The Role of AI in On-Site Construction Robotics: A State-of-the-Art Review Using the Sense–Think–Act Framework

Abstract

The construction sector is confronted with significant challenges, such as reduced productivity, high injury rates, and labor deficits, driving research into autonomous robotics as a viable solution. This study delivers a comprehensive review of recent advancements in AI-driven autonomous construction robotics, organized within the sense–think–act (STA) framework. A rigorous bibliometric analysis of 319 selected publications from 2015 to 2024 highlights key research trends and notable contributors. A systematic content analysis elaborates on advancements in each STA component, including technologies for perception and environmental understanding, decision-making algorithms for reasoning and planning, and varied actuation methods addressing scale and collaborative robotics. The study also explores challenges such as environmental unpredictability, specialized task demands, and structural safety concerns. Finally, it underscores future research priorities, focusing on balanced robotic system design, dataset standardization, domain-specific knowledge incorporation, and enhanced robustness to support the broader implementation of autonomous construction robotics.