Communications of the ACM
Engineering Students Develop Battery Charging System for Soldiers
A lighter rucksack aids a soldier's maneuverability and reduces the chance of injury.
Credit: University of West Florida
Earlier this year, undergraduate electrical engineering students at the University of West Florida were tasked with developing a better method of charging batteries for the electronic systems soldiers carry in their rucksacks. A former member of the U.S. Army's 7th Special Forces Group, student Eamon Anderson, had first-hand experience with the project's subject matter.
During the Fall 2022 and Spring 2023 semesters, Anderson along with students Daniel Buraczynski and Paul Ruth worked with their faculty mentor, Jeff McGuirk, to develop an innovative system that reduced battery charging time, extended battery life, and improved overall rucksack weight. The system uses soldiers' motion as they walk through the jungle to help charge the systems.
The team is currently making some requested modifications before the method undergoes Army range testing.
From University of West Florida
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