Dephy founders, CEO Luke Mooney, PhD, and CTO Jean-François Duval, MS, founded the company in 2015. The company’s Sidekick ankle exoskeleton is billed as the first powered wearable at the ankle.
Nike released images and details about Project Amplify, which the company says will allow “everyday athletes” to walk or run more often, for longer amounts of time, comparing it to a second set of calf muscles or the boost seen by users of electric bikes. Nike says the system is made for athletes but, “If you have a body, you are an athlete.”
The companies are working toward a consumer launch in the coming years. Built on motion algorithms informed by the Nike Sport Research Lab, the first-generation footwear system is comprised of a lightweight, powerful motor; drive belt; and rechargeable cuff battery integrated with a carbon fiber–plated running shoe that can be worn with or without the robotics system.
“Project Amplify started with a single question: What if we could find a way to help athletes move faster and farther with less energy and a lot more fun,” said Michael Donaghu, vice president, Innovation Kitchen, Nike’s innovation lab. “At its core, Project Amplify is about seamlessly adding a little more power to your stride. The fun comes from realizing you can do more than you thought you could—whatever ‘more’ means to you.”
