Disclosed herein is a multifunctional battery for supplying power to an
electrical circuit, and the related method of making the same. Use of the
multifunctional battery permits structural integrity and versatility,
while maximizing power output of the cells and minimizing the overall
weight of the structure. The multifunctional battery includes an open
cell interconnected structure comprised of a plurality of open cells so
as to provide a structural electrode. The structural electrode is
configured to be a load bearing member. The battery also includes
interstitial electrodes that are counter electrodes to the structural
electrode. The interstitial electrodes are at least partially received
within a predetermined number of the cells of the interconnected
structure. Additionally, a separator portion is disposed between the
structural electrode and interstitial electrodes to serve as an
electrical insulator.