A Critical Appraisal into Criteria Concerning the Application of Automation and Robotics in Construction

Before arriving at any decision regarding the use of automated devices to perform specific tasks, it is necessary to consider a variety of factors including, health and safety, the building design, quality standard, labour cost, productivity, the project environment, mobility, available sensors and the like. In short there are three feasibility criteria that can accommodate the above factors and subsequently can shape the viability of applying automation and robotics in construction. These criteria are: Technology, Need and Economic feasibility.

This paper summaries the approach of invitation to automation and robotics (A&R) as well as the constraints imposed upon implementing this advanced technology. It then analyses the result of a survey into criteria concerning the application of automated devices in construction.