An i-Core and Smart Contracts-enabled Framework for Just-in-Time Delivery of Modular Integrated Construction Modules

The construction industry faces significant sustainability challenges due to high energy and material consumption. Modular integrated construction (MiC) is a more sustainable alternative to traditional in-situ construction. It involves the fabrication of integrated modules in off-site controlled conditions and their transportation to construction sites for installation. MiC offers various social, economic, and environmental benefits, such as enhanced safety, increased productivity, and reduced waste. The success of MiC projects depends on efficient cross-border logistics, with Just-in-Time (JIT) deliveries being crucial. However, persistent problems related to JIT implementation still exist, even with the adoption of advanced project management software such as enterprise resource planning systems, building information modeling (BIM), and geographic information system (GIS) technologies. In this context, this paper proposes an i-Core and smart contracts-enabled framework for JIT deliveries of MiC modules. By addressing persistent problems related to JIT implementation, the proposed framework is expected to improve the overall efficiency and sustainability of MiC.