Surplus, Solving Field Challenges in Industry and Defense Through Vision AI Technology

Jehyeong Hong, CEO of Surplus

-Hybrid Recognition Intelligence: Developed an ‘AI-CV Hybrid-based Analog Gauge Automated Reading and Remote Monitoring System.’

-Data-Driven Automation: Captures analog dial gauges installed on industrial equipment via cameras and automatically reads values using a combination of AI and Computer Vision.

-Seamless Digital Transformation: Offers a retrofit solution that enables the digitalization of legacy industrial equipment without costly hardware replacements.

Surplus is a deep-tech startup dedicated to solving critical field challenges in the industrial and defense sectors through Vision AI. The company aims to replace areas of high-risk industrial operations that previously relied on human intuition and experience with AI, simultaneously improving safety and operational efficiency. Surplus was founded in April 2021 by CEO Jehyeong Hong.

The company’s flagship innovation is the “AI-CV Hybrid-based Analog Gauge Automated Reading and Remote Monitoring System.” This system utilizes cameras to capture images of analog dial gauges on industrial machinery and employs a sophisticated blend of AI and Computer Vision (CV) to automatically interpret the gauge values.

The core competitiveness of Surplus lies in its hybrid recognition technology and its camera system architecture optimized for harsh industrial environments. Unlike conventional methods that rely on manual inspection or single AI models, Surplus applies a dual-layered structure: AI identifies the gauge area, needles, and numbers, while CV-based geometric analysis precisely calculates the needle’s angle. This approach ensures high recognition accuracy and stability even under variables such as lighting changes, contamination, and vibrations.

To address distortion and vibration during the imaging process, Surplus implemented a 4-axis fixed camera structure that captures the gauge from a head-on perspective. This minimizes angular distortion and blur, maintaining high measurement reliability. The interpreted data is automatically stored as time-series information, allowing real-time monitoring of multiple facilities through an integrated dashboard.

“Our system allows industries to move away from manual visual inspections and handwritten logs, enabling remote-based automated facility management and data-centric operations”, said CEO Jehyeong Hong. “As a retrofit solution that can be applied simply by installing cameras without replacing existing equipment, it allows for the digital transformation of industrial facilities with minimal initial investment.”

Surplus generates revenue through a B2B model implemented on a per-facility basis. “Initial revenue is generated through equipment installation and AI system setup, followed by recurring revenue from maintenance and AI model updates,” Hong explained. “The structure leads to expanded revenue through data-based reports and additional installations. A key characteristic of our business is the phased expansion within the same workplace following a successful Proof of Concept (PoC).”

Surplus is currently preparing for global expansion, focusing on the Singaporean and Japanese markets. With a goal to enter these markets between late 2026 and early 2027, the company is establishing strategies tailored to the industrial structures and environmental conditions of each country. Surplus plans to expand its presence based on tangible references, conducting local partnerships and PoCs primarily in major industrial sectors such as power plants and heavy industry facilities.

Regarding future objectives, Hong stated, “Our goal is to grow into a ‘Physical AI’ company that integrates everything from sensors to AI. By refining our technology alongside major domestic corporations and leveraging that foundation to enter global markets, we aim to become a company that fundamentally transforms the structure of industrial fields.”

Established: April 2021
Core Business: Vision AI-based industrial safety and facility recognition solutions.
Key Achievements: 2025: Successfully executed a PoC with Daehan Shipbuilding. 2025: Selected for the Ulsan Port Authority Maritime Logistics "Flame Unicorn Test" support program. Developed a proprietary 4-axis fixed camera structure for high-precision industrial imaging. Secured a technology pipeline for remote monitoring and time-series data analysis for legacy industrial assets.

reporter jinho lee
jinho2323@hankyung.com