EI faculty Showcased Innovations at the WEF Summer Davos 2024
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) was honored to be invited to participate in the 15th Annual Meeting of the New Champions held by the World Economic Forum in Dalian, China in June 2024. This prestigious event is also known as the Summer Davos Forum.
Prof. GUO Yike, HKUST Provost and world-renowned scholar on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning, shared his thought leadership on the interplay of Generative AI and art. Joining Prof. Guo at the global event were EI Director Prof. SHAO Minhua, Cheong Ying Chan Professor of Energy Engineering and Environment, and Head and Chair Professor, Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, and Prof. FAN Zhiyong, Chair Professor, Department of Electronic and Computer Engineering while Prof. HUI Pan, Chair Professor of Computational Media and Arts of HKUST (GZ), participated as a member of Global Future Council on the Future of Metaverse.
The “Frontiers of Innovation Expo”, which showcased state-of-the-art inventions specially selected by WEF, was a highlight at Summer Davos 2024. Prof. Shao and Prof. Fan presented their groundbreaking inventions which enhance inclusivity and sustainability for a better world at this prestigious event.
Developed by Prof. Shao, the hydrogen fuel cell directs participants’ attention to the increasing use of hydrogen as a cleaner source of energy. Hydrogen fuel cell is a promising clean energy option as it generates power by converting hydrogen and oxygen into electricity, with zero emission of carbon dioxide, particulate matters and other air pollutants that may cause smog and other health problems. If hydrogen fuel cells are more cost-effective to produce, they could be deployed globally, furthering carbon neutrality goals. Boasting high durability, it stands as a testament to the University’s commitment to sustainability.
The other exhibit, the world's first 3D artificial eye developed by Prof. Fan, has proved to outperform existing bionic eyes, igniting hopes for patients with visual impairment worldwide. The 3D artificial retina – made of an array of nanowire light sensors which mimic the photoreceptors in human retinas. The working principle of the artificial eye involves an electrochemical process which is adopted from a type of solar cell. In principle, each photo sensor on the artificial retina can serve as a nanoscale solar cell. With further modification, the EC-Eye can be a self-powered image sensor, so there is no need for external power source nor circuitry when used for ocular prosthesis, which will be much more user-friendly as compared with the current technology.
With the theme of "New Frontiers for Future Growth", this forum brought together more than 1,600 leaders and innovators from business, politics, social organizations and international organizations to discuss ways to achieve sustainable development of the global economy.