The intelligent crane is to apply some intelligent technology to the crane, so that the crane has the ability to automatically identify the surrounding environment, simulate the operation of the person, and automatically lift and transport the materials. It is a kind of “crane man”, which is the product of artificial intelligence technology combined with basic automation and wireless communication, ERP technology and application on cranes. The application status of smart cranes and future research contents and directions are introduced. It is pointed out that the research and development of a new type of special or general-purpose smart crane products for factory workshops, which has the eyes and brain of the lifting operator, can automatically complete the task of transporting materials, which is the content and direction of intelligent cranes.