A smart “Generator Inspection Robot” co-developed by PolyU and CLP Power has won a Gold Medal and a special prize—Best International Invention & Innovation, from the National Research Council of Thailand—at the 51st International Exhibition of Inventions Geneva.
Led by Prof. Tam Hwa-yaw, Chair Professor of Photonics in the EEE department, the team designed a 36‑mm‑thick robot that can navigate the narrow air gaps inside power generators. It moves between the rotor and stator, crossing internal ventilation baffles to complete key inspections without removing the 50‑tonne rotor. The robot is fitted with a fiber‑optic sensing network that keeps track of its mechanical components’ condition – performing health checks to ensure reliable performance.
The project took approximately five years and involved both researchers and undergraduate students. Prof. Tam founded the Engineering Entrepreneurship Club to give undergraduate students opportunities to engage in cutting‑edge robotics research and develop industry‑ready design solutions. Prof. Tam said, “This project combines PolyU’s research strength with CLP Power’s engineering expertise. Some team members have been involved since their freshman year, fully demonstrating the fruits of industry-academia-research collaboration.”
Compared to traditional manual inspections, the robot improves inspection efficiency and supports longer‑term maintenance planning. Mr. Kevin Lau, CLP Power Senior Director of Generation, said, “The generator inspection robot helps enhance inspection efficiency and operational safety while supporting more forward-looking maintenance strategies. This strengthens the reliable operation of power generation facilities and deepens collaboration with academia, nurturing Hong Kong’s innovation and technology talent.”
For more details on the technical specifications and project background, please visit the full PolyU Media Release.
