Task Identification for Construction Automation

Abstract

Recent work in construction automation has proceeded in two directions: the development of automated and robotic equipment , and the identification of construction tasks that are good candidates for automation . Previous task identification studies have focused on total automation using robotic manipulators . However, approaches to automation in manufacturing and the success of partially automated heavy construction equipment indicate that this focus is too narrow . To avoid a priori assumptions regarding the extent of automation and the configuration of automated equipment, a two step procedure for task identification is proposed . The first step, preliminary selection, is based solely on the potential for the anticipated benefits of automation . In the second step , conceptual design , an interdisciplinary team examines the various ways in which each of the previously selected tasks could be divided between man and machine . In this paper, recommendations are made regarding the use of benefit data in preliminary selection, the composition of the design team is addressed , and a framework to guide the design effort is presented . The two step task identification procedure proposed here should help ensure consideration of the full spectrum of approaches to automation.