ENR On-Demand: The Robots are Coming: Get Ready to Add Them to the Crew

Robots already are joining construction crews to protect their human counterparts from dangerous work or from the monotonous repetitive tasks that are hard on the human body. The COVID-19 crisis has shown additional potential needs for keeping human workers out of close contact with one another, driving new innovations in jobsite practices.

During this webinar, panelists with field experience will discuss what it’s like working along with robots, and what’s coming in the future.

Too Long, Didn't Watch?

Here's a summary of what we had to say...

Productivity has steadily increased and isn’t showing signs of slowing down. 

In order to meet increased demand, companies are employing robotics more than ever before. 

Advances include large format industrial robotics, mobile robots, and site-specific robotics. Advancements also include hardware development as well as software development. 

Key Benefits of Robotics in Construction

• Improved Safety
• Improved Schedule
• Improved Profits

Robotics Systems in the Construction Sector

Adoption has been slow. Construction is one of the least automated industries in the industry. 

Why hasn’t it changed the same way as other industries?

First of all, construction is a highly unstructured, disruptive environment. Most current robotics that we think of operate in highly structured or at least somewhat controlled space.

Not to mention, the construction industry is not traditionally known for being quick to adopt new technology. 

What Has Led to the Increased Possibilities in Robotics in Construction?

• Mobile communication
• Big data
• Cloud computing
• The Internet of Things
• Machine Learning

Robotics on the Jobsite

• Human assisted
• Autonomous mapping, and navigation (like drones)
• Industrial exoskeletons
• More experimental technology is on the way, including autonomous vehicles

Robotics, Moving Forward:

Watch the webinar to get an in-depth look at the benefits of Robotics in Construction, as well as see examples from companies already using robotics on the jobsite, including TyBot (an automated rebar tying technology) and Mortenson (autonomous excavation projects).