The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Indore has developed innovative footwear for military personnel that not only generates electricity but also provides real-time location tracking. This significant advancement was announced by IIT Indore officials on Tuesday, marking a major breakthrough for the Indian armed forces.
According to information in the public domain the first ten pairs of these shoes have been handed over to the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) by the institute.
Professor Suhas Joshi, the director of IIT Indore, has said that these shoes are expected to significantly enhance the safety, coordination, and operational efficiency of Army personnel.
Cutting-Edge Technology
The shoes were developed under the guidance of Professor I A Palani and incorporate Tribo-Electric Nanogenerator (TENG) technology. TENG technology converts the mechanical energy generated from walking into electricity, which is then stored in a device embedded in the shoe’s sole. This stored energy can power small electronic devices, providing a portable and renewable energy source for soldiers in the field.
In addition to generating electricity, the shoes are equipped with GPS and Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology. This allows for the real-time tracking of military personnel, which can enhance strategic coordination and ensure the safety of soldiers during operations.
Broad Applications and Potential
While the primary focus of these high-tech shoes is to benefit military operations, their potential applications extend beyond the battlefield. The real-time tracking feature can be used to monitor the movements of senior citizens with Alzheimer’s, children, and climbers. It also has industrial applications, such as tracking worker attendance and activities, thereby improving productivity and safety in various settings.
Moreover, the detailed analysis of movements provided by this technology can be invaluable in sports science, helping to enhance athletes’ performances by offering insights into their physical activities.
Global Context
The development of such advanced footwear is a significant step forward for the Indian armed forces, placing them on par with other technologically advanced military forces around the world. Similar initiatives have been undertaken by countries like the United States and China, where research and development in wearable technology for military applications have been ongoing. These countries have also explored the integration of energy-harvesting technologies and real-time tracking systems to improve the efficiency and safety of their soldiers.
Bottomline
IIT Indore’s innovative footwear represents a major technological advancement for the Indian military, offering a range of applications that extend well beyond the defense sector. As the technology matures, it could see widespread adoption, benefiting various civilian and industrial sectors globally.