How many coronaviruses can live on an elevator button? A lot, and you don't want to touch it.

But a creative inventor has devised a solution. Using 3D printing technology, Zhao Qingming, 39, from Beijing's Haidian district, rigged up a set of contactless buttons for the lift in his 16-floor apartment building.

It's a timely creation, considering the COVID-19 epidemic. The legendary better mousetrap may be born someday. So why not a better elevator button? It has immediate practical application.

Zhao, who works for an internet advertising business, likes creating interesting things. He was motivated by his mother, an anti-virus volunteer for the community.

He noticed his neighbors using tissues when they pressed the elevator buttons and figured there had to be a better way. The design took half a month, and Zhao purchased all the needed materials online, draining his bank account but making good use of time in isolation.

The gadget was ready in six weeks after several rounds of testing and adjustments. It looks a bit like a stack of piano keys. People can just wave a finger near the button and — click! — the chosen floor is selected and the elevator engages.

The device was welcomed by all Zhao's neighbors, who liked the new, virus-free convenience.