Automation in construction
Automation in construction is the combination of methods, processes, and systems that allow for greater machine autonomy in construction activities. Construction automation may have multiple goals, including but not limited to, reducing jobsite injuries, decreasing activity completion times, and assisting with quality control and quality assurance.[1] Some systems may be fielded as a direct response to increasing skilled labor shortages in some countries.[2] Opponents claim that increased automation may lead to less construction jobs and that software leaves heavy equipment vulnerable to hackers.[3]
Transportation Construction
Kratos Defense & Security Solutions fielded the world’s first Autonomous Truck-Mounted Attenuator (ATMA) in 2017, in conjunction with Royal Truck & Equipment.[4]
Uses of Automation in Construction
- Equipment control and management: Automation can be used to control and monitor construction equipment, such as cranes,[5] excavators, and bulldozers.
- Material handling: Automated systems can be used to handle, transport, and place materials such as concrete, bricks, and stones.
- Surveying: Automated survey equipment and drones can be used to collect and analyze data on construction sites.
- Quality control: Automated systems can be used to monitor and control the quality of materials and construction processes.
- Safety management: Automated systems can be used to monitor and control safety conditions on construction sites.
- Scheduling and planning: Automated systems can be used to manage schedules, resources, and costs.
- Waste management: Automated systems can be used to manage and dispose of waste materials generated during construction.
- 3D printing: Automated 3D printing can be used to create prototypes, models, and even full-scale building components.
References
- "The impact and opportunities of automation in construction". McKinsey & Company. Retrieved 13 November 2020.
- Vernon, Joe; Hughes, Jeff (1 September 2017). "Using Automation to Combat the Impending Labor Shortage". Industry Week. Retrieved 13 November 2020.
- Carter, Jamie (5 March 2019). "Hacked Driverless Cars Could Cause Collisions And Gridlock In Cities, Say Researchers". Forbes. Retrieved 13 November 2020.
- Peck, Abe (23 July 2019). "From War Zone to Work Zone". Autonomous Media, LLC. Inside Unmanned Systems. Retrieved 20 December 2020.
- "Introduction to Construction Cranes". Spanco. 2018-07-24. Retrieved 2023-01-31.