News

New Assistant Professor – Dr Du Liangfen

BEEE is delighted to announce the appointment of Dr Du Liangfen as an Assistant Professor, effective from 16th April 2024. We warmly welcome Dr Du to our department and look forward to her valuable contribution to our academic community.   Dr Du earned her Master's and PhD degrees in Acoustics from the Institut National des Sciences Appliquées de Lyon (INSA Lyon) in France, in 2012 and 2016, respectively.   Her professional journey began at JD Acoustic Pte Ltd in Singapore, where she worked as an Acoustic Consultant from 2016 to 2017. Subsequently, Dr. Du transitioned back to academia, holding positions as a research fellow at the College of Design and Engineering at the National University of Singapore from 2017 to 2021, and later at the School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at Nanyang Technological University before joining PolyU.   Dr Du’s research focuses on noise reduction technologies that facilitate natural ventilation, acoustic metasurfaces, and noise prediction. She has innovated the Acoustic Friendly Ventilation Windows that mitigate noise transmission while promoting natural air circulation, enhancing both aural and thermal comforts for inhabitants in subtropical and tropical environments. These window prototypes have already been installed in residential premises. More recently, she has developed ultracompact acoustic metasurfaces to effectively deflect noise away from sensitive areas. These advanced structures are suitable for both outdoor and indoor applications, and can be utilized as noise barriers to create quiet zones in designated areas.   In addition to her research, Dr Du has also provided extensive consultancy services in various facets of acoustics, including room acoustics, noise impact assessments, acoustic design, and noise and vibration control. Her dual role as a researcher and consultant enhances her contributions to the field, bridging the gap between theoretical research and practical implementations to enhance living environments.  

BEEE Students Awarded CIBSE-HKR Student Awards 2023/24

The Department of Building Environment and Energy Engineering (BEEE) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University is delighted to announce the achievements of two students who have received the CIBSE-HKR Student Award for the academic year 2023/24. This award recognizes exceptional academic excellence and contributions to the field of Building Services Engineering. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to JI Jie, a Master of Science in Sustainable Urban Development student, for being honored with the award in the Post-graduate Degree Category. Additionally, we applaud Law Sing, a Bachelor of Engineering in Building Services Engineering student, for receiving the award in the Bachelor Degree Category. Their dedication and commitment to their studies have truly set them apart. The award certificates were proudly presented during the CIBSE-HKR annual dinner on March 14, 2024. Our students were thrilled to share this special moment with their peers and industry professionals, further highlighting their exceptional accomplishments. We take immense pride in the achievements of JI Jie and Law Sing, and we offer our wholehearted support as they continue their educational journey and pursue successful careers in the field. Once again, congratulations to JI Jie and Law Sing on this well-deserved recognition of their hard work and dedication.  

Renowned Optical Engineering Expert BEEE Professor Received Hong Kong Engineering Science and Technology Award 2023

Professor Wei Minchen Tommy, a distinguished academic member of the Department of Building Environment and Energy Engineering at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, has been honored with the prestigious Hong Kong Engineering Science and Technology (HKEST) Award 2023. This esteemed award recognizes Prof. Wei's exceptional contributions and achievements in the field of optical engineering, with a particular focus on color and imaging science. The HKEST Award, presented by the Hong Kong Academy of Engineering Sciences (HKAES), celebrates individuals who have made significant advancements in the domains of engineering, science, and technology. Prof. Wei's groundbreaking research and remarkable work in optical engineering have earned him this well-deserved recognition. Prof. Jin-Guang Teng, President of HKAES, extends his heartfelt congratulations to Prof. Wei, applauding his outstanding accomplishments and emphasizing the significance of his continued dedication to engineering and technological innovation. This award serves as a testament to Prof. Wei's remarkable contributions to the field and his unwavering commitment to advancing the knowledge and application of optical engineering. The Department takes immense pride in Prof. Wei's achievement, further cementing its position as a leading institution in optical engineering and scientific research. We wholeheartedly congratulate Prof. Wei and extend our best wishes for his continued success in all his future endeavors.  

BEEE Member Honored with the HKIE Grand Award 2024 - Innovation Category (Sub-category II ) - Grand Prize

The Department of Building Environment and Energy Engineering (BEEE) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) is delighted to announce that our team has been honored with the prestigious HKIE Grand Award 2024 in the Innovation Category (Sub-category II - All Member Group) - Grand Prize. This remarkable achievement recognizes our collaborative effort with industrial partner ERI Limited, property management company Times Square Limited, and our collaborator from CityU in revolutionizing energy consumption in the HVAC system at Times Square.   We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Prof. Christopher Chao for his invaluable support throughout the project. Together, we remain steadfast in our commitment to reducing carbon emissions in Hong Kong through knowledge transfer and innovation.   Project Details: Project Title: iPaint AI and Related Best Practices Awardees: Ir LAU Hoi-fung (ERI), Ir Prof. TSO Chi-yan (CityU), Dr CHAN Ka-chung (PolyU), and Ir LEUNG Chi-fai (Times Square) Nominator: Ir Prof. CHAO Yu-Hang Christopher   The project focuses on the implementation of iPaint, an electricity-free cooling technology, at Times Square. This innovative solution, with its high solar reflection and mid-infrared emission properties, significantly reduces the energy consumption of the cooling towers' condenser water pipes. Complementing iPaint is the groundbreaking iPaintAI, which utilizes AI algorithms to dynamically adjust cooling tower setpoints for optimal energy efficiency while ensuring occupant comfort. The integration of BIM, GIS, IoT sensor data, and BMS analytics further enhances the system's performance.   To strengthen the iPaintAI initiative, we have also implemented a range of best practices, including: • Utilizing BIM models for streamlined mechanical plant management • Implementing rigorous RCx protocols for measurement and verification of plant enhancements • Ensuring cooling tower thermal performance aligns with established fresh water cooling standards • Conducting comprehensive energy audits in adherence to the stringent BEEO guidelines   The Department takes immense pride in this recognition, as it underscores our dedication to sustainable practices and technological advancements in the field. Our team remains devoted to pushing boundaries and making a positive impact in the realm of energy conservation.  

Celebrating BEEE Chair Professor's Recognition as a Highly Cited Researcher 2023 by Clarivate

In an exciting collaboration with Clarivate, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) recently hosted an awards ceremony on March 15th to acknowledge the outstanding achievements of its scholars. Thirteen esteemed researchers from PolyU were recognized as Highly Cited Researchers (HCRs) for the year 2023. The event, graced by the presence of Prof. Chao Christopher, Vice President (Research and Innovation) of PolyU, and Mr. Osher Gilinsky, Vice President for Asia Pacific, Academic and Government of Clarivate, was held to honor the exceptional research performance of the university's scholars. During the ceremony, Mr. Gilinsky presented HCR Certificates to the esteemed PolyU researchers. The distinction of being named a Highly Cited Researcher is a testament to the remarkable contributions of these scholars in their respective fields. They have produced multiple highly cited papers, ranking in the top 1% by citations within their field and publication year in Web of Science from 2012 to 2022. Their influential work has garnered extensive recognition and citations from international peers. Among the distinguished speakers at the event was Prof. Yan Jinyue Jerry, Chair Professor of Energy and Buildings in the Department of Building Environment and Energy Engineering at PolyU. Prof. Yan shared valuable insights and experiences during the HCR Methodology Presentation & Experience Sharing session, adding to the enriching discourse of the event. Prof. Yan's inclusion as one of the Highly Cited Researchers underscores his exceptional research contributions and academic influence in the field of Energy and Buildings. His dedication and expertise have made a significant impact on the university's research landscape. The Department congratulates Prof. Yan Jinyue Jerry and the other Highly Cited Researchers for their remarkable achievements and extends its gratitude to Clarivate for recognizing and celebrating excellence in research. These exceptional scholars continue to drive innovation, advance knowledge, and make a lasting impact in their respective fields.  

BEEE Associate Professor Awarded Faculty Awards 2023

The Department of Building Environment and Energy Engineering (BEEE) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) is pleased to announce that Dr Xinyan Huang, an Associate Professor of BEEE, has been honored with the Faculty FCE Award 2023 in the category of Teaching (Outstanding Young Teacher).   The Faculty Awards are bestowed upon individuals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication and expertise in their respective fields. Dr Xinyan Huang's outstanding achievements in teaching have earned him this prestigious recognition.  Since joining PolyU in late 2017, Dr Huang’s lectures have recevied outstanding Student Feedback. In 2020, he has led the teaching of MOOC: Playing with Fire, first online course on fire science and engineering in the world. He has published peer-reviewed journal paper that reviews fire safety engineering education in China. Every year, Dr Huang also hosts 10+ lab demonstrations and visits of pre-school children and high-school students to promote popular science and engineering education to youths.    Dr Huang has supervised many research projects of undergraduate students, some of whom got PhD fellowships from PolyU, Cambridge, UC Berkeley and UPenn. He has helped develop the new BEng programme of Structural and Fire Safety Engineering, which is the first Fire Engineering BEng program in Hong Kong. He has also established the Student Exchange Program between PolyU and Beijing Institute of Technology.   Dr Huang has received several University Large Teaching Equipment Funds, which improve students’ experience in lab courses. Under Dr Huang’s supervision, his students received 10+ Research student awards and 5+ Undergraduate student awards from HKIE, international conferences and associations. He has received the Outstanding PhD Thesis Supervisor Award twice from the China Fire Protection Association.    As the supervisor, Dr Huang has established the HK Student Chapter of the Society of Fire Protection Engineers (1st student chapter in Asia), which won three times gold awards (2020 – 2022). He is active in the Junior Research Mentoring Programme (JRMP) for secondary school students. The project supervised by him in 2023 received the media interview (only 2 out of 100+ projects). Moreover, he has co-organized two study tours for undergraduate students to Japan and South Korea, and host many visiting research students from Poland, Japan, Thailand, Malaysia, and mainland China.   Dr Huang's passion for teaching, combined with his profound expertise in Building Environment and Energy Engineering, has not only enriched the academic journey of his students but has also contributed significantly to advancements in the field.   The Department extends its heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Xinyan Huang for this well-deserved recognition and commends him for his exceptional accomplishments. His dedication to excellence serves as an inspiration to both his peers and students.  

BEEE PhD Student Awarded Bronze Award in the Hong Kong Techathon+ 2024

The Department of Building Environment and Energy Engineering (BEEE) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) is proud to announce that our PhD student, Mr Wong Ho Yin, supervised by BEEE Associate Professor Dr Huang Xinyan, has won the Bronze Award in the Smart Cities Open Group Division at the Hong Kong Techathon+ 2024. In January 2024, Mr Wong continuously promoted his fire safety engineering research outcome initiated in the PolyU Maker Fund Programme 2021 to the audience in the Hong Kong Techathon+ 2024. His project, titled 'Smart Building Emergency System,' is an Internet of Things (IoT) system comprising a wireless detectors mesh network and dynamic exit signs. The fire detector system, which utilizes artificial intelligence technology, can significantly reduce the number of false alarms and provide an early warning, while the dynamic exit sign system guides evacuees towards the safest evacuation paths, reducing evacuation time. This project will be a crucial component of the novel smart firefighting technology developed at PolyU (the SureFire Project), and this will be applied to the next generation of smart and resilient buildings that will help Hong Kong achieve the status of the world's leading smart city. Co-organized by the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks (HKSTP) and local university partners, Hong Kong Techathon this year achieved a historic milestone in terms of scale and participation, with nearly 1,500 local and non-local participants. It showcased the quality of innovative ideas presented and the entrepreneurial spirit demonstrated by all participants. Competing with such a large number of participants, Mr. Wong and his team stood out and won the Bronze Award in the Smart Cities Open Group Division. The Department of BEEE congratulates Mr Wong Ho Yin and his team on their outstanding achievement and wishes them continued success.  

BEEE Chair Professor Elected as Fellow of the Hong Kong Academy of Engineering Sciences

The Department of Building Environment and Energy Engineering (BEEE) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) is proud to announce that Professor Yan Jinyue Jerry, Chair Professor of Energy and Buildings, has been elected as a Fellow of the Hong Kong Academy of Engineering Sciences (HKAES) for the year 2023. This prestigious recognition is a testament to Professor Yan's exceptional achievements and dedication to serving society. Professor Yan is widely regarded as a leading researcher in the field of renewable energy, energy systems, climate-change mitigation, and environmental policies. With over 400 published papers, 10 granted patents, and supervision of numerous postdocs and doctoral candidates, his contributions to the field are significant. Notably, Professor Yan's leadership of the Future Energy Profile platform has secured external grants exceeding 20 million euros over the past decade. In addition to his election as a Fellow of the HKAES, Professor Yan is also an Academician of the European Academy of Sciences and Arts. He has received numerous prestigious awards, including the Global Human Settlements Award of Green Technology, Energy Islands' Award, and IAGE Lifetime Achievement Award. This recognition highlights PolyU's commitment to fostering outstanding scholars and researchers who contribute to groundbreaking advancements in their respective fields. The continued efforts of individuals like Professor Yan further solidify PolyU's position as an innovative world-class university. The Hong Kong Academy of Engineering Sciences is a professional engineering organization dedicated to advancing science, engineering, and technology for the benefit of society in Hong Kong, Mainland China, and the region. Fellows of the HKAES are recognized leaders in their professions, distinguished for their achievements in engineering sciences and their applications. The Department would like to extend warmest congratulations to Professor Yan Jinyue Jerry on this well-deserved honor.  

BEEE Professor Leads Team in Developing Cutting-Edge Colour Management Technologies for Digital Devices

The Department of Building Environment and Energy Engineering (BEEE) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) is proud to announce the remarkable achievements of Professor Wei Minchen Tommy, Professor of BEEE and Director of the Colour Imaging and Metaverse Research Centre at PolyU. Prof. Wei and his research team have successfully developed a series of groundbreaking colour management technologies that significantly enhance the accuracy and reproduction of colours in digital displays and imaging devices. Prof. Wei's pioneering research addresses the challenges posed by emerging technologies such as OLED and Quantum-dot LED (QLED), which have narrower spectral compositions, making it difficult for cameras and displays to capture and reproduce consistent colour appearance. The following are some of the remarkable technologies developed by Prof. Wei and his team: RGBACL Lighting Module: A six-channel RGBACL (Red, Green, Blue, Amber, Cyan, and Lime) lighting module and control algorithm that enhances the colour presentation of LED lighting systems. This technology has been widely adopted in the cinema industry, including the production of Hollywood movies and TV series. AI-Powered Colour Optimisation: Various solutions that employ artificial intelligence (AI) technology to detect human faces in video and image shooting equipment, optimizing the colour appearance of skin tones. AI-Enabled White Balance Algorithm: Chips integrated with an AI-powered white balance algorithm, ensuring more faithful colours in photos and videos taken by digital cameras under different environmental conditions. These technologies have been adopted by leading smartphone and extended reality (XR) device manufacturers. Prof. Wei's contributions to the field of colour science have garnered recognition and funding from prestigious organizations such as the Research Grants Council, the National Natural Science Foundation of China, and the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department in Hong Kong. He has received several awards, including the Google Research Scholar Award, the PolyU Young Innovative Researcher Award, and the PolyU President's Award for Outstanding Achievement in Knowledge Transfer. To further advance the application of their research outcomes, Prof. Wei co-founded Guardian Glow Limited, a startup focusing on personalised AI smart devices and XR headset technologies. The company has attracted support from venture capital funds and private investors to continue developing user experience-enhancing colour management technologies. Prof. Wei and his research team at PolyU have achieved groundbreaking advancements in colour management technologies for digital devices. Their innovations have revolutionized the accuracy and reproduction of colours, benefiting industries such as cinema, social media, and smartphone manufacturing. The Department applauds Prof. Wei's exceptional contributions to scientific research and knowledge transfer, driving the field of colour science to new frontiers in the digital era.  

Successful Completion of BEEE Cultural Exchange Trip 2023: Strengthening Bonds and Expanding Horizons

The Department of Building Environment and Energy Engineering (BEEE) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) is delighted to share the successful completion of the BEEE Cultural Exchange Trip 2023 in Shanghai, held from December 27, 2023, to January 2, 2024. The trip encompassed a diverse range of activities, including the Research Salon on "Fire Safety Engineering," which was expertly chaired by your esteemed presence. Our students had the privilege of visiting the renowned campuses of Tongji University and Shanghai Jiao Tong University, where they actively engaged in academic exchanges and gained valuable insights into the latest research and developments in the field. Furthermore, the itinerary featured visits to key projects in Shanghai, providing our students with a firsthand experience of the city's innovative approaches to building environment and energy engineering. These activities not only facilitated knowledge sharing but also fostered the establishment of meaningful connections among participants. The BEEE Cultural Exchange Trip 2023 served as a platform for knowledge exchange, cultural immersion, and the forging of strong connections and friendships. We express our deepest gratitude to all participants, faculty members, and supporters for their unwavering commitment and valuable contributions to the success of this trip. The Department eagerly looks forward to continued collaboration and future endeavors that will further enhance the field of building environment and energy engineering. The photo gallery can be found here.