Construction robotics explained

Robotics is a field of engineering that blends computer science with mechanical and electrical engineering. It's now finding its way into the construction industry, bringing along exciting innovations and new opportunities.

Construction has always been known for being physically demanding and time-consuming. But thanks to robotics in the construction industry, things are changing for the better. Construction robots are here to speed up tasks and reduce human errors and fatigue-related setbacks.

With robotics, we can supercharge heavy equipment with intelligence, allowing machines like bulldozers and trucks to perform tasks like concrete work, demolition, hauling, lifting, and digging quickly and accurately.

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How robotics is changing the construction industry

Robots and computers have already proven their ability to perform many tasks faster, safer, and cheaper than humans.

Even though the construction industry isn't exactly known for automation, there are already a variety of construction robots out there designed to lend a hand to construction professionals.

• A new wave of innovation: The next decade promises to bring a wave of innovation in construction automation and robots. This could completely transform how we do business in construction, architecture, and engineering.
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• Not replacing, but improving: The question on everyone's mind is whether these robots will replace human workers. The answer is no. Technology isn't about replacing people; it's about making their jobs easier and better.
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• Safety-focused: Robots can take over dangerous jobs, removing or reducing the risk of injury for humans.
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• We still need the human touch: While robots can handle specific tasks, they can't replace the creativity, problem-solving, and expertise of human professionals.
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As robotics in the construction industry becomes more integrated, the nature of work will change. Robots and humans will collaborate, each bringing their unique strengths to the table. 

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The different types of construction robots at work

Construction robots come in various types, each with their own capabilities and purpose. We can categorize these robots into three main groups.

Let’s dive in a bit deeper:

1. Semi-autonomous robots: These robots need some initial human input, after which they can handle tasks independently. For example, a semi-autonomous bricklaying robot can lay bricks at impressive speeds while human workers supervise and manage other aspects of the job.
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2. Fully autonomous robots: These robots are completely independent, requiring no human help. They follow a predefined set of instructions or patterns, use sensors for guidance, and prioritize safety as they work.
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3. Teleoperated robots: These robots assist humans in a variety of tasks from a distance. Unlike autonomous robots, teleoperated machines rely on some degree of human interaction to function.
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Within these three categories, there are four main types of construction robots. From self-driving trucks to actual humanoid laborers, there are a variety of machines that help out in construction.

Let’s take a look:

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1. Industrial robots

Industrial robots are no strangers to manufacturing, and they're now gaining ground in construction. These robots can impressively handle repetitive yet high-value tasks in the industry. 

Three common ways that industrial robots are being used in the construction industry are:

• Manufacturing with articulated robots: Articulated robots are like the robotic counterparts of a human arm. They're versatile and can be used in various tasks, from simple assembly operations to welding.
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• Working alongside collaborative robots: Also known as “cobots,” these robots work alongside humans to complete tasks that might be challenging for either a human or a robot to handle alone.
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• 3D printing with cartesian robots: Also known as linear or gantry robots, these Industrial robots have many applications but are popular for 3D printing. This offers construction businesses an efficient and cost-effective way to create various products, even entire 3D-printed homes.

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2. Self-driving construction vehicles

While the automotive industry is working to make self-driving cars more common, the construction industry is ahead of the curve with the use of autonomous construction equipment.

For example, Built Robotics, a US-based vehicular automation startup, specializes in enhancing off-the-shelf heavy equipment with Artificial Intelligence (AI). Its current lineup includes autonomous dozers, excavators, and compact track loaders. 

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3. Drones

The popularity of drones in the construction industry is growing thanks to their ability to improve safety and monitor project progress on construction sites.

What makes drones stand out is their remote control and aerial capabilities. They give us real-time updates on construction projects, changing how we approach projects without relying solely on human labor.

Some of the ways drones are being used in construction include:

• 3D mapping: Drones can create a detailed aerial map of a construction site, which can then be turned into a 3D model. This can help contractors spot potential issues during the planning phase.
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• Improving security: Security is a top priority on construction sites, especially when theft can be a costly issue. Drones can help level up security with an aerial view of the entire site.
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• Remote monitoring and site inspections: Drones provide a hassle-free solution for inspecting hard-to-reach areas and structures.

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4. Humanoid laborers

The construction industry is facing a significant challenge: A shortage of skilled labor. 

While job opportunities are plentiful, this industry is struggling to attract workers. In response to this challenge, the construction industry welcomed a new addition: Construction robots, fully autonomous machines designed to mimic human-like behaviors.

Companies around the world are investing in these robots to handle dangerous tasks.

Benefits of robots in the construction industry

There are a host of benefits that come from introducing robots and automation into the construction world. 

Some of the main benefits are:

• Tackling labor shortages: The biggest challenge the construction industry faces is a shortage of skilled workers. However, introducing robots can help ensure that work progresses steadily, especially for repetitive tasks. This, in turn, allows human workers to focus on the more dynamic and specialized parts of construction, making the best use of available workers.
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• More efficiency: Robots equipped with artificial intelligence can help streamline project planning, measurement, and execution. Some construction tasks traditionally require multiple human workers until a specific project phase can be completed.
  
  Autonomous robots can perform these tasks independently, allowing human workers to concentrate on more essential and complex jobs. This translates into cost savings and ensures that projects are completed on schedule.
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• Higher safety standards: Safety is essential in construction, but accidents can still happen even with extensive training and precautions. By using construction robots to handle physically demanding and dangerous tasks, construction companies can improve the safety of their human workers. Certain robots, like humanoid laborers, can handle grueling tasks like lifting and carrying heavy loads and objects around a site.
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• Reducing operating costs: It's no secret that many construction projects overshoot their budgets and timelines because of unforeseen challenges. Construction robots can help in this case by minimizing the need for rework and human errors.
  
  Given that these robots are guided by precise computer systems, they can help with cost savings and keep projects on track. Plus, robotics in the construction industry can also help lower costs by delivering a rapid ROI — despite high upfront costs. 
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• Getting more productive: Construction firms sometimes face challenges when organizing their workforce, and when workers are unavailable, it can disrupt project schedules. Here's where autonomous robots can offer adaptability by working alongside human teams.
  
  Construction robots can quickly adjust to changing priorities or new tasks during a project, while human workers can focus on other aspects of the project.

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Application of construction robots

While you might find a few robots on construction sites, most of them are used behind the scenes in building construction machinery. 

These robots take care of tasks like arc welding, applying adhesives, and assembling parts.

Let's look at some of the many ways robots are being used in construction:

• Bricklaying: One of the most popular applications of construction robots is bricklaying. These robots are highly skilled at stacking bricks or blocks to construct walls, facades, and other structural parts.
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• Tying rebar: In reinforced concrete structures, securing the rebar with wire is a crucial step. This process is not only physically demanding and repetitive, but it also enhances structural strength and keeps the rods in position during the concrete pouring phase. This is where vision-equipped robots, such as articulated robots, can help.
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• Welding: Some robots are used for various welding jobs. Polar robots, in particular, are great for creating strong and reliable connections between metal parts, such as steel beams.
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• 3D printing: With 3D printing, construction can happen much faster. What used to take months to build with traditional methods can now be done in a day or two using 3D printing technology. Some construction robots now have this capability, creating intricate shapes and structures layer by layer using materials like concrete or plastic by following digital designs.
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• Demolition: Using robots to handle large-scale demolitions can make the process faster, safer, and more efficient. Operators can also control the demolition from a safe distance. Demolition robots are particularly handy in confined spaces, where they can safely and quickly take down walls, clear debris, and crush concrete.
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• Site inspection: Construction robots, like drones, are equipped with cameras, sensors, and measuring devices that can check structures and keep an eye on construction progress. By using these robots, contractors can quickly identify problems or areas that need maintenance.

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Future trends of robotics in the construction industry

While the use of automation and robotics may not be widespread at the moment, they'll certainly become a major trend in the near future.

Let’s look at advancements poised to elevate the industry even further:

• Increased automation on-site: Robots will become more common on construction sites, handling tasks that require precision, speed, and endurance. They'll be easier to use and integrate into existing operations, making them accessible to a wider range of construction professionals.
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• Smaller firms embracing robots: As the technology becomes more affordable and user-friendly, smaller construction companies can leverage the benefits of robotics, leveling the playing field and boosting overall industry efficiency.
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• Closer collaboration between humans and robots: The future of construction isn't about robots replacing humans but about humans and robots working hand-in-hand. Robots will handle repetitive and dangerous jobs, allowing humans to focus on creativity, problem-solving, and decision-making.
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• New applications on the horizon: As technology advances, we can expect to see even more innovative uses for robots in construction. This might include autonomous scaffolding systems, AI-powered project management tools, and robots that can do complex jobs like electrical wiring or plumbing.

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FAQs

Will construction robots replace human workers?

No, robots aren't here to replace human workers. Instead, they're designed to work alongside humans and make their jobs easier. Construction robots can boost efficiency, productivity, and safety on construction sites, but they can't replicate the creativity and problem-solving skills that humans bring to the table. 

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How can robotics in construction help with labor shortages?

Robotics in construction can be a major win for addressing labor shortages. By automating repetitive (and dangerous) jobs, robots can free up human workers to focus on more complex and specialized aspects of construction. 

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What types of industrial robots are being used in construction?

Several types of industrial robots are already at work in construction, including:

• SCARA robots: These robots excel at high-speed assembly tasks, making them ideal for prefabrication and modular construction.
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• Delta robots: Known for their speed and precision, delta robots are used for pick-and-place operations, sorting materials, and even packaging.
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• Articulated robots: These versatile robots with multiple joints can handle a wide range of tasks, from welding and painting to material handling and assembly.
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• Cylindrical robots: With their cylindrical work envelope, these robots are well-suited for tasks that require vertical and rotational movement, such as machine tending and packaging.
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• Cartesian robots: These robots move along three linear axes (X, Y, and Z), making them ideal for applications like 3D printing and material handling.

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Summing up

The construction industry is undergoing a robotic overhaul. 

While we're still in the early stages of this transformation, it's clear that robotics in the construction industry has the potential to reshape the way we build, making construction projects safer, faster, more efficient, and more affordable.

As technology advances, we can expect to see even more sophisticated and versatile construction robots entering the market, further blurring the lines between human and machine capabilities. 

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Next steps

Interested in stepping into the collaborative robot arm world? RO1 by Standard Bots is the #1 for small-scale startups and established industrial giants. 

• Cost-effective: RO1 is the leading robotic arm in its class, delivering even more value at half the price of the competition. 
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• Fast & strong: RO1 beats out the competition in speed and accuracy despite having the highest payload capacity in its class at 18 kg.
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• Truly collaborative: RO1 has built-in safety sensors and collision detection for safe, reliable operation on your shop floor.
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Talk to our solutions team now to set up a free, 30-day onsite trial and receive specialized advice on everything you need to deploy RO1.