery pack and the apparatus to which the battery pack is attached, as well as causing personal injury. In addition, due to breakage of the cell sheathing material, electrolyte in the cell may leak out and cause additional damage such as short-circuit, electric shock and fire. Particularly, the explosion of the battery pack occurs when a high charging current is continuously applied to the battery cell after the cell swelling phenomenon occurs.

As described above, the application of a high charging current at the time of charging the battery has an advantage of shortening the charging time of the battery, but has a disadvantage of reducing the life of the battery. Therefore, when the swelling phenomenon of the battery cell occurs, it is necessary to adjust the charge current applied to the battery to prevent the risk of battery explosion and adjust the life reduction rate of the battery.

The present invention is directed to solving the above-mentioned problems and other problems. Another object of the present invention is to provide a mobile terminal and a control method thereof for controlling a charging current by monitoring a swelling state of a battery cell.

According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a battery device comprising: a battery unit including a battery cell and a swell ring sensor for detecting a swelling state of the battery cell; A charging unit for outputting a charging current to the battery unit when the battery is charged; And a controller receiving the swelling state value of the battery cell from the battery unit and controlling the charging unit to apply a predetermined charging current according to the swelling state value.

Effects of the mobile terminal and the control method according to the present invention will be described as follows.

According to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, when the battery is charged, the swelling state of the battery cell is periodically monitored to adaptively adjust the charging current, thereby prolonging battery life and reducing the risk of battery explosion .

Meanwhile, various other effects will be directly or implicitly disclosed in the detailed description according to the embodiment of the present invention to be described later.

FIG. 1A is a block diagram illustrating a mobile terminal according to the present invention; FIG.
FIG. 1B and FIG. 1C are conceptual diagrams showing an example of a mobile terminal according to the present invention in different directions; FIG.
2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a battery unit mounted in a mobile terminal related to the present invention;
3 is a block diagram illustrating a power supply unit of a mobile terminal according to the present invention;
FIG. 4 is a graph showing changes in charging capacity and thickness of a battery cell according to the number of charge / discharge cycles for each charging current;
5 is a diagram for describing a charging current varying depending on a swelling state of a battery cell when the battery is charged;
FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of a mobile terminal according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; FIG.
7 to 9 are diagrams for explaining alert information displayed on the screen according to the swelling state of the battery cell when the battery is charged.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to designate identical or similar elements, and redundant description thereof will be omitted. The suffix "module" and " part "for the components used in the following description are given or mixed in consideration of ease of specification, and do not have their own meaning or role. In the following description of the embodiments of the present invention, a detailed description of related arts will be omitted when it is determined that the gist of the embodiments disclosed herein may be blurred. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory and are intended to provide further explanation of the invention as claimed. , ≪ / RTI > equivalents, and alternatives.

The mobile terminal described in this specification includes a mobile phone, a smart phone, a laptop computer, a digital broadcasting terminal, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a portable multimedia player (PMP), a navigation device, a slate PC A tablet PC, an ultrabook, a wearable device such as a smartwatch, a smart glass, and a head mounted display (HMD). have.

However, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the configuration according to the embodiments described herein may be applied to fixed terminals such as a digital TV, a desktop computer, a digital signage, and the like, will be.

1A to 1C are block diagrams for explaining a mobile terminal according to the present invention, and FIGS. 1B and 1C are conceptual diagrams showing an example of a mobile terminal according to the present invention in different directions.

The mobile terminal 100 includes a wireless communication unit 110, an input unit 120, a sensing unit 140, an output unit 150, an interface unit 160, a memory 170, a control unit 180, ), And the like. The components shown in FIG. 1A are not essential for implementing a mobile terminal, so that the mobile terminal described herein may have more or fewer components than the components listed above.

The wireless communication unit 110 may be connected between the mobile terminal 100 and the wireless communication system or between the mobile terminal 100 and another mobile terminal 100 or between the mobile terminal 100 and the external server 100. [ Lt; RTI ID = 0.0 > wireless < / RTI > In addition, the wireless communication unit 110 may include one or more modules for connecting the mobile terminal 100 to one or more networks.

The wireless communication unit 110 may include at least one of a broadcast receiving module 111, a mobile communication module 112, a wireless Internet module 113, a short distance communication module 114, and a location information module 115 .

The input unit 120 includes a camera 121 or an image input unit for inputting a video signal, a microphone 122 for inputting an audio signal, an audio input unit, a user input unit 123 for receiving information from a user A touch key, a mechanical key, and the like). The voice data or image data collected by the input unit 120 may be analyzed and processed by a user's control command.

The sensing unit 140 may include at least one sensor for sensing at least one of information in the mobile terminal, surrounding environment information surrounding the mobile terminal, and user information. For example, the sensing unit 140 may include a proximity sensor 141, an illumination sensor 142, a touch sensor, an acceleration sensor, a magnetic sensor, A G-sensor, a gyroscope sensor, a motion sensor, an RGB sensor, an infrared sensor, a finger scan sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, A microphone 226, a battery gauge, an environmental sensor (for example, a barometer, a hygrometer, a thermometer, a radiation detection sensor, A thermal sensor, a gas sensor, etc.), a chemical sensor (e.g., an electronic nose, a healthcare sensor, a biometric sensor, etc.). Meanwhile, the mobile terminal disclosed in the present specification can combine and utilize information sensed by at least two of the sensors.

The output unit 150 includes at least one of a display unit 151, an acoustic output unit 152, a haptic tip module 153, and a light output unit 154 to generate an output related to visual, auditory, can do. The display unit 151 may have a mutual layer structure with the touch sensor or may be integrally formed to realize a touch screen. The touch screen may function as a user input unit 123 that provides an input interface between the mobile terminal 100 and a user and may provide an output interface between the mobile terminal 100 and a user.

The interface unit 160 serves as a path to various types of external devices connected to the mobile terminal 100. The interface unit 160 is connected to a device having a wired / wireless headset port, an external charger port, a wired / wireless data port, a memory card port, And may include at least one of a port, an audio I / O port, a video I / O port, and an earphone port. In the mobile terminal 100, corresponding to the connection of the external device to the interface unit 160, it is possible to perform appropriate control related to the connected external device.

In addition, the memory 170 stores data supporting various functions of the mobile terminal 100. The memory 170 may store a plurality of application programs or applications running on the mobile terminal 100, data for operation of the mobile terminal 100, and commands. At least some of these applications may be downloaded from an external server via wireless communication. Also, at least a part of these application programs may exist on the mobile terminal 100 from the time of shipment for the basic functions (e.g., telephone call receiving function, message receiving function, and calling function) of the mobile terminal 100. Meanwhile, the application program may be stored in the memory 170, installed on the mobile terminal 100, and may be operated by the control unit 180 to perform the operation (or function) of the mobile terminal.

In addition to the operations related to the application program, the control unit 180 typically controls the overall operation of the mobile terminal 100. The control unit 180 may process or process signals, data, information, and the like input or output through the above-mentioned components, or may drive an application program stored in the memory 170 to provide or process appropriate information or functions to the user.

In addition, the controller 180 may control at least some of the components illustrated in FIG. 1A in order to drive an application program stored in the memory 170. FIG. In addition, the controller 180 may operate at least two of the components included in the mobile terminal 100 in combination with each other for driving the application program.

The power supply unit 190 receives external power and internal power under the control of the controller 180 and supplies power to the components included in the mobile terminal 100. The power supply unit 190 includes a battery, which may be an internal battery or a replaceable battery.

At least some of the components may operate in cooperation with one another to implement a method of operation, control, or control of a mobile terminal according to various embodiments described below. In addition, the operation, control, or control method of the mobile terminal may be implemented on the mobile terminal by driving at least one application program stored in the memory 170. [

Hereinafter, the various components of the mobile terminal 100 will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 1A.

First, referring to the wireless communication unit 110, the broadcast receiving module 111 of the wireless communication unit 110 receives broadcast signals and / or broadcast-related information from an external broadcast management server through a broadcast channel. The broadcast channel may include a satellite channel and a terrestrial channel. Two or more broadcast receiving modules may be provided to the mobile terminal 100 for simultaneous broadcast reception or broadcast channel switching for at least two broadcast channels.

The mobile communication module 112 may be a mobile communication module or a mobile communication module such as a mobile communication module or a mobile communication module that uses technology standards or a communication method (e.g., Global System for Mobile communication (GSM), Code Division Multi Access (CDMA), Code Division Multi Access 2000 (Enhanced Voice-Data Optimized or Enhanced Voice-Data Only), Wideband CDMA (WCDMA), High Speed Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA), High Speed Uplink Packet Access (HSUPA), Long Term Evolution (LTE) And an external terminal, or a server on a mobile communication network established according to a long term evolution (e. G., Long Term Evolution-Advanced).

The wireless signal may include various types of data depending on a voice call signal, a video call signal or a text / multimedia message transmission / reception.

The wireless Internet module 113 is a module for wireless Internet access, and may be built in or externally attached to the mobile terminal 100. The wireless Internet module 113 is configured to transmit and receive a wireless signal in a communication network according to wireless Internet technologies.

Wireless Internet technologies include, for example, wireless LAN (WLAN), wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi), wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) Direct, DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance), WiBro Interoperability for Microwave Access, High Speed Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA), High Speed Uplink Packet Access (HSUPA), Long Term Evolution (LTE) and Long Term Evolution-Advanced (LTE-A) 113 transmit and receive data according to at least one wireless Internet technology, including Internet technologies not listed above.

The wireless Internet module 113 for performing a wireless Internet connection through the mobile communication network can be used for wireless Internet access by WiBro, HSDPA, HSUPA, GSM, CDMA, WCDMA, LTE or LTE- May be understood as a kind of the mobile communication module 112.

The short-range communication module 114 is for short-range communication, and includes Bluetooth ™, Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), Infrared Data Association (IrDA), Ultra Wideband (UWB) (Near Field Communication), Wi-Fi (Wireless-Fidelity), Wi-Fi Direct, and Wireless USB (Wireless Universal Serial Bus) technology. The short-range communication module 114 is connected to the mobile terminal 100 and the wireless communication system through the wireless area networks, between the mobile terminal 100 and another mobile terminal 100, or between the mobile terminal 100 ) And the other mobile terminal 100 (or the external server). The short-range wireless communication network may be a short-range wireless personal area network.

Here, the other mobile terminal 100 may be a wearable device (e.g., a smartwatch, a smart glass, etc.) capable of interchanging data with the mobile terminal 100 according to the present invention (smart glass), HMD (head mounted display)). The short range communication module 114 may detect (or recognize) a wearable device capable of communicating with the mobile terminal 100 around the mobile terminal 100. [ If the detected wearable device is a device authenticated to communicate with the mobile terminal 100 according to the present invention, the control unit 180 may transmit at least a part of the data processed by the mobile terminal 100 to the short- 114 to the wearable device. Therefore, the user of the wearable device can use the data processed by the mobile terminal 100 through the wearable device. For example, according to this, when a telephone is received in the mobile terminal 100, the user performs a telephone conversation via the wearable device, or when a message is received in the mobile terminal 100, It is possible to check the message.

The position information module 115 is a module for obtaining the position (or current position) of the mobile terminal, and a representative example thereof is a Global Positioning System (GPS) module or a Wireless Fidelity (WiFi) module. For example, when the mobile terminal utilizes the GPS module, it can acquire the position of the mobile terminal by using a signal transmitted from the GPS satellite. As another example, when the mobile terminal utilizes the Wi-Fi module, it can acquire the position of the mobile terminal based on information of a wireless access point (AP) that transmits or receives the wireless signal with the Wi-Fi module. Optionally, the location information module 115 may perform any of the other functions of the wireless communication unit 110 to obtain data relating to the location of the mobile terminal, in addition or alternatively. The location information module 115 is a module used to obtain the location (or current location) of the mobile terminal, and is not limited to a module that directly calculates or obtains the location of the mobile terminal.

Next, the input unit 120 is for inputting image information (or signal), audio information (or signal), data, or information input from a user. For inputting image information, Or a plurality of cameras 121 may be provided. The camera 121 processes image frames such as still images or moving images obtained by the image sensor in the video communication mode or the photographing mode. The processed image frame may be displayed on the display unit 151 or stored in the memory 170. [ A plurality of cameras 121 provided in the mobile terminal 100 may be arranged to have a matrix structure and various angles or foci may be provided to the mobile terminal 100 through the camera 121 having the matrix structure A plurality of pieces of image information can be input. In addition, the plurality of cameras 121 may be arranged in a stereo structure to acquire a left image and a right image for realizing a stereoscopic image.

The microphone 122 processes the external acoustic signal into electrical voice data. The processed voice data can be utilized variously according to a function (or a running application program) being executed in the mobile terminal 100. Meanwhile, the microphone 122 may be implemented with various noise reduction algorithms for eliminating noise generated in receiving an external sound signal.

The user input unit 123 is for receiving information from a user and when the information is inputted through the user input unit 123, the control unit 180 can control the operation of the mobile terminal 100 to correspond to the input information . The user input unit 123 may include a mechanical input means (or a mechanical key such as a button located on the front, rear or side of the mobile terminal 100, a dome switch, a jog wheel, Jog switches, etc.) and touch-type input means. For example, the touch-type input means may comprise a virtual key, a soft key or a visual key displayed on the touch screen through software processing, The virtual key or the visual key can be displayed on the touch screen with various forms. For example, the virtual key or the visual key can be displayed on the touch screen, ), An icon, a video, or a combination thereof.

Meanwhile, the sensing unit 140 senses at least one of information in the mobile terminal, surrounding environment information surrounding the mobile terminal, and user information, and generates a corresponding sensing signal. The control unit 180 may control the driving or operation of the mobile terminal 100 or may perform data processing, function or operation related to the application program installed in the mobile terminal 100 based on the sensing signal. Representative sensors among various sensors that may be included in the sensing unit 140 will be described in more detail.

First, the proximity sensor 141 refers to a sensor that detects the presence of an object approaching a predetermined detection surface, or the presence of an object in the vicinity of the detection surface, without mechanical contact by using electromagnetic force or infrared rays. The proximity sensor 141 may be disposed in the inner area of the mobile terminal or in proximity to the touch screen, which is covered by the touch screen.

Examples of the proximity sensor 141 include a transmission type photoelectric sensor, a direct reflection type photoelectric sensor, a mirror reflection type photoelectric sensor, a high frequency oscillation type proximity sensor, a capacitive proximity sensor, a magnetic proximity sensor, and an infrared proximity sensor. In the case where the touch screen is electrostatic, the proximity sensor 141 can be configured to detect the proximity of the object with a change of the electric field along the proximity of the object having conductivity. In this case, the touch screen (or touch sensor) itself may be classified as a proximity sensor.

On the other hand, for convenience of explanation, the act of recognizing that the object is located on the touch screen in proximity with no object touching the touch screen is referred to as "proximity touch & The act of actually touching an object on the screen is called a "contact touch. &Quot; The position at which the object is closely touched on the touch screen means a position where the object corresponds to the touch screen vertically when the object is touched. The proximity sensor 141 can detect a proximity touch and a proximity touch pattern (e.g., a proximity touch distance, a proximity touch direction, a proximity touch speed, a proximity touch time, a proximity touch position, have. Meanwhile, the control unit 180 processes data (or information) corresponding to the proximity touch operation and the proximity touch pattern sensed through the proximity sensor 141 as described above, and further provides visual information corresponding to the processed data It can be output on the touch screen. Furthermore, the control unit 180 can control the mobile terminal 100 such that different operations or data (or information) are processed according to whether the touch to the same point on the touch screen is a proximity touch or a touch touch .

The touch sensor uses a touch (or touch input) applied to the touch screen (or the display unit 151) by using at least one of various touch methods such as a resistance film type, a capacitive type, an infrared type, an ultrasonic type, Detection.

For example, the touch sensor may be configured to convert a change in a pressure applied to a specific portion of the touch screen or a capacitance generated in a specific portion to an electrical input signal. The touch sensor may be configured to detect a position, an area, a pressure at the time of touch, a capacitance at the time of touch, and the like where a touch object touching the touch screen is touched on the touch sensor. Here, the touch object may be a finger, a touch pen, a stylus pen, a pointer, or the like as an object to which a touch is applied to the touch sensor.

Thus, when there is a touch input to the touch sensor, the corresponding signal (s) is sent to the touch controller. The touch controller processes the signal (s) and transmits the corresponding data to the controller 180. Thus, the control unit 180 can know which area of the display unit 151 is touched or the like. Here, the touch controller may be a separate component from the control unit 180, and may be the control unit 180 itself.

On the other hand, the control unit 180 may perform different controls or perform the same control according to the type of the touch object touching the touch screen (or a touch key provided on the touch screen). Whether to perform different controls or to perform the same control according to the type of the touch object may be determined according to the current state of the mobile terminal 100 or an application program being executed.

On the other hand, the touch sensors and the proximity sensors discussed above can be used independently or in combination to provide a short touch (touch), a long touch, a multi touch, a drag touch ), Flick touch, pinch-in touch, pinch-out touch, swipe touch, hovering touch, and the like. Touch can be sensed.

The ultrasonic sensor can recognize the position information of the object to be sensed by using ultrasonic waves. Meanwhile, the controller 180 can calculate the position of the wave generating source through the information sensed by the optical sensor and the plurality of ultrasonic sensors. The position of the wave source can be calculated using the fact that the light is much faster than the ultrasonic wave, that is, the time when the light reaches the optical sensor is much faster than the time the ultrasonic wave reaches the ultrasonic sensor. More specifically, the position of the wave generating source can be calculated using the time difference with the time when the ultrasonic wave reaches the reference signal.

The camera 121 includes at least one of a camera sensor (for example, a CCD, a CMOS, etc.), a photo sensor (or an image sensor), and a laser sensor.

The camera 121 and the laser sensor may be combined with each other to sense a touch of the sensing object with respect to the three-dimensional stereoscopic image. The photosensor can be laminated to the display element, which is adapted to scan the movement of the object to be detected proximate to the touch screen. More specifically, the photosensor mounts photo diodes and TRs (Transistors) in a row / column and scans the contents loaded on the photosensor using an electrical signal that varies according to the amount of light applied to the photo diode. That is, the photo sensor performs coordinate calculation of the object to be sensed according to the amount of change of light, and position information of the object to be sensed can be obtained through the calculation.

The display unit 151 displays (outputs) information processed by the mobile terminal 100. For example, the display unit 151 may display execution screen information of an application program driven by the mobile terminal 100 or UI (User Interface) and GUI (Graphic User Interface) information according to the execution screen information .

Also, the display unit 151 may be configured as a stereoscopic display unit for displaying a stereoscopic image.

In the stereoscopic display unit, a three-dimensional display system such as a stereoscopic system (glasses system), an autostereoscopic system (no-glasses system), and a projection system (holographic system) can be applied.

The sound output unit 152 may output audio data received from the wireless communication unit 110 or stored in the memory 170 in a call signal reception mode, a call mode or a recording mode, a voice recognition mode, a broadcast reception mode, The sound output unit 152 also outputs sound signals related to functions (e.g., call signal reception sound, message reception sound, etc.) performed in the mobile terminal 100. [ The audio output unit 152 may include a receiver, a speaker, a buzzer, and the like.

The haptic module 153 generates various tactile effects that the user can feel. A typical example of the haptic effect generated by the haptic module 153 may be vibration. The intensity and pattern of the vibration generated in the haptic module 153 can be controlled by the user's selection or the setting of the control unit. For example, the haptic module 153 may synthesize and output different vibrations or sequentially output the vibrations.

In addition to vibration, the haptic module 153 may be configured to perform various functions such as a pin arrangement vertically moving with respect to the contact skin surface, a spraying force or suction force of the air through the injection port or the suction port, a touch on the skin surface, And various tactile effects such as an effect of reproducing a cold sensation using an endothermic or exothermic element can be generated.

The haptic module 153 can transmit the tactile effect through the direct contact, and the tactile effect can be felt by the user through the muscles of the finger or arm. The haptic module 153 may include two or more haptic modules 153 according to the configuration of the mobile terminal 100.

The light output unit 154 outputs a signal for notifying the occurrence of an event using the light of the light source of the mobile terminal 100. Examples of events that occur in the mobile terminal 100 may include message reception, call signal reception, missed call, alarm, schedule notification, email reception, information reception through an application, and the like.

The signal output from the light output unit 154 is implemented as the mobile terminal emits light of a single color or a plurality of colors to the front or rear surface. The signal output may be terminated by the mobile terminal detecting the event confirmation of the user.

The interface unit 160 serves as a path for communication with all external devices connected to the mobile terminal 100. The interface unit 160 receives data from an external device or supplies power to each component in the mobile terminal 100 or transmits data in the mobile terminal 100 to an external device. For example, a port for connecting a device equipped with a wired / wireless headset port, an external charger port, a wired / wireless data port, a memory card port, an audio I / O port, a video I / O port, an earphone port, and the like may be included in the interface unit 160.

The identification module is a chip for storing various information for authenticating the use right of the mobile terminal 100 and includes a user identification module (UIM), a subscriber identity module (SIM) A universal subscriber identity module (USIM), and the like. Devices with identification modules (hereinafter referred to as "identification devices") can be manufactured in a smart card format. Accordingly, the identification device can be connected to the terminal 100 through the interface unit 160. [

The interface unit 160 may be a path through which power from the cradle is supplied to the mobile terminal 100 when the mobile terminal 100 is connected to an external cradle, And various command signals may be transmitted to the mobile terminal 100. The various command signals or the power source input from the cradle may be operated as a signal for recognizing that the mobile terminal 100 is correctly mounted on the cradle.

The memory 170 may store a program for the operation of the controller 180 and temporarily store input / output data (e.g., phone book, message, still image, moving picture, etc.). The memory 170 may store data related to vibration and sound of various patterns outputted when a touch is input on the touch screen.

The memory 170 may be a flash memory type, a hard disk type, a solid state disk type, an SDD type (Silicon Disk Drive type), a multimedia card micro type ), Card type memory (e.g., SD or XD memory), random access memory (RAM), static random access memory (SRAM), read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable read memory, a programmable read-only memory (PROM), a magnetic memory, a magnetic disk, and / or an optical disk. The mobile terminal 100 may operate in association with a web storage that performs the storage function of the memory 170 on the Internet.

Meanwhile, as described above, the control unit 180 controls the operations related to the application program and the general operation of the mobile terminal 100. [ For example, when the state of the mobile terminal meets a set condition, the control unit 180 can execute or release a lock state for restricting input of a user's control command to applications.

In addition, the control unit 180 performs control and processing related to voice communication, data communication, video call, or the like, or performs pattern recognition processing to recognize handwriting input or drawing input performed on the touch screen as characters and images, respectively . Further, the controller 180 may control any one or a plurality of the above-described components in order to implement various embodiments described below on the mobile terminal 100 according to the present invention.

The power supply unit 190 receives external power and internal power under the control of the controller 180 and supplies power necessary for operation of the respective components. The power supply unit 190 includes a battery, the battery may be an internal battery configured to be chargeable, and may be detachably coupled to the terminal body for charging or the like.

In addition, the power supply unit 190 may include a connection port, and the connection port may be configured as an example of an interface 160 through which an external charger for supplying power for charging the battery is electrically connected.

As another example, the power supply unit 190 may be configured to charge the battery in a wireless manner without using the connection port. In this case, the power supply unit 190 may use at least one of an inductive coupling method based on a magnetic induction phenomenon from an external wireless power transmission apparatus and a magnetic resonance coupling method based on an electromagnetic resonance phenomenon Power can be delivered.

In the following, various embodiments may be embodied in a recording medium readable by a computer or similar device using, for example, software, hardware, or a combination thereof.

Referring to FIGS. 1B and 1C, the disclosed mobile terminal 100 includes a bar-shaped terminal body. However, the present invention is not limited thereto and can be applied to various structures such as a folder type, a flip type, a slide type, a swing type, and a swivel type in which a watch type, a clip type, a glass type or two or more bodies are relatively movably coupled . A description of a particular type of mobile terminal, although relevant to a particular type of mobile terminal, is generally applicable to other types of mobile terminals.

Here, the terminal body can be understood as a concept of referring to the mobile terminal 100 as at least one aggregate.

The mobile terminal 100 includes a case (for example, a frame, a housing, a cover, and the like) that forms an appearance. As shown, the mobile terminal 100 may include a front case 101 and a rear case 102. Various electronic components are disposed in the inner space formed by the combination of the front case 101 and the rear case 102. At least one middle case may be additionally disposed between the front case 101 and the rear case 102.

A display unit 151 is disposed on a front surface of the terminal body to output information. The window 151a of the display unit 151 may be mounted on the front case 101 to form a front surface of the terminal body together with the front case 101. [

In some cases, electronic components may also be mounted on the rear case 102. Electronic parts that can be mounted on the rear case 102 include detachable batteries, an identification module, a memory card, and the like. In this case, a rear cover 103 for covering the mounted electronic components can be detachably coupled to the rear case 102. Therefore, when the rear cover 103 is separated from the rear case 102, the electronic parts mounted on the rear case 102 are exposed to the outside.

As shown, when the rear cover 103 is coupled to the rear case 102, a side portion of the rear case 102 can be exposed. In some cases, the rear case 102 may be completely covered by the rear cover 103 during the engagement. Meanwhile, the rear cover 103 may be provided with an opening for exposing the camera 121b and the sound output unit 152b to the outside.

These cases 101, 102, and 103 may be formed by injection molding of synthetic resin or may be formed of metal such as stainless steel (STS), aluminum (Al), titanium (Ti), or the like.

The mobile terminal 100 may be configured such that one case provides the internal space, unlike the above example in which a plurality of cases provide an internal space for accommodating various electronic components. In this case, a unibody mobile terminal 100 in which synthetic resin or metal is connected from the side to the rear side can be realized.

Meanwhile, the mobile terminal 100 may include a waterproof unit (not shown) for preventing water from penetrating into the terminal body. For example, the waterproof portion is provided between the window 151a and the front case 101, between the front case 101 and the rear case 102, or between the rear case 102 and the rear cover 103, And a waterproof member for sealing the inside space of the oven.

The mobile terminal 100 is provided with a display unit 151, first and second sound output units 152a and 152b, a proximity sensor 141, an illuminance sensor 142, a light output unit 154, Cameras 121a and 121b, first and second operation units 123a and 123b, a microphone 122, an interface unit 160, and the like.

1B and 1C, a display unit 151, a first sound output unit 152a, a proximity sensor 141, an illuminance sensor 142, an optical output unit (not shown) A second operation unit 123b, a microphone 122 and an interface unit 160 are disposed on a side surface of the terminal body, And a mobile terminal 100 having a second sound output unit 152b and a second camera 121b disposed on a rear surface thereof.

However, these configurations are not limited to this arrangement. These configurations may be excluded or replaced as needed, or placed on different planes. For example, the first operation unit 123a may not be provided on the front surface of the terminal body, and the second sound output unit 152b may be provided on the side surface of the terminal body rather than the rear surface of the terminal body.

The display unit 151 displays (outputs) information processed by the mobile terminal 100. For example, the display unit 151 may display execution screen information of an application program driven by the mobile terminal 100 or UI (User Interface) and GUI (Graphic User Interface) information according to the execution screen information .

The display unit 151 may be a liquid crystal display (LCD), a thin film transistor-liquid crystal display (TFT LCD), an organic light-emitting diode (OLED), a flexible display display, a 3D display, and an e-ink display.

In addition, the display unit 151 may exist in two or more depending on the embodiment of the mobile terminal 100. In this case, the mobile terminal 100 may be provided with a plurality of display portions spaced apart from each other or disposed integrally with one another, or may be disposed on different surfaces, respectively.

The display unit 151 may include a touch sensor that senses a touch with respect to the display unit 151 so that a control command can be received by a touch method. When a touch is made to the display unit 151, the touch sensor senses the touch, and the control unit 180 generates a control command corresponding to the touch based on the touch. The content input by the touch method may be a letter or a number, an instruction in various modes, a menu item which can be designated, and the like.

The touch sensor may be a film having a touch pattern and disposed between the window 151a and a display (not shown) on the rear surface of the window 151a, or may be a metal wire . Alternatively, the touch sensor may be formed integrally with the display. For example, the touch sensor may be disposed on a substrate of the display or inside the display.

In this way, the display unit 151 can form a touch screen together with the touch sensor. In this case, the touch screen can function as a user input unit 123 (see FIG. 1A). In some cases, the touch screen may replace at least some functions of the first operation unit 123a.

The first sound output unit 152a may be implemented as a receiver for transmitting a call sound to a user's ear and the second sound output unit 152b may be implemented as a loud speaker for outputting various alarm sounds or multimedia playback sounds. ). ≪ / RTI >

The window 151a of the display unit 151 may be provided with an acoustic hole for emitting the sound generated from the first acoustic output unit 152a. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the sound may be configured to be emitted along an assembly gap (for example, a gap between the window 151a and the front case 101) between the structures. In this case, the appearance of the mobile terminal 100 can be simplified because the holes that are formed independently for the apparent acoustic output are hidden or hidden.

The optical output unit 154 is configured to output light for notifying the occurrence of an event. Examples of the event include a message reception, a call signal reception, a missed call, an alarm, a schedule notification, an email reception, and reception of information through an application. The control unit 180 may control the light output unit 154 to terminate the light output when the event confirmation of the user is detected.

The first camera 121a processes an image frame of a still image or a moving image obtained by the image sensor in the photographing mode or the video communication mode. The processed image frame can be displayed on the display unit 151 and can be stored in the memory 170. [

The first and second operation units 123a and 123b may be collectively referred to as a manipulating portion as an example of a user input unit 123 operated to receive a command for controlling the operation of the mobile terminal 100 have. The first and second operation units 123a and 123b can be employed in any manner as long as the user is in a tactile manner such as touch, push, scroll, or the like. In addition, the first and second operation units 123a and 123b may be employed in a manner that the user operates the apparatus without touching the user through a proximity touch, a hovering touch, or the like.

In this figure, the first operation unit 123a is a touch key, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the first operation unit 123a may be a mechanical key or a combination of a touch key and a touch key.

The contents input by the first and second operation units 123a and 123b can be variously set. For example, the first operation unit 123a receives a command such as a menu, a home key, a cancellation, a search, and the like, and the second operation unit 123b receives a command from the first or second sound output unit 152a or 152b The size of the sound, and the change of the display unit 151 to the touch recognition mode.

On the other hand, a rear input unit (not shown) may be provided on the rear surface of the terminal body as another example of the user input unit 123. The rear input unit is operated to receive a command for controlling the operation of the mobile terminal 100, and input contents may be variously set. For example, commands such as power on / off, start, end, scrolling, and the like, the size adjustment of the sound output from the first and second sound output units 152a and 152b, And the like can be inputted. The rear input unit may be implemented as a touch input, a push input, or a combination thereof.

The rear input unit may be disposed so as to overlap with the front display unit 151 in the thickness direction of the terminal body. For example, the rear input unit may be disposed at the rear upper end of the terminal body such that when the user holds the terminal body with one hand, the rear input unit can be easily operated using the index finger. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the position of the rear input unit may be changed.

When a rear input unit is provided on the rear surface of the terminal body, a new type of user interface using the rear input unit can be realized. When the first operation unit 123a is not disposed on the front surface of the terminal body in place of at least a part of the functions of the first operation unit 123a provided on the front surface of the terminal body, The display unit 151 may be configured as a larger screen.

Meanwhile, the mobile terminal 100 may be provided with a fingerprint recognition sensor for recognizing the fingerprint of the user, and the controller 180 may use the fingerprint information sensed through the fingerprint recognition sensor as authentication means. The fingerprint recognition sensor may be embedded in the display unit 151 or the user input unit 123.

The microphone 122 is configured to receive the user's voice, other sounds, and the like. The microphone 122 may be provided at a plurality of locations to receive stereophonic sound.

The interface unit 160 is a path through which the mobile terminal 100 can be connected to an external device. For example, the interface unit 160 may include a connection terminal for connection with another device (for example, an earphone or an external speaker), a port for short-range communication (for example, an infrared port (IrDA Port), a Bluetooth port A wireless LAN port, or the like), or a power supply terminal for supplying power to the mobile terminal 100. The interface unit 160 may be implemented as a socket for receiving an external card such as a SIM (Subscriber Identification Module) or a UIM (User Identity Module) or a memory card for storing information.

And a second camera 121b may be disposed on a rear surface of the terminal body. In this case, the second camera 121b has a photographing direction which is substantially opposite to that of the first camera 121a.

The second camera 121b may include a plurality of lenses arranged along at least one line. The plurality of lenses may be arranged in a matrix form. Such a camera can be named an 'array camera'. When the second camera 121b is configured as an array camera, images can be taken in various ways using a plurality of lenses, and a better quality image can be obtained.

The flash 124 may be disposed adjacent to the second camera 121b. The flash 124 shines light toward the subject when the subject is photographed by the second camera 121b.

And a second sound output unit 152b may be additionally disposed in the terminal body. The second sound output unit 152b may implement a stereo function together with the first sound output unit 152a and may be used for implementing a speakerphone mode in a call.

The terminal body may be provided with at least one antenna for wireless communication. The antenna may be embedded in the terminal body or formed in the case. For example, an antenna constituting a part of the broadcast receiving module 111 (see FIG. 1A) may be configured to be able to be drawn out from the terminal body. Alternatively, the antenna may be formed in a film type and attached to the inner surface of the rear cover 103, or a case including a conductive material may be configured to function as an antenna.

The terminal body is provided with a power supply unit 190 (see FIG. 1A) for supplying power to the mobile terminal 100. The power supply unit 190 may include a battery 191 built in the terminal body or detachable from the outside of the terminal body.

The battery 191 may be configured to receive power through a power cable connected to the interface unit 160. In addition, the battery 191 may be configured to be wirelessly chargeable through a wireless charger. The wireless charging may be implemented by a magnetic induction method or a resonance method (magnetic resonance method).

The rear cover 103 is configured to be coupled to the rear case 102 so as to cover the battery 191 to restrict the release of the battery 191 and to protect the battery 191 from external impact and foreign matter . When the battery 191 is detachably attached to the terminal body, the rear cover 103 may be detachably coupled to the rear case 102.

The mobile terminal 100 may be provided with an accessory that protects the appearance or supports or expands the function of the mobile terminal 100. [ One example of such an accessory is a cover or pouch that covers or accommodates at least one side of the mobile terminal 100. [ The cover or pouch may be configured to interlock with the display unit 151 to expand the function of the mobile terminal 100. Another example of an accessory is a touch pen for supplementing or extending a touch input to the touch screen.

In the foregoing, the configuration of the mobile terminal 100 according to the present invention has been described with reference to FIGS. 1A to 1C. Hereinafter, a mobile terminal for periodically monitoring a swelling state of a battery cell and controlling a charging current according to an embodiment of the present invention and a control method thereof will be described in detail.

2 is a block diagram for explaining a configuration of a battery unit mounted in a mobile terminal according to the present invention.

2, a rechargeable battery is detachably coupled to a rear case 102 of a mobile terminal 100 in a battery unit 200 according to the present invention. The battery unit 200 includes a battery cell 210, a protection circuit module 220, and a terminal unit 230.

The battery cell 210 plays a role of supplying power to the main body of the mobile terminal 100 or charging the power source through the external charger 10 or the like. At this time, the battery cell 210 normally outputs a voltage in the range of 3.3 V to 4.3 V. That is, when fully charged, the battery cell 210 outputs a voltage of about 4.3 V, and when the battery cell 210 is fully discharged, the battery cell 210 outputs a voltage of about 3.3 V.

The protection circuit module 220 is disposed between the battery cell 210 and the terminal unit 230 and includes an overcharge protection function, an overcharge protection function, an overcurrent protection function, a short protection function, a swelling detection function of the battery cell 210, A temperature measurement function of the battery cell 210, and an ID information verification function of the battery cell 210. The protection circuit module 220 performing such a function includes a protection circuit 221, a swelling detection sensor 222, a thermistor 223, an ID resistor 224, and the like.

The protection circuit 221 protects the battery cell 210 from an external electrical shock (overcharge, over-discharge, overcurrent, short-circuit, etc.) in order to secure the safety of the battery cell 210.

The swelling detection sensor 222 detects the swelling state of the battery cell 210. At this time, the information on the swelling state can be quantified based on the degree of thickness variation of the battery cell 210 or the degree of internal pressure change of the battery cell, but the present invention is not limited thereto. Accordingly, it is possible to quantify the swelling state of the battery cell 210 based on various physical / chemical changes other than the thickness change of the battery cell and the internal pressure change.

When the battery cell 210 is charged through the external charger 10 while the battery cell 210 is mounted on the mobile terminal 100, It is possible to start the sensing function related to the swelling state.

The swelling detection sensor 222 performs a function of providing the mobile terminal 100 with information on the swelling state of the battery cell 210 (hereinafter, referred to as 'swelling state value' for convenience of explanation). At this time, the swelling detection sensor 222 is connected to the power manager IC 210 of the mobile terminal 100 through a 1-wire interface (for example, a battery interface (BIF)) or a 2-wire interface do.

The thermistor 223 functions to measure the internal temperature of the battery cell 210 and the ID resistor 224 confirms the ID information of the battery unit 200 or confirms whether the battery unit 200 is detachable Function.

The terminal unit 230 serves to provide an interface between the battery cell 210 and the mobile terminal 100. The terminal unit 230 includes positive and negative terminals 231 and 232 for supplying power between the battery cell 210 and the mobile terminal 100 and terminals 231 and 232 connected between the battery cell 210 and the mobile terminal 100 A TH terminal 233 for providing information on the temperature of the battery cell 210 and an ID providing ID information of the connection status information between the battery cell 210 and the mobile terminal 100 and / Terminal 234, as shown in FIG. In addition, the terminal unit 230 may further include one or more terminals for performing a specific function, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

When the one-wire interface is connected between the swelling detection sensor 222 and the power management unit 210, information on the swelling state is transmitted to the power management unit 210 through either the TH terminal 233 or the ID terminal 234. [ As shown in FIG. When the two-wire interface is connected between the swelling detection sensor 222 and the power management unit 210, information on the swelling state is transmitted to the power management unit 210 via the TH terminal 233 and the ID terminal 234 Output can be configured.

3 is a block diagram illustrating a power supply unit of a mobile terminal according to the present invention.

3, a power supply 190 according to the present invention includes a battery unit 200, a power management unit 240, a charger IC 250, and a fuel gauge IC 260 ) And the like.

The battery unit 200 includes a battery cell 210, a protection circuit 220, and a terminal unit 230. The battery unit 200 serves to supply power to the main body of the mobile terminal 100 or to charge the power source through the external charger 10 or the like. The battery unit 200 periodically senses the swelling state of the battery cell 210 and provides the sensed state to the power management unit 240 when the battery is charged.

The power management unit 240 distributes the power supplied from the battery cell 210 to each component of the system. At this time, the power management unit 240 can efficiently manage the power consumption of the entire system through the smart power management technology. The power management unit 240 also provides the control unit 180 with information on the swelling state of the battery cell 210 received from the battery unit 200.

The control unit 180 typically controls the operation related to various application programs in addition to the function of controlling the overall operation of the mobile terminal 100. In particular, in this embodiment, the controller 180 controls the charging unit to adjust the charge current of the battery according to the swelling state of the battery cell 210. [ The operation of the control unit 180 will be described later in detail.

The charging unit 250 charges the battery cell 210 when charging power is supplied from the external charger 10. Particularly, in this embodiment, the charging unit 250 performs a role of supplying a predetermined charging current to the battery cell 210 according to the current swelling state value, in accordance with a control command of the controller 180. [

The battery remaining amount measurement module 260 measures the battery voltage and temperature together with the state of charge (SOC) of the battery.

The charging current control operation of the controller 180 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5. FIG.

FIG. 4 is a graph showing the charge capacity and the thickness variation of the battery cell according to the number of charging / discharging cycles for each charging current. The battery life test graph shown in FIG. 4 is basically provided by the battery manufacturer.

Referring to FIG. 4, it can be seen that the higher the charge current I _c is applied to the battery cell, the faster the thickness of the battery cell becomes, and the total charge capacity of the battery cell decreases more rapidly. That is, application of a high charging current causes a shortening of the battery life. Accordingly, by appropriately adjusting the charging current in consideration of the swelling state of the battery cell, it is possible not only to extend the life of the battery, but also to reduce the risk of explosion of the battery cell.

Based on the battery life test graph supplied from the battery manufacturer, the mobile phone manufacturer determines in advance the threshold values (S _th1 , S _th2 , S _th3 ) regarding the swelling state value of the battery and stores it in the memory 170. Accordingly, the controller 180 controls the charging current of the battery cell based on the threshold information stored in the memory 170 and the swelling state value provided from the power management unit 240. [ In the following description, the charge current of the battery is controlled by setting a total of three threshold values for convenience of explanation, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

More specifically, if the swing state value provided from the power management unit 240 is equal to or less than a predetermined first threshold value S _th1 for a predetermined time, the controller 180 determines that the swelling state of the battery cell 210 is It is judged to be safe and controls the battery to be charged in a normal charging mode. 5A, the control unit 180 controls the charging unit 250 such that a normal charging current I _C0 is applied to the battery unit 200. As shown in FIG.

If the swelling state value provided from the power management unit 240 is between the first threshold value S _th1 and the second threshold value S _th2 for a predetermined time, the controller 180 determines that the swelling state of the battery cell 210 is Recognizes that it has entered the 'attention phase', and controls the battery to be charged in the first protection charging mode. 5 (b), the controller 180 controls the charging unit (not shown) so that the first charging current I _C1 , which is one level lower than the normal charging current I _C0 , is applied to the battery unit 200 250).

When the swelling state value provided from the power management unit 240 is between the second threshold value S _th2 and the third threshold value S _th3 for a predetermined time, the controller 180 determines that the swelling state of the battery cell 210 is Recognizes the entry into the 'warning phase', and controls the battery to be charged in the second protection charging mode. For example, the charging section to be applied to the controller 180 of the first charge current (I _C1) than the next lowest second charge current (I _C2), the battery unit 200, as shown in Figure 5 (c) ( 250).

If the swelling state value provided from the power management unit 240 exceeds the third threshold value (i.e., the maximum threshold value, S _th3 ) for a predetermined time, the controller 180 determines that the swelling state of the battery cell 210 is' Step ', and controls the battery to be charged in the emergency charging mode. 5 (d), the control unit 180 determines that the third charging current (i.e., the minimum charging current, I _C3 ) lower than the second charging current I _C2 is supplied to the battery unit 200 And controls the charging unit 250 to be applied.

Meanwhile, during charging of the battery, the swing state value provided from the power management unit 240 may be lower than the first to third threshold values S _th3 , S _th3 , If more than succession S _th3) (that is, when it detects an abrupt change in the swollen state), the controller 180 recognizes that the swelling state of the battery cell 210, a dangerous stage, the emergency mode (emergency mode to charge the battery. 5 (e), the controller 180 controls the charger 250 so that the supply of the charging current I _C0 is immediately stopped. Thereafter, when the swelling state value decreases to maintain a stable state, the controller 180 monitors the swelling state of the battery cell while gradually increasing the charging current. The control unit 180 controls the charging unit 250 to apply the appropriate charging current I _C4 to the battery unit 200 in accordance with the variation of the swelling state.

In this way, the control unit 180 can control the charging unit 250 to adaptively adjust the charging current according to the swelling state of the battery cell provided from the battery unit 200. Although the control operation of the charge current is performed by the control unit 180 in the present embodiment, the present invention is not limited thereto. Instead of the control unit 180, it may be performed through the power management unit 240 or a separate module Will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

6 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of a mobile terminal according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 6, the controller 180 determines whether the battery unit 200 is mounted on the rear case 102 of the mobile terminal 100 (S605). At this time, the control unit 180 can detect whether the battery unit 200 is mounted based on a signal through the ID terminal 234 of the battery unit 200.

When the battery charging is started through the external charger 10 or the like in a state where the battery unit 200 is mounted in step S610, the controller 180 determines whether the normal charging current I _C0 is applied to the battery unit 200 So as to control the charging unit 250.

At the start of charging, the swelling detection sensor 222 periodically senses the swelling state of the battery cell 210 and provides it to the power management unit 240. The power management unit 240 receives the information on the swelling state and forwards the information to the control unit 180. [ Accordingly, the control unit 180 periodically monitors the swelling state of the battery cell 210 when the battery is charged (S615).

The control unit 180 determines whether the _swing state value provided from the power management unit 240 exceeds the first threshold value S _th1 (S620).

If it is determined in step 620 that the current swelling state value is equal to or less than the first threshold value S _th1 , the control unit 180 controls the charging unit 250 to maintain the normal charging current I _C0 ). If the current swing state value is _greater than the first threshold value S _{th1 as a} result of step 620, the control unit 180 determines that the swing state value received from the power management unit 240 is equal to or _greater than the second threshold value S _th2 ) (S630).

The check result of step 630, the current swelling state value of the first threshold value (S _th1) and a second threshold value if the between (S _th2), the controller 180 is one step lower than the normal charge current (I _C0) The charging unit 250 is controlled such that the first charging current I _C1 is applied to the battery unit 200 (S635). At this time, the controller 180 may control the charging current automatically or manually (that is, through a conforming process of the user).

The control unit 180 outputs the first notification information to the display unit 151 to notify that the swelling state of the battery cell 210 has entered the 'attention step' (S640). 7 (a), the control unit 180 displays a notification window 710 on the display unit 151, including information on the lifetime status of the battery and information on the additional usable time of the battery, Can be displayed.

If the current swing state value exceeds the second threshold value S _{th2 as a} result of the checking in step 630, the control unit 180 determines that the swing state value received from the power management unit 240 is equal to or greater than the third threshold value S _th3 ) (S645).

Check the results of the 645 step, the current swelling state value of the second threshold value (S _th2) and the third threshold value if the between (S _th3), the controller 180 includes a first charge current (I _C1) one step lower than the The charging unit 250 is controlled so that the second charging current I _C2 is applied to the battery unit 200 (S650). Likewise, the control unit 180 can automatically or manually control the charging current.

Also, the controller 180 outputs the second notification information to the display unit 151 to notify that the swelling state of the battery cell 210 has entered the 'warning phase' (S655). 7 (b), the controller 180 displays a notification window 720 on the display unit 151, which includes information on the life of the battery and information on the additional usable time of the battery, Can be displayed.

If the current swelling state value exceeds the third threshold value S _{th3 as a} result of step 645, the controller 180 determines that the lowest third charge current I _{C3 is} supplied to the battery unit 200 And controls the charging unit 250 to be applied (S660).

In addition, the controller 180 outputs the third notification information to the display unit 151 to notify that the swelling state of the battery cell 210 has entered the 'dangerous phase' (S665). 8 (a), the control unit 180 displays a notification window 810 on the display unit 151 including information on the life state of the battery, information on the battery replacement recommendation, and the like . In addition, the controller 180 may include a first icon 830 for providing information on the battery available area to the user, a first icon 830 for indicating the number of charging / discharging cycles, the swelling state, the charging capacity of the battery, And displays a second icon 840 on the display unit 151 for transmitting the data to the manufacturer. 9, when the first icon 830 is selected, the control unit 180 may display a map screen 850 including information on the battery available area on the display unit 151 .

On the other hand, if the swelling state value during battery charging is between the first to third thresholds S _th3 , S _th3 , S _th3 ), the control unit 180 controls the charging unit 250 so that the supply of the charging current is immediately stopped. At this time, the control unit 180 may output the third notification information to the display unit 151 to notify that the swelling state of the battery cell 210 is extremely unstable.

8 (b), the mobile terminal 100 may display a notification window 820 on the display unit 151, which includes information on the battery emergency charge interruption. Similarly, the mobile terminal 100 includes a first icon 830 for providing information on the battery available area to the user, a first icon 830 for indicating the number of charging / discharging cycles, the swelling state, the charging capacity of the battery, Temperature, and the like, and displays a second icon 840 on the display unit 151 for transfer to the manufacturer.

Thereafter, when the battery charging is terminated (S670), the control unit 180 ends the charge current control process according to the present invention. On the other hand, when battery charging is not completed, the controller 180 repeatedly performs the operations of steps 615 to 665 described above.

As described above, the mobile terminal according to the present invention periodically monitors the swelling state of the battery cell and adjusts the charging current adaptively when the battery is charged, thereby extending battery life, .

The present invention described above can be embodied as computer-readable codes on a medium on which a program is recorded. The computer readable medium includes all kinds of recording devices in which data that can be read by a computer system is stored. Examples of the computer readable medium include a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state disk (SSD), a silicon disk drive (SDD), a ROM, a RAM, a CD-ROM, a magnetic tape, a floppy disk, , And may also be implemented in the form of a carrier wave (e.g., transmission over the Internet). Also, the computer may include a control unit 180 of the terminal. Accordingly, the above description should not be construed in a limiting sense in all respects and should be considered illustrative. The scope of the present invention should be determined by rational interpretation of the appended claims, and all changes within the scope of equivalents of the present invention are included in the scope of the present invention.

100: mobile terminal 110: wireless communication unit
120: input unit 140: sensing unit
150: output unit 160: interface unit
170: memory 180:
190: power supply unit 200: battery unit

Claims (5)

A battery unit having a battery cell and a swelling detection sensor for detecting a swelling state of the battery cell;
A charging unit for outputting a charging current to the battery unit when the battery is charged; And
And a control unit for receiving the swelling state value of the battery cell from the battery unit and controlling the charging unit to apply a predetermined charging current according to the swelling state value. The method according to claim 1,
Wherein the control unit controls the charging unit such that a charging current one level lower than the initial charging current is applied to the battery unit when the swelling state value is between the first threshold value and the second threshold value. The method according to claim 1,
Wherein the control unit controls the charging unit such that a charging current that is two times lower than the initial charging current is applied to the battery unit when the swelling state value is between the second threshold value and the third threshold value. The method according to claim 1,
Wherein the control unit controls the charging unit such that a minimum charging current is applied to the battery unit when the swelling state value exceeds a third threshold value. The method according to claim 1,
Wherein the control unit controls the charging unit such that supply of the charging current is immediately stopped when the swelling state value continuously exceeds the first to third thresholds.

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