Anigmoteh convinced the jury with its multifunctional gesture-control unit. The device, which can be implemented in household and electronic devices, solves the conflict between the aesthetics and growing complexity of smart houses.

A second award went to the Faculty of Engineering for dissipative granulated materials for muffling noise and vibrations, which can be used in railway transport and heavy machinery.

Helios was honoured for its new polymer binding substance for a water-based car repair system, which enables regulation of viscosity and other features of coatings and reduces the amount of toxic vapours.

Five other inventions received a special recognition.

The Ljubljana Biotechnical Faculty and Silvaprodukt, which specialises in protective coatings, developed a superhydrophobic product that significantly increases the strength of pine and beech wood.

Domel, a manufacturer of household cleaning and air conditioning devices, was honoured for the most innovative business model, while Quadrofoil won in the category of creative industries for its innovative hydrofoil vessel.

The most innovative start-up is Setran Plus, which has developed a passive air conditioning device which can save up to 90% of electricity.

This year's forum, which will run until Thursday, presents 47 innovations which have been selected out of 144 entries by a special jury.

The jury head Matjaž B. Jurič told the press that about 60% of innovations presented at the forum were already in the phase of realisation.