Approaching the Automation Utopia in Infra-construction

There are three primary areas for automation in infra-construction. The first is the automation of what falls under traditional physical tasks on-site, like machines paving roads. The second kind focuses on modular construction and production in factories, like 3-D printing of components such as facades. The third centers on digitization and the subsequent automation of design, planning, monitoring, and management systems, as well as the vast efficiencies resultant from this application. In general, examples of new automated construction technologies are BIM, drones, modular construction, AI, Digital Twins, blockchain technology, virtual and augmented reality, 4D simulations, 3D printing, and more, completing their evolutionary incubation period.

The need is the mother of invention.

For the humans, by the humans

Then there is also the imperative and key human factor to consider. All this effort is for the betterment of human life after all! Although the infra-construction industry is generally slightly behind, looking for ways of eliminating hazardous tasks to enhance efficiency and ensure and improve the safety of site workers. Customized machine learning algorithms can sort through the massive amounts of data generated on a daily basis, tracking pre-determined criteria to find patterns that could indicate the potential safety issues, that human observers might take for granted or miss. Injuries at the site often occur due to changes in a work process, brought on by fatigue of long working hours or distraction. Since the same process is used each time without fatigue, automated machinery eliminates risks associated with human error. Presently, only about 3% of young adults from Gen Z are interested in working in infra-construction sector because it is perceived to be a physically demanding job.

Where and what to watch for?

The areas automation is seeping in extend right from the preliminary planning stages, all the way to procurement, inspection, erection, monitoring, operating, and even maintaining the final infra-construction project.

• Autonomous and self-navigating machines are seen employed to transport materials or to haul heavy items, enhancing the quantum of work delivered and with little risk to the workforce. These machines fitted with robotic technology and sensors, that take real-time readings of location, temperature, pressure, and other conditions, are enabling cranes and forklifts, diggers, and other similar equipment to operate without a driver in the cabin. By pre-defining the function, providing GPS coordinates, and programming the movement of the machine itself, operators can remotely operate machinery with safety, confidence, precision, and efficiency.

• The Drones are programmed to automatically scan the working area after which signals can be sent back to a centralized control system. The use of drones for the conduction of pre-project inspections has become an SOP already, the NHAI as well as state authorities are insisting on Drone surveys and reporting in their online formats to periodically monitor the progress of projects.

• Automation has also found its way to asphalt mixing in Hot Mix plants for road paving. Control systems and robotics are being used to mix concrete, or the required proportion of ingredients according to approved design-mix formulae to ensure the optimal quality of work. Automation prepares precast and ready-mixed concrete products that take a much shorter time to install. It also directs to pour and level concrete in the right portions, avoiding obstacles near the work zone, reduces material consumption, and eliminates human error.

• Demolition robots are being used to bring down walls and to safely dismantle concrete slabs, resulting in lower operational costs and a safer working environment for the on-site workforce.

How far to the Utopia?