In a groundbreaking initiative, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are now tasked with the upkeep of the Supertrees at Gardens by the Bay, marking a significant technological advancement in horticultural maintenance.
Developed by the Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD), these drones, equipped with hosepipes, efficiently clean, water, and fertilize the iconic 50-meter-tall Supertrees, which stand as towering landmarks within the tourist attraction.
The implementation of drone technology has addressed longstanding challenges associated with cleaning and maintaining high-rise structures while minimizing risks to human workers. With Gardens by the Bay covering approximately 101 hectares, the utilization of drones not only enhances operational support but also tackles workforce limitations and bolsters overall efficiency.
Offering an exclusive insight into this innovative approach, The Straits Times witnessed firsthand how drone technology, following a collaborative partnership established in 2023 between Gardens by the Bay and SUTD, has revolutionized maintenance procedures.
According to Derek Wee, Deputy Director of Gardens Operations, the time taken to clean and fertilize each Supertree has been notably reduced, allowing gardeners to allocate their time more effectively. Special attention is paid to bromeliads, whose maintenance requires meticulous care to prevent stagnation and ensure vitality.
Traditionally, the process of tending to Supertrees involved cumbersome boom lifts, necessitating extensive safety precautions and impeding operational efficiency. However, the introduction of drones has streamlined operations, enabling an earlier start and eliminating logistical constraints associated with traditional methods.
The drone, christened Blaster (Better Localised Autonomous Scouring and Tethered Ejecting Rotorcraft), has been engineered to withstand the force of water spraying while remaining tethered to a power cable and water pipe on the ground. This design not only enhances safety but also expedites regulatory approvals for flight operations.
Moreover, the versatility of drone technology extends beyond horticultural maintenance, with potential applications in cleaning solar panels deployed on water surfaces, among other structures, as highlighted by Associate Professor Foong Shaohui.
With safety at the forefront, Addison Goh, Senior Director overseeing attractions operations, emphasizes the reduced risk to workers afforded by drone deployment. The transition to utilizing drones as standard practice since 2023 has been seamless, with ongoing training provided to staff for efficient drone operation.
Looking ahead, the collaboration between Gardens by the Bay and SUTD aims to further enhance drone capabilities, potentially enabling autonomous task execution. This development aligns with broader industry trends, with drones emerging as indispensable tools for high-altitude operations, as advocated by the Building and Construction Authority.
In addition to drone technology, Gardens by the Bay continues to integrate smart devices and environmental sensors to optimize operational efficiency and enhance plant management. These initiatives underscore the commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology for sustainable and effective horticultural stewardship.