Problems and Effects of Automation and Robotization

This paper deals with major tasks to be carried out in promoting the automation and robotization of construction works and with the effects of these advanced technologies when commercialized. The two subjects were derived from a detailed analysis of each category of diverse construction works with respect to : (1) problems and topics to be dealt with in the current state of the works, assuming that they are automated or robotized; (2) the future image of these works envisaged with their automation and robotization ; (3) functional requirements for materializing their automation and robotization; and (4) technical development tasks to be carried out in promoting their automation and robotization. Of the tasks involved in automating or robotizing construction works, this paper focuses on the topics to be addressed in commercializing and fielding out to construction sites as quickly as possible new technologies that have been or will be developed. These topics are discussed in four aspects, i.e., the setup for technical development, measures required at the planning and design stages of construction projects, measures at their execution stage, and other steps to support the promotion of automation and robotization. Meanwhile, the effects of introducing automatic or robotized systems in the construction sector are dealt with based on their detailed analyzed in their technical, social and economic aspects.it may be argued that the discussions here most accurately reflect the current state of automation and robotization technologies for construction works in Japan, indicating the future course of construction management.