The construction industry is no stranger to challenges, but as pressure mounts, more and more companies are turning to automation to ease the burden. In this article, we’ll explore how robotics has the potential to transform the construction sector.
What are Construction Robots?
When we hear the term “robot,” images of humanoid machines from TV shows and movies often come to mind. In construction, a robot is typically understood as a machine that operates autonomously, performing specific (and often repetitive) tasks.
Robots in construction cover a wide range of functions, from pre-construction phases to adding finishing touches to a project. Despite the vast possibilities offered by robotics, there’s often a misunderstanding of what robots entail in construction. According to several studies, robots in construction mean autonomy and assistance technologies that help skilled workers perform their tasks more safely, productively, and accurately.
These robots come in various shapes and forms, ranging from small devices to custom-made machines or aftermarket upgrades for existing equipment, whose configurations vary, encompassing bespoke designs, retrofit solutions, and compact form factors tailored to the demands of diverse construction environments.
Benefits of Using Robotics in Construction
The integration of robotics into construction processes brings numerous benefits. Automation, in particular, sets robotics apart from other technologies. Automation of construction processes is becoming increasingly prevalent, especially in larger urban projects where time and money are significant obstacles. By automating tasks, robotics can tackle risky and injury-prone jobs that construction workers often face, thereby reducing worker fatalities.
Matthew Johnson-Roberson, Director of the Robotics Institute at Carnegie Mellon University, sees a continued trend towards automation in the future of robotics. He envisions technology evolving for subtasks with increased scalability in terms of reliability while simultaneously reducing costs.
Autonomous Construction Vehicles
Autonomous construction vehicles play a crucial role in the automation of construction processes. These vehicles can operate without human intervention, performing tasks such as excavation, material transport and site supervision.
Solutions that bring robotics to the building and civil construction sector in their projects will reflect much greater efficiency than those that do not. Such solutions aim to collect construction data in situ using various payloads, such as reality capture scanners or other sensors, which are currently used with the “Spot” dog-looking robot.
What Types of Robots are Used in Construction
The types of robots used in construction vary widely depending on the task. Companies like Canvas and Okibo have developed robots for specific applications, such as drywall finishing and painting. Boston Dynamics has led the way with more mobile robotic solutions like ‘Spot the Dog’. HP has released their “SitePrint” to quickly draw your plans in real scale, removing human error and long times doing it manually.
Additionally, the introduction of autonomous construction vehicles, such as Bailey Cranes’ Solar Trax 824, marks a significant advancement in construction robotics. These vehicles can perform tasks like installing solar panels with precision and efficiency, contributing to improved productivity on construction sites.
In conclusion, robotics in construction represents a promising frontier for the industry. By leveraging automation and advanced technologies, construction companies can enhance safety, efficiency, and productivity while addressing challenges such as labor shortages and project timelines. As robotics continues to evolve, it will undoubtedly play an integral role in shaping the future of construction.