The Future of Automation and Robotics in Construction Activites

It is the general consensus in the literature that the potential that the potential for the development and use of advanced robotics in construction is promising. It is belived that automation and robotics will put a stop to the decline in construction productivity that occured in the last 20 years and achieve productivity increases like those experienced between 1920 and 1970. Indeed, computer technology, remote sensing, signal and control systems, artificial intelligence, and material science and engineering have advanced far enough to allow for the introduction of robotics technology into the construction industry. How do contractors feel about that? Are they ready for this new technology? Do they think it is feasible? What areas in particular do they regard as most appropriate for this kind of application? What advantages do they see for the use of robotics in construction operations? What type of robots do they think lends itself best to internal and external construction activities? Do they conduct or support research and development activites in this field? The paper reports the findings of a survey that was carried out of the top 400 contractors reactions to automation and robotics in construction oprations.