When we hear the term ‘high-tech’ shoes, it’s usually one of two things: some new form of sports trainers, or ‘how the hell can they make an 8 inch heel with no platform?’
High-tech footwear may take on a whole new meaning soon though, with the news that work is ongoing to perfect special shoe insoles designed to monitor access to high-security areas.
Following on from research that shows each person has unique feet and ways of walking, sensors in the special bio-soles monitor the pressure of feet, and the person’s gait, then comparing the patterns to a master file for that person using a microcomputer.
If the patterns fail to match the parent file, a wireless alarm message can be emitted. A person’s identity can be confirmed as soon their third step using the insoles.
For now, the products are only being mentioned in relation to high-security labs and military bases, and perhaps as a spy aid, so if you’re worried about getting caught nipping out of work every now and again you’re still safe… for now.