Rizhao Port wins South African patent for AI water gauge system

Shandong Port Group's (SPG) Rizhao Port has obtained a South African patent for its independently developed "Big Data-Based Intelligent Water Gauge Recognition System", marking a key step in the global expansion of its smart tallying technologies.

The South African patent certificate for Rizhao Port's intelligent water gauge recognition system. [Photo/WeChat account: Shandong-Port]

The achievement highlights the international competitiveness of Rizhao Port's digital innovation while strengthening its intellectual property protection in overseas markets, particularly across Africa. It also reinforces the port's core strength in port tallying services.

Traditionally, vessel water gauge measurements required surveyors to climb gangways and board ship decks, a process that carried safety risks and was prone to human error. With the adoption of AI-powered recognition and remotely operated mobile platforms, surveyors can now conduct real-time, remote observation and intelligent identification of water gauges without boarding vessels. This transformation significantly improves operational safety, while also enhancing measurement accuracy and efficiency.

"Previously, everything relied on visual judgment. Now, AI enables us to see farther and more clearly — saving time and improving efficiency," said Lin Wei, a surveyor from Rizhao Port's external tallying company.

In recent years, following Shandong Port Group's integrated reform, Rizhao Port has continued to increase investment in technological innovation, focusing on smart tallying and inspection technologies. The port has accumulated multiple patents, utility models, and software copyrights, and has been recognized as a technology-based small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) and a specialized, innovative enterprise.

Looking ahead, Rizhao Port will continue advancing intelligent tallying solutions, using innovation to further enhance efficiency, service quality, and operational capability.