Breaking Down Barriers: A Study of Challenges to Adopting Powered Exoskeletons in the US Construction Industry
Publication: Computing in Civil Engineering 2023
ABSTRACT
Powered exoskeletons have the potential to reduce the physical demands on construction workers and enhance their abilities, yet adoption of this technology has been limited in the US construction sector. To that end, this study aimed to identify the barriers to the adoption of powered exoskeletons in the US construction industry. Firstly, a literature review was conducted to identify commercially available powered exoskeletons suitable for construction. Concurrently, questionnaires were developed and distributed among construction practitioners to understand the challenges associated with the implementation of powered exoskeletons in the US construction industry. The results showed that concerns about usability and productivity gains were the main barriers to the adoption of exoskeletons in the construction sector. The findings of this study provide valuable insights for improving the adoption and implementation of powered exoskeletons in the US construction industry, which could enhance worker safety and productivity.
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Published In
Computing in Civil Engineering 2023
Pages: 763 - 770
History
Published online: Jan 25, 2024
ASCE Technical Topics:
- Automation and robotics
- Bibliographies
- Business management
- Construction engineering
- Construction industry
- Construction management
- Employment
- Engineering fundamentals
- Information management
- Labor
- Occupational safety
- Personnel management
- Practice and Profession
- Productivity
- Public administration
- Public health and safety
- Safety
- Systems engineering
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