No matter how conscientious the safety procedures in place, the inherent dangers associated with the industry can’t be completely removed. Enter AI-driven, two-legged robots who will revolutionise demolition sites, enhancing safety and productivity for human operatives.
When Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Terminator stomped over broken glass into our lives in 1984, we got a glimpse at just how good he was at demolishing pretty much everything he touched. Just 40 years later, science fiction is rapidly becoming science fact, with the possibility of an ultimate on-site robot now seeming eminently possible.
In fact, the global Artificial Intelligence (AI) market within the construction sector is projected to soar to $22.68 billion by 2032, up from just $3.20 billion in 2023.1 The forecasted dramatic growth signals a transformative shift in how construction projects are approached and executed. Now that’s a blockbuster development.
Recent advancements in AI have propelled the development of sophisticated robots capable of performing complex tasks with human-like dexterity and decision-making abilities. A notable demonstration by Figure, a robotics startup, showcased a humanoid robot engaging in a conversation, identifying objects, and executing tasks with remarkable precision. This leap in robotic intelligence is driven by the integration of AI models, particularly vision-language-action models (VLAMs), which enable robots to interpret and interact with their surroundings in ways previously thought impossible.
VLAMs merge data from text, images, and physical sensors, allowing robots to perceive their environment comprehensively. These models empower robots to execute tasks with minimal explicit programming, relying instead on in-context learning and zero-shot learning—capabilities that are transforming robots into adaptable, responsive tools in various industries.
Just don’t tell Sarah Connor
The application of these intelligent robots in demolition sites holds huge potential. Traditional demolition work involves numerous health risks. Exposure to hazardous materials like asbestos can lead to respiratory problems, and the physical dangers of handling heavy machinery and potentially unstable structures are ever-present. Of course, every measure is taken to minimise these risks, but an element of danger inevitably remains. Deploying robots to undertake these tasks would eradicate these risks, safeguarding human workers from harmful exposures and accidents.
Robots equipped with advanced AI can be programmed using simple text prompts, allowing non-specialist supervisors to direct their operations effortlessly. For instance, instructing a robot to ‘Remove debris from the second floor’ can be as straightforward as issuing a verbal command. This ease of communication reduces the need for specialised programming knowledge, making robotic assistance accessible and practical on demolition sites of the future.
Robotic startups like Covariant and Agility Robotics are at the forefront of this technological shift. Covariant’s AI models, such as RFM-1, have demonstrated proficiency in warehouse environments, performing ‘pick and pack’ tasks with enhanced efficiency. These models’ adaptability can be extended to demolition robots, enabling them to handle various tasks, from dismantling structures to sorting and disposing of hazardous materials.
Are we out of danger yet?
The primary advantage of using AI-driven robots in demolition will lie in the improvements in safety and efficiency they offer. By delegating hazardous tasks to robots, human workers are shielded from direct exposure to dangerous environments and materials. Robots, impervious to respiratory issues and physical injuries, can undertake the meticulous work of asbestos removal or the precise dismantling of unstable structures, thus minimising the risks to human health.
‘It can’t be bargained with, it can’t be reasoned with, it doesn’t feel pity or remorse or fear, and it absolutely will not stop…’
Moreover, the efficiency gains are substantial. As we found out with Arnie’s Terminator, robots do not tire or get bored, can work continuously, and perform repetitive tasks with consistent accuracy. This would not only speed up the strip-out/demolition process but also suggests that a higher quality of work might be possible. For example, robots can, Terminator-style, systematically scan and remove hazardous materials with a level of precision far beyond humans’ ability, reducing the chances of leaving harmful residues behind.
Despite these advantages, the journey to fully autonomous demolition robots is not without challenges. Humanoid robots must achieve a level of dexterity and mobility that allows them to navigate the unpredictable and often treacherous terrain of a demolition site. Current robots like Digit, while impressive, are still limited in their ability to match human agility and responsiveness in such environments.
I’ll be back…
