Every image we capture and every screen we view relies on one crucial element: accurate colour. Whether preserving precious memories in photographs or delivering immersive experiences through digital displays, faithful colour reproduction ensures that what we see is vivid, natural and true. As display technologies continue to evolve, achieving consistent colour accuracy has become both a technical challenge and a key driver of user experience.

Inspired by human vision

Cracking the challenge has earned Professor Minchen Tommy Wei of PolyU the prestigious HUAWEI Spark Award. Professor Wei, Associate Head of the Department of Building Environment and Energy Engineering and Director of the PolyU-Qianhai Disruptive Technology and Innovation Research Centre (QHRC), was recognised for leading the development of an innovative display colour calibration solution rooted in the science of human vision. By significantly improving colour accuracy across devices, the breakthrough enhances the way people experience digital content in everyday life.

Established by HUAWEI in 2021, the Spark Award recognises pioneering research that tackles critical technological challenges while demonstrating strong potential for industrial impact. Professor Wei’s achievement was made possible through the support of QHRC, which connects PolyU’s research strengths with the Chinese Mainland’s industrial ecosystem, accelerating the translation of research into impactful applications.

The recognition is particularly noteworthy as Professor Wei is only the second PolyU scholar to receive the award, following Professor Wang Zuankai, PolyU Associate Vice President (Research) and Chair Professor of Nature-Inspired Engineering in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, who received it in 2023. Professor Wei is also the sole recipient from a Hong Kong tertiary institution over the past two years. His success reflects both the strength of PolyU’s innovation ecosystem and the growing influence of Hong Kong researchers on the global technology stage.

Driving industry adoption and societal value

More importantly, the impact of Professor Wei’s research extends well beyond the laboratory. The colour calibration technology has already been adopted by industry, helping to deliver more accurate and consistent colour performance in display products used worldwide. His algorithm is now used for movie production in Hollywood, as well as the display calibration and white balance solutions in some high-end smartphones. It is a strong case of how fundamental research can address real industry needs and directly improve consumer experiences.

Looking ahead, Professor Wei and his team will continue advancing research at the intersection of human vision and display technology while strengthening collaboration with industry partners. Through QHRC and related innovation platforms, they aim to further accelerate the commercialisation of research outcomes and explore new applications in emerging technologies. Professor Wei’s entrepreneurial efforts, including the co-founding of Guardian Glow Limited, also point to future opportunities in areas such as AI-powered health monitoring and extended reality (XR). By pushing the boundaries of innovation and translating ideas into real-world solutions, his team is helping shape a future where digital experiences are more accurate, immersive and visually engaging.