How robotics heralds a new era for construction

The construction industry is currently undergoing a dramatic transformation, as digital innovation in the field is increasingly driving its direction. Robotics is one area of ​​particular interest as it enables construction companies to implement lean practices, increase efficiency and reduce waste in the construction process.

How robots play a role in construction

One of the most prominent examples of robotization in the construction industry is the Robotic Total Station (RTS), a semi-automatic surveying tool that surveyors can use to coordinate distances, measure angles and process data. When the tool is set up, it can warn when measurement thresholds are reached and reduce the need for a two-person team to collect data. This tool, first introduced by photoelectric rangefinders in the early 1990s, is just one example of how robotics is revolutionizing the age-old construction industry.

Other recent examples of highly successful robot integration in construction include the deployment of quadruped robots, such as Boston Dynamics’ Spot robot, and the use of pre-programmed robot layout solutions. The construction robot market is expected to grow from US$2.4507 billion in 2019 to US$7.8803 billion in 2027.

As robotics becomes more popular in this field, a shift is needed to transform the construction industry from an industry based on trade skills to one that requires a combination of trade and technical skills.

Demand for Skill Proficiency

As construction robotics becomes more widely used, there is a need for workers who can manage high-level technical activities and understand the limitations of robotic tools.

An increasingly required skill among construction workers is the operation and maintenance of robots and the ability to optimize work processes, recognize the capabilities and limitations of robotic systems, and identify any differences that may affect safety and performance. Some staff will also need to be familiar with building information modeling (BIM) solutions and the data sets used to guide robots and provide contextual intelligence. Most importantly, employees need to remain flexible and able to adapt their roles to new technologies.

Developing and training employees

Improving employees’ skills in using construction robots doesn’t have to be a difficult task because not all robots are complex. It can start with instruction in basic robot operating skills, such as teaching robots to start and stop, and being able to charge and guide them. There, employees can learn to maintain the robots and plan and optimize their work, taking into account site conditions, productivity, operating times and load sizes, before moving into the more complex world of construction robots.

Once a worker has safely built their skills, they can transfer those skills to other members of the team, keeping training costs to a minimum. Once on site, the most intuitive skills can be taught immediately through demonstrations, and with longer-term training requirements, employers can help new and existing employees operate robotic systems safely and proficiently by implementing in-house training programs and self-study options.

Operation of some construction machinery requires external training and certification, and operation of some advanced robotic machinery requires similar requirements. Employers will be able to leverage AI-based simulation tools to develop capabilities in high-fidelity scenarios. For example, when more complex robotic tools like autonomous compactors, excavators and bulldozers enter the market, certification may be required, and simulation training can help employees get used to operating this machinery.

Simulation tools are a very versatile training method that can be used to teach workers a wide range of skills from bricklaying robots to 3D printing and monitoring. In simulated environments, workers can test cognition, localization, perception and sensor combinations in real-life scenarios. As workers become more proficient in using these tools, simulation systems can be adapted to replicate more dangerous and unwieldy conditions. Through this approach, workers can safely and effectively gain experience driving in complex and hazardous scenarios such as weather conditions, coordinating mixed and complex robot fleets, and planning and optimizing site conditions

Adapt to Industry

Construction robotics is a field of rapid innovation and development. By upskilling their employees, construction companies are able to develop more competitive teams that stay at the forefront of the industry, and encourage the organization to remain adaptable to change and adapt to new industry developments, allowing the company to grow with the industry as a whole. Additionally, companies can leverage the construction industry’s technological transformation to attract the top technical talent needed for the digital future

As the world shifts to digital, the construction industry is no exception. The only option for today’s construction companies is to start considering digital transformation and upskilling options now or risk being forgotten.

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