S. Korean scientists develop a flexible battery that stretches like a snake

The Korea Institute of Machinery and Materials had developed a flexible battery that bends and stretches like a snake and moves flexibly even in narrow spaces, allowing it to power rescue robots in disaster situations.

The new battery features a high level of safety and performance while being stretched in different directions.

To fold and unfold the batteries, small hexagonal battery cells made of lithium polymer were connected with polymer and copper materials using a hinge mechanism.

Flexible movement is enabled by connecting several small, hard batteries in a structure resembling a snake’s scales.

The new battery can be used in a wide range of areas, including soft robots and wearable devices.

The institute operates under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Science and ICT.