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
EffiSHELL
Efficient Softshell, or "EffiSHELL", is a three-layer laminate specially developed for our gloves.
It features reduced flammability, high breathability, and water resistance. It protects against the penetration of unwanted particles, enhances glove flexibility, and ensures long-term comfortable wear.
The layer in contact with the skin is specially treated to prevent skin irritation and to ensure easy donning and doffing of the gloves under both wet and dry conditions.
It is utilized, for example, in the Foresta II gloves designed for wildland firefighting.
NFC / RFID Chip
Upon request, we can integrate heat- and mechanically resistant NFC or RFID chips into any Holík glove and boots. This essentially provides an electronic logging system that users can utilize to track the product’s lifecycle.
NFC (Near Field Communication) = Wireless communication over very short distances, typically within a few centimeters.
RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) = Contactless data exchange between an RFID chip and an RFID reader.
Fields of Application:
- Firefighting – Firefighting intervention gloves and boots;
- Rescue – Gloves for technical rescue and wildland firefighting;
- Defence – Tactical, military, and police gloves.
Purpose & Functions:
- Product lifecycle tracking;
- Inventory management (receiving/dispatching);
- Washing cycle logging;
- Disposal records;
- Other optional functionalities.
Advantages:
- Long lifespan / high durability;
- Thermal and mechanical resistance.
Holík Boots Innovation
Within our in-house development team, we transform global safety trends into reality and practical benefits. We push the latest Holík footwear models to the absolute maximum, utilizing our proprietary EXPLORER sole, DGUV 112-191 ergonomic certification, and unique features such as the ankle protector or the GRIP System loop mechanism.
EXPLORER Sole
A durable rubber compound tailored specifically to the conditions firefighters regularly encounter during interventions.
Key features include:
- Antistatic and heat-resistant (up to 250°C).
- Slip-resistant and highly stable on various surface types.
- Resistant to oils, acids, and fuels (hydrocarbons).
- Self-cleaning tread design.
- Shock absorber in the heel area – a system that dampens impacts during heel strike.
- Exceptionally smooth toe and heel roll-off – facilitating easier walking and running.
Ergonomics and Comfort
Our firefighting footwear combines maximum protection with exceptional comfort. By merging the premium properties of the sole with advanced upper materials, we reduce fatigue during demanding tasks and ensure comfort even during long-term wear. Key ergonomic advantages:
- Premium materials: Highly durable upper that fits perfectly and protects.
- Comfort: Rich and soft internal padding, known as ErgoFIT.
- Stability: The interior space provides freedom for the toes and enhances overall stability.
Flexibility
- Flexible segmentation in the ankle area allows for the necessary flexion.
- The specialized construction assists in the proper seating and fixation of the heel.
GRIP System
- A unique system of large pull loops – the GRIP System – facilitates easy donning and handling of the footwear, even when wearing firefighting gloves. A typical representative of this feature is the Firra® model.
Ankle Protector
Ankle protection against impacts that prevents the transmission of shock energy.
Important features:
- A comprehensive protective foam sandwich construction.
- A special combination of materials developed by the company’s R&D team to meet the highest standards.
- Complies with the EN 659 standard.