Creating a new power system for electric wheelchairs
Official title: Development of Nickel-Zinc power system for powered wheelchairs
Funded at Veterans Health Administration · NIH-10954269 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a new type of battery for electric wheelchairs that could help you travel farther and charge faster, making your experience safer and better for the environment.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Veterans Health Administration NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project start | November 1, 2023 |
| Project end | October 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 5I21RX004626-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10954269 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who rely on powered wheelchairs or scooters for mobility and face limitations due to current battery technologies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not use powered mobility devices or those who have no interest in improving their mobility options may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a new power system for electric wheelchairs that aims to replace outdated Lead-Acid and Lithium-Ion batteries. The project addresses limitations such as long charging times, safety concerns, and environmental impact. By exploring Nickel-Zinc technology, the research seeks to enhance the range and efficiency of powered mobility devices, allowing users to travel further without the constraints of current battery technologies. The approach includes rigorous testing and analysis to ensure safety and performance improvements.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the mobility and independence of wheelchair users by providing a safer and more efficient power source.
How similar studies have gone: While there have been advancements in battery technology, this specific approach using Nickel-Zinc for powered wheelchairs is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in this context.
Where this research is happening
-
Veterans Health Administration
Pittsburgh, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Duvall, Jonathan — Veterans Health Administration
- Study coordinator: Duvall, Jonathan
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.