High-Energy, Light-Weight Battery to Power Next Generation Wearable Assist Prosthetics.

This Phase II SBIR project builds upon previous research to develop an increased life cycle, high-energy, lightweight, cost-efficient 1 Ah prototype battery designed specifically to support the next generation of powered prosthetic devices. Currently, prosthetic power supplies are not specifically designed for these applications and present a major hurdle for prosthetic design engineers. The Giner lithium sulfur (Li-S) prototype battery addresses range anxiety—or the fear that a battery will run out of power before reaching a destination—by increasing the life cycle, extending the range, and reducing battery weight. During Phase II, researchers collaborate with manufacturers of powered mobility devices to validate the new technology in actual operating prosthetics. Researchers focus on scaling up, fabrication, and testing of customized prototype pouch cells for extensive evaluation in real-world operational conditions for wearable assist powered prosthetic (WAPP) devices. The end-product consists of small, lightweight, and low-cost batteries which reduce unnecessary bulk while offering a powering a range of prosthetics for an entire day of activity. The resulting technology facilitates the commercialization of high-energy density Li-S batteries with increased cycle life to improve the quality of life for individuals with battery control prostheses and mobility devices.