The 49th International Exhibition of Inventions of Geneva

GOOD Vision/Wellsees: Novel Portable Corneal Topographer

Principle Investigator: 
Prof. Chea-su KEE, Head and Professor, School of Optometry; Deputy Director of Centre for Eye and Vision Research Limited (CEVR), Co-founder, GOOD Vision Technologies Co., Limited / Wellsees Technologies Co., Limited (a PolyU academic-led start-up)

Astigmatism, which affects over half the world's population, has surged due to abnormal visual habits during COVID-19. This condition can cause blurred vision, asthenopia, headaches, and even vision loss. Early detection and proactive care can mitigate these effects.

Our portable corneal topographer is a compact, powerful tool for early detection of astigmatism. It combines a high-resolution CCD camera, 32 Placido rings, and an AI-driven algorithm to accurately measure refractive power. This enables healthcare providers to quickly address refractive needs, ensuring timely interventions.
The device's portability allows for easy eye checks anywhere, promoting early detection of corneal abnormalities. The advanced AI system ensures accurate measurements, overcoming instability.

Our technology simplifies diagnosis, integrates with astigmatism management, and breaks down geographical barriers, making it a commercially viable solution for widespread vision care.

ProRuka — Novel Prosthetic Hand Controlled by Wireless Sonomyography

Principle Investigators:
Ir Prof. Yongping ZHENG, Henry G. Leong Professor in Biomedical Engineering; Chair Professor of Department of Biomedical Engineering; Director of Research Institute for Smart Ageing and Director of Jockey Club Smart Ageing Hub
Mr Vaheh NAZARI, Research Assistant, Department of Biomedical Engineering

ProRuka is a novel 3D printed prosthetic powered hand that can move its fingers independently. It is controlled by stump muscle signals collected by wireless wearable ultrasound imaging known as sonomyography. These signals are analysed by AI algorithms in real-time to decode the natural control mechanism of a human hand. The AI model can also classify a specific hand gesture and the degree of action based on the activation pattern of all muscles combined in the scanning area.

ProRuka allows more intuitive control of the prosthetic hand, and can predict more complex hand gestures with higher accuracy. The mechanical design is based on the natural dimensions and proportions of the human hand, and is lightweight and cost-effective.

ProRuka aims to improve the comfort and acceptance of prosthetic hand users, and help them regain quality of life, independence, and confidence.

MicroFish: A Lab-on-a-chip for On-site Detection of Microbial Contamination and Pollutants

Principle Investigators:
Dr Song-lin CHUA, Assistant Professor, Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology; Co-founder, MicroFish Limited (a PolyU academic-led start-up)
Dr Yang LIU, GBA Startup Postdoctoral Fellow, Department of Applied and Chemical Technology; Co-founder, MicroFish Limited (a PolyU academic-led start-up)

MicroFish is a palm-sized lab-on-a-chip device that can detect microbial pathogens and pollutants in the environment. MicroFish works by injecting a sample into the device, which has built-in colorimetric chemical sensors that change colour based on the presence or absence of contaminants. MicroFish enables rapid, cost-effective on-site monitoring of potential microbial outbreaks in aquacultures and livestock farms with limited access to diagnostic laboratories. By detecting contaminants early, MicroFish can prevent microbial outbreaks or pollution from spreading. This reduces livestock mortality, thus preventing serious economic losses and ensuring food security. We support the UN Sustainable Development Goals, including Life Below Water, and Clean Water and Sanitation.

3D Printed Triply Periodic Minimal Surface (TPMS) Bone Scaffolds

Principle Investigator: 
Dr Xin ZHAO, Associate Professor, Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology; Founder, ReNew Biotechnology Limited (a PolyU academic-led start-up) 

Triply Periodic Minimal Surface (TPMS) scaffolds mimicking trabecular bone are 3D printed with hyperboloidal topography using β-tricalcium phosphate. The TPMS scaffolds show high porosity and interconnectivity, which can reduce stress concentration for increased mechanical strength. They can also support the adhesion and proliferation of human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) and enhance their osteoblastic differentiation and angiogenic paracrine for “osteogenesis-angiogenesis coupling”. This is achieved by reorganising cytoskeleton via hyperboloidal topography with focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway activation. The in vivo evaluation further demonstrates that our TPMS scaffolds boost enhanced new bone formation and neovascularisation. In summary, our scaffolds provide a purely physical way to guide the osteogenic and angiogenic cell fates, and demonstrate drastic but quantifiable improvements in bone regeneration without introducing exogenous factors. We believe that these features offer our scaffolds a head start towards a simple, safe, efficient, and personalised bone graft with tremendous clinical potential.

Autophagy-targeting Peptidomimetics as Novel Cancer Therapeutics

Principle Investigator:
Prof. Yanxiang ZHAO, Associate Head, Departmental Learning and Teaching Committee Chair and Professor, Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology

Autophagy is an evolutionarily conserved self-degradative process that turns over intracellular components in a lysosome-dependent manner. Autophagy has long been regarded as a key factor in cancer formation and development. We have developed chemically modified molecules called peptidomimetics that target the autophagy process and inhibit cancer cell proliferation.

We have validated this approach in multiple animal models. The peptidomimetics have good anti-tumour efficacy in multiple cancers, especially those that have no effective therapies, such as triple-negative breast cancer and pancreatic cancer. The hydrocarbon stapling of the peptidomimetics also allows them to have high stability. Meanwhile, our peptidomimetics have a clear target, the critical autophagy regulator, Beclin 1. By binding to Beclin1 with high affinity, the peptidomimetics can regulate autophagy and mediate the related cell signalling pathways in cancer biogenesis and development. The high selectivity of our peptidomimetics means that they have a good safety record in animals. This indicates that they have the potential to be an effective strategy for malignant cancers.

Flexible Perovskite Solar Modules Based on Surface Reconstruction Technology

Principle Investigator: 
Prof. Feng YAN, Associate Director, Research Institute for Intelligent Wearable Systems; Chair Professor of Organic Electronics, Department of Applied Physics

The invention is a flexible perovskite solar module based on surface reconstruction technology. It features a flexible design that allows it to conform to different surfaces and shapes. The surface reconstruction technology enhances the stability and performance of the perovskite material, improving durability and efficiency.

The advantages of this invention include high power conversion efficiency comparable to traditional solar cells, lightweight and thin construction for easy installation, and versatile applications across various industries. The lightweight and flexible nature of the module enables integration into clothing, backpacks, vehicles, and curved surfaces of buildings.

The benefits of this invention include increased adoption of renewable energy, cost-effective manufacturing, and a positive environmental impact. The flexibility and efficiency of the perovskite solar module promote the transition to a sustainable energy future, while reducing manufacturing costs and making solar energy more accessible.

A Fireproof Solar PV Vacuum-Glazing Wall Panel (FSVG) as Building Insulation Layer

Principle Investigator:
Ir Prof. Hongxing YANG, Professor, Department of Building Environment and Energy Engineering

Fire emergencies on building facades have dramatically increased in recent years. The main culprit is combustible external wall insulation, which can ignite and spread rapidly due to the chimney effect of high-rise buildings. Several cities – among them London, Shanghai, and Tianjin – have experienced tragic accidents involving this material, resulting in deaths, injuries, and property damage.

This novel Fireproof Solar PV Vacuum-Glazing (FSVG) wall panel addresses this challenge. It is a non-combustible and highly thermal insulation material that combines superior thermal insulation, soundproofing, and power generation to help create low-carbon buildings. In Hong Kong, FSVG wall panels can replace traditional curtain walls while also generating solar power, reducing the cooling load of buildings by 57% and generating 170 kWh/m2 of electricity every year.

The invention is especially suitable for areas with cold winters, such as Shanghai and Beijing, where external wall insulation is necessary. It can save a large amount of energy without posing any fire hazard.

Mobile Ankle-foot Exoneuromusculoskeleton

Principle Investigator: 
Dr Xiaoling HU, Associate Professor, Department of Biomedical Engineering; Founder, Thecon Technology (HK) Ltd (a PolyU academic-led start-up)

The mobile ankle-foot exoneuromusculoskeleton is the first device of its kind to combine the advantages of exoskeletons, soft pneumatic muscles, neuromuscular electrical stimulation, and tactile sensory feedback into a single, lightweight wearable system powered by a small rechargeable battery. This unique combination can effectively correct poststroke footdrop and foot inversion, which are common issues faced by stroke survivors. It is also easy to use by non-professionals for self-help telerehabilitation.

The device is connected to the Internet of Things (IoT), which allows it to connect professionals and multiple poststroke users in different locations. This enables the efficient management of rehabilitation, and motivates users to continue their training through incentive schemes. This enhances the efficiency and effectiveness of rehabilitation and reduces the burden on professionals. Moreover, by enabling remote and self-help telerehabilitation, it can provide quality care to more stroke survivors who need it.

FRP-ECC-HSC Composite Column

Principle Investigators:
Prof. Tak-ming CHAN, Professor, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering
Dr Shuai LI, Postdoctoral Fellow, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering
Ir Prof. Ben YOUNG, Vice President (Student and Global Affairs) & Chair Professor of Steel Structures, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering

The FRP-ECC-HSC composite column is a novel structural column consisting of three layers: an outer Fibre-Reinforced Polymer (FRP) tube, a middle Engineered Cementitious Composite (ECC) ring, and an inner High Strength Concrete (HSC) core. Unlike conventional FRP-confined HSC columns, which may crack locally and fail prematurely due to the high brittleness of HSC, this column uses the ECC ring, which has excellent tensile and cracking behaviour, to redistribute the hoop stress and strain from the HSC core to the FRP tube. This results in a more uniform lateral confinement, a larger FRP confining efficiency, as well as a higher column deformability than conventional FRP-confined HSC columns. The FRP-ECC-HSC composite column has excellent compressive behaviour with both high loading capacity and high ductility. It has great potential for use in infrastructure in marine environments and coastal areas.

Multi-Functional High-Power-Density Integrated Onboard Charger for Electric Vehicles

Principle Investigators:
Dr Chi-shing WONG, Postdoctoral Fellow, Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering
Dr Ka-hong LOO, Associate Professor, Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering; Assistant Dean (External Engagement), Faculty of Engineering
Dr Junwei LIU, Research Assistant Professor, Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Electric vehicles are usually charged using conductive (plug-in) charging. However, wireless charging is becoming more popular and has many advantages. Future electric vehicles are expected to have both conductive and wireless chargers. Very few solutions currently combine both types of chargers. Those that do have disadvantages such as a large number of components, an inefficient conductive charger, or a slow charging time because it is not possible to energise both chargers at the same time.

This new multi-functional integrated on-board charger (IOBC) overcomes these problems by offering both conductive and wireless charging in one compact design. By sharing the pickup coil of the wireless charger with the conductive charger, the IOBC does not need additional components and can control both chargers independently. This achieves efficient, simultaneous power transfer with minimal components, volume, and cost.

Virtual MRI Contrast Enhancement System for Precise Tumour Detection and Treatment

Principle Investigator: 
Prof. CAI Jing, Associate Dean, Faculty of Health and Social Sciences; Professor, Department of Health Technology and Informatics; Technical Advisor of MedVision Limited (a PolyU start-up)

The Contrast-Free Virtual Enhancement MRI system revolutionises the precision of tumour treatment by offering high-resolution imaging without the need for contrast agents. With its advanced algorithms and innovative imaging techniques, our invention enables precise tumour visualisation, helping to plan and monitor treatment accurately. The key advantages of our invention are patient safety, cost-effectiveness, and enhanced accuracy. By eliminating the use of contrast agents, we minimise potential risks and prioritise patient well-being. Our technology also reduces overall imaging costs, making it a cost-effective solution for healthcare providers.

Furthermore, the enhanced accuracy of tumour visualisation leads to improved treatment outcomes and patient care. The impact of our invention is transformative. It sets a new standard in non-invasive, safe, and highly accurate tumour imaging, allowing for more precise and targeted treatment strategies. Ultimately, it contributes to advancing the field of precision medicine and improving patient outcomes in the fight against cancer.

Smart-CKD: Ultrasound Tool for Renal Fibrosis in Chronic Kidney Disease

Principle Investigators:
Dr Ziman CHEN, Postdoctoral Fellow, Department of Health Technology and Informatics
Prof. Tin-cheung YING, Associate Head and Professor, Department of Health Technology and Informatics

Smart-CKD (S-CKD) is an innovative computer-aided diagnostic tool that revolutionises the clinical management of chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients. It uses a machine learning algorithm to combine key clinical parameters mainly, age, ultrasonic renal length, and end-diastolic flow velocity of interlobar renal artery to effectively distinguish between mild and moderate-to-severe renal fibrosis, thus providing valuable insights for tailored therapeutic interventions.

S-CKD is non-invasive and cost-effective as it uses routine medical imaging and basic demographic data. It can easily access data from medical records, and seamlessly integrates into existing diagnostic processes making it a practical and accessible tool. Using S-CKD promises enhanced clinical management, empowering healthcare practitioners to make better decisions on treatment plans and follow-up schedules. Ultimately, Smart-CKD will significantly improve patient outcomes by offering a powerful solution to distinguish between mild and advanced renal fibrosis in CKD, thereby transforming kidney disease management.

Vcare - Vision Training VR Device

Principle Investigator: 
Dr Yuk-ming TANG, Senior Lecturer, Department of Industrial & Systems Engineering; Co-founder, Vcare Vision Technology Limited (a PolyU academic-led start-up)

Vcare offers personalised vision correction training for myopia, amblyopia, and strabismus. It combines hardware and software to provide engaging VR games and exercises for active participation. Unlike traditional methods, our non-invasive solution minimises side effects and complications. Vcare’s standout feature is its patented multi-folded lens module with a vari-focal mechanism in the VR headset. This innovative technology allows users to automatically adjust the focal length during their VR experience, providing optimal visual clarity without the need for manual adjustments or glasses for different distances. This design enhances flexibility and convenience, enabling users to freely navigate and interact within the VR environment while enjoying a clear visual experience. We also prioritise rigorous research and clinical trials to ensure effectiveness and safety. We collaborate with eye care professionals to provide a safe, convenient, and enjoyable alternative for vision correction training.

Patellar Auto-mobilising Device (PAD)

Principle Investigators:
Prof. Siu-ngor FU, Associate Head and Peter Hung Professor in Pain Management, Department of Rehabilitation Sciences; Associate Director of Research Institute for Sports Science and Technology
Dr Kam-lun LEUNG, Principal Research Fellow, Department of Rehabilitation Sciences

Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is a common knee problem that reduces the mobility of the patella (kneecap). Manual rhythmic mobilisation of the patella can help relieve pain by creating distraction (bone separation) and enhancing movement. The Patellar Auto-mobilising Device (PAD) automates this process using negative pressure. The PAD consists of an air-sealed kneecup, a mini vacuum pump, a control circuit, an elastic garment suspension mechanism, and a rechargeable battery.

The device can be worn on the knee and adjusted to create a personalised level of negative pressure that distracts the patellar from the femur. It has various modes that can hold and release the negative pressure at different time intervals for various conditions. It also allows knee movement under the negative pressure.

iActive: Intelligent Active-Perspiration Activewear

Principle Investigator: 
Dr Dahua SHOU, Limin Endowed Young Scholar in Advanced Textiles Technologies, and Assistant Professor, School of Fashion and Textiles 

iActive is a revolutionary activewear that features artificial sweat glands and a root-like liquid transport system, to dissipate sweat faster, and with more control. Unlike traditional sportswear – which becomes heavy, clingy, and unbreathable with perspiration – iActive excels at active sweat management, ensuring dry, comfortable, high-performance activewear.

iActive creates a breathable and dry skin microclimate by dissipating sweat at a rate that is 3x faster than the maximum human sweating rate. It also reduces discomfort from post-exercise chills. A smartphone app further aids personalised sweat management by wirelessly adjusting the sweat level of iActive to ensure a dry, relaxing workout experience. iActive is 60% lighter and 50% less clingy when soaked, providing the wearer with all-round comfort.

iActive is highly sought after by athletes, sports enthusiasts, construction workers, hyperhidrosis patients, and high-performance professionals, signifying an innovative and sustainable future in sportswear technology.

Smart Firefighting Robot

Principle Investigators:
Dr Xinyan HUANG, Associate Professor, Department of Building Environment and Energy Engineering; Advisor, Widemount Dynamics Tech Limited (a PolyU academic-led start-up)
Mr Meng WANG, Research Assistant, Department of Building Environment and Energy Engineering; Founder, Widemount Dynamics Tech Limited (a PolyU academic-led start-up)

The Smart Firefighting Robot uses multiple artificial intelligence technologies to act autonomously, providing critical support to firefighters in hazardous situations. Like other firefighting robots, this robot has sensors, communication systems and other features. The difference, however, is that this robot is highly autonomous and intelligent, making it very easy to use. It can improve the efficiency and effectiveness of fire rescue and firefighting, reduce causalities and damage to property caused by fire, and provide important support for firefighters. We hope that this invention can usher in a new era of smart firefighting robots and increase their take up among firefighting organisations.

Ammonia Powered Electric Vehicle

Principle Investigator: 
Prof. Ka-wai Eric CHENG, Professor, Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Having successfully developed the world's first ammonia-powered electric vehicle, PolyU has extended this work to ammonia-based fuel cell range extenders in electric-powered light vehicles and minibuses, helping advance clean energy goals.

Current energy storage technology, based on lithium-ion batteries, faces challenges such as long charging times, limited availability of charging stations, and environmental concerns.  Our cutting-edge ammonia-powered technology is cheaper, safer, and more user-friendly than the hydrogen fuel cells required for lithium-ion batteries. Ammonia is also easier to handle than hydrogen, which is highly explosive and must be stored under high-pressure. The infrastructure for handling ammonia – such as storage, filling stations, and transportation – is simpler, safer, and more cost-effective.

This revolutionary project unlocks new possibilities for an ammonia-powered economy, which can overcome the limitations of a hydrogen-powered economy. This clean and carbon-free energy solution has many potential applications, such as backup power systems, rural electrification projects, microgrid projects, and the automotive industry.

Invention and Application of Vitamin D Supplement Preparations

Principle Investigator: 
Prof. Man-sau WONG, Director, Research Centre for Chinese Medicine Innovation; Professor, Department of Food Science and Nutrition

This invention involves a novel vitamin D supplement preparation and its application. The vitamin D supplement contains two active ingredients: calcitriol and oleanolic acid. Oleanolic acid is a natural product that boosts the activity of CYP27B1 (a vitamin D3 bioactivation enzyme) at low concentrations in bone marrow stromal cells and osteoblasts, thereby enhancing the synthesis of bioactive vitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2D3) and promoting osteogenesis. The invention uses an oily mixture formulation of low-concentration oleanolic acid and 25(OH)D3, which is more effective in promoting osteoblast differentiation than using either ingredient alone. The oily mixture also increases the bioavailability of oleanolic acid, significantly reducing the amount needed and alleviating the toxic effects of high-dose oral administration of the natural product on tissues and cells. This vitamin D supplement preparation can be used to prevent and treat bone diseases caused by vitamin D deficiency.

Precision Gene Editing for Enhanced Stem Cell-Retinal Neuron Generation

Principle Investigators:
Dr Chien-ling HUANG, Associate Professor, Department of Health Technology and Informatics; Principal Investigator, Centre for Eye and Vision Research Limited
Prof. Shea-ping YIP, Head and Chair Professor of Diagnostic Science and Molecular Genetics, Department of Health Technology and Informatics; Principal Investigator, Centre for Eye and Vision Research Limited

This groundbreaking invention is an integrated workflow that enhances the differentiation of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) into retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). It combines synthetic RNA-based CRISPR editing, single-cell RNA sequencing analysis, and an artificial intelligence-assisted bioinformatics for genome integrity confirmation. Our comprehensive approach overcomes the limitations of current methods and offers a safer, more precise, and more efficient way to enhance the efficiency of differentiating iPSCs to RGCs.

Synthetic RNA-based CRISPR editing ensures the precision and safety of gene editing, while single-cell RNA sequencing provides the dynamic gene expression profiles of the differentiated cells. CNVPipe-AI, our bioinformatics pipeline, confirms the genome integrity of the edited cells through detection of copy number variations. This invention has broad applications in regenerative medicine and precision disease modeling. Its impact extends to accelerating advancements in stem cell-based therapies and precision medicine, with potential benefits for patients with degenerative eye diseases.

A Smart 3D+AI Industrial IoT (IIoT) Sensor for Precise Measurement

Principle Investigator: 
Dr. Da LI, CEO, PlusD Technology Limited (a PolyU start-up)

The Smart 3D+AI industrial IoT (IIoT) measurement sensor uses patented 3D+AI technology to achieve ultra-precise 3D measurements in a single snapshot through non-contact, single-lens autostereoscopic technology. The measurement sensor also has high frame rates and efficient HDR imaging. Moreover, it uses AI deep learning to recognise, position, and track targets in industrial environments. This sensor can establish an intelligent vision ecosystem that provides comprehensive information on dimensions, status, and visual features. Our customised products for micro-measurement and macro-measurement have already been deployed in leading automotive industries in Mainland China. They have received positive feedback and have been widely adopted. Their use promises to accelerate industrial processes both domestically and internationally, driving advancements toward Industry 4.0.

Novel Nano-imprinting Technology for Anti-counterfeiting Micro-images and Information Storage

Principle Investigators:
Prof. Sandy Suet TO, Professor, State Key Laboratory of Ultraprecision Machining Technology, Department of Industrial & Systems Engineering
Dr Zhanwen SUN, Postdoctoral Fellow, State Key Laboratory of Ultraprecision Machining Technology, Department of Industrial & Systems Engineering
Dr Lenny Wai Sze YIP, Research Assistant Professor, State Key Laboratory of Ultraprecision Machining Technology, Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering

This novel nano-imprinting technology creates micro-images on high valuable products for anti-counterfeiting and information storage. Each pixel in the micro-image is encoded by adjusting its direction, allowing a massive amount information to be stored inside. In this way, a string of anti-counterfeiting code can be digitally encoded into the micro-image. The micro-image cannot be replicated without knowing the code, so that this technology is more effective in preventing counterfeiting in comparison to traditional image anti-counterfeiting methods. The technology combines precision motion control technology and piezoelectric drive technology to achieve high-precision machining of micro/nanoscale structures. This enables it to create micro-images and QR codes on various industrial materials. Given its wide range of applications, this technology is expected to revolutionise existing image anti-counterfeiting technology and extend its use to protect valuable products and store important information.

Smart Headset featuring Adaptive Noise Filters for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Principle Investigator: 
Dr Yat-sze CHOY, Associate Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering

This innovative smart headset creates a personalised adaptive noise filter for users with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The noise filter is based on the unique aural perception response of each user, reducing irritating noise without interfering with normal everyday sounds such as speech. This makes the sound perceived by the user more comfortable, helping alleviate negative behaviour triggered by intolerable sound stimuli.

The smart headset works with a mobile application that quickly assesses the aural perception response of each user and creates a unique noise filter. The smart headset is a significant technological breakthrough that could transform the lives of individuals with ASD by making their daily experiences more manageable and enjoyable. It also enhances their communication, education, and social lives. It benefits both the users and their families by improving their quality of life.

ZC-01^TM Automatic Washroom Cleaning Robot

Principle Investigator: 
Mr Curry LEE Tsz-chung, Founder, ZeeqClean Technology Limited (a PolyU start-up)

The ZC-01™ is a commercial toilet cleaning robot that operates either manually or automatically. It uses non-visual LiDAR and infrared sensors for adaptive cruise, and can clean toilets and urinals in a contactless way, with drying and UV sterilisation functions. Before cleaning, the ZC-01™ can detect and open the toilet lid. The ZC-01™ can reduce the cost of commercial cleaning and help industry become more environmentally-friendly by recording energy and chemical consumption. Most importantly, ZC-01™ can reduce work aversion in commercial washroom cleaning.

The target market of the ZC-01™ is Hong Kong's commercial buildings, government buildings, large public toilets, international airport, and its international conference venue AsiaWorld-Expo, as well as large highway rest areas in the Mainland – all places that require a large amount of cleaning.

Thick Glassy Carbon Manufacturing and Physical Property Adjustment through Heat Treatment

Principle Investigator: 
Mr Yi YANG, PhD Student, Department of Mechanical Engineering; Founder, Discarbonery Technology Limited (a PolyU start-up)

Glassy carbon is a carbon material that does not form graphite crystals, and has excellent physical and chemical properties. It can be used in various applications such as glass moulding and the semiconductor industry. However, this material has a number of challenges – such as size limitations, high preparation costs, and high hardness – that make it difficult to process directly. To overcome these challenges, we have developed a way to produce large, cost-effective, shape-controlled glassy carbon products, and a way to use heat treatment to subsequently adjust their physical properties. These strategies enable us to fine-tune the properties of glassy carbon to suit different applications and extend product lifespan.

Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) Hat to Limit Dementia Progression

Principle Investigators:
Dr Sai-wang SETO, Associate Director, Research Centre for Chinese Medicine Innovation; Assistant Professor, Department of Food Science and Nutrition
Prof. Chun-lap Samuel LO, Honorary Professor, Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology

The TENS Hat is a head-mounted device that delivers a constant ultra-low current to stimulate specific acupoints in the head region through the skin. It can effectively slow cognitive decline in patients with mild dementia.

Treatments to stop the progression of dementia, or cure it, are limited. The available medicines only help with managing symptoms temporarily, often with many side effects. The TENS Hat combines TENS and practice of Chinese medicine to create a novel, patented, wearable headset optimised for cognitive enhancement.

Our pioneering approach applies mild, non-invasive electrical stimulation to various acupoints in the head. With the contact pads optimally positioned, patients can use the TENS Hat with ease at home with minimal training, and without the need for an acupuncturist, greatly enhance adherence of the treatment.