HKU Develops Blockchain System to Monitor Prefabricated Construction
AM730 · 1 SOURCESabout 1 hour ago2 MIN
Summary
The University of Hong Kong's Department of Real Estate and Construction has unveiled the "MiC Trinity" digital supervision system, designed to oversee the entire lifecycle of Modular Integrated Construction projects. Led by Professor Francis Au Chi-kwong, the iLab team developed three interconnected applications to track component production, cross-border transportation, and site installation using immutable blockchain technology.
Key Points
- The MiC Trinity system consists of three applications: Smart Inspection, Smart Logistics, and Smart Installation, each addressing a specific phase of prefabricated construction
- Professor Francis Au Chi-kwong from HKU's Department of Real Estate and Construction heads the iLab research team behind the development
- The system has won multiple international awards, including the Geneva International Invention Exhibition Gold Medal in 2026 and the Hong Kong ICT Awards Gold in 2022
- Seven local projects currently use the system, including the Architectural Services Department's transitional housing in Tuen Mun and Ma On Shan
- Blockchain technology ensures all uploaded data remains tamper-proof, with OBBi integration enabling real-time BIM record-keeping and verification
Why It Matters
Hong Kong's land scarcity makes efficient construction methods critical, and the MiC Trinity system addresses the coordination challenges of cross-regional prefabrication by providing transparent, traceable project oversight. With applications expanding to support Northern Metropolis developments, this technology positions Hong Kong's construction industry at the forefront of smart city innovation.
Hong Kong's land scarcity makes efficient construction methods critical, and the MiC Trinity system addresses the coordination challenges of cross-regional prefabrication by providing transparent, traceable project oversight. With applications expanding to support Northern Metropolis developments, this technology positions Hong Kong's construction industry at the forefront of smart city innovation.