Automation and Robotics in Construction, State of the Art in the United Kingdom

As in a number of western countries , the need for automation and robotic application for use in the construction industry in the U.K has been recognised during the past ten years. The industry is experiencing increasing shortages of skilled labour and an ageing workforce. The industry is also facing demands for higher productivity and improved quality in order to meet external competition. A number of developments covering many applications are currently in progress in some academic and industrial organisations. The range includes computer aided construction and engineering, enabling technologies and prototype development for a number of devices.