Applied AI and Robotics for Construction Operations—A Smart Review of the State of the Science
Publication: Construction Research Congress 2024
ABSTRACT
The rapid advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI), driven by increased computational power, have revolutionized the engineering industry in recent years. A growing body of literature has emerged, focusing on the application of AI, advanced robotics, and the Internet of Things (IoT) in various sectors. However, the construction industry appears to lag in adopting these intelligent automation technologies for enhancing construction operations. This study aims to examine the current state of AI and robotics adoption within the construction industry for automation purposes. To achieve this, a systematic review of academic peer-reviewed articles on AI and robotic applications in the construction industry was conducted. Keyword-based semi-supervised machine learning was employed to classify the articles according to the phases of construction. Subsequently, an unsupervised machine learning algorithm was utilized to perform content analysis on the articles concerning different construction phases. This analysis enabled a better understanding of relevant AI applications, which could be integrated across construction phases to enhance efficiency. Additionally, this study investigates the various barriers and benefits of adopting AI aimed at improving productivity and safety. Finally, the article discusses the implications of AI, robotics, and automation on job opportunities within the construction sector.
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Published online: Mar 18, 2024
ASCE Technical Topics:
- Artificial intelligence and machine learning
- Automation and robotics
- Computer networks
- Computer programming
- Computing in civil engineering
- Construction engineering
- Construction equipment
- Construction industry
- Construction management
- Energy engineering
- Engineering fundamentals
- Equipment and machinery
- Internet
- Systems engineering
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