New tracking sensor built into footwear
An innovative digital positioning system that uses sensors inside the heel of a boot makes it possible for incident commanders to track the movements of emergency first responders even 25m below ground.
The specially-equipped footwear, developed at the KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm, includes advanced sensors such as an accelerometer and gyroscope, plus a processor. It can withstand shock and extremely high temperatures and remains operational where GPS (global positioning systems) fail.
A wireless module worn on the shoulder sends the data to operational command. The precise information about responders location and movements enables emergency coordinators to control operations remotely and ensure that they remain effective and safe under extremely dangerous conditions.
The system has been tested successfully with firefighters in real-time, 25m below ground.
The positioning capability can also be used by police and military response forces, or medical services at major incidents. Even rescue work far below the ground, as in mines, can be facilitated by being able to position both workers and rescue teams without the need for extensive infrastructure.
Researchers now want to make the sensors part of the sole, which would increase flexibility and open up more uses than when built into the heel. The idea is that the sole will also generate its own power supply and be thin enough for use in ordinary shoes.
