Contractors Hot Line is part of the Catalyst Communications Network publication family.
Contractors Hot Line is part of the Catalyst Communications Network publication family.
Rapid advancements in technology have forced the construction industry to adapt and change. With the rise in robotics and autonomous equipment, one can only expect these seemingly efficient and productive products to play an integral role in the future of construction.
Already being used in many ways across the industry, robotics and automation are enhancing productivity, addressing labor shortages and reducing costs. In addition, autonomous equipment is taking on tedious and hazardous tasks, creating safer working environments and driving progress for the building sector.
The Rise of Autonomous Equipment
Autonomous equipment is a type of technology that performs specific tasks without manual human assistance. In the construction industry, this can include excavators, cranes, dozers and haul trucks. Machines are controlled remotely or within a line of sight. The hope is that autonomous and remote-controlled heavy equipment will revolutionize the industry, making it safer, more efficient and productive.
In its report, “Autonomous Off-road Vehicles and Machinery Market,” Credence Research speaks to the remarkable growth and valuation the sector is forecasted to witness by the year 2032. Interestingly, North America has led the trend, accounting for nearly 40% of the global market share, with Asia-Pacific noted as the “most rapidly expanding market for autonomous off-road vehicles and machinery.”
As the technology advances, fully autonomous equipment isn't far from making its way onto construction sites within the next decade. In fact, similar industries have already adopted and integrated certain devices and technologies.
Fully- and semi-autonomous vehicles are most commonly used in mining operations. In this sector, automation is attractive as most operations occur in remote areas where the labor force is lacking. Production often takes place on semi-permanent roads and underground, providing companies with a safe and secure working area.
In construction, major companies like Caterpillar, Volvo and Built Robotics are experimenting with and actively developing autonomous and remote-controlled heavy-duty machinery.
Examples and applications of automation in construction include:
Out of 1,900 construction companies surveyed by ABB, only 55% are currently using robotics. In the coming decade, 80% intend to implement or expand automation and robotics. As a result, experts predict automation in construction will leap a staggering 85% by 2030.
Hence the interest for automation use in digging out and remediating ash ponds. Due to the extreme hazards and increase in fatalities, lawmakers are starting to crack down with mandates and regulations.
LOS vs. NLOS
Two types of automation systems exist: line of sight and non-line of sight. Each comes with its own set of benefits and applications.
Line of sight (LOS) automation allows the operator to remotely control heavy equipment or machines from a line-of-sight distance up to 1,300 feet away. This protects the workers from hazardous working environments while maintaining a close eye on the project.
The Cat Command remote control for construction LOS product provides enhanced productivity, operator safety and precise machine control. The advanced remote-control system allows the operator to control a single machine, like a crane or excavator, at a safe distance. The technology keeps them close enough to the worksite, but far enough away from hazardous jobs like crumbling walls and toxic dust or debris. After automated tasks are complete, the operator may choose to re-enter the vehicle for manual operation.
On the other hand, non-line of sight (NLOS) automation allows the operator to work on a construction project from miles away. Seated in a virtual cab environment, the operator uses a range of high-definition video feeds and realistic-feeling hand and foot controls to operate semi-automated heavy equipment in real-time. The technology also allows the operator to switch between different machines and job sites instantly.
Although the technologies seem promising, companies like Caterpillar and Teleo argue that fully autonomous NLOS construction sites are much later down the road. First, semi-autonomous equipment must be tested and mastered before fully remote construction sites can be considered.
Opportunities
There are many positive effects automation can have on the construction industry. From enhanced productivity to addressing labor shortages, it’s easy to see how autonomous equipment can and will revolutionize how builders build.
Enhanced Productivity and Efficiency
Over the past decade, industries that have embraced automation, like agriculture and manufacturing, have experienced an uptick in productivity. And, according to McKinsey, construction has the same potential.
For example, repetitive tasks can be handed off to robotic machines capable of operating around the clock. Without the need for downtime, the use of autonomous equipment increases the amount of work completed in a short amount of time.
Additionally, sensors and AI technologies are often integrated to help reduce costly errors such as material waste.
Addresses Labor Shortages
Labor shortages have been an ongoing endemic known to the construction industry. The use of remote-controlled and automated equipment, however, provides an opportunity to address the impact of labor shortages.
Where there is a lack of manual human labor, a robot or remote-controlled piece of equipment could step in. Monotonous and repetitive jobs, where turnover is often high, can be easily replaced.
Meanwhile, as a new and younger generation enters the workforce, remote and video game-like technologies will be both appealing and normative. This will ultimately open the door to new labor and workforce possibilities.
Improved Safety
According to OSHA, 75% of struck-by fatalities involve heavy equipment. ABB reports that construction workers contribute to 30% of all workplace accidents. Notably, this career path faces four times as much risk for fatal injuries compared to other industries.
Automated equipment can replace humans where job tasks are considered hazardous and toxic. Operating heavy machinery from a distance improves work conditions while significantly minimizing accidents and fatalities.
Environmental Impact
Many companies prioritize sustainability and are actively seeking ways to reduce their carbon footprint.
For this to happen in the construction industry, issues such as reducing emissions and noise pollution can be mitigated by deploying electric-powered devices and technologies.
Automated equipment reduces fuel consumption and emissions, increasing energy efficiency. Additionally, robotics can be programmed to precisely measure and cut building materials leading to more sustainable construction practices.
Data Collection and Analysis
With the use of AI technologies, high-resolution cameras, GPS and sensors, autonomous vehicles and robotics can gather real-time job site information. These applications are helpful in the monitoring of construction processes and analyzing workflows.
Drawbacks
Adopting new technologies comes with both opportunities and drawbacks. As it applies to autonomous equipment, the drawbacks are limited, but they do exist.
First, new technologies come with an upfront investment, including purchase and implementation costs. Additionally, staff will require proper training in order to safely and effectively operate and maintain the new technology and hardware.
Just mentioning “autonomous equipment” or “robotics” raises flags for many construction workers. Change in the workplace can often be met with resistance due to fear of job loss to robotics. Reluctant workers may lack trust in the new technology and push back when change threatens established practices.
Heavy equipment, either diesel or electric-powered, can experience technical failures and downtime. It’s important to recognize this and understand that technical issues will occasionally disrupt project productivity.
As the technology advances, regulatory and legal issues will become commonplace. Different regions may impose laws and regulations that could inhibit autonomous equipment. This is constantly evolving, and it is recommended to stay abreast of the issue.
Looking to the Future
The future of automation looks bright.
Many construction companies have started adopting and integrating autonomous and remote-controlled equipment to provide greater flexibility, increased productivity and address concerning labor shortages within the industry. But with the acceptance comes some hesitancy.
For now, it appears construction robots and autonomous equipment are a more futuristic dream than a current reality. Semi-autonomous robotics are considered the best viable approach, working with preset steps on predetermined shapes and structures.
But that’s not to say things won’t change. With experimentation, development, and early adoption, autonomous and remote-controlled equipment could be the next big thing in construction.