A technological innovation subject by Shanghai Jiao Tong University attracts visitors' attention at the 1st China University Scientific and Technological Achievements Fair held in Huizhou, Guangdong province, in June.[Photo provided to China Daily]

University tech fair helps boost ties with country's corporate sector

A wearable exoskeleton suit for paralyzed individuals and a high-grade alloy that allow thinner metal casting were just two of the innovations the academic community presented to the business world in June.

Participants at the first China University Scientific and Technological Achievements Fair expect the event to promote exchanges between the academic and corporate sectors for better commercial use of research results.

Universities produce many scientific and technological achievements and it is necessary to present them in a way easily recognized and accepted by the corporate sector, says Shan Aidang, dean of School of Materials Science and Engineering of Shanghai Jiao Tong University.

Due to their technological limitation, many companies are unable to state the problems they face accurately.

The fair serves as a platform for mutual understanding, Shan says.

Shan's university led a number of Chinese universities in the new materials pavilion at the fair, held in Huizhou, Guangdong province, between June 22 and 24. On display were 98 items reflecting new materials research achievements chosen by the organizer from more than 5,000 items submitted by universities.

One of the items, from Shan's university, was an alloy which can be cast to make thinner.