Developed jointly with Enkia; total project budget of 2.7 billion won over 12 months

A port crane, the target equipment for wire rope diagnostic device installation. [Busan Port Authority]
A port crane, the target equipment for wire rope diagnostic device installation. [Busan Port Authority]

The Busan Port Authority announced Tuesday that an AI-based safety management technology for port cargo handling equipment, developed jointly with Enkia Co., has been selected for the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries' "Marine and Fisheries AI Application Product Rapid Commercialization Support Program."

Port crane wire rope management has traditionally relied on visual inspections, which have limited effectiveness in detecting internal defects or preventing sudden breakdowns.

The newly selected technology combines magnetic signal-based diagnostic devices with AI computing to detect anomalies in real time and accurately predict remaining service life. It also integrates measurement data with crane operating conditions and maintenance records to support on-site maintenance decisions through automated reporting and alert functions.

The project carries a total budget of 2.7 billion won ($1.76 million), including 1.9 billion won in government funding, and is set to run for 12 months beginning this month.

The Busan Port Authority plans to advance the technology toward commercialization under real-world conditions through prototype development and expanded field demonstrations. It also intends to support on-site infrastructure by selecting equipment for technical validation and establishing a cooperation framework with pier operators.

Enkia, the co-developer, will handle the entire process from product development to commercialization, including building an integrated AI and data analytics operating system.

The authority plans to conduct full-scale field demonstrations at five piers whose operators have expressed interest in participating. It also intends to review validated performance data from major construction companies that have already applied the technology at large construction sites, to improve its applicability at Busan Port.

"We will strengthen on-site communication and technical support with startups and small and medium-sized enterprises, so that Busan Port Authority can lead the localization of AI technology in the shipping and port sector and serve as a springboard for helping small and medium-sized enterprises expand and grow in both domestic and international markets," BPA President Song Sang-geun said.


alsgp9737@heraldcorp.com