In a scene reminiscent of fantasy and martial arts films, Chinese influencer Fan Shisan has unveiled a stunning creation: a swarm of flying swords that can be controlled with hand gestures. How did this innovator turn a childhood dream into a dazzling technological reality?
Article contents:
- When imagination meets technology
- The reveal of the flying swords
- How do these swords work?
- Gesture control
- From swarm to rideable hover sword
- Inspiration and passion for martial arts
- Records and future ambitions
- Frequently asked questions
When imagination meets technology
Flying swords controlled remotely by warriors have long been a staple of Chinese fantasy novels, martial arts films, and anime. Now, driven by technological innovation and passion, that imagination has turned into tangible reality. Fan Shisan, an influencer from China’s Sichuan province, is no stranger to the world of swords; his visual content abounds with hand-crafted blades that are sometimes literally flying.
The reveal of the flying swords
In a recently published video, Fan showcased a swarm of flying swords that appeared to obey his every command. Aerial footage shows the influencer raising his hands dramatically, directing the sword swarm into the air in one swift motion. The scene is breathtaking, embodying a unique artistic and technical vision.
How do these swords work?
The secret lies in integrating drone technology into traditional sword designs. Each sword appears to operate like a rectangular quadcopter. The swords are equipped with propellers at the point and hilt, plus two additional propellers on each side of the crossguard. This design provides the stability and maneuverability required for controlled flight.
Gesture control
According to the video caption, these sword-like drones are operated via motion controls. Using his hand, Fan can push and pull the swords back and forth, forcing them to change direction mid-flight. The effect is truly striking, creating the illusion that the swords are moving by mental or magical force, just like in fairy tales.
From swarm to rideable hover sword
Fan’s innovation did not stop there. Earlier this year, the People’s Daily reported that Fan developed a flying sword large enough to ride and skate on, similar to the hoverboard from “Back to the Future Part II”. Building this creation took the influencer and his four-person team approximately two months.
Fan told the newspaper: “Initially, we used 20 ducted fans, but the thrust wasn’t enough. We added four more fans, which gave us the power we needed, and that’s how the ‘flying sword’ you see in the video became a reality.”
Inspiration and passion for martial arts
Fan draws his inspiration from a deep love for traditional Chinese martial arts and its surrounding culture. His quest to merge these ancient traditions with modern technology opens new horizons for artistic expression and technological innovation. His projects are not merely technical displays, but a tribute to the culture he grew up in.
Records and future ambitions
In addition to his aviation innovations, the influencer holds two Guinness World Records. The first is for the “fastest time to cut five pieces of A4 paper in the air with a single-edged martial arts sword,” which took him just 7.46 seconds. The second is for the “fastest time to cut 10 watermelons with a martial arts sword.”
Looking ahead, the sword enthusiast hopes to grow his swarm to include “ten thousand swords as one.” If his past successes are any indication, he will achieve his new dream in very short order, continuing to amaze the world with his innovations blending past and future.
Frequently asked questions
Are these real flying swords?
They are essentially drones designed to look like swords. They use propellers to fly and are remotely controlled.
How are the flying swords controlled?
They are operated using motion control (gesture) technology, where the user’s hand movements translate into flight commands for the swords.
Who is Fan Shisan?
He is a Chinese influencer specializing in sword-making and martial arts, known for his innovations blending modern technology with traditional craftsmanship, and he holds Guinness World Records.
Can anyone buy these swords?
So far, these innovations appear to be personal projects and prototypes by influencer Fan Shisan, rather than commercial products widely available for purchase.
