# Integration of Building Services in Modular Construction: A PRISMA Approach
## 4 Discussion
### Potential Influence of Recent Technologies on Building Services Integration in Modular Construction  
The construction sequence of a modular unit consists of six phases: structural frame manufacturing, MEP installation, installation of interior and exterior finishes, module transportation (to the site), module lifting, and installation at the site [48]. However, specific modular construction projects incorporate both off-site and on-site building services. Combining off-site and on-site construction demands careful planning and coordination among the design, manufacturing, and on-site construction teams. Hong Kong Housing Society proposes constructing a 25-story subsidized-for-sale house on Hung Ping Road in Hung Shui Kiu using modular integrated construction. The project will consist of 300 one- to three-bedroom units, ranging from 360 to 633 square feet [65]. Figure 10 shows the integration of building services at the project's mock-up site. As shown in Figure 10a, a well-defined framework for tackling these integration challenges involves clearly distinguishing between tasks completed off-site and on-site.  
Modular construction is better quality, involves less labor, and emits less carbon [66]. As all pre-engineered volumetric frames in a modular construction system are built within tight tolerance levels in a controlled factory setting, supplied to the project's location on a 'just-in-time' basis, and assembled into complete building systems [67], the integration of building services such as fluid transportation, heating, ventilation, and related systems in MEP modules is paramount. MEP modules are components of modular construction consisting of cable trays, ducts, and pipes [49]. Similarly, piping is a network of pipes used to transport fluids from one point to another; plumbing is the most common type of piping [44]. The primary objective of building services technology is to create a conducive indoor environment for buildings while maximizing energy efficiency [4]. Similarly, the integration of BIM in buildings has become increasingly important. Modular building technologies have proven effective and desirable, allowing for a streamlined process from planning and design to manufacturing and construction [68].  
Other potential impacts of emerging technologies in integrating building services for modular construction include predictive maintenance, assembly precision improvement, real-time quality assurance, and control, simplified on-site logistics, and integration. IoT technology can help intelligently maintain building services after installation. HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems can be monitored to provide maintenance personnel with performance data and early alerts of potential concerns. AI can assess this data and predict maintenance needs, enabling a proactive maintenance model. Similarly, AI can also improve assembly line efficiency by reacting to changes in production schedules in real time. Additionally, IoT devices can monitor material quality and construction integrity throughout the manufacturing process. Sensors can detect structural flaws and material faults before modules are sent from the factory. Continuously feeding these data into AI systems for quick analysis and response increases quality control. Meanwhile, AI and IoT could improve on-site modular unit transport and assembly logistics.