IIT Indore’s revolutionary footwear: A game-changer for the military and more 

In a significant technological breakthrough, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Indore has developed specialized footwear that integrates advanced technology to generate electricity and provide real-time location tracking. Announced by IIT Indore officials on Tuesday, this innovation is poised to enhance the safety, coordination, and operational efficiency of military personnel. 

IIT Indore has already delivered the first set of 10 pairs of these advanced shoes to the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). According to Professor Suhas Joshi, director of IIT Indore, these shoes mark a significant leap forward in military technology, addressing both energy generation and personnel tracking needs. 

The shoes are the brainchild of Professor IA Palani, who has utilized Tribo-Electric Nanogenerator (TENG) technology to harness mechanical energy from walking. This energy is then stored in a device embedded in the shoe’s sole, capable of powering small electronic devices.  

Beyond energy generation, these shoes incorporate GPS and Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology for real-time tracking. This dual functionality is a boon not only for military operations but also for various civilian applications. For instance, they could monitor the movements of senior citizens with Alzheimer’s, track children, ensure the safety of climbers, and even streamline worker attendance and activities in industrial environments. 

The potential applications extend to sports science as well, offering detailed movement analysis that can help enhance athletes’ performance. The technology embedded in these shoes can provide invaluable data for training and performance improvement. 

The combination of energy generation and precise tracking in a single piece of footwear exemplifies the innovative spirit at IIT Indore and its commitment to addressing real-world challenges through cutting-edge research and development.