Kuwaiti Inventors Showcase Innovations at Middle East International Invention Exhibition

Kuwait city: Kuwaiti inventors participating in the Middle East International Invention Exhibition described the event as a key scientific platform enabling innovators to present ideas to specialists and investors and transform prototypes into promising economic projects.

According to Kuwait News Agency, participants praised the patronage of His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, noting that it reflects strong political support for research and development. The exhibition is said to create a competitive environment based on international judging standards, which helps refine expertise and develop national capabilities. Participants expressed hope that their involvement would help market their innovations, strengthen the national economy, and enhance Kuwait's scientific standing.

Inventor Mishari Al-Mutairi introduced a "Smart Diving Helmet" designed to overcome traditional diving limitations by generating oxygen directly from seawater. The helmet purifies seawater through nanofiltration and uses electrolysis to separate oxygen from hydrogen, providing breathable oxygen while expelling hydrogen. This innovation reduces reliance on heavy air cylinders, lowers costs, extends dive duration, and allows quieter diving for maritime, research, and rescue operations.

Inventor Omar Al-Khamees presented the "Q8 Safe Socket," a mechanical solution to household electrical hazards developed with a safety-by-design concept. The socket prevents electrical current from flowing until the plug is fully inserted, enhancing child safety and reducing accidental contact risks without using electronic components.

A Kuwaiti engineering team, comprising Sheikha Shams Al-Din, Dalal Al-Oda, Hayat Al-Bassam, and Salwa Al-Azmi, supervised by Prof. Khaled Al-Hezaa, showcased the "UBOATIT" automated docking system. The technology uses remote control, air suction valves, and a rotating arm to dock boats safely within one to two minutes. It operates efficiently even in harsh weather conditions, reducing accidents and material losses.

In the realm of environmental research, Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR) researcher Dr. Mishari Khaja announced the development of a wastewater treatment system for reverse osmosis plants using constructed wetlands technology, which has obtained a US patent. Developed with Dr. Mohammad Al-Montasir Ahmad, the system integrates natural and technological processes to produce high-quality water for remote areas through an automated tidal treatment method, lowering costs and supporting biodiversity.

Another KISR team, comprising Salem Al-Salem, Fadheela Al-Salameen, and Mohammad Al-Eskandarani, secured a US patent for an antimicrobial polymeric film capable of combating viruses and bacteria, including COVID-19. Produced using nanotechnology and recycled materials, the film supports public health and environmental sustainability, with potential applications in food packaging and medical equipment.