Innovations
Localization and Navigation System for Rescue Operations integrated into Protective Footwear and Gloves
ILOC
ILOC is a system for inertial localization and navigation of personnel working in hazardous environments where traditional navigation methods, such as satellite systems (GNSS) or ground-based radio systems, are unavailable.
The system is primarily designed for locating individuals in challenging environments, such as inside buildings, underground spaces (e.g., caves, parking garages, tunnels), steel structures (e.g., ships, containers, tanks), and during transitions between these environments and the outdoors.
Potential applications include use by emergency services, military personnel, industrial workers, security teams, geologists, and miners.
Key Features
The system enables rapid localization of workers in dangerous environment and in emergencies that pose a threat to their health or life. It also facilities their navigation to safety. Full integration of navigation and localisation system into work gloves and boots/shoes, i.e. the system does not limit the users in any way during their duties. Inertial localisation of position – the system does not require any external localisation or navigational infrastructure, it requires only remote wireless data transmission between MCU and cloud system (usually 4G/5G network). LED compass for navigational purposes integrated into work gloves. The user has access to intuitive visual navigation without any need of using another device and any manipulation with it. Low demands on wireless communication infrastructure thanks to small amount of transmitted data between each of the devices of the system (glove, boot, MCU).
MCU
Main Control Unit: wireless communication with BCU and GCU, wireless communication with superior cloud system, multifunctional button, status indicating features, independent power source.
GCU
Work gloves with integrated electronics: estimation of current position in the area (azimuth, tilt), LED navigation compass, status indicating features, multifunctional button, independent power source, wireless data transmission via radiofrequencies.
BCU
Work boots with integrated electronics: estimation of current relative position in X, Y, Z coordinates, wireless transmission of data via radiofrequencies, multifunctional button, status LED indicators and independent power source. Measured data from integrated inertial sensors and pressure sensor are processed with specially modified dead reckoning algorithm, based on which the current location data are determined.
FLARE System® (Cloud)
Cloud system with integrated backend application with following functions – processing of navigation and localisation data, calculating with implemented advanced algorithms for localisation accuracy, saving and administration of acquired data, online corrections and trajectories of users.
Frontend web based application:
Application which shows trajectories of users and other information, such as entry points, user status and status of their ILOC devices, etc., graphical user interface allowing manipulating of the whole system. Trajectory and localisation is visualised in 2D digital map.
Project coordinators:
Holík International, s.r.o.
University of West Bohemia
Dune
Enrico de Marinis | info@dune-sistemi.com | Tel: +39 06 7045 1252
3rd TREND CALL
Project number: FW03010023
Project start date: 02/2021
Project end date: 10/2024
supported by TACR - Technology Agency of the Czech Republic
Innovations in Holík boots
Long-term development of the Explorer sole, ergonomics or unique features such as the contour tread and grip system. The in-house development team responds to the newest trends and incorporates them into the latest models.
Explorer sole
A durable rubber compound was developed to suit the conditions in which firefighters routinely move during response operations.
The main features are:
- Anti-static and heat resistant (up to 250°).
- Non-slip and very stable on various types of surfaces.
- Resistant to oils, acids, and fuel.
- Self-cleaning tread.
- Shock absorber in the heel area - shock absorption system.
- Exceptionally smooth toe and heel - facilitates walking and running.
Ergonomics
The properties of the sole and upper materials then complete the idea of ergonomics with their unique protective properties. An idea combining comfort and practicality. The emphasis is focusing on increasing comfort at work.
Ergonomics specifics:
- High quality and durable upper materials.
- Comfortable inner padding.
- Superior internal space - stability thanks to free fingers.
Flexibility
- Flexible segmentation in the ankle area allows the necessary flexion.
- Special heel design helps the heel to sit properly and to lock in the heel.
GRIP system
Unique grip system for easy slipping into the boot.
Features:
- High-strength grips against tearing (model Lesná GII).
- Special stitching prevents the possibility of a tear-off area.
Ankle protector
Protection of the ankles against impact and prevention of energy transfer to the ankle.
Important features:
- Complete sandwich of protective foams.
- A special combination of materials developed by the company's developers to meet the highest standards.
- Complies with EN 659.
SensPro ®
Unique type of intervention glove with technology for measuring the temperature of the glove surface and the temperature of distant objects using sensors. Several years of development in cooperation with the University of West Bohemia in Pilsen have brought the implementation of sensors and chip of the intervention glove to a new level, which is unparalleled in the world.
Temperature sensor
Designed to measure the temperature in the immediate surroundings of the firefighter. The sensor is implemented on the ring finger of the glove and protected by a DuPont™ Nomex® cover. The captured information is then transferred to a bar graph on the back of the right glove.
IR (infrared) sensor
Allows the temperature of distant objects to be measured. Located under the silicone cover on the back of the glove. The accuracy of the temperature measurement of the remote point depends on the distance between the glove and the point to be measured.
Laser pointer
Indicates the center of the measured area of the distant object. This helps to determine the spot the firefighter wants to examine. It helps to determine the path that can be used...
Bar graph
The bar graph visually informs about the current measured temperature. It gets the information from the IR sensor or temperature sensor. Even in difficult and risky conditions, the firefighter has an overview of the ambient and remote temperature.
RFID a NFC Chip
On request, we can implement heat and mechanical resistant chips into every Holík glove or boot.
An electronic product identification that can be used by the user to track the life cycle of the product.
RFID = Radio frequency identification
Contactless data exchange between an RFID chip and an RFID recorder/reader.
NFC = Near field communication
Wireless communication over very short distances of a few centimetres.
Usage:
- Manufacture of firefighting, rescue and tactical gloves.
- Manufacture of firefighting boots.
Features:
- Thermal and mechanical resistance.
- Long service life.
- Product life cycle tracking.
- Warehouse tracking - receiving, dispensing.
- Recording of wash cycles.
- Disposal record.
- Other optional functionalities.