Image Courtesy : www.nitt.edu

A faculty member of the National Institute of Technology - Trichy (NIT-T) designed cost-effective multipurpose furniture called ‘Fureboat’ to rescue lives and valuables during floods.

The Fureboat is made of lightweight materials like polymer matrix with glass or natural fibre.

In order to overcome the hardships confronted by residents during times of flood and evacuation, Dr. S Muthukumaran, professor and dean (R & C), developed and filed an Indian patent titled ‘Multipurpose rescue furniture and method thereof” dated April 15, 2021, via NIT- Trichy.

Dr. S Muthukumaran said he fabricated furniture such as the almirah, cot, and dining table. This furniture can be used in regular use and can also be used to protect lives and valuables. The multipurpose furniture is created of a polymer matrix with glass fibre/natural fibre or fibre-reinforced composite, plastic, or lightweight materials. Bamboo and steel were used as reinforcements/frames to deliver strength and rigidity.

Muthukumaran informed that a pair of oars is settled at the bottom of the furniture and can be readily and easily used for rowing during flood time. The furniture has an essential article cabin to keep relief items such as dry food, rope, torchlight, matchbox, and other essential medicines.

It intends to provide such boats to around 50 orphanages, schools, and old age homes located in flood-prone areas, free of cost across the country. Further, distribution will be accomplished with the support of government agencies, CSR funds, and NGOs.