The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) and Zhejiang Qiangnao Technology Co. Limited have formalized a collaborative effort by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on March 15, 2024. This agreement, executed at Cyberport, aims to establish the “PolyU-Qiangnao Joint Research Centre for Brain-Computer Interface” (BCI) and to promote the deployment of intelligent bionic limbs in Hong Kong.
This partnership is poised to enhance the translation and application of medical technology, particularly benefiting individuals with disabilities. The MoU was signed by Prof. Zheng Yongping, Henry G. Leong Professor in Biomedical Engineering at PolyU, and Ms. Nyx He, Partner of Qiangnao Technology, with the presence of notable figures including Prof. Jin-Guang Teng, President of PolyU, and Mr. Bicheng Han, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Qiangnao Technology.
Significance of the Collaboration
Prof. Jin-Guang Teng emphasized the importance of this collaboration, stating that it marks a significant milestone in Hong Kong’s innovation ecosystem, particularly in the realm of smart rehabilitation technology. He noted that PolyU has a rich history of nurturing over 50,000 healthcare professionals over the past fifty years, highlighting the university’s commitment to advancing medicine-engineering integration and promoting medical innovation.
The MoU aligns with the recent Policy Address by the Hong Kong Government, which announced a two-year scheme to provide full subsidies for amputees in the region for the configuration and use of high-tech prostheses. This initiative aims to improve the quality of life for amputees and will be actively supported by the partnership between PolyU and Qiangnao Technology.
Advancements in Medical Technology
Qiangnao Technology is recognized for its pioneering work in non-invasive BCI and intelligent prosthetic technologies. The company has developed the world’s first mass-produced intuitive-controlled intelligent prosthetic bionic hands and innovative solutions across rehabilitation, sports health, and education sectors. Mr. Bicheng Han expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating that it aims to expedite the validation and application of their technologies in both clinical and real-life scenarios.
With a robust portfolio exceeding 420 patents, Qiangnao Technology has made substantial advancements in rehabilitation and assistive technologies for individuals with disabilities and brain diseases. The collaboration with PolyU will focus on research, development, clinical studies, and technology upgrades for BCI-related products, aiming to establish a next-generation BCI technology platform.
Prof. Zheng Yongping will lead the PolyU team, leveraging his expertise in ultrasound imaging and intelligent rehabilitation. His team has previously achieved significant milestones, including the Gold Medal with Congratulations of the Jury at the 49th International Exhibition of Inventions in Geneva for ProRuka, a prosthetic hand controlled by sonomyography and AI algorithms.
The partnership will also encompass educational initiatives, such as curriculum design and student competitions, to engage various age groups. This collaborative effort is expected to extend beyond Hong Kong, aiming to deliver affordable, sustainable, and diverse innovative solutions for users in the Greater Bay Area and internationally.
By combining PolyU’s academic strength and Qiangnao Technology’s expertise, both parties are optimistic about the future of rehabilitation technology and the positive impact it will have on the lives of individuals with disabilities.
