A testing lab in the East Lake High-tech Development Zone. [Photo/WeChat account of Optics Valley of China]

As an essential link that is vital to technology transfers, pilot testing connects innovation with industry.

Three major pilot test platforms have recently begun operations in the East Lake High-tech Development Zone (also known as Optics Valley of China, or OVC), Wuhan, Central China's Hubei province.

They are the laser processing craft pilot test platform of Wuhan Huagong Laser Engineering Co, the new medicine and high-end preparation pilot test platform of Humanwell Healthcare Group Co, and the new-type display pilot test platform of TCL.

According to Yang Jun, president of Humanwell Healthcare Group Co, the company allocates more than 10 percent of its sales revenue to R&D. There are currently over 20 programs being carried out in its pilot test platform. Additionally, it is estimated that two new medicine programs will be commercialized in Wuhan during the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-25).

TCL is a leading display panel manufacturer in Wuhan, and its pilot test platform occupies an area of 5,700 square meters. "The new-type display pilot test platform will largely improve Wuhan's industrial strength in new-type displays. It will also encourage enterprises from the semi-conductor display industry to settle in the city," said a senior staff member of TCL.

The laser processing craft pilot test platform of Wuhan Huagong Laser Engineering Co boasts three provincial craft research platforms and nearly 100 professionals. In addition, the platform has 50 testing facilities, and is also equipped with more than 100 sets of equipment for laser welding, laser cutting, and 3D printing.