Implementing Radio Frequency Identification in the Construction Process
- 1 December 2003
- journal article
- Published by American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) in Journal of Construction Engineering and Management
- Vol. 129 (6), 680-688
- https://doi.org/10.1061/(asce)0733-9364(2003)129:6(680)
Abstract
This paper provides construction industry owners and contractors with information about enhancing their operations using radio frequency identification (RFID) technology. Radio frequency identification involves the use of tags, or transponders, that collect data and manage it in a portable, changeable database; communicate routing instructions and other control requirements to equipment; and can withstand harsh environments. A construction industry-RFID supplier workshop was held to disseminate information about this technology and to generate suitable application ideas for the industry. With the information gathered during the workshop, one application idea was selected and pilot tests conducted to learn more about RFID and its applicability to the material procurement process on a construction site. The pilot tests showed that RFID tags reduced the time required to download data into a company’s material tracking system and could “flag” an item so an entry was not repeated. When scanning the tags, sun glare was not a problem as compared to using bar code labels. Although further analysis is necessary, RFID did show promise of being a beneficial technology as it relates to the materials receiving process. A flowchart is provided to assist contractors and owners in selecting the appropriate RFID system.Keywords
This publication has 1 reference indexed in Scilit:
- Radio-Frequency Identification Applications in Construction IndustryJournal of Construction Engineering and Management, 1995