NTT Communications (NTT Com) and NTT Sports X will begin an initiative to manage and operate the rugby field at Urayasu D Park, a rugby field managed by NTT Sports X, by introducing self-driving robots from multiple manufacturers and the self-driving robot control service “RobiCo”.

The robots will be used for patrolling the sports facility, which is a heavy burden on facility managers because it must be performed regularly and frequently outdoors.

Specifically, one robot will perform multiple facility management tasks, such as checking whether the gates are open or closed, checking for items left on the field, and inspecting the sports equipment (soil sensors on the field).

Robots from multiple manufacturers will also be used to meet stadium management use cases, such as responding to users during games and events. Specifically, they will be used to serve drinks to users.
In managing and operating sports facilities, securing the manpower to simultaneously perform various tasks such as security, cleaning, welcoming visitors, and maintaining the sports facilities is an issue.

The use of digital technology, including robots, is expected to solve this issue, but one type of robot cannot replace the various tasks in facility management work, so it is necessary to operate robots from multiple manufacturers suitable for each task.

The two companies will consider expanding the scope of robot utilization with the aim of improving the efficiency of facility management work through robot operation and creating added value in operation work.

Urayasu D Park will be positioned as a place where the necessary efforts can be realized in a comprehensive manner for the social implementation of robots, and will also prepare content for partners such as robot manufacturers as a test field where robots can be driven and tested.

NTT Com joined the Robot Delivery Association in July. It plans to work with multiple robot manufacturers and related companies through the association.

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