Industrial Consultancy & Sponsored Research (IC&SR) , IIT Madras
Footwear for Terrain Recognition
Categories for this Invention
Category – Assistive, Test Equipment, and Design Manufacturing, Robotics & Automation, Electronics and Circuits
Applications -Agri-based, Automotive, Biomedical engineering, Electronic System & Design Manufacturing
Industry – Robotics and Automation, Healthcare and Medical Devices
Market – Global assistive technology market size was valued at US$ 22.98 Bn in 2023 and is estimated to reach US$ 32.25 Bn by 2030, exhibiting a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.7%
Image Gallery
Problem Statement
- Camera-based sensors require proper illumination and can produce erroneous results in shadows.
- Existing techniques predominantly capture only the surface details, missing critical sub-surface information.
- Current methods like the Wenner 4-Point Test and Rod Driven Method for measuring ground impedance are impractical for use with humans or robots.
- The need for more accurate and reliable terrain recognition methods to ensure safe and effective navigation, especially for applications like robotics and mobility aids.
- A method to obtain both surface and sub-surface terrain data to improve overall terrain recognition accuracy.
- Developing practical, non-intrusive, and wearable devices (e.g., footwear) that can measure ground impedance and provide real-time terrain recognition feedback.
Technology
Electrode Integration in Footwear:
- The footwear includes a first electrode for transmitting an electrical current to the ground and a second electrode for receiving the electrical current through the user’s body. This setup is designed to measure the ground impedance.
Conductive Sole Design:
- The second footwear of the pair features a conductive bottom sole that collects the electrical current passed through the ground from the first electrode and couples it to the body, facilitating accurate impedance measurement.
Processing Element for Impedance Measurement:
- The footwear’s processing element measures ground impedance by comparing transmitted and received electrical current strengths, using an operational amplifier to determine output voltage and impedance.
Impedance-based Terrain Identification:
- Measured impedance determines terrain type, enhancing recognition accuracy and correcting outputs from methods like image processing.
Non-intrusive, Wearable Technology:
- The wearable, non-intrusive design is practical for continuous use and suitable for integration into robotic systems, overcoming the limitations of traditional impedance measurement methods.
Key Features / Value Proposition
Accurate Terrain Recognition:
- Uses electrodes and a conductive sole to precisely identify terrain types, including stairs, ramps, and slopes.
Enhanced Safety and Mobility:
- Provides real-time feedback for improved safety and stability for visually impaired individuals and amputees with advanced prosthetics.
Non-intrusive, Wearable Design:
- Comfortable everyday footwear, making advanced terrain recognition practical and accessible.
Integration with Existing Systems:
- Combines impedance measurements with image processing for enhanced accuracy and reliability.
Broad Applicability:
- Suitable for personal mobility aids, robotic navigation, and assistive devices across various fields.
Questions about this Technology?
Contact For Licensing
sm-marketing@imail.iitm.ac.in
ipoffice2@iitm.ac.in
Research Lab
Prof. Boby George
Department of Electrical Engineering
Intellectual Property
- IITM IDF Ref. 2363
- IN 531158 (Patent Granted)
Technology Readiness Level
TRL- 4
Technology validated in Lab.