Direct Chemo-Mechanical Actuation

A high efficiency and precision control pneumatic/mechanical actuator, which converts chemical to mechanical energy, will extend human performance and provide advantages in reducing system weight and bulk. In Phase I Quoin successfully built and tested afeasibility demonstration actuator. A 1-inch-diameter impulse turbine, driven by bottled nitrogen gas, delivered torque to a ball screw linear output through a 33.6:1 speed reduction. The turbine was operated at speeds of at least 140,000 rpm withoutdamage, and loads up to 50 pounds were lifted at speeds up to about 10 in/sec, far exceeding the require-ments of the original solicitation. In Phase II Quoin will fully develop the Free Piston Engine power supply/air compressor and electrical powergenerator technology. We will design, build and test two generations of the system. The PFE will provide enough power for all actuators and other exoskeleton requirement, in a unit smaller than a soup can. We will also conduct system dynamic performanceanalysis. The practical and economical potential of an exoskeleton powered by a chemo-mechanical actuator is far-reaching for both military and civilian commerce and industry.