News

BEEE Students Conclude Successful Study Tour at Vietnam

In May 2024, a group of students from the Department of Building Environment and Energy Engineering (BEEE) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) had a study tour in Vietnam and concluded a fruitful three-day exchange programme with the University of Technology (UET) at the Vietnam National University, Hanoi (VNU). The highly anticipated International Student Exchange Programme, designed to foster cooperation and collaboration in training, research, and student activities between the two universities, proved to be a transformative experience for the BEEE delegation. During their time at VNU-UET, the PolyU students were warmly welcomed and immersed in the rich cultural and academic landscape of Vietnam. On the first day, they were introduced to the history, mission, and organizational structure of UET, followed by a comprehensive campus tour. The BEEE team then engaged in lively cultural exchange sessions, gaining valuable insights into Vietnamese traditions. The second day was dedicated to cultural experiences, as the PolyU and VNU-UET students bonded over Vietnamese cuisine, folk games, and discussions on the differences between the two cultures. On the academic front, BEEE faculty shared their expertise in innovative teaching methods using virtual reality technology and emerging research areas. The programme culminated with a technical tour of the EVN Tower, the headquarters of Vietnam Electricity Group, where the students had the opportunity to learn about the operational and technical aspects of the energy sector in Vietnam. "This exchange has been an incredibly enriching experience for our students," said Dr Cheung Hiu Dan Hilda, an BEEE Instructor. "They have not only immersed themselves in Vietnamese culture and academia, but they have also forged meaningful connections with their peers at VNU-UET. These cross-cultural experiences are invaluable in preparing our students to become global citizens." BEEE student Chan Chun Kit echoed these sentiments, expressing his gratitude for the warm hospitality and enthusiasm of the VNU-UET community. "The Vietnamese people have been incredibly welcoming, and the cultural activities have been a highlight of the trip. I've gained new experiences, met international friends, and learned about different approaches to learning and research. I look forward to future opportunities to return to VNU-UET." The successful completion of the exchange programme is a testament to the commitment of both PolyU BEEE and VNU-UET to fostering international collaboration and providing their students with transformative learning experiences. The organizers of the event have expressed their desire to continue this fruitful partnership and explore further opportunities for cultural and academic exchange between the two institutions. The photo gallery can be found here.

BEEE Academic Staff Received Environment and Conservation Fund

The Department of Building Environment and Energy Engineering (BEEE) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University proudly announces that Dr Hou Cynthia, an Assistant Professor of BEEE, has been awarded a grant of HK$499,600 for her project titled "Dynamic Monitor and Analysis of Street Air Quality in High-density Urban Environments in Hong Kong Utilizing Mobile Sensor Platform and Computer Vision-based Technology." This research project aims to improve street-level air quality in Hong Kong by using a mobile monitoring platform and AI technologies. Over 12 months, data will be collected in Mongkok to analyze the impacts of traffic, vehicle types, and urban design on air pollution. Advanced machine learning and computer vision will evaluate how green spaces, traffic dynamics, and electric vehicles influence air quality. The results will help develop a predictive model for air quality, aiding urban planning and health strategies. This study is crucial for enhancing living conditions and sustainability in Hong Kong’s dense urban environment. The project is expected to make substantial contributions to the fields of environmental engineering and public health by enhancing the understanding of air pollution patterns in high-density urban areas. Moreover, it will facilitate the formulation of targeted strategies and policies to mitigate air pollution and enhance the overall air quality in Hong Kong. BEEE is committed to supporting research initiatives that address critical environmental challenges. This grant award further exemplifies the department's dedication to making a positive impact on society and advancing knowledge in the field.  

BEEE Undergraduate Student Awarded ASHRAE HKC - Student Scholarship 2023-2024

The Department of Building Environment and Energy Engineering (BEEE) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University is pleased to announce that Mr Law Sing, one of our undergraduate students, has been honored with the ASHRAE Hong Kong Chapter Scholarship for the 2023-2024 academic year.   This scholarship recognizes Mr Law's exceptional academic performance and his contributions to ASHRAE. The selection of scholarship recipients is based on various criteria, including the candidate's attitude, involvement in engineering or construction-related activities, and potential contributions to the field of engineering in the future.   We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Mr Law Sing on this remarkable achievement and commend him for his dedication and outstanding academic achievements. This scholarship serves as a testament to his hard work and commitment to his studies.     We take this opportunity to express our pride in Mr Law's accomplishments and offer our best wishes for his continued success in his studies and future career endeavors.   

BEEE Postdoctoral Fellow Awarded Prestigious RGC Postdoctoral Fellowship

The Department of Building Environment and Energy Engineering (BEEE) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University is delighted to announce that Dr Shi Wenchao, a Postdoctoral Fellow from BEEE under the supervision of Ir Professor Yang Hongxing, has been awarded the prestigious RGC Postdoctoral Fellowship in the 2024/25 Exercise. We extend our warmest congratulations to Dr Shi on this outstanding achievement! The RGC Postdoctoral Fellowship Scheme (PDFS) aims to foster the pursuit of research careers among doctoral graduates and provide valuable support to promising researchers at the early stages of their careers. By offering this fellowship, the scheme ensures a continuous supply of talented individuals equipped with scientific and research skills for the advancement of research and development in Hong Kong. For each round of the yearly exercise, the PDFS provides support to a total of 50 awardees, who are appointed as full-time postdoctoral fellows (PDFs) at UGC-funded universities for a period of 36 months. PolyU submitted 12 nominations for RGC Postdoctoral Fellowship Scheme in 2024/25 Exercise.  Out of these 12 PDF candidates, 8 are selected by RGC for the PDF. We are proud to share that Dr Shi is one of the 8 distinguished awardees from PolyU. Once again, we wholeheartedly congratulate Dr Shi Wenchao on this remarkable achievement. This recognition reflects Dr Shi's exceptional abilities and dedication to research in the field. We have great confidence in Dr Shi's future contributions to the field of Building Services Engineering.  

BEEE Teams awarded at the 49th International Exhibition of Inventions Geneva

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) continues to demonstrate its commitment to groundbreaking research and innovation, as Professor Yang Hongxing, Associate Professor Dr Huang Xinyan along with Research Assistant Mr Wang Meng from the Department of Building Environment and Energy Engineering (BEEE), have been recognized at the 49th International Exhibition of Inventions Geneva (Geneva Inventions Expo).   Prof. Yang Hongxing, from the Department of BEEE, has been awarded a Gold Medal for his innovative project titled "A Fireproof Solar PV Vacuum-Glazing Wall Panel (FSVG) as Building Insulation Layer" at the esteemed 49th International Exhibition of Inventions in Geneva. The project, developed by Prof. Yang and his research team members, Prof. Vivien Lu, Prof. Peng Jinqing, Dr Shi Wenchao, and Mr Zhou Hao, introduces a groundbreaking invention that significantly enhances fire safety in building insulation, reduces cooling/heating load, harnesses solar power, and provides substantial noise reduction. This recognition at the Exhibition exemplifies the exceptional research and innovation capabilities of PolyU, solidifying its position as a leading institution in cutting-edge research and development in energy-saving and renewable energy applications in buildings.   Additionally, the project on the Smart Firefighting Robot, led by Dr Huang Xinyan, together with his PhD students Wang Meng and Zhang Xiaoning, has garnered attention with a Silver Medal. This project utilizes various artificial intelligence technologies to enable autonomous actions and support firefighters. Unlike other firefighting robots, this smart robot boasts high levels of autonomy and intelligence, making it user-friendly and efficient in improving the effectiveness of fire rescue and firefighting. By reducing casualties and property damage caused by fires, this invention provides vital support to firefighters and ushers in a new era of smart firefighting aimed at saving more lives.   We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Professor Yang Hongxing, Dr Huang Xinyan, and their respective teams for their exceptional achievements and well-deserved recognition in their groundbreaking work.  

BEEE Undergraduate Student Awarded Outstanding Student Award 2023

The Department of Building Environment and Energy Engineering (BEEE) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University is delighted to announce that Law Sing, one of our undergraduate students, has been honored with the Outstanding Student Award 2023.   Law Sing's exceptional accomplishments have earned him this prestigious recognition. His remarkable leadership skills, commendable personal qualities, active participation in extra-curricular activities and community services, and global perspective have set him apart. The Outstanding Student Award is bestowed upon one student from each academic department, symbolizing their representation of the faculty and PolyU as a whole.   Law Sing's achievements and contributions as a BEEE student have made him an exemplary role model for his peers. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to him on this well-deserved success and offer our best wishes for his future endeavors.  

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.