Optimising the Use of Robotics to Advance the Construction Sector

The Global Construction Robotic Day, organised by the Construction Industry Council (CIC) in May 2024, comprised an exhibition, a conference and a pitching session. The two-day event took place at Hong Kong Science Park and drew upwards of 8,000 attendees, both physical and online.

The exhibition showcased 24 construction robots capable of performing various functions, including high-precision measurement; structural welding; rebar tying; floor grinding; wall finishing; façade cleaning; and demolition. They helped industry stakeholders explore the functionalities of the featured solutions towards enhancing efficiency, safety and productivity.

A total of 24 construction robots, capable of performing various functions, were featured in the exhibition; image by CIC

The conference saw local and international experts share their perspectives on various innovations as well as its practical implementation. Among the speakers were:

Prof. Roberto Horowitz, Distinguished Professor of Mechanical Engineering, University of California, Berkeley;
Prof. Thomas Bock, Director, Bock Robotics Revolution and Retired Professor, Technical University of Munich;
Oliver Tian, Vice-Chairperson, International Alliance of Robotics Associations and Founder, Oliver Tian Associates; and
Ir. Romeo Yiu, Head/Development and Construction InnoTech, Housing Department, Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.

Victor Tai, Under Secretary for Housing graced the event as the guest of honour; image by CIC

According to Victor Tai, Under Secretary for Housing and the event’s guest of honour, the Hong Kong Housing Authority (HA) has included a requirement in tender submission pertaining to the use of robotics for evaluation in construction contracts. It aims to address the ageing workforce and shortage of skilled labour in the sector. Moreover, construction robots are set to be deployed in over 40 public housing projects.

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During the event, Ir. Prof. Thomas Ho, Chairperson of CIC, highlighted the council’s commitment to fostering holistic approach to robotic construction, in addition to the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) and Internet of Things (IoT). To this end, the CIC will organise training courses to equip practitioners with essential knowledge of robotic operations and maintenance. —Construction+ Online

Sources: CIC website; CIC Facebook page; Global Construction Robotic Day

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