THE USE OF 5G TO ENHANCE ROBOTICS IN FACILITIES MANAGEMENT (FM)

Abstract

As Singapore continues to progress as a Smart Nation, all sectors have been prompted to keep up by embracing innovative solutions and adopting advanced technology. The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted all sectors in Singapore and accelerated the usage of automated technology and robotics. With the heightened focus on hygiene, cleanliness and occupants’ wellbeing, the role and needs of the Facilities Management (FM) industry have shifted and will continue to change in response to the unpredictable nature of any other sort of worldly pandemic. This study evaluates the use of 5G for the enhancement of robotics in the FM industry. 5G is the world’s fifth-generation broadband technology that provides high bandwidth, ultra-low latency and dense connections. With the use of 5G networks, there are fewer delays due to the efficient handling of data by the built-in computing intelligence (West, 2016). The abilities of the 5G network allow it to support large volumes of IoT connected sensors and devices. This study looks into the technical aspect of the 5G network and its application in FM through IoT, robotics and smart building systems. Based on the current FM industry needs, drivers and existing use cases at NUS 5GDBT, an analysis of survey data and interviews are used to determine the receptiveness of FM practitioners, concerns in regard to 5G adoption and the feasibility of this new technology. The current FM industry automation level in Singapore is rather low. The main concern for most FM practitioners is the financial aspect of technology adoption. Government support is imperative in the push for high levels of automation especially when manpower constraints remain persistent in the industry’s workforce. There are existing government grants and initiatives to encourage the adoption of new technologies. However, there is seemingly low awareness and concerns of operational costs past the initial stage of technology adoption. This paper established that FM practitioners see the adoption of 5G as an integral part of remaining competitive in the FM industry but needs more in-depth knowledge on its benefits.