[CurtisTH]

(PTI): The Defence Bioengineering & Electromedical Laboratory (DEBEL) here has set up a new technical facility with advanced test facilities and analytical equipment for its Research and Development programmes on cutting edge technologies in life support systems and biomedical devices. The facilities include a hydrostatic simulator to test prototypes/equipment at depths of 300 metres; a dynamic test centrifuge to handle pneumatic prototypes with specific payloads; a high altitude simulation chamber for human applications and advanced characterisation and testing facilities for technical textiles developed for military applications.

DEBEL is a premier life sciences laboratory of the Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) carrying out R&D in aero-medical equipment, human engineering related to aviation, biomedical engineering and life support systems for the Armed Forces. The primary mandate of the lab is to develop products and technologies that can significantly enhance human performance of soldiers operating under environmentally hostile and physiologically hazardous conditions, according to a DRDO statement. Since its formation in 1982 it has developed a number of products and technologies for the Armed Forces such as protective clothing and protective equipment for aircrew and soldiers operating at high altitudes, submarine escape set for the Navy and telemedicine and Tele-diagnosis Systems for soldiers operating in geographically remote areas. It is now engaged in developing integrated life support system for new generation Aircraft like LCA, and technical textiles specifically targeted for military applications. In the last five years the lab has seen a rapid growth in terms of R&D projects/programmes, manpower, equipment and other resources, it said. The new technical facility would be inaugurated by Chief of DRDO and Scientific Adviser to Defence Minister, Dr V K Saraswat, tomorrow.