Jeju-based spatial data company ODS has announced the development of a drone and artificial intelligence solution designed for detailed inspection of coastal infrastructure. The project was completed with support from the Jeju Technopark Lava Seawater Center and aims to strengthen safety monitoring in marine environments that are difficult to access. By combining high-resolution aerial imaging with three-dimensional modeling, the company seeks to detect structural changes more accurately over time.
Tackling Existing Coastal Inspection Risks
Traditional inspections of coastal facilities have generally depended on workers visiting sites and carrying out visual assessments. Access to areas such as the lower portions of tetrapods or the outer edges of breakwaters is often difficult and involves considerable safety hazards. These limitations have also made it challenging for authorities to maintain objective, time-based records of structural change, as manual methods provide limited consistency and create elevated risks for field personnel.
How the Drone and AI Solution Works
The ODS system transforms high-resolution drone imagery into precise three-dimensional models of coastal structures. Artificial intelligence algorithms then automatically overlay past and current 3D data from the same area in a time-series comparison. This process allows the technology to identify displacement, microcracks, and settlement triggered by typhoons, strong waves, and prolonged exposure to harsh marine conditions.
Field Validation with Jeju Partners
ODS carried out real-world testing at coastal and port locations with the support of the Jeju Technopark Lava Seawater Center. The validation covered the complete sequence from 3D data acquisition to analysis, confirming the solution can be applied in practical settings. According to the company, the approach also streamlines administrative workflows and helps local governments establish proactive responses to safety risks.
Leveraging Local Incubation Programs
ODS has strengthened its regional base as a resident company of Seogwipo Startup Bay and as a selected firm in the eleventh cohort of the Jeju Big Tomorrow Center. These local programs have provided access to startup infrastructure, mentorship, and public resources that contributed to continuous technical improvement. The company leveraged these opportunities to enhance the readiness of its inspection technology for real-world use.
Executive Perspective on Regional Support
Chief Executive Officer Yoon Jun-ho attributed the completion of field-ready technology to the systematic support of the Jeju Technopark Lava Seawater Center, Seogwipo Startup Bay, and the Jeju Big Tomorrow Center. He stated that the company intends to expand collaboration with local governments and relevant institutions to improve the effectiveness of coastal safety management. Yoon added that these partnerships will play a central role in advancing practical safety measures.
Company Focus on Digital Twin and Safety
ODS specializes in safety inspection and digital twin development for social infrastructure such as coastal and port facilities. The firm uses drone imaging, 3D spatial data, and AI-driven time-series analysis to compare historical and current conditions of structures. This capability allows it to detect displacement, deformation, and fine defects while improving efficiency from field investigation to report generation.
The announcement illustrates how Jeju's public startup programs can help technology companies create practical tools for public safety and infrastructure management. ODS plans to expand its drone and AI inspection solution through broader cooperation with municipal governments, public agencies, and infrastructure operators. The development reflects a wider shift toward data-driven strategies that support proactive accident prevention and more efficient stewardship of coastal assets.