INTELLIGENT SEATING SYSTEM IN LIBRARIES

Abstract

This dissertation involves the study of an intelligent system for seats management in libraries. This intelligent system will be called Intelligent Seating System (ISS) and the main concept stems from the Parking Guidance and Information system (PGI) in car parks. The number of available seats in the library will be displayed on electronic screens installed at the entrance of the library as well as different levels within the library. In addition, ISS will feature other intelligent functions such as providing the seating information via online website and mobile phone, having automatic lighting system and personalized power point at each desk in the library. In this dissertation, the feasibility of implementing such seating system in the Central Library of National University of Singapore (NUS) will be discussed. Objectives The objectives of this research topic are the following: • Establish the need for an intelligent seating management system in the Central Library of National University of Singapore (NUS); • Evaluate the feasibility of an Intelligent Seating System in the Central Library; • Develop the technical design of the Intelligent Seating System. Methodology The research methodology that is carried out in this dissertation involves survey, interviews, site visits to the Central Library and Monte Carlo simulation. A survey is conducted with NUS students to find out the current situation of locating a seat in the Central Library during peak and non-peak period and determine if there is a need for ISS to be implemented. Interviews with relevant personnel, such as the Head of Loans and Membership Section from NUS Central library and the Estate and Maintenance Service Head from NUS Office of Estate and Environment (OED), are also carried out to gather related information with regards to the implementation of ISS in the Central Library. In addition, site visits and walk-through in the library are conducted to obtain the drawing plans and seating arrangement of the library. Lastly, Monte Carlo simulations are done to simulate the situation of finding a seat in the library and calculate the average time needed. This simulation will predict and determine the effectiveness of ISS in reducing time needed to locate seats. Findings From the findings from the survey, interviews and Monte Carlo simulation, it has been established that there is a need for ISS in the Central Library and the feasibility has been proven. ISS addresses the needs of the students in the library and has been effective in saving time for students looking for seats in the library. Conclusion & Limitations In conclusion, the implementation of ISS in the Central Library seems feasible, providing many benefits, like saving time looking for a seat in the library, cutting down on wasted electrical and light energy by using automatic lighting system and increasing the number of power points for usage. It will be useful and beneficial to many of the students studying in the library. However, there are limitations to this dissertation. One limitation is the lack of feedback from the students with regards to this system. With the implementation and future usage of ISS, it will be necessary to gather feedback from users to allow for maintenance and improvisation of the system.