Asian Innovation Awards
2004

GOLD Award


Mr Tan Kim Cheng demonstrating how his plastic mesh can be fitted into a patient's skull

Temasek Engineering lecturer, Mr Tan Kim Cheng, has won a Gold Award at Asian Innovation Awards, for his development of a biodegradable plastic mesh that can be used to patch holes in the skulls of people who had undergone surgery for head injuries, speeding up recovery greatly. The substance provides a cheaper and safer alternative to titanium implants, which have a higher risk of infection. Mr Tan Kim Cheng jointly developed the plastic-like mesh, along with 5 other members from the National University of Singapore.
The project beat 83 other submissions from around the world, based on the following criteria: level of creativity, quality of execution, and its potential to improve the quality of life.

The 6 member-team received their award from President SR Nathan at a presentation ceremony held on 12 Oct 2004.

Mr Teo Ming Kian, Chairman of the Economic Development Board (EDB), commented: "This sprightly spirit of innovation distinguishes our enterprises as they make their mark on the world map, enhancing our everyday life with new advances."

The Asian Innovation Awards, now into its 7th year, was held in association with Global Entrepolis @ Singapore 2004.

For their breakthrough, the team also won the prestigious Engineering Achievement Award 2004, given by the Institution of Engineers Singapore (IEES) on 5 Nov 2004 at the Ritz Carlton Hotel.

Read NUS report

Subsequently, Mr Tan Kim Cheng and the project team produced a paper entitled "Cranioplasty Following Trephination Using a Novel Biodegradable Burr Hole Cover", which has been accepted for publication in the prestigious Neurosurgery in June 2005.

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