A Simple Framework for the Cost–Benefit Analysis of Single-Task Construction Robots Based on a Case Study of a Cable-Driven Facade Installation Robot

Abstract

Single-task construction robots (STCRs) have become a popular research topic for decades. However, there is still a gap in the ubiquitous application of STCRs for onsite construction due to various reasons, such as cost concerns. Therefore, cost–benefit analysis (CBA) can be used to measure the net economic benefit of the STCRs, compared to traditional construction methods, in order to boost the implementation of STCRs. This paper presents a simple and practical framework for the economic evaluation of STCRs and conducts a case study of a cable-driven facade installation robot to verify the method. The results show that the cable-driven robot for facade installation is worth investing in in the UK, as well as in the majority of G20 countries. Furthermore, other socioenvironmental implications of STCRs and the limitations of the study are also discussed. In conclusion, the proposed method is highly adaptable and reproducible. Therefore, researchers, engineers, investors, and policy makers can easily follow and customize this method to assess the economic advantages of any STCR systems, compared to traditional construction technologies.

Construction Robotics: From Automation to Collaboration

“…Many automation processes have the sole purpose of making the construction process faster and cheaper and removing human labor from the construction site (or the prefabrication environment). An argument in favor of this type of automation is that it makes construction sites safer, by employing robots for tasks that are tedious or dangerous for humans, and using them to enable new construction processes that humans cannot perform due to the required accuracy, payload, or time (34). However, such arguments should not be taken out of context, and they do not constitute any absolute truths.…”

Safety, quality, schedule, and cost impacts of ten construction robots

“…Finally, the cost to acquire advanced technologies and machinery in construction has been calculated with engineering principles such as the time value of money, cash flow analyses, and return on investment (Hu et al Jan. 2021 ; Kangari 1985 ; Kumar et al 2008 ). However, large amounts of capital are needed to develop, operate, and maintain robots which pose significant economic risks (Slaughter 1997 ).…”

“…The comparisons presented in this paper evaluate robots from the perspective of an innovator in construction looking to deploy an available robot solution for a given project. Other researchers have explored approaches for systems engineering of new single-task construction robots (Thomas et al 2019 ; Hu et al Jan. 2021 ) that could complement this comparative analysis.…”

Solution Kits for automated and robotic façade upgrading

“…Robotics and automated solutions in construction are only marketed when these are economically feasible [9][10][11][12]. The question of how to manage technology and make it ready for the market must also be addressed [13][14][15].…”