Pentagon to Hold $1 Million Battery Pack Contest

The U.S. Pentagon is holding a $1 million competition to invent a lighter battery pack, reports Tech Insider. The objective is to develop a wearable, prototype system that can power a standard soldier’s equipment, or an average of 20 watts, for 96 hours but weighs less than half that of current batteries, or less than 4 kilograms (8.8 pounds). All components, including the power generator, electrical storage, control electronics, connectors, all attachments and fuel must weigh 4kg or less.

The competition will take place in fall 2008, and the winner will receive a $1 million prize. Second place will receive $500,000 and third place will be awarded $250,000. The lightest system will be the winner. In the case of systems with identical weights, a “wearability” criterion – measured by the maximum thickness that a system protrudes from the body when attached to a garment, with the thinnest system being judged the winner – will be used as a tie breaker.

The competition is open for international participation, but the individual or team leader must be a U.S. citizen. Competitors must register by November 30. Visit www.dod.mil/ddre/prize/.