How AI and Robots Could Change the Construction Industry
In the age of technology, artificial intelligence is benefiting more and more lives every day. Businesses and entire industries are also being transformed by the use of automation, learning technology, and the precision and accuracy of robots.
Historically, the construction industry has relied on hands-on, manual labor. AI and technology haven’t been able to adapt to different, complex construction sites which has made it difficult in implementing robots. However different building structures, materials like concrete and symons forms, and everchanging environments are finally being learned and understood by computers. Here’s a couple ways AI and robots could change the construction industry.
Robots Are More Efficient
Efficiency is important on any job site, whether it be installing concrete formwork ties or simply inspecting construction materials. The cost of time and energy is expensive, and robots might be the solution for scaling construction businesses and the economy.
Robots are also far more precise than humans. They never get tired and are able to repeat the same task over and over with the same amount of accuracy. Some robots are even able to detect and analyze different structures as they’re working. As they continue to evolve, we may see robots becoming self-sufficient and not requiring human supervision.
Two robots, HadrianX and SAM100, are building their own walls faster and better than humans have ever been able to. They’re able to lay bricks exponentially faster than a human while having a 100% accuracy. This is just scratching the surface at how much productivity couldbe gained.
Robots like these provide economic boom since they cause labor, supplies, and time costs to go down. And even with the economy facing labor shortages from aging boomers and hesitant millennials, robots could be the answer.
Safety Increases
The construction industry has been linked to a high percentage of yearly work deaths and injuries. With computers taking over job sites, safety on the job site should see an exponential increase.
This makes sense when you consider what some of these robots are able to do. Many can ‘see’ obstacles and humans, and they are designed to prevent injuries intelligently through risk assessment and monitoring. In tasks that require manual-labor, robots can literally do the heavy lifting and save the backs of many workers.
When it comes to human error, computers are way safer and more accurate which minimizes accidents. And even if a human still has to operate the robot, it can now be done remotely which places risk only on the robot, and not on actual people.
Machine Learning and Big Data
The best part about AI is its machine learning capabilities. This means robots are advancing on their own and learning from every job site, day in and day out. This type of data is self-improving and will only benefit construction firms.
Big data isn’t just for robots learning how to build, though. Big data means that robots will also become more productive and efficient over time. They’ll be able to assess risk and help humans make better decisions on the job site. Post-construction robots will primarily run off data and machine learning for assessing buildings and highlighting areas of weakness or improvements needed in standing structures.
Types of Construction Robots
The types of robots that currently exist are already transforming the industry. Here’s a short list of construction robots and what they’re able to do.
Demolition Robot
This robot can take down buildings and structures on its own with no need of human operation. It’s also incredibly intelligent as it analyzes patterns and data to provide a safe environment. It’s slower than a normal crew, but it gets the job done safely and is cheaper than a crew.
3D-Printing Robot
These robots can build bridges and other large structures quickly with pre-programmed commands. They are highly efficient in building walls, laying bricks, and masonry.
Concrete Robots
These robots are operated by humans but can be autonomous. They specialize in concrete flooring by aiding in the finishing process.
Load Carrier Robots
These robots do the heavy lifting by carrying heavy materials to and from job sites. They can be autonomous if pre-programmed.
Forming America Has the Supplies
Thinking about the future in relation to robots and automation is an exciting thing! While the technology is still developing, it’s only getting better and better every day.
Forming America has the materials for your next job, whether you’re using robots or doing it yourself. Give us a call today so we can help you with your next job.