Robotic Technologies and Automation in Construction: A Systematic Review

Abstract

The global construction industry is experiencing a high rate of disruption arising from the deployment of emerging robotic technologies and process automation. This study investigates research trends in robotic technologies and automation in the construction industry. Using topic-specific keywords to organise and summarise pertinent studies, the study undertook a systematic literature review and meta-analysis of robotic technologies and automation in construction. A systematic search of the databases of Scopus, Web of Science, and Dimensions was conducted, with a total of 9,515 journal articles retrieved from them. Based on inclusion and exclusion criteria, a total of 51 research papers met the parameters for meta analysis and systematic review. Data relating to the research papers' demography and to robotic technologies as well as automation in construction were mined, with a quantitative meta-analysis performed on them. The results show a spread of research efforts across Europe, Asia and America, with an increase in research output between 2019 and 2023. The results further show that construction gantry systems, bricklaying robots and 3D concrete printers are the most studied robotic technologies and automation processes in the sector. The study concludes that there is still a paucity of research on robotic technologies and automation in construction. The study therefore recommends further research on robotic technologies and automation in construction, especially with regard to their appropriate application and deployment in construction projects across Africa.