| Summary and Challenges |
- Some historical buildings in Hong Kong are facing several challenges. Regular evaluations of its external walls and suspended ceilings are necessary due to environmental pressures, aging materials, and moisture infiltration. Traditional inspection methods, such as manual surveys, scaffolding, and aerial platforms, are expensive, time-consuming, disruptive, and restrictive for proactive maintenance. Detecting defects in the building's external walls using established techniques like tapping, infrared thermography, and ultrasound testing is hindered by environmental interferences, high costs, limited accuracy in detecting deep voids, and difficulty accessing certain areas. Similarly, inspecting the suspended ceilings, which often feature elaborate decorations and integrated systems, requires manual access and dismantling of false ceilings, a process that is lengthy and may compromise structural integrity.
- To address these issues, there is a need for an automated, robot-based non-destructive structural monitoring system. Such a system would enable rapid and accurate assessments, promptly identifying problems like leaks and mold, and enhancing the precision, speed, and safety of inspections through advanced robotic technologies, including autonomous drones and mobile robots equipped with state-of-the-art sensors.
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| Expected Outcome |
- The implementation of a robot-based, automated non-destructive structural monitoring system brings numerous benefits for the conservation of historic structures.
- **Enhanced Detection Accuracy** is achieved through precise identification of M&E (mechanical and electrical) issues and real-time, continuous monitoring, enabling timely interventions.
- **Increased Efficiency and Coverage** result from reduced inspection time for extensive M&E networks and access to hard-to-reach areas, facilitated by the advanced mobility of robots.
- **Data-Driven Maintenance and Preservation** extend the lifespan of M&E systems through predictive maintenance and informed restoration decisions, supported by detailed data insights.
- **Preservation of Architectural Integrity** is maintained through non-invasive inspection methods, minimizing physical interference and preserving both functionality and aesthetics.
- **Heightened Safety and Cost Efficiency** are achieved by reducing the need for human inspectors in dangerous areas and lowering maintenance costs through efficient, automated processes.
- **Comprehensive Structural Understanding** is facilitated by a unified digital twin, offering a holistic view of the building's health and enabling informed decision-making with integrated structural and M&E data.
- Finally, **Sustainable Preservation Practices** are promoted through automated, data-driven maintenance strategies that ensure long-term conservation with minimal environmental impact, supporting the enduring preservation of historic structures.
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