An exoskeleton is a wearable robotic suit whose hydraulically powered joints and limbs move in unison with those of the human lower body.

The prototype exoskeletons under development will allow soldiers to bear heavy loads over long distances, wear heavier and more protective body armor, quickly extract wounded colleagues, forcefully access enemy structures, and use more powerful weapons.

Under the DARPA project, TIAX is developing a high-efficiency, free-piston hydraulic power source that is lightweight, quiet and capable of supporting the exoskeleton for 4 to 24 hours.

The power source must handle wide variations between steady and peak loads, while remaining portable.

"We have combined our significant expertise in both compact power generation and military operations to successfully develop a viable power source for the exoskeleton," said Kenan Sahin, president of TIAX.

"TIAX is proud and committed to develop technology that will assist and protect our soldiers, as well as the many others who will benefit from the aid of an exoskeleton."

Phase II of the project involved developing a prototype for the hydraulic power source and demonstrating that the technology meets the power, weight, and efficiency goals of the exoskeleton.

The next phase will involve adding features to further improve performance and integrating the hydraulic power source with a prototype exoskeleton.

A pioneer in fuel cell, micropower and battery technologies, TIAX has helped clients in the public and private sector accelerate the development of new products, assess and integrate new technologies, and optimize the performance of existing systems.

TIAX