Robotics Under Construction: Challenges on Job Sites
This work addresses automation for the construction industry to improve efficiency, but it is incremental as it presents an initial step without dynamic adaptation algorithms.
The paper tackles the problem of labor shortages and productivity stagnation in construction by developing an autonomous payload transportation system based on the CD110R-3 crawler carrier, with preliminary results highlighting challenges like navigation in evolving terrain and sensor optimization.
As labor shortages and productivity stagnation increasingly challenge the construction industry, automation has become essential for sustainable infrastructure development. This paper presents an autonomous payload transportation system as an initial step toward fully unmanned construction sites. Our system, based on the CD110R-3 crawler carrier, integrates autonomous navigation, fleet management, and GNSS-based localization to facilitate material transport in construction site environments. While the current system does not yet incorporate dynamic environment adaptation algorithms, we have begun fundamental investigations into external-sensor based perception and mapping system. Preliminary results highlight the potential challenges, including navigation in evolving terrain, environmental perception under construction-specific conditions, and sensor placement optimization for improving autonomy and efficiency. Looking forward, we envision a construction ecosystem where collaborative autonomous agents dynamically adapt to site conditions, optimizing workflow and reducing human intervention. This paper provides foundational insights into the future of robotics-driven construction automation and identifies critical areas for further technological development.