Identity cards in construction : technological adaptation and application of Radio frequency identification (RFID) to heritage conservation projects in Hong Kong

Abstract

Radio-frequency Identification (RFID), which is a technological system using electromagnetic field to automatically identify and track RFID tags attached to objects, has become a significant tool in boosting productivity in the construction industry which has been widely applied in local and overseas construction projects due to its advanced trackability and accuracy. However, although RFID is gradually becoming a common tool in new work construction in Hong Kong, it is still under development in heritage conservation projects. The key issue addressed by this thesis is that applying RFID system in heritage conservation projects can achieve an increase in the quality of conservation works and enhance effectiveness of project management of heritage conservation projects. This thesis will investigate the feasibility of applying RFID in heritage conservation project, starting from explaining the background information of RFID system, including historical development, basic principles, current applications in construction industry in Hong Kong. Hence, application of RFID in current construction information management of will be further investigated. Case studies from previous applications of RFID system in the projects of Hong Kong Housing Authority were investigated for thorough understandings on how the system operated in new works projects. Central Market and Pun Uk, which are the two existing heritage conservation projects, would be taken as Case Studies for understanding the project cycle and conventional on-site and off-site conservation practices of conservation projects. Then, possible adaptations of RFID system would be suggested for implementation to enhance quality and efficiency of pre-construction, construction and post-construction works in conservation projects.