Development of construction logistics system using radio frequency identification

Abstract

The authors have developed a construction logistics system using a radio frequency identification technology for finely controlling several construction sites in order to improve the transportation and handling of construction materials. This system was experimentally applied to some small construction sites in the Tokyo metropolitan area for a few months twice, in 2005 and 2006. Through the two experiments, we applied the system to 26 kinds of 93 finish and equipment construction materials. This system comprises three items: 1) a distribution center, called the Logistics Service Center, for a lot of construction materials between construction sites and materials factories, 2) a Construction Logistics Control System via the Internet, and 3) a Construction Material Traceability Management System with radio frequency identification technology. From the results of the two experimental applications of this logistics system, we found the following: 1) carbon dioxide emissions from transportation vehicles were reduced by over 22 percent, 2) carbon dioxide emissions from the transportation vehicles to construction sites were reduced by 30 percent, and 3) the transportation vehicle loading rate was increased by 14 percent.