Humanoid robots start to make an appearance in construction sites

These massive transformer-like robots are being deployed in Japan to help perform various construction tasks. (Image Credit: JR West)

Is this the start of the end of traditional construction?

The well-known Transformers franchise has inspired and stirred the imaginations of its fanbase with summertime blockbuster films. Companies around the world are creating these robots to perform dangerous tasks, replacing humans in the construction and engineering fields. Jinki Ittai, a robotics startup based in Japan, unveiled its massive transformer-like humanoid construction robot that can assemble buildings, repair power lines, and replace road signs. A human operator controls the robot by wearing a VR headset inside a cabin. This technology is expected to hit the market in 2024.

"There are two reasons why we are focusing on humanoid robots: one is the appearance, which appeals to so many people. Secondly, humanoid robots with two hands are the easiest to handle for humans," said the founder and president of Jinki Ittai. "Many people think that robot technology wasn't advanced enough then, but the technology did exist. The problem was that it had not been implemented in society. I decided to create something that we could use on a regular basis."

Jinki Ittai's robot can be controlled by a human operator wearing a VR headset to repair power lines, replace road signs, and assemble buildings. (Image Credit: JR West)

Even Tesla is joining the humanoid development game. In August 2021, Elon Musk announced plans to start developing humanoid robots to "eliminate dangerous, repetitive, boring tasks" from human workers. Recently, Musk showed a preview of its Optimus prototype, providing an image of silver robotic hands that formed a heart. The date, Sept. 30, 2022, was also shown, which could represent the prototype's formal introduction day. These robots are 5'8" tall and feature humanlike hands and figures. The company expects the robots to be programmed to perform repetitive tasks, which includes manufacturing Tesla cars. 

In addition, Musk stated his goal is to start producing these robots by 2023, which are prioritized over the company's electric cars. "I suspect Optimus is going to be more valuable than the car long-term. It will turn the whole notion of the economy on its head," Musk said.

Last August, the National Science Foundation awarded the University of Michigan with a $2 million grant so robots can try to learn from human workers on a construction site. In a three-year program, humans work with interactive robot assistants to create machine learning that reduces the dangerous construction tasks for humans. "Robots are anticipated to make the global construction industry safer and more attractive to workers, easing a worker shortage in the U.S.," the university said.

"Construction is much more dynamic and unpredictable than an environment like a factory, so we're working to redefine the balance between human and robot workers," said Carol Menassa, a professor of engineering at the university. "Humans and robots need to coexist, and that's the premise of what we're doing right now."

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