Gold Medal – IFIA INV Innovation Competition, Switzerland
IFIA
August 2023
The 3rd International Invention and Innovation Competition for IFIA INV Members was a global stage for groundbreaking ideas, bringing together over 830 inventors from 36 countries. This prestigious event aimed to recognize innovative solutions that address real-world challenges, with a strong focus on sustainability and impact. As an inventor, being part of this competition was an incredible opportunity to showcase my work among the best minds in the world.
I was honored to receive a Gold Medal for my second invention: the Integrated Autonomous Search and Rescue System Using Drones and Soft Robots. Winning this award felt even more special because it marked my continued growth as an inventor. Each competition pushes me to think bigger, learn more, and refine my problem-solving approach. This achievement is not just a recognition of my work, but a step forward in making life-saving technology a reality.
Nature has always been a source of inspiration for innovation, and this project was no exception. I designed my search and rescue system by observing how tree roots grow and navigate through the soil—a perfect natural model for how soft robots can move through debris in disaster zones. By integrating drone technology for aerial scanning and soft robotics for ground navigation, this system enhances the speed and accuracy of locating survivors after earthquakes or natural disasters.
Bringing this idea to life required both engineering and design skills. I created the 3D sketches and animations using Fusion 360, marking a huge improvement from last year. The challenge was immense—learning to model complex structures, animate movement dynamics, and visualize real-world applications. Compared to my previous project, my skills in 3D modeling, animation, and design had advanced significantly, making this invention more refined and professional.
This competition wasn’t just a personal victory—it was a shared success. Two of my students also won Gold Medals for their innovations, and standing beside them in this moment of triumph was incredibly rewarding. Seeing them grow as inventors, develop their ideas, and earn recognition for their work reminded me why I am passionate about sharing knowledge and fostering creativity in others.
To present my invention, I created a concise and engaging video showcasing its concept, design, and impact. This was a crucial part of the competition, allowing me to effectively communicate my idea and its real-world potential in just a few minutes.
