SOCKS for people living with a disability and a bladeless drone are among the inventions competing for the top prize in a student competition.
School and university-age young people have also created a protective girth to help prevent injury in horses and a `magic' bottle top to keep water clean.
The six projects - from 16-24-year-olds - are part of the Student Invent section of the larger Invent showcase.
Invent is Connect at Catalyst Inc's annual competition which rewards local innovations and proof of concept ideas that have the greatest commercial potential.
Studying at Queens University Belfast, Ulster University (UU) and St Joseph's Grammar in Donaghmore, they showcased their inventions in the student final.
Judge Tim Brundle from UU said they had all shown quality and innovation in the design of their products.
"The common trait amongst the finalists is that they had a problem and they solved it with a new innovation," he said.
Invent Programme Manager Kerry McGarvey said: "Each year we are overwhelmed by the creativity, enthusiasm and professionalism of the student finalists.
"Many of this year's finalists are serial entrepreneurs with lots of additional ideas in the pipeline. It's such a joy to see young people giving the competition their all - the judges have a tough decision."
The overall Student Invent winner, decided by a judging panel, will be announced at the Invent 2018 awards night on October 11.
