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13 Members Ranked in World's Top 2% of Scientists by Citations

13 academic staff (including retired staff) are among the world's top 2% of scientists of their main disciplines for career-long citation impact, according to an index compiled by Stanford University.  Prof. Felix Chan was ranked 10th in the field of Operations Research (Field Size: 23,455). The scholars were named in the “Updated science-wide author databases of standardised citation indicators”, compiled by Stanford University where a research team, led by Prof. John Ioannidis, created the database of close to 160,000 top scientists across the world on the basis of standardised citation indicators. The scientists were grouped into 22 subject fields and 176 sub-fields using the indicators, which included information on citations, an individual’s scientific research output, co-authorship and a composite indicator for career-long citation impact up to the end of 2019. Source: PolyU website  

PolyU contributes to the Nation’s first Mars mission with multidisciplinary research 理大跨學科專家貢獻國家首個火星探測任務

Two research teams at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) contributed to the Nation’s first Mars exploration project Tianwen-1. By harnessing their extensive experience in the field of aerospace science and technology, as well as their commitment to research excellence, PolyU researchers played a vital role in the Tianwen-1 mission, in collaboration with the China Academy of Space Technology (CAST). Professor WU Bo helped identify possible landing regions with advanced topographic mapping and geomorphological analysis technologies. Professor YUNG Kai-leung developed a sophisticated space instrument, the “Mars Landing Surveillance Camera (Mars Camera)”, for capturing images of the surroundings of the Red Planet and monitoring the status of the Zhurong Mars rover. The spacecraft for the Tianwen-1 probe comprises an orbiter, a lander and the Zhurong rover, aiming to complete orbiting, landing and roving in one single mission, which is the first such attempt in global aerospace history. The mission aims to obtain scientific exploration data on the Red Planet, and currently, Tianwen-1 has completed orbiting Mars and has successfully landed on a pre-selected landing region on the Utopia Planitia of Mars. The Mars rover Zhurong is also due to begin Martian exploration. Dr LAM Tai-fai, Chairman of Council, PolyU, offered his warmest congratulations to the Nation on the successful soft landing of Tianwen-1. He said, “The Nation has developed an impressive track record in deep space exploration, such as its lunar exploration and lunar sample return missions. This time the Nation begins its planetary exploration journey by setting its sights on Mars for the first time, which further cements China’s advanced space capabilities. We are immensely encouraged that PolyU played a pivotal part in facilitating the Tianwen-1 mission. With extraordinary creativity, perseverance and innovative minds, our researchers will continue to contribute to the well-being of mankind in various scientific fields.” Mr Alfred SIT, Secretary for Innovation and Technology of the HKSAR Government, said, “I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to our Nation on the successful landing of the Nation’s first Mars exploration project. Basic research is the strength of local universities, and the fact that PolyU was invited to participate in another major national space mission with its scientific research capabilities is a clear demonstration of Hong Kong’s exceptional strength in research and innovation. Hong Kong is also a place where many hidden talents emerge, forming an important force in national technological advancement. They will contribute to the Nation’s ‘Megascience’ projects with their expertise. I hope that local universities take advantage of research collaboration opportunities with institutions in the Mainland to create synergies that bring about complementary advantages.” Professor Jin-Guang TENG, PolyU’s President, said, “We sincerely thank our Nation for trusting PolyU and inviting two of our Professors to participate in this national Mars exploration project. We are proud to have the opportunity to once again contribute to a major national aerospace technology mission. Leveraging the achievements of PolyU in the field of aerospace technology, we have decided to increase our support in this area by establishing the University Research Centre for Deep Space Explorations led by Professor Yung Kai-leung. We aim to pool together experts in different fields such as Geology, Architecture, Machinery, Physics, and Remote Sensing to conduct in-depth research in different aspects of aerospace technology. We truly hope that the mission of Tianwen-1 will be a great success and that the world will learn more about the Red Planet.” Mars landing site mapping and evaluation Landing on Mars is a challenging endeavour due to several reasons, such as the complicated Martian surface, the very thin atmosphere as well as possible dust storms. There is also a 5-20 minutes time delay between Mars and Earth communications. It is therefore of paramount importance to select a landing site that is safe and of scientific significance. From 2017-2020, upon invitation by CAST, Professor WU Bo from PolyU’s Department of Land Surveying and Geo-Informatics led a team to carry out global-scale analysis and evaluation to help shortlist three candidate landing regions, namely the Amazonis Planitia, Chryse Planitia, and Utopia Planitia, that are all located within a latitude ranging from 5° - 30°N on Mars. These regions have adequate solar illumination for optimised power generation and moderate temperature, lower elevation for longer deceleration time, and a flat terrain surface for safe landing. The team further conducted detailed topographic and geomorphological mapping and analysis of the candidate landing regions, including their elevations, slopes, rock abundances, crater densities, and geological contexts. As a result of the evaluation, a region in the southern Utopia Planitia, the largest recognised impact basin in the northern hemisphere of Mars, was selected as the target landing region. Some features in the Utopia Basin like extensive sedimentary materials on the surface have been interpreted as morphological indicators of potential water-ice underneath, which are of great scientific interest since they may offer new insights into the existence of life on Mars and the evolutionary history of the Red Planet. Since entering the orbit of Mars on 10 February 2021, the Tianwen-1 probe has collected and sent back a large quantity of sub-meter-resolution images of the target landing region covering an area of about 70km × 180km, which is about 11 times larger than the size of Hong Kong’s territory. Using the high-resolution images from Tianwen-1, Professor Wu and his team generated high-resolution and high-precision 3D digital topographic models of the target landing region using the self-developed integrated 3D mapping model, to analyse the detailed topography and identify large slopes hazardous for landing. To facilitate safe landing and roving on Mars, Professor Wu’s team also developed AI-based techniques for more automated and robust analysis of geomorphological features like craters and rocks from the high-resolution images in a short period of time. Professor Wu said, “With the aid of the AI-based techniques, we analysed over 670,000 craters, over two million rocks, and hundreds of volcanic cones distributed over the target landing region in 1.5 months. We achieved much higher efficiency in the automatic extraction of rocks and craters with about 85% correctness.” From the topographic and geomorphological mapping results, the team successfully identified several landing ellipses for the mission management team to finalise the landing site. Professor Wu felt very honoured to be able to participate in and contribute to the Nation’s Mars exploration project. He said, “The Tianwen-1 mission is a mega project, and we are only a small part of an effort of thousands of people, to support the accomplishments of the mission. All of my team members were fully dedicated to the undertaking over the past months. I am thankful to them for working around the clock to get the task completed on time, yet without comprising accuracy and details.” Mars Landing Surveillance Camera (Mars Camera) With a wealth of experience in developing sophisticated space instruments, Professor Yung Kai-leung, PolyU’s Sir Sze-yuen Chung Professor in Precision Engineering, Chair Professor of Precision Engineering and Associate Head of Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, has led a team to undertake the research, design and manufacturing of the Mars Camera since 2017. Thanks to their dedication and perseverance, as well as the support of the University, the team successfully completed and delivered the Mars Camera with the corresponding space qualification experiments in less than three years. The PolyU-developed Mars Camera is located on the outside top surface of the lander platform, for monitoring the landing status, the surrounding environment of Mars and the movements of the Zhurong rover with respect to the unfolding and status of the solar panels and antennae. This information is critical for the successful movement of the Mars rover on the surface of Mars. The Mars Camera is light in weight (around 390g), yet strong and durable enough to withstand the extreme temperature differences of about 150 degrees Celsius experienced during the nine-month journey between Earth and Mars, followed by immediate operation under the extremely low temperatures on the surface of Mars. As the Mars Camera is designed for the lander, it also has to withstand huge impact shocks of 6,200G (i.e. 6,200 times the force of Earth’s gravity). Despite having a wide-angle field of view (a maximum of 120 degrees horizontally and a maximum of 170 degrees diagonal), the Mars Camera has low image distortion. Professor Yung explained, “To capture ultra-wide angle images on Mars for scientific research, the Mars Camera has to have a wide field of vision with low distortion optics within the little allowable payload, but at the same time must also be able to withstand extreme temperature variation, high radiation, mechanical impact and vibration within the little available mass, whereas maintaining high reliability under the extreme space travel environment such as high radiation.” Professor Yung further shared that he was relieved that the PolyU-developed Mars Camera survived the Earth to Mars journey, “It was a real thrill when we learned that Tianwen-1 successfully touched down onto the Martian surface. A photo recently released by the China National Space Administration shows our Mars Camera on the Red Planet, and I am particularly excited to observe from the photo that our Camera remains intact. I look forward to seeing our Mars Camera capturing the spectacular views of Mars and providing images of the unfolding and movement of the Zhurong rover.” 香港理工大學(理大)兩支跨學科研究團隊為國家近日首個火星探測項目「天問一號」作出貢獻。理大的科研人員憑藉多年來在航太科研領域所累積的豐富經驗，及卓越的研發成果，與中國空間技術研究院合作，在「天問一號」任務中發揮重要作用。當中吳波教授團隊研發創新的地形測量及地貌分析方法，協助選取火星著陸點。容啟亮教授的團隊則研發出精密的太空儀器「落火狀態監視相機」（「火星相機」），拍攝火星的周遭環境及火星車的狀況。 「天問一號」探測器由環繞器、著陸器和巡視器 (又名「祝融」火星車) 組成，目標是一次過完成「繞、落、巡」(即「環繞」、「著陸」和「巡視」)三大工作，是世界航天史上的首次嘗試；這次任務旨在獲取有關火星的科學勘探數據。目前，「天問一號」已完成火星軌道環繞及著陸預選著陸區烏托邦平原，「祝融」火星車正侍機展開巡視及勘探工作。 理大校董會主席林大輝博士祝賀「天問一號」成功著陸火星，他表示︰「國家在深空探測的成績令人振奮，過去在月球探索及採月壤帶回地球的任務，均取得圓滿成功；今次國家的航天任務更跨越星際，首次探索火星，進一步印證中國的航天實力。理大的科研人員有份參與火星任務，並發揮關鍵作用，令我們十分鼓舞。理大科學家將繼續以非凡的創造力、毅力和創新思維，在不同領域上參與科研，冀為人類的福祉貢獻己力。」 香港特別行政區創新及科技局局長薛永恒先生表示: 「我衷心恭賀國家首次火星探測任務成功著陸。基礎研究是本地大學的強項，今次理大以其科創實力，再次獲邀參與國家重要航天任務，充分顯示香港科研實力雄厚，臥虎藏龍，是國家科技建設的一支重要力量，可為國家級的『大科學』項目作出貢獻。我深信本地大學亦可藉著與內地機構的科研協作，發揮協同效應，優勢互補。」 理大校長滕錦光教授說︰「我們衷心感謝國家對理大的信任，邀請兩位教授參與國家的火星探測任務。理大有機會再次為國家的重大航天科技項目做貢獻，我們深感自豪。基於理大在航天科技領域已經取得的成績，我們決定加大對該領域的支持力度。最近，理大已成立由容啟亮教授領導的『深空探測研究中心』，聚集地質學、土木工程、機械過程、物理學等不同領域的專家，在航天科技的不同方向展開深入研究。我們衷心祝願『天問一號』任務取得圓滿成功，讓世界對這個『紅色星球』有更加多的瞭解。」 火星著陸區測量和評估 登陸火星是一項極具挑戰性的任務。火星表面的地形複雜，大氣層稀薄，而火星表面隨時可能出現的沙塵暴，加上火星與地球通訊有約5至20分鐘的延遲，凡此種種增加了登陸火星的難度。因此，選擇一個安全而具有科學價值的著陸點至關重要。 2017至2020年期間，理大土地測量及地理資訊學系吳波教授應中國空間技術研究院的邀請，率領團隊進行火星全球的分析和評估，篩選出三個候選著陸區，分別位於亞馬遜平原、克里斯平原和烏托邦平原。這些候選著陸區均處於火星緯度5°- 30°N範圍，太陽日照充足，有助太陽能電池板供電，温度適中；且位處低海拔，可以延長探測器降落時減速的時間；地形平坦，有利探測器安全著陸。 理大團隊進一步對候選著陸區進行了詳細的地形及地貌特徵分析，包括其海拔、坡度、岩石密度、撞擊坑密度，以及該區域的地質歷史。綜合研究結果，火星北半球最大的撞擊盆地烏托邦平原南部區域獲選為「天問一號」的目標著陸區。烏托邦平原的某些特徵，如其表面上廣泛存在的沉積物，顯示這個區域地下可能存在水冰，因此其科學意義重大，有助找出火星是否曾有生命的線索，了解火星的演化歷史。 「天問一號」自2021年2月10日進入環火軌道後，已收集並傳回大量覆蓋目標著陸區的亞米級高解像度圖像回地球。是次任務的目標著陸區面積達70公里 x 180公里，即比整個香港的面積大11倍。吳波教授及其團隊利用自行研發的「三維集成測量模型」，將「天問一號」傳回的高解像度圖像，製成高精確度、高解像度的三維數碼地形模型，以詳細分析地形特徵，識別可能影響著陸安全的大型斜坡。 為了幫助「天問一號」在火星上安全著陸和巡視，吳波教授及其團隊亦研發出「基於人工智能的撞擊坑、石塊提取方法」，在短時間內從高解像度的圖像上自動提取撞擊坑和石塊等地貌特徵，以作更精確的分析。吳教授說：「我們利用這項人工智能技術，在一個半月內分析了分佈在目標著陸區內的67萬個隕石坑、逾200多萬塊岩石，和數百個火山錐，效率超卓，準確率達到了85%。」團隊根據地形和地貌的詳細測量結果，成功搜索出數個可能的著陸點，供「天問一號」任務的管理團隊作最終抉擇。 吳教授十分榮幸能夠參與國家的火星探測任務，並貢獻力量。他說：「『天問一號』火星探測任務是一個龐大的工程，是成千上萬人的努力成果，我們只是當中的一顆『螺絲釘』。過去幾個月，我的每一位團隊成員為這個項目全力以赴，日以繼夜工作，精益求精，沒有因為時間緊迫而對準確度和工作中的細節讓步，最終我們在限時內完成任務。」 「落火狀態監視相機」（「火星相機」） 理大工業及系統工程學系鍾士元爵士精密工程教授、精密工程講座教授及副系主任容啓亮教授研發精密太空儀器的經驗豐富。容教授自2017年起率領團隊，就「火星相機」進行研究、設計及製造。有賴整個團隊努力不懈，以及大學的支持，理大團隊在不到三年內，成功研製並交付火星相機，並通過多項相關的太空驗證。 理大的「火星相機」搭載於著陸器外層平台上，以監視著陸情況、火星的周遭環境，以及降落火星後巡視器「祝融」的操作狀態，包括太陽翼的打開及天線的狀況。這些資訊對掌握巡視器能否在火星表面成功巡視至關重要。 「火星相機」重量輕巧（約390克），然而外殼十分堅固，以抵受穿梭地球與火星超過九個月的旅程期間出現約攝氏150度的極端溫差，及後須能在火星表面極低溫的環境下運作，並要承受相等於地球地心吸力6,200倍的衝擊。此外，「火星相機」須具備廣闊測量視野（水平視野範圍達到120度，對角線視野範圍達到170度），同時顯著減低圖像變形的程度。 容教授解釋︰「為了拍攝超廣闊的圖像及影片作科學研究之用，火星相機須輕巧並具備廣角拍攝及可控的影像變形，同時要在有限的重量內能抵受極大的衝擊力。此外，相機須在長時間的太空旅程中克服極端溫差、輻射、機械振動等挑戰，最後仍保持十分高的穩定性。」 容教授對於理大研發的「火星相機」能在地球前往火星的長途旅程中保持完好，感到如釋重負。「得悉天問一號成功著陸火星，我和我的團隊非常興奮。從國家航天局日前公布的圖片中，我很高興看到我們的『火星相機』狀態良好。期待理大的火星相機拍攝到火星的壯麗景色以及火星車打開及運行的情況。」 [From PolyU Media Release]

World University Rankings 2021 of the University

PolyU-made space instruments complete lunar sampling for Chang’e 5 (理大研發太空儀器成功為嫦娥五號完成表土採樣)

In support of the Nation’s first lunar sample return mission, a research team at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) developed and manufactured one of the key systems for this historic undertaking, namely the “Surface Sampling and Packing System”, in collaboration with the China Academy of Space Technology. The PolyU-developed system accomplished the tasks of automatic sample collection and packaging on the lunar surface following the soft landing of the Chang’e 5 probe on 1 December 2020. The vehicle carrying the samples is currently on course back to Earth, and is expected to touch down in China’s Inner Mongolia region next week. Chang'e-5 is the world’s first lunar-sample return mission in more than 40 years, aiming to bring back a large amount of lunar samples of up to two kilograms via robotic means. The probe adopts two methods of moon surface sampling: one uses a robotic arm for multiple-point surface sample collections, and the other is to drill underground. The team led by Professor YUNG Kai-leung, Sir Sze-yuen Chung Professor in Precision Engineering, Chair Professor of Precision Engineering and Associate Head of Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, PolyU, was tasked in 2011 to develop the “Surface Sampling and Packing System”, a comprehensive system for lunar surface sampling, packaging and sealing. Dr LAM Tai-fai, Chairman of Council, PolyU, remarked, “The collection of lunar samples is a landmark occasion in the history of our Nation’s space exploration programme. It is a great testament to our University’s cutting-edge research capability that PolyU was the only tertiary institution in Hong Kong to contribute to the Chang'e 5 mission. Furthermore, the fact that Hong Kong-based scientists at PolyU developed some of the most critical components for the project is a fantastic accomplishment for the whole city, proving that Hong Kong can play an important role in supporting our Nation in making significant strides in the fields of space exploration and science.” Mr Alfred SIT, Secretary for Innovation and Technology of the HKSAR Government, said, “Over the years, PolyU has actively participated in our Nation's space exploration projects by developing highly sophisticated space instruments for our country. In the Chang'e 5 lunar exploration project, PolyU fully demonstrated its rich experience accumulated in national and international space projects, its cutting-edge technology as well as its innovative thinking. PolyU's efforts in research are in line with and complementary to the Government's goal of developing Hong Kong into an international innovation and technology hub.” Professor Jin-Guang TENG, PolyU President, said, “The Chang'e 5 lunar mission has been watched closely by the entire world, since it will help the scientific community uncover some of the Moon’s secrets and mysteries. I am immensely proud that PolyU researchers developed the pioneering ‘Surface Sampling and Packing System’ to facilitate the success of this milestone mission. By contributing to such a sophisticated national space project, the University has demonstrated its substantial research competence and commitment to producing breakthrough solutions that push forward the frontiers of technology and science. PolyU will continue to devote itself to the pursuit of research excellence and the creation of innovations that benefit Hong Kong, the Nation and our world.” Professor Yung expressed the pride he and his team felt to be part of this ground-breaking accomplishment. He said, “Collecting a large amount of lunar samples via robotic means was unprecedented. From research, through design to manufacturing, the development of this system has required a very high level of innovation, precision and reliability. A small glitch anywhere in the complex chain of necessary tasks could have instantly negated all the costly efforts made by those involved in the mission. Thanks to the support of the Nation, the University and the experts at PolyU Industrial Centre, we were able to produce this cutting-edge space-qualified instrument that has successfully acquired samples from the lunar surface. We are indebted to the Nation in entrusting such a critical responsibility to PolyU.” Consisting of two samplers for collecting loose and sticky forms of lunar regolith, two near-field cameras, as well as a packaging and sealing system, the “Surface Sampling and Packing System” has more than 400 components constructed in different materials including titanium alloy, aluminum alloy and stainless steel, which make the instruments light in weight but at the same time durable and strong enough to withstand the harsh space environment. Talking about the challenges of the project, Professor Yung said, “As our system needed to operate on the sun-facing side of the Moon where the ground temperatures could be as high as 110 degree Celsius, this innovation had to be highly sophisticated and capable of functioning under extremely high temperatures. It also needed to withstand the extreme space environment during travel to and landing on the Moon which meant enduring impact and shock during lift-offs and landings, high vacuum on the moon, exposure to solar wind and cosmic rays, as well as high-speed re-entry to Earth’s atmosphere.” “To meet the limited payload requirement, we had to be innovative in our mechanism design and be stringent in weight control. For example, the two samplers are more than a tool to acquire lunar regolith. They are also used to pick up and move the sample container from the lander to the ascender atop,” Professor Yung continued.   Features of the Surface Sampling and Packing System: Sampler A – Around 35 cm in length, Sampler A, in the shape of a shovel, is specifically engineered for collecting loose regolith. The vibration and impact during the closing of the sampler is an elaborate design to dislodge excessive debris, chisel away large pieces of regolith, tightly enclose the samples and precisely deposit the selected samples into the container without contaminating the surrounding.   Sampler B – Around 30 cm in length, Sampler B is used for collecting sticky samples by coring into the ground with teeth-like metal flaps when opened. It captures the targeted samples through the closing of these metal flaps. The piston inside the sampler pushes the sticky samples into the container during depositing of the sample when the flaps gradually open.   Near-field Cameras – Heat resistant up to 130 degree Celsius, a near-field camera is attached to each sampler. This camera provides a monitoring and vision guidance function to help select scientifically valuable lunar samples. The vision guidance function also enables the sampler to deposit the samples into the container, grip the container and transfer it into the ascender precisely.   Sealing and Packaging System – Weighing 1.5 kilograms, of which the sample container weighs only 360 grams and is used to seal and store the lunar samples for returning to Earth, this system includes deployment of a funnel to protect the sample container from contamination when the lunar regolith is deposited and a sweeping action to brush away excessive sample to ensure the container lid can be closed properly.   Being the only tertiary institution in Hong Kong that possesses international deep space qualification experience, PolyU has been contributing to the Nation’s space projects since 2010. As part of the Nation’s lunar exploration programme, Professor Yung collaborated with the China Academy of Space Technology to develop a “Camera Pointing System” for Chang’e 3 in 2013 and for Chang’e 4’s historic landing on the lunar far side in 2019, and a Mars Camera for Tianwen 1 in 2020. The “Surface Sampling and Packing System” will be used for the Chang’e 6 mission as well. PolyU has actively participated in other space exploration projects, designing and manufacturing a number of sophisticated space tools in the past decade. These include the “Mars Rock Corer” for the European Space Agency’s 2003 Mars Express Mission and the “Soil Preparation System” for the Sino-Russian Space Mission in 2011. 為支持國家首次月球採樣返回任務，香港理工大學（理大）科研團隊與中國空間技術研究院合作為這項歷史性任務研製了一套關鍵儀器「表取採樣執行裝置」。該裝置已於12月1日隨嫦娥五號成功於月面軟著陸，並完成了全自動的表土採樣及封裝任務。載有月壤樣本的飛行器目前正返回地球，預計下周在中國內蒙古地區降落。 嫦娥五號是人類四十多年來首個在月球表面採集樣本的探測器，這次任務旨在於月球表面進行全自動採樣，將多達兩公斤的月球樣本帶回地球。嫦娥五號探測器以「表取採樣」（即利用機械臂在月面進行多點採樣）和「鑽取採樣」兩種方式取得月壤。針對「表取採樣」的方式，理大工業及系統工程學系鍾士元爵士精密工程教授、精密工程講座教授及副系主任容啓亮教授於2011年開始率領團隊研發一套精密的「表取採樣執行裝置」，用以進行月面採樣及封裝。 理大校董會主席林大輝博士表示：「採集月球樣本是國家太空探索歷史上的一個重要里程碑。而理大是香港唯一有份參與嫦娥五號任務的高等院校，這充分印證了我們擁有頂尖的科研實力。再者，理大科研人員代表著香港成功為月球採樣任務研製關鍵的太空儀器，為香港爭光之餘，亦足證香港有能力在國家太空探索及科研發展上擔當重要角色。」 香港特區政府創新及科技局局長薛永恒先生表示：「多年來，理大積極參與國家的太空探索項目，為國家研製高度精密的太空儀器。在這次嫦娥五號探月工程中，理大充分展示科研團隊過去多年來在國內外航天項目中所累積的豐富經驗、努力研發的高端技術，以及力求創新的思維。理大在科研方面所作出的努力，與特區政府銳意發展香港成為國際創新科技中心的目標，相輔相成。」 理大校長滕錦光教授說：「嫦娥五號的採樣返回任務有助科學界發現更多月球的奧秘，因此備受世界注目。理大科研人員研製的『表取採樣執行裝置』協助嫦五任務取得成功，我為此感到非常榮幸。藉著參與這項複雜艱巨的太空任務，理大科研團隊展示了其堅實的科研能力及銳意創新的精神，推動前沿技術及科學領域的發展。理大將繼續在科研領域追求卓越、引領創新，積極為香港、國家以至世界作出貢獻。」 對於獲邀參與這次具開創性意義的太空任務，容教授及其團隊深感榮幸。他說：「透過全自動機械臂採集如此大量的月球樣本是史無前例的。這個項目由前期研發、裝置設計到儀器製造，均需要我們的團隊在創新性、精確度和可靠性等方面達到極高水平。由於這次任務十分複雜，環環相扣，任何細節只要出現微細錯誤，便會令之前所付出的努力全部白費。我們衷心感謝國家、大學，以及理大工業中心專家團隊的支持，讓我們成功研製出這套通過太空驗證的儀器，並順利完成採集表土樣本。我們十分感激國家授予這項關鍵的裝置研發任務。」 理大製造的「表取採樣執行裝置」正樣部分包含兩個採樣器，分別用作採集鬆散及黏性樣本；兩個近攝相機；並配備一套「初級裝封系統」用於以密封並保存樣本於樣本容器中。整套「表取採樣執行裝置」由超過400件工件組合而成，由不同材料如鈦合金、鋁合金及不鏽鋼等所製造，減低整個裝置的重量，同時堅硬耐磨，以抵受嚴峻的太空環境。 談及研發過程所遇到的挑戰，容教授說：「由於『表取採樣執行裝置』在面向太陽的一方運作，月面溫度可高達攝氏110度。我們設計這套創新的系統時必須考慮周詳，以便能夠在極高溫下運作，並須抵受太空穿梭期間及月面的極端環境︰包括升空及著陸時的衝擊及震盪、月球的真空環境、太陽風及宇宙射線，並確保在高速穿越地球大氣層時，樣本仍然保持穩定。」 「為達到載荷重量的要求，我們必須在機械設計方面力求創新，嚴格控制整個裝置的重量。以兩個採樣器為例，它們不僅可用於採集樣本，同時具有將樣品容器鉗起的功能，將其從著陸器移到上升器上。」容教授續說。   「表取採樣執行裝置」特點： 採樣器(甲) – 採樣器(甲)的長度約為35厘米，其鏟子形狀專為採集鬆散的月球樣本而設。當採樣器閉合時會產生震動及衝擊，這個精心設計能甩走多餘的碎片、鑿開大塊的月壤，並將月壤樣本裹於採樣器內，同時有助將樣本準確地倒入樣本罐中，以免弄污周遭儀器。 採樣器(乙) – 採樣器(乙)的長度約為30厘米，用於採集黏性月球表層樣本。採樣器會鑽進月壤，透過打開齒狀金屬瓣抓取黏性樣本，當金屬瓣閉合時即可抓緊目標樣本。隨著金屬瓣慢慢張開，採樣器內的活塞會將黏性樣本推進樣本罐內。 近攝相機 – 可抵受高達攝氏130度的高溫。每個採樣器均配有一台近攝相機，可在樣本採集過程中發揮監察和視像導航功能，有助揀選具科研價值的月壤樣本，將樣本準確地倒進樣本罐內及準確地提罐放到上升器內。 初級封裝系統 –整個系統重約1.5公斤，而樣本罐只佔360克，用於將月球樣本密封保存，以帶回地球。此系統有多項匠心設計，包括透過漏斗將樣本倒入樣本罐內，期間不會弄污罐身；另外，鎖罐前會掃走溢出罐口的月壤，確保罐蓋能妥善關好，以將罐內的樣本密封鎖緊。   理大是香港唯一擁有國際太空任務實戰經驗的高等院校，自2010年起在國家的太空探究項目方面一直不遺餘力。為支持國家的探月工程，容教授多年來與中國空間技術研究院的專家攜手研製出多項太空儀器，包括應用於2013年嫦娥三號及2019年嫦娥四號的月背探測任務的「相機指向機構系統」，以及2020年應用於天問一號的「落火狀態監視相機」。理大團隊的「表取採樣執行裝置」亦將應用於嫦娥六號探月任務。 理大多年來積極參與不同的太空探索項目，研製各項先進的太空儀器，包括為歐洲太空總署2003年火星快車任務研發「岩芯取樣器」，以及為2011年的中俄聯合探索火星任務研發「行星表土準備系統」。   [From PolyU Media Release]     Media Coverage Ming Pao Daily News - https://bit.ly/2JLwdvW NowTV - https://bit.ly/33S2xnR TVB - https://bit.ly/2K5NhfM Sing Tao Daily - https://bit.ly/2Lkt72s Oriental Daily News - https://bit.ly/3qIhYsC Hong Kong Economic Times - https://bit.ly/3qC6mal Wen Wei Po - https://bit.ly/3m6s96N Ta Kung Pao - https://bit.ly/2VRlxyg Hong Kong Commercial Daily - https://bit.ly/3qDAkuM Yahoo - https://bit.ly/2Le0WC9 Sina - https://bit.ly/39TFhtl    

Event News: Technical Seminar "Digitalization and Quality Management"

Organizer:  The IET Hong Kong – Manufacturing and Industrial Engineering Section (MIES) Co-Organizers: Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering (ISE), The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Hong Kong Society for Quality PolyU Miles Alumni Association Limited The Hong Kong Institution of Engineers Engineering, IVE Speakers: Dr Albert HC Tsang, Former Principal Lecturer, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Dr Lotto KH Lai, Chairman of Hong Kong Society for Quality

PolyU develops space instruments for the Nation’s first lunar sample return mission (理大為國家首個月球採樣返回任務研發太空儀器)

Researchers at PolyU have developed and manufactured the “Surface Sampling and Packing System”, specifically designed for Chang’e 5, the Nation’s first lunar sample return mission. Following the successful launch of Chang’e 5 by the Long March 5 rocket today (24 November), the Surface Sampling and Packing System is scheduled to commence lunar sampling in early December. Joining this historic mission is the team led by Professor YUNG Kai-leung, Sir Sze-yuen Chung Professor in Precision Engineering, Chair Professor of Precision Engineering and Associate Head of Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, PolyU. Dr Robert W.M. TAM, Interim Director of PolyU’s Industrial Centre, is one of the team’s key members. Chang'e 5, the third phase of the Nation’s lunar exploration project, is China’s first space mission to collect and return two kilogram samples of lunar regolith. The Chang'e 5 spacecraft comprises four modules: an orbiter, an ascender, a lander and a return vehicle. Transported on the Chang’e 5 lander, the PolyU-developed Surface Sampling and Packing System includes two samplers that can withstand 200 °C for collecting samples of lunar regolith in loose and sticky form, two heat-resistant nearfield cameras for vision guidance during sample acquisition, and a packaging and sealing system for sealing the samples in a container. Upon completion of sample acquisition on the lunar surface by the PolyU samplers, the robot arm will, through vision guidance, lift the PolyU designed and made container and place it into the ascender. The ascender will then lift off into lunar orbit, dock with the orbiter and transfer the sample container to the return vehicle for the journey back to Earth. “Over the years, PolyU has been honoured to participate in the national space exploration programmes and to contribute to the development of highly sophisticated space instruments for the Nation,” said PolyU President Professor Jin-Guang TENG. “In the Chang'e 5 lunar exploration project, PolyU's research team has developed one of the key sets of sampling instruments and made a breakthrough in lunar surface sampling by leveraging its valuable experience in international space projects, its innovative thinking and its cutting-edge technology. In achieving its motto - ‘to learn and to apply, for the benefit of mankind’, through rigorous scientific study and research excellence, PolyU will continue to make important contributions to Chang'e 6 and other national space missions.” Building on their previous study of the lunar environment and a wealth of experience from several lunar missions, Professor YUNG Kai-leung and his team started researching and developing the Surface Sampling and Packing System in 2011 and completed the project in 2017. Professor YUNG Kai-leung said, “The return of samples from the moon is technically complex. It takes more than six prototype productions through various stages of space qualification procedures in order to complete the project, not to mention the pre-production research, system design, discussions and meetings in collaboration with the China Academy of Space Technology.” “The Surface Sampling and Packing System is one of the most critical components of the Chang’e 5 mission. We are truly thankful for being entrusted with such an important and challenging task for this historic space project.” Professor YUNG said. In addition to the System itself, the innovative techniques for high-precision high-resolution 3D mapping and geomorphologic analysis of the landing region developed by Professor Bo WU from PolyU’s Department of Land Surveying and Geo-Informatics are important for characterisation of the landing region, in order to support decision-making for selecting the final landing site for Chang’e 5. Being the only tertiary institution in Hong Kong that possesses international space qualification experience, PolyU has been contributing to the Nation’s space projects since 2010. As part of the Nation’s lunar exploration programme, Professor YUNG collaborated with the China Academy of Space Technology to develop a “Camera Pointing System” for Chang’e 3 in 2013 and for Chang’e 4’s historic landing on lunar far side in 2019, and a Mars Camera for Tianwen 1 in 2020. The “Surface Sampling and Packing System” will be used for the Chang’e 6 mission as well. PolyU has actively participated in other space exploration projects, designing and manufacturing a number of sophisticated space tools in the past decade. These include the “Mars Rock Corer” for the European Space Agency’s 2003 Mars Express Mission and the “Soil Preparation System” for the Sino-Russian Space Mission in 2011. 由香港理工大學（理大）科研人員專為嫦娥五號研製的「表取採樣執行裝置」，將參與國家首個月球採樣返回任務。今天搭載於長征五號運載火箭的嫦娥五號已成功發射，理大的「表取採樣執行裝置」預計於12月初於月球表面展開採樣工作。 這項歷史性的研發工作由理大工業及系統工程學系鍾士元爵士精密工程教授、精密工程講座教授及副系主任容啓亮教授率領團隊共同研發，團隊主要成員包括理大工業中心暫任總監譚惠民博士。 嫦娥五號是中國探月工程第三階段的月球探測器，是中國首個月球採樣計劃，這次任務是要採集約兩公斤的月球表面樣本返回地球。嫦娥五號由軌道器、上升器、着陸器和返回器四個部分組成。至於理大研發及製造的「表取採樣執行裝置」，則載於嫦娥五號的着陸器上，執行裝置包含兩個可抵受攝氏200度的採樣器，用於收集鬆散和黏性兩類月球樣本；兩台高溫的近攝相機，可在樣本採集過程中發揮監察和指導功能；以及初級封裝系統，用以將樣本密封並保存於樣本容器中。在月球表面的採樣工作完成後，機械臂會透過視像引導將理大研製的樣本容器提起，並放入上升器內。隨後，上升器會離開月球表面進入月球軌道，與軌道器交合對接，並將樣本容器轉移至返回器，以便將樣本運返地球。 理大校長滕錦光教授表示：「理大有機會長期參與國家太空探索項目，為國家研製高度精密的太空儀器作出貢獻，我們感到非常榮幸。在這次嫦娥五號探月工程中，理大的科研團隊憑借多年來在國內外航天項目中所累積的寶貴經驗，透過創新思維及採用高端技術，研製了其中一個關鍵的採樣系統，為在月球表面的採樣工作取得了突破。理大將秉持其『開物成務，勵學利民』的校訓，希望通過嚴謹、卓越的科研工作，繼續為嫦娥六號及國家其他航天任務作出重要貢獻。」 容啓亮教授及其團隊憑藉他們對月球環境的研究基礎及多次探月任務的豐富經驗，於2011年開始着手研究和開發「表取採樣執行裝置」，並於2017年完成此項目。容啓亮教授表示：「這次的月球採樣返回任務在技術上非常複雜。團隊進行了最少六次裝置製造及交付，以通過太空儀器的驗證過程。此外，我們也與中國空間技術研究院專家保持密切溝通，在產品前期研究及系統設計上力求盡善盡美。 」 「表取採樣執行裝置是嫦娥五號採樣返回任務的一個關鍵部分。我們很榮幸能擔此重任，在這次歷史性的航太項目中獲委以這項意義重大而極具挑戰的工作。」容教授續說。 此外，理大土地測量及地理資訊學系吳波教授亦研發創新技術，以進行高精確度和高解像度的三維地形測繪及地貌分析，研究嫦娥五號着陸區的地形地貌特徵，協助選取嫦娥五號的着陸點。 理大是香港唯一擁有國際太空任務實戰經驗的高等院校，自2010年起在國家的太空探究項目方面一直不遺餘力。為支持國家的探月工程，容教授多年來與中國空間技術研究院的專家攜手研製出多項太空儀器，包括應用於2013年嫦娥三號及2019年嫦娥四號的月背探測任務的「相機指向機構系統」，以及2020年應用於天問一號的「落火狀態監視相機」。理大團隊的「表取採樣執行裝置」亦將應用於嫦娥六號探月任務。 理大多年來積極參與不同的太空探索項目，研製各項先進的太空儀器，包括為歐洲太空總署2003年火星快車任務研發「岩芯取樣器」，以及為2011年的中俄聯合探索火星任務研發「行星表土準備系統」。 [From PolyU Media Release] Media Coverage SCMP - https://bit.ly/33iakuV Mirage News - https://bit.ly/3kWaduU Metro Broadcast - https://bit.ly/374br2m Oriental Daily News - https://bit.ly/35YnHSC Ming Pao Daily News - https://bit.ly/39aXlP9 Sing Tao Daily - https://bit.ly/3m4Zm2W Sky Post - https://bit.ly/2J9pcVb Wen Wei Po - https://bit.ly/2V4TNFP; https://bit.ly/3m424pE Ta Kung Pao - https://bit.ly/2Jbuhfn; https://bit.ly/3pZXrzi Hong Kong Commercial Daily - https://bit.ly/2KxOoVP U Lifestyle - https://bit.ly/2UUTZYq Yahoo - https://bit.ly/2KzyMBf HK01 - https://bit.ly/3fC2v8k  

ISE graduates won the Champion at the HKIE Control, Automation & Instrumentation Division “CA Paper Award Competition (Postgraduate level) 2019/20”

ISE graduates Dr. Huo Yunzhang and Mr. Tong Chi Fung won the Champion in the “CA Paper Award Competition (Postgraduate level) 2019/20” organized by the Hong Kong Institution of Engineers (HKIE) – Control, Automation and Instrumentation Division (CAD) and co-organized by the Institute of Measurement and Control, Hong Kong Section. The awarded paper is titled as “Trust Model with Risk Perception towards Industrial Collaborative Robot in Smart Manufacturing” which is supervised by Dr. Carman Lee. The CA Paper Award Competition aims to promote the Control, Automation & Instrumentation technologies and to encourage young/ potential engineers and technologists presenting their innovative ideas. Advanced Human-Machine Interaction is one of the crucial features that a ‘smart factory’ requires. Some manufacturing factories have started to adopt collaborative robot to work with human labors so the productivity and quality of the products can be increased. This awarded paper aimed to identify the factors that influence trust of human users on industrial collaborative robot. Empirical evidence of the effect of perceived risk on trust was provided and discussed.

Students from the BSc (Hons) Scheme in Logistics and Enterprise Engineering win gold with education project on personal finance

A team of five students from the BSc (Hons) Scheme in Logistics and Enterprise Engineering have won the Gold Award in the “Excellent Financial Education Project”, Personal Finance Ambassador Programme 2019/20, co-organised by the Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing, Investor and Financial Education Council, and St James’ Settlement. Based on the theme of e-payments, the team, comprising Chan Kam-fai, Kwok Chun-yin, Li Tsz-chung, Wong Chun-hoi and Yu Shun-kit, built an online platform of videos and games, which they promoted through social media channels, such as YouTube and Instagram, to educate other students about key concepts in financial management. Their creativity and adaptability were commendable. Alongside winning a trophy and cash prize, the team was also awarded the Personal Finance Ambassador Certificate. Source: https://www.polyu.edu.hk/cpa/Ebook/Excel_X_Impact/June2020/index.html#page/46

Advanced laser manufacturing to enhance protection of surgical masks and N95 respirators against COVID-19

Dr. Mitch Li's group developed novel laser manufacturing processes for printing superhydrophobic and photothermal graphene and silver nanoparticles for surgical masks and N95 respirators against COVID-19. Funder: These works are funded by our ISE department and State Key Laboratory of Ultra-Precision Machining Technology. Publications: Plasmonic and Superhydrophobic Self-Decontaminating N95 Respirators Reusable and Recyclable Graphene Masks with Outstanding Superhydrophobic and Photothermal Performances Graphene joins the fight against COVID-19

ISE graduate won the HKIE LTD - Best Student Papers Awards 2019

Law Tsz Yan, who is the graduate of BSc in Logistics Engineering with Management, won the HKIE LTD - Best Student Papers Awards 2019 with the project titled “Workflow Study of Internet of Things (IoT) Application for Smart Manufacturing”. The project made use of the risk assessment by means of Fuzzy AHP to identify to key risk factors that the electronics manufacturing company may encounter during the electronics manufacturing process. With the increasing demand for high-tech, feature-rich and high-quality products, the smart manufacturing with the IoT application is suggested to addresses the identified risk for satisfying the market needs and improving operational efficiency. The award was the annual event organized by the Logistics and Transportation Division of The Hong Kong Institution of Engineers (HKIE-LTD). It is for the student studying accredited Logistics or Transportation Engineering Degree Programs in Hong Kong and have completed an outstanding dissertation on logistics or transportation engineering. It aims to promote innovative ideas and research in the design and implementation of sustainable logistics and transportation systems and encourage them to pursue their career in engineering profession.