What are the prospects for robots in the construction industry?

Abstract

Purpose This paper aims to address the question posed in the title by considering the present uses and potential future role of robots in the construction industry. Design/methodology/approach Following a short introduction, this first considers developments involving the robotic automation of conventional building practices, notably bricklaying and glazing. This is followed by a discussion of the role of drones and developments in autonomous ground vehicles. It then provides examples of the rapidly growing use of robotic 3D printing of concrete structures and concludes with a discussion. Findings Many different classes of robots aimed at a diversity of uses in the construction industry exist or are at an advanced stage of development. While some seek to automate conventional building practices, others such as concrete printing robots underpin novel construction concepts. Their use has the potential to yield significant economic, operational, environmental and other benefits and many technologically advanced companies have recently been established which aim to exploit these opportunities. While the industry has traditionally been slow to adopt new technologies, robots are now exerting a real impact and will inevitably play a vital and growing role in the future. Originality/value The construction industry is under pressure to modernise and improve its efficiency, and this article illustrates the role that robots are playing in this process.