The Innovation and Technology Commission has launched a new video series to showcase the outstanding projects of its five local R&D Centres, namely, the Automotive Parts and Accessory Systems R&D Centre (APAS), the Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute (ASTRI), the Hong Kong Research Institute of Textiles and Apparel (HKRITA), the Hong Kong R&D Centre for Logistics and Supply Chain Management Enabling Technologies (LSCM) and the Nano and Advanced Materials Institute Limited (NAMI). These five R&D Centres drive and coordinate applied research and development in selected focus areas and promote the commercialisation of their R&D results, thereby improving our quality of life in many ways.

In the videos, APAS introduces Hong Kong's first Multi-standard Mobilised Smart EV Charger. This supports various charging standards across different types of electrical vehicles around the world. The Chargers takes only five to seven minutes of charging for an additional 20km of running time, allowing drivers to travel to the nearest station to continue with full recharging. This mobile and fast charging solution is a key technology for promoting electric vehicles development in Hong Kong.

ASTRI has developed a smart investment platform for preparing and supporting future intelligent investment services and other FinTech applications. It leverages artificial intelligence and big data to filter stocks, and serves as a tool for investors who are not familiar with programming to do automated trading and make more rational and objective decisions based on data analytics.

HKRITA has developed a pair of asymmetric functional fencing shoes for the Hong Kong fencing team. To best fit the fencing moves and postures, the shoes are designed to be asymmetric with its unique design and materials. Shock absorption materials are added to areas where impact is strong, to enhance the foot and leg protection and enable better performance for fencers.

LSCM developed the industry's first hybrid reader, a handheld device that combines fv1D/2/D barcode reading and RFID encoding function. It works with the "Self Bag Drop Service" launched by Hong Kong International Airport to shorten passengers' queuing time at counters and improve the operating efficiency of the airport.

To combat the issue of water seepage in buildings, NAMI has developed unique nano cementitious waterproofing materials. By evenly dispersing nanoparticles in the coating, the materials deliver enhanced tensile strength, ductility and bonding strength, offering superb waterproofing properties. NAMI's waterproofing coating was put into production in Hong Kong in June 2016, and has since produced more than 20 tons of this specialised coating.

Click here to watch the videos on the TechHongKong YouTube channel.