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Recap: PolyU and You: Online Lecture Series - Jet Engines for Commercial Aircraft

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PolyU Explores the Application of Peptides in Data Storage for Space Exploration in China’s Next-generation Manned Spacecraft

With the huge amount of digital data generated and recorded during space missions, the data storage devices currently used for this purpose reveal great limitations in terms of their data storage capacity and the durability of the retained data. To meet this challenge, a team of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) researchers has developed a novel technology for massive data management involving the use of peptides, which has been developed to optimise data storage for space exploration in China’s next-generation manned spacecraft in the new Long March-5B rocket. Led by Dr YAO Zhong-ping, Associate Professor, Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology and Prof. Francis LAU, Professor and Associate Head, Department of Electronic & Information Engineering, the team has used peptides for the storage of digital data and tandem mass spectrometry for its retrieval. Compared with existing commercial data storage devices and other developing technologies such as DNA data storage, peptides offer a much higher storage density and longer storage duration – with the data still viable for sequencing even after millions of years when DNA would have already degraded. As such, this new technology has very great potential for handling the enormous amount of data generated during space missions. Dr Yao considers the peptide synthesis industry to be already well-developed, allowing fast peptide synthesis at a reasonable cost; with the development of proteomics, the process of sequencing thousands of peptides in a mixture can now be completed within a short period of time. Combining proteomics and data storage technology for the first time, this innovation has the potential to transform the data storage industry. Besides its application in data management for space missions, this technology has potentially wide applications, and could benefit governmental agencies and corporations that generate and archive large volumes of big data. Dr Yao adds that the further advancements in the peptide synthesis industry and sequencing technology would enable the peptide data storage to be applied at a more reasonable cost. Launched on 5 May 2020, the manned spacecraft of the Long March-5B rocket, with the support of Space Biology Group, carried mixtures of peptides encoding a bilingual text file containing the PolyU motto ‘To learn and to apply, for the benefit of mankind’ and ‘PolyU 80th Anniversary’, as well as an audio file of the music ‘Silent Night’, prepared by the PolyU research team. The purpose of this space ride-share experiment is to test the reliability and stability of the peptides for data storage and retrieval after exposure to the space environment. Upon the safe return to Earth of the spacecraft along with the experimental materials, the PolyU team will decode and retrieve the data. It is expected that this technology will hold promise in supporting data management in space exploration in the coming future.  PolyU has a strong research track record in space technology, with its researchers having been involved in a number of national and international space exploration projects since the 1990s, and with this important space ride-share experiment, the University has now participated in the historic launch of the China’s Long March-5B rocket along with the next-generation manned spacecraft to support the nation’s plan for space exploration to Mars. PolyU looks forward to further collaboration with China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation, Space Biology Group, China Resources Life Sciences Group and various other research partners to develop other forward-looking research projects for future space missions. [From PolyU Media Release] Related News Articles: 理大研發新一代數據儲存技術 [星島日報(Sing Tao Daily)]

Application deadline for PolyU’s taught postgraduate programmes be extended to end June • 70 local students of the six designated programmes will benefit from the UGC’s new Fellowships Scheme

In light of the social impact brought about by COVID-19, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) today announced the extension of the application deadline for most of its 2020/2021 taught postgraduate programmes to 30 June, 2020. This is to give ample time and opportunity for prospective students to enrol in the programmes. Six PolyU taught postgraduate programmes have been elected for the “Targeted Taught Postgraduate Programmes Fellowships Scheme” (the Scheme) launched by the University Grants Committee (UGC), these are Master of Design, MSc in Electronic & Information Engineering, MSc in Health Informatics, MSc in Information Technology, MSc in International Shipping & Transport Logistics and MSc in Mechanical Engineering. A total of 70 Fellowships will be granted to local students who are admitted to these designated programmes. The Fellowships are subject to a cap of HK$120,000 (for the whole taught postgraduate programme, regardless of the actual study period) and can be used for the settlement of the tuition fee only. Students are required to pay a minimum tuition fee of HK$42,100. Applicants for the Scheme have to undergo a PolyU selection process which includes the assessment of their academic performances, professional qualifications, relevant working experience and other achievements. Nominated applicants are required to submit a proposal expounding on how they can contribute to the priority areas of Hong Kong after completing their programme. To avoid double subsidy, applications from students who are receiving other forms of government scholarship (excluding student financial assistance) for pursuing the same programme will not be considered. In line with the University’s Motto - “To learn and to apply, for the benefit of mankind”, and to meet the demand for talent arising from the rapid global development in innovation and technology, PolyU is committed to offering various undergraduate and postgraduate programmes that focus on cutting-edge technologies and sustainable socio-economic development. Encompassing creative industries, emerging research, information technology and health technology, the selected taught postgraduate programmes enable prospective students to equip themselves with relevant knowledge and skills, and to contribute their expertise in critical areas conducive to the macro development of Hong Kong. PolyU is now accepting application for 2020/21 taught postgraduate programmes until 30 June 2020. For more details and the exact application deadline for individual programme, please refer to the following websites: About Targeted Taught Postgraduate Programmes Fellowships Scheme, please refer to https://www.ugc.edu.hk/eng/ugc/activity/targeted_postgraduate_scheme.html About PolyU 2020/21 taught postgraduate programmes, please refer to http://www51.polyu.edu.hk/eprospectus/tpg [From PolyU Media Release]  

Success of Dyson – Online Meet with Dyson Engineers and James Dyson Award introduction

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Bracing for a long battle against COVID-19: General Use Face Shields designed by PolyU ready for mass production

The situation in Hong Kong has become more critical amid the rise of confirmed cases of COVID-19 infections. Experts have warned that members of the public should prepare for a long fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. Over the past few months, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) has been closely monitoring the situation and has devised plans to help contain the spread of the coronavirus. In February 2020, PolyU designed and started producing disposable face shields for the Hospital Authority in order to alleviate the immediate need for protective gear amongst frontline medical professionals. PolyU today announced the launch of two new reusable face shields, namely “General Use Face Shield” and “Extra Protection Face Shield”, both of which will soon be available at affordable prices. It is hoped that the face shields could provide enhanced protection for the public in their daily lives and working environment thus minimising the risks of virus transmission in the community. Together with his team, Professor HC MAN, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, Director of the University Research Facility in 3D Printing, PolyU, has designed the “General Use Face Shield” for the public. The specially designed face shield, which provides full-face coverage, will help to protect from the spread of droplet-transmitted diseases. Currently, the government urges the public to practise social distancing, but for those who need to go to work or attend an essential event, wearing a face shield would definitely help to reduce the risk of infection. Also, it is important for frontline staff of those service industries which serve their customers in close proximity, and care-givers who take care of elderly people living alone, to wear a face shield in addition to a regular face mask for maximum protection. While for schoolchildren who tend to rub their eyes unintentionally, wearing a face shield would help prevent them from touching their face with their hands and subsequently reduce the risk of them getting infected. Professor Man pointed out that his team has taken into account not only the functionality but also the cost-effectiveness of the material used when designing a face shield for general use. He explained, “Both types of face shield are reusable after cleaning as they are made of lightweight and environmentally-friendly PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) plastic material using the vacuum forming technique, which helps to lower production costs. Our research team used 3D printing technology to develop a prototype and has conducted multiple rounds of tests and modifications. We then invited frontline staff from the social welfare sector to try out the new face shields. We are delighted that our team has received positive feedback from users. In the fight against this months-long pandemic, we hope that these face shields designed will benefit more people in need”. Professor Man expressed gratitude to the social welfare organisations involved for providing valuable feedback, which helped in modifying the designs. He said the design of “General Use Face Shield” and “Extra Protection Face Shield” would not fog up easily, thanks to their unique designs that help to maintain visual clarity, while also providing a comfortable wearing experience for users. The “General Use Face Shield” is suitable for everyone; while the “Extra Protection Face Shield” offers broader protection by covering the forehead and hair. PolyU has handed over the designs to a manufacturer for mass production and is expecting the first delivery in late April 2020. The first batch of face shields will be dispatched to the PolyU community, including staff, students and frontline workers on campus. Donations to various social welfare partners will also be made in due course. Professor Alexander WAI Ping-kong, Deputy President and Provost of PolyU, said, “As the second wave of COVID-19 has swept the globe, it is unlikely that the epidemic will subside in a short time. While we are seeking sustainable measures to cope with the situation, we also have to learn to live with the virus until we have an effective antiviral drug available in the market. We are particularly concerned about the needs of medical professionals with regard to protective gear, and we understand the challenges encountered by the frontline workers in the social welfare sector and service industries. Designing face shields is not rocket science, but PolyU will strive to do whatever we can to contribute to the community and work hand in hand with Hong Kong people to fight against the outbreak with our innovative minds and pragmatic solutions.” Earlier, care-givers and frontline staff of the Christian Family Service Centre and the Hong Kong Christian Service were invited to try out the new face shields. All users expressed appreciation with regard to the comfortable wearing experience, saying that the face shields are especially suitable for staff working long hours. When providing care for their patients, the provision of a face shield would also help set at ease the minds of frontline staff. They hoped that the face shields would be made widely used in the community soon, so that more frontline staff would enjoy a better protection during the epidemic. [From PolyU Media Release] Related News Articles: 理大推全民通用面罩 售價低於50元月底可產3萬個 [東網 (ON.CC)] 港理大設計重用面罩料兩周後推出 [文匯報 (Wen Wei Po)] 理大推市民用防護面罩 可消毒重用逾50次 [香港01 (HK01)]  

Online Info Seminars on Taught Postgraduate Programmes

September 2020 Entry

Targeted Taught Postgraduate Programmes Fellowships Scheme

Targeted Taught Postgraduate Programmes Fellowships Scheme offered by the University Grants Committee (UGC) is now available.

PolyU designs a new 3D-printed face shield for HA • Mass production in local factories will help fulfil the imminent needs of medical personnel

In the fight against the coronavirus epidemic, personal protective equipment (PPE) such as face shields and disposable gowns are badly needed in hospitals. With a view to alleviating the imminent need for protective gear amongst frontline medical professionals, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) has been collaborating with Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QE) and the Hospital Authority (HA) respectively to design and produce 3D-printed eye shields and face shields. PolyU has mobilised all its 3D printers in its University Research Facility in 3D Printing (U3DP) and in other departments to operate 24 hours a day to produce 700 eye shields and over 800 face shields over the last 10 days.  With support from the local manufacturing industry with which PolyU has strong connections, the production of face shields has been increased to 10,000 pieces per day starting from today, and will reach 30,000 pieces per day by late March. It is hoped that this steady supply of face shields will help meet the imminent needs of Hong Kong's frontline medical personnel. "During the coronavirus outbreak, solidarity is one of the essential elements to battle the disease. The partnership between PolyU, HA/QE and the industry is a good example that embodies the spirit of 'when one place suffers, aid come from all sides'. We join hands to overcome these difficult times together," said Professor Alexander WAI Ping-kong, Vice President (Research Development), Deputy President and Provost designate, PolyU. Dr Vivien CHUANG, HA Chief Manager (Infection, Emergency and Contingency) said, PolyU has made every effort to develop a swift solution for rapidly producing face shields and to help us line up domestic production, thus we can fill up the stockpile of face shields to meet our need during the epidemic.  "I would like to express our deep gratitude to PolyU and all local manufacturers for their full support and active participation to make this meaningful collaboration a successful one." Dr Chuang added. From design, to mould-making, and finally to production took just a fortnight. This is very exceptional in terms of the short time taken in manufacturing a product, and thanks are due to the dedication and seamless support from the industry. "Since the face shield is a one-off disposable item, we chose a less expensive PLA filament material to develop the 3D printed frame and attached it with a plastic clear film. We also leveraged the studies of our School of Design in the comparison of head size between Asians and Westerners in order to design a face shield that better fits Chinese wearers. Designed by PolyU and made in Hong Kong, this is a testament to the competence and capability of the Hong Kong manufacturing industry. We can do it and we must do it. I am especially heartened by our friends in industry who have pledged their support without a second thought," said Professor HC MAN, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, Director of University Research Facility in 3D Printing, PolyU. [From PolyU Media Release] Related News Articles: 3D printing at cutting edge of virus protection [中國日報 (China Daily)] The Polytechnic University lab 3D printing face shields for coronavirus-battling Hong Kong hospital workers [南華早報 (South China Morning Post)] 理大研發「香港製造」防護面罩 日產萬件供醫管局 [香港01 (HK01)] 理大3D打印技術 研發新型防護面罩 [東方日報 (Oriental Daily News) / 星島日報 (Sing Tao Daily) / 明報 (Ming Pao Daily News) / 經濟日報 (Hong Kong Economic Times) / 大公報 (Ta Kung Pao) / 文匯報 (Wen Wei Po) / 成報 (Sing Pao) / 晴報 (Sky Post) / 香港仔 (Lion Rock Daily)]

Three PolyU Scholars elected IEEE Fellows 2020

In the fight against the coronavirus epidemic, personal protective equipment (PPE) such as face shields and disposable gownsThree PolyU professors from the Faculty of Engineering are among the newly selected 2020 class of Fellows of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). Fellow is the highest grade of membership in IEEE, with the number selected each year not exceeding 0.1% of its total voting members. The PolyU scholars earn the distinction for their outstanding accomplishments in advancing innovation in their respective fields for the benefit of society. Prof. Eric Cheng Department of Electrical Engineering Research focus: electric vehicle technology and switched-capacitor power conversion Prof. Guo Song  Associate Head Department of Computing Research focus: high performance and resilient distributed computing Prof. Tam Hwa-yaw Chair Professor of Photonics and Head Department of Electrical Engineering Research focus: fiber sensing networks for railway predictive maintenance [From excel@PolyU]

PolyU Innovations Garner Four Awards at International Trade Fair for Ideas, Inventions & New Products (iENA) in Germany

The three outstanding innovations of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) showcased at the 71st International Trade Fair for Ideas, Inventions & New Products (iENA) held in Nuremberg, Germany have garnered three Gold Medals and one Special Merit Award.   iENA is one of the most important international trade fairs for the inventor community. The trade fair, held from 31 October to 3 November this year, attracted inventors from research institutions, academic bodies and business enterprises from more than 30 countries to showcase over 800 inventions and product innovations. With a history of over 70 years, iENA has become an annual platform for global inventors, entrepreneurs, investors and developers to seek collaboration and commercialisation of innovations. Among the world-class innovations on display, PolyU's innovations have all been granted awards by iENA's specialist jury in recognition of their remarkable innovative ideas and cutting-edge technologies. The award-winning innovations of PolyU are:- (1)    Atmospheric Acidic Ultrafine Particle Measuring Device Gold Medal and Special Merit Award Principal Investigator: Professor GUO Hai, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering Atmospheric acidic ultrafine particles (AUFPs), with a diameter of less than 0.1 µm, may affect human health. Yet, there has been a lack of reliable instruments for measuring AUFP concentration to facilitate the assessment of its influences on health, air quality monitoring, as well as related pollution and epidemiological studies. PolyU's novel device, comprises a diffusion sampler and a quartz crystal microbalance detector with specially treated crystal oscillators, can measure AUFPs concentration in a safe, accurate, reliable way. (2)    Object Detection and Distance Measurement Sensor based on Light Field Imaging Gold Medal Principal Investigator: Dr LI Lihua, Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering 3D information of micro objects can be critically useful for medical diagnosis related to live body tissues, or quality control in semi-conductor manufacturing. PolyU has developed a novel imaging system that includes a micro-lens array fabricated with our own ultra-precision machining techniques, as well as a module for converting light into electrons. By applying an algorithm created with deep learning, it can identify a micro object from its 2D digital photos and acquire its light field information in real time for distance measuring or 3D reconstruction. The sensor is compact, portable and attachable on different types of camera lens for precise distance measurement in various ranges, including micro and macro photography. (3)    Dolphin - Effective Indoor Positioning Service Gold Medal Principal Investigator: Mr Gary CM LEUNG, Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of Blue Pin (a PolyU supported start-up), and Engineering Doctorate student of the Department of Electronic and Information Engineering "Dolphin" uses Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) beacons and mobile phones with a location algorithm and a co-operative positioning algorithm developed by PolyU to provide indoor positioning and navigation. In areas with insufficient beacon signals, it still functions as it can calculate users' positions by collecting and processing BLE signals from their mobile phones, thus further enhancing the positioning accuracy. The system can also apply big data analytics to identify users' behaviours. Such information enables venue or shop owners or exhibitors to attract new and return customers in the proximity of their venue by sending them relevant advertisements or offers before they reach the venue. iENA was first launched in 1948 in Nuremberg of Germany. Over the past 70 years, about 30,000 inventions have been presented at the trade fair. iENA this year is organized by AFAG Messen und Ausstellungen GmbH, partnered with the Union of Croatian Innovators (UCI), in collaboration with International Federation of Inventors' Association (IFIA), German Patent and Trade Mark Office (DPMA), German Inventor Association (DEV) and the Association of German Engineers (VDI). For details, please visit the organiser's official website:- http://www.iena.de/en/home.html   [From PolyU Media Release] Related News Articles: 德國發明展 理大奪四大獎 [星島日報 (Sing Tao Daily)] 新藍牙技術收窄室內定位誤差 理大博士生研發 配合AR導航認路 [經濟日報 (Hong Kong Economic Times) / 明報 (Ming Pao Daily News) / 東方日報 (Oriental Daily News)]