The patented and award-winning CAPS, a joint effort by Sino Group and Arup, has progressed to the second generation. Fabricated in the form of a bus shelter, CAPS II represents a leap in efficiency in addition to featuring a stylish design. The enhanced system features an air curtain and duo air currents to shield from pollutants, it is capable of removing fine suspended particles (PM10 and PM2.5) in the air using anti-bacteria, nano-porous filter developed by the Nano and Advanced Materials Institute, which can effectively decompose volatile organic compound and kill microbes. The system also harvests solar energy through photovoltaic panels installed on top to self-sustain. To provide users with greater convenience, CAPS 2 is connected with the Internet of Things (IoT) that enables real-time monitoring, data comparison and interactive displays to show useful information on weather, air quality and bus schedules.
Mr David Ng, Group General Manager of Sino Group, remarks, ‘We are deeply honoured by the prestigious, international recognition bestowed on our humble idea of cleaning air in the open space. It is very encouraging to see our conception brought to life, proven the effectiveness and progressing with enhanced efficiency and functionalities. We hope it sparks more creative and innovative ideas to contribute to a healthier and greener future.’
Mr Daryl Ng, JP, Deputy Chairman of Sino Group, adds, ‘We are humbled that the system is again recognised at the revered international exhibition for innovators. The bus shelter module has wide applications for Hong Kong and all urban markets. It can be adopted for various modes of transport or retrofitted into existing buildings and structures. We have installation plans to benefit the community while supporting the development of Smart City in a greener way.’
The prototype of the novel In-building Hydropower System (Generation Three) was unveiled at the exhibition. In the third generation of the sysem, the hydraulic design of the hydro turbine has been improved to enhance efficiency. The new system also features magnetic coupling for transmission and sealing, which does not require external power source, minimising the likelihood of wear-and-tear. Furthermore, a sub-system of bypass is designed to prevent excessive water pressure reduction and ensure normal water supply to the properties. The system has an output of about 200W when consuming 3 bar water pressure, generating hydroelectricity in a green and low-cost way while reducing carbon emissions. About 1.4 tonne of carbon dioxide emission can be saved per annum, which is equivalent to about 60 trees.
Smart Car Park Lighting System, developed by start-up Liricco Technologies Limited, is an intelligent building management system integrating multiple functions like energy saving, data collection and security alert. The system can automatically adjust brightness basing on ambience brightness and usage patterns of the drivers and passers-by, enabling substantial energy saving. The system also collects data and sends out security or maintenance alerts when it detects irregularity or hardware failure. Sino Group is putting the system on pilot at the car park of Olympian City 3.
‘The Group is committed to supporting R & D, we have been promoting innovation and technology through different platforms over the past several years. We look forward to more collaborations with universities and like-minded partners from Hong Kong and overseas to explore more possibilities and out-of-the-box urban solutions,’ says Mr Daryl Ng.
The International Exhibition of Inventions Geneva is widely recognised as the most important specialist event of its kind, attracting hundreds of exhibitors from around the world to showcase their inventions and innovations. Held in April this year, over 1,000 inventions have been presented by some 800 exhibitors from more than 40 countries and regions.
