The world has revolutionized into a virtual robotics platform, from cleaning robots to construction robots, making life less complex and more restful. Have you ever wondered about the implausible advancements made by the robotics industry? From brick-laying robots to self-driving trucks that can perform complex tasks, these robots are shifting the ways in the construction site. It’s worth having a glance at the robotics industry which is expected to reach USD 45.09 Billion by the end of 2028. [R1]
- Autonomous Bricklaying Robots – These robots are specifically designed for laying bricks, which has not only resulted in the reduction of the need for manual labor but has also increased the construction speed. These robots use advanced algorithms to precisely and accurately place the bricks in place.
- Robotic Exoskeleton – This type of wearable robot is designed in a manner to assist the laborers by enhancing their strength and endurance. They are widely used in construction sites as they help reduce the risk of injuries, permitting laborers to work with ease and efficiency.
- Drones – Drones are widely used in construction sites for numerous purposes such as surveying, mapping, and monitoring construction sites. They help in providing data, aerial view of the site, and progress tracking of a project. With an hourly rate of $167, the construction industry is the sixth-largest paying industry for drone pilots. [R2]
- 3D Printing Robots – The world is adopting sustainability in all fields. Therefore, 3D printing plays a vital role in revolutionizing the construction industry by enabling faster and more sustainable construction. 3D printing can build an entire building, which not only saves time but also reduces masonry and drywall waste. Also, around 30% of 3D-printed buildings were found in North America. [R3]
- Demolition Robots – These robots perform demolition projects by providing safety to the workers. They are specifically designed for demolition projects such as breaking down walls and removing debris.
- Self-Driving Construction Vehicles – Many companies have introduced autonomous dozers and excavators with the help of AI. The companies are reluctantly working on upgrading the autonomous construction equipment, as they provide construction safety to the workers. In 2020, 35.3% of workplace deaths in construction occupation was mostly due to falls, slips, and trips. [R4]
Therefore, these robots are expanding the construction industry with their advanced ranges in various construction processes. Also, each of them brings various benefits to the table including augmented productivity, enhanced safety, and cost effectiveness.
Astonishing Construction Robot Efficiencies
The deployment of construction robots offers all-inclusive benefits, such as efficiency, safety, and sustainability. According to research conducted by resorting to Research Nester, the market for construction robots is predicted to witness considerable growth and generate significant revenue with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 20%, between 2023 and 2035.
- Cost Savings – Though the investment in construction robots may be high, they can bring out long-term savings. The installation of robots helps to automate tasks, which will eventually reduce labor costs. Also, these robots help in the reduction of project delays and work efficiently.
- Flexibility and Adaptability – The construction robots can be programmed for various tasks, making them versatile and adaptable to different construction needs. This flexibility allows for efficient utilization of resources and enables customization based on project requirements.
- Increased Efficiency – Unlike construction workers, these robots can work effectively for hours without any fatigue. They can also optimize material usage and reduce waste, leading to improved resource efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
Navigating the Challenges and Solutions
In the glorified world of construction robots, there are some challenges that need to be addressed. Below are a few common challenges and their solutions:
- Integration with Existing Workflows – The integration of construction robots flawlessly into present construction workflows. Therefore, this can be done with better and safer planning to ensure that robots can coordinate and work with human workers.
- Cost and Return on Investment – The initial cost can be a barrier to the installation of construction robots for many companies. According to an estimation, the initial cost can be approximately between USD 50,000 to USD 150,000. [R5] However, recent developments and increased adoption of robots are gradually lessening the costs.
- Intricate Environments and Volatile Conditions – The construction sites are unpredictable in nature, which can be an obstacle to installing automated machinery and robots. Therefore, this can be resolved by furnishing the robots with advanced algorithms that can help them adapt to these environments. Research and development are necessary to enhance the functions of these robots.
- Regulatory and Safety Considerations – As construction robots become more prevalent, establishing clear regulations and safety standards becomes crucial. Collaborative efforts between industry stakeholders, policymakers, and regulatory bodies can help create guidelines that ensure the safe and responsible use of construction robots.
Building Safer and Advanced World: Future Outlook of Construction Robots
The future of the construction robots industry is expected to be exclusively promising. As the revolutionary world levels up advancements in automation, the robot industry will strive for the development of more sophisticated and capable robots.
Modular designs for future building robots could help with easy installation and adaptation to a variety of construction projects. This flexibility will make robots more flexible and cost-effective, enabling them to carry out a wider range of tasks. Also, construction robots will collaborate with other technologies such as Building Information Modeling (BIM) and Internet of Things (IoT) devices.
Improvements in AI and machine learning will also have a positive effect on construction robots. This will give them the opportunity to draw on experience, adjust to new environments, and make smart decisions in real time. Their autonomy will increase and their ability to handle complicated construction scenarios will be increased. Building Information Modeling with AI is expected to grow at around 12% per annum in the construction industry. [R6] The industry will be growing more with the adoption of AI and BIM.
Latest Developments in the Construction Robots Industry
- A new wearable exoskeleton specially adapted for the alleviation of low back fatigue in lifts and repeated movements has been invented jointly by Comau and IUVO with Esselunga. Created with the aim of improving ergonomics for operators engaged in manually moving loads, it was tested at Esselunga Group, a leading large-scale retail trade company. The exoskeleton provides passive support for the lower back muscles that are used while being lifted and pulled without using a motor or battery.
- The Meltio Robot Cell, a solution aimed at improving the performance of industrial robotic arms for metal additive manufacturing, has been launched by Metal 3D printing firm Meltio. It provides better control over the entire 3D printing process of metals, thanks to a system integration with Meltio’s slicing software named “Meltio Space.”
- The new line of demolition robots, namely the DXR 145, 147, 275, 305, and 314, will be made available by Husqvarna Construction in a bid to enhance its offer for demolishing professionals. On average, power increases of over 20% are offered by the four new DXR models in comparison to their predecessors. The result is that more efficient and powerful machines, allow the user to perform even more demolition tasks in less time.
Government Funding for Construction Robots
The US government has provided funding for construction robots through various programs, such as the National Robotics Initiative and the Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E). Also, The US government has provided funding for construction robot research through various agencies, including the National Science Foundation and the Department of Energy. In 2019, the US Department of Defense announced a $20 million grant for the development of construction robots for use in disaster relief efforts.
China has also invested heavily in construction robot technology, with the government providing funding through programs such as the National Science and Technology Major Projects and the National High-Tech Industrial Development Zone.
Market Overview
The construction robots industry is projected to experience growth in the upcoming years. As per a report by Research Nester, the global market size for construction robots is anticipated to surpass USD 2 Billion by the conclusion of 2035 with a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 20% between 2023 and 2035. In the year 2022, the construction robots sector had a market size of USD 228 Million primarily driven by the increasing adoption of robots to save time. Additionally, the increased demand for automated construction is also driving the growth of the industry.
Key Takeaways
- Increasing Demand for Automated Construction – Automated building solutions are anticipated to be a major factor escalating the growth of the construction robot industry, as infrastructure needs increase and they will be an important influence on the market. It was noted that in 2022, industrial robots accounted for the greatest shipment share in China, with a 55.4% share.
- The robotic arm segment is expected to hold the largest share of the market. This can be accredited to the adoption of innovative technology supported with better design, faster construction, and standardized designs.
- The Asia Pacific region is anticipated to hold the largest share of 32%, which is due to the increasing construction of 3D-printed houses in the region. For instance, the 3D printed houses is expected to expand by 18% in the region by 2026.
Conclusion
In the end, construction robots are revolutionizing the construction industry with their unimaginable benefits and key factors. From increased efficiency and productivity to improved safety, these robots are changing the future of the construction sector. Therefore, with the ongoing developments and advancements we can expect more incredible inventions in the coming years. So, fastened the seat belts to observe the revolution of the construction industry with the implementation of robotics.
Source @ https://www.researchnester.com/reports/construction-robots-market/5225
[R1]https://www.statista.com/outlook/tmo/robotics/worldwide
[R2]https://dronesurveyservices.com/drone-statistics/
[R3]https://cobod.com/global-inventory-over-3d-printing-buildings-shows-cobod-leading-positio/
[R4]https://www.bls.gov/spotlight/2022/workplace-injuries-and-job-requirements-for-construction-laborers/home.htm
[R5]https://blog.bluebeam.com/is-construction-robotics-the-future-of-the-industry/#:~:text=The%20downsides%20of%20using%20robots,%24150%2C000%2C%20according%20to%20some%20estimates.
[R6]https://devtechnosys.com/insights/ai-in-construction-industry/
