As the new year begins, Xi'an is experiencing a surge of momentum driven by technological innovation. New productive forces are rapidly developing, research and development achievements are being transformed at an accelerated pace, and the deep integration of technological and industrial innovation is increasingly being applied in everyday life.

Use brain-computer interface to control drones

At Norinco Group (Xi'an) Hi-Tech Industry Base Advanced Concept Verification Center, a postgraduate student from Xidian University wore a "brain-computer interface hat" with numerous intersecting circuits, and used brain waves to control an unmanned drone, making it move forward and flip, while observing the countless flashing squares on the computer screen. He explained that they are currently testing brain-controlled drones. They can also achieve control over robotic arms, unmanned small vehicles, and more.

The researchers demonstrate visual enhancement hat

The center, established by Xidian University and Norinco Group, has released new research results in optoelectronics and brain-like intelligence, promoting cooperation in technical verification and product development, according to Qin Hanlin, Deputy Dean of the School of Optoelectronics at Xidian University.

Self-driving boat navigates in the Xi'an Moat

Orcauboat is a leading domestic provider of unmanned surface vehicle systems and intelligent marine equipment in China. The company currently has three main business segments: unmanned environmental protection vessels, smart passenger boats, and self-developed intelligent unmanned system for boats.

The models of smart water bodies maintenance series products

"Our eco-friendly unmanned boats come in sizes of 3, 7, and 20 meters. They feature a smart networking system for water surface cleaning, water quality monitoring, and safety patrols. Users can access real-time water quality and surface condition data through our platform." CEO Zhu Jiannan mentioned, "We currently have around 1,000 of these boats operating globally."

Pic from Qujiang New Area

Orcauboat combines unmanned boats with cultural tourism, launching smart cruise boats that integrate catering on water. This innovative business model has been deployed at sites like Xi'an Moat and Kunming Lake, enhancing the intelligent development of water-based cultural tourism.

In 2024, Xi'an achieved 110 technological breakthroughs in key industries like semiconductors, biomedicine, and AI. The city's technology contracts reached 450 trillion yuan (about 63 billion USD), a 15.3% increase year-on-year. Xi'an ranked 18th in the World Intellectual Property Organization's 2024 Global Innovation Index report "Top 100 Science and Technology Cluster Briefs 2024". This year, the city will deepen the integration of technological and industrial innovation integration to foster new productive forces.