Project leaders
The project is led by Zhejiang Chengshi Robot Co., Ltd, a technology company specialized in robotic solutions for rescue and emergency response, with systems deployed in real-world operations in both maritime and land-based environments. The company is part of the maritime innovation ecosystem PIER71™, an international reference platform for port innovation and the blue economy.
Project description
The solution focuses on remotely controlled maritime rescue life jackets, designed as intelligent self-propelled lifebuoys to enable rapid and safe intervention in man-overboard situations in port and coastal environments. These devices are equipped with electric motors, remote-control systems, and cameras, allowing operators to precisely guide them toward a person in distress, even under adverse conditions such as strong currents, waves, or low visibility.
Once they reach the victim, the life jackets provide immediate flotation and stability, buying critical time until rescue teams arrive or enabling the safe transfer of the person to a protected area. This first-response capability is particularly relevant in ports with high operational activity, canals, rivers, and coastal areas with intense traffic, where rapid intervention can be decisive.
The technology significantly reduces risk for rescue personnel, as it avoids the need for immediate human entry into the water in potentially dangerous situations. In addition, these solutions can be integrated into port safety protocols and complement other emergency response systems, strengthening the operational resilience of port infrastructures.
The maturity of the system is demonstrated by its deployment in real emergency operations and its adaptability to different incident scenarios, consolidating it as a key tool for advanced safety management in ports.
Project objectives
The project aims to improve response capacity to water-related emergencies in port and maritime environments, reducing intervention times and minimizing human exposure to risk. It seeks to reinforce existing safety protocols with technological solutions that enable immediate, precise, and safe action in man-overboard situations.
At the same time, the initiative supports the evolution of ports toward smart port models, where technology plays a central role in accident prevention, protection of human life, and operational continuity, aligning safety with the principles of the blue economy.
Publication date
December 29, 2025
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