Artificial intelligence is the core driving force of a new round of industrial transformation. Based on the patents in the field of artificial intelligence collected in the Smart Bud Patent database from 2000 to 2020 as the data source, this paper analyzes the distribution and development of artificial intelligence technology from the level of region, applicant and international patent classification number (IPC). The core patent identification index system covering technology, law and economy is constructed, and the core technology identification in the field of artificial intelligence is carried out based on the core identification model of AHP - entropy weight method. The results show that: artificial intelligence technology is in a period of rapid growth, and gradually forms a mode of enterprise-led technological innovation; China has made breakthroughs in volume and application diversification, but its development is uneven, and there are certain shortcomings in core technology R&D. The 14 core technologies identified are all held by the United States, concentrated in the fields of speech recognition, communication transmission, electrical data processing and image analysis technology. The United States occupies a dominant position in the field of artificial intelligence industry, and the focus of technology research and development is gradually spreading, involving various industrial fields such as medical care, transportation, logistics, finance and industry. The selected core patents are in line with the development status of artificial intelligence technology in the world, which proves that the three-dimensional core technology identification model based on patent attribute characteristics is scientific and effective. Finally, based on the research conclusions, suggestions are put forward for the development of artificial intelligence in China from the aspects of government, enterprises and research and development direction.