A Chinese University research team won a gold medal with Jury Congratulations and a bronze medal at the 50th International Exhibition of Inventions Geneva for two battery-free innovations – a keyboard and a smart insole.

Liao Wei-hsin, a professor in the Mechanical and Automation Engineering Department, said the idea for a battery-free wireless keyboard originated from observations of everyday life.

It utilises cutting-edge conversion technology that transforms kinetic energy from each keystroke into electrical power to operate the keyboard and transmit signals.

"We can basically reduce dependence on batteries because they can also be detrimental to the environment," Liao told RTHK.

"So with this [battery-free technology], we can use it in our daily life with more products."

The other invention, a smart insole for gait monitoring, enables the systematic study of human movement patterns and characteristics.

It can help in the early detection of chronic health issues, support rehabilitation and enhance sports performance analyses.

Liao said the batteryless smart insole not only eliminates the need for battery replacements and charging but also represents a significant breakthrough in piezoelectric technology and the harvesting of kinetic energy.