CONCERT: The Robot Assisting Construction Workers in Italy
A new prototype robot, named CONCERT, has been tested on a construction site in Italy, working alongside human labourers. The robot can drill, sand, paint, and help transport heavy materials, offering a flexible and efficient solution for the building industry.
A Versatile and Adaptable Robot
CONCERT is designed as a multi-functional platform that adapts to different tasks depending on the tools attached to it and the instructions it receives. This allows it to assist workers with physically demanding and repetitive jobs while also operating independently with minimal supervision.
Nikolaos Tsagarakis, head of the Italian Institute of Technology’s Humanoids & Human-Centred Mechatronics Robotic Lab, explained: “It can execute construction tasks alongside human operators while also offering autonomous capabilities when needed.”
Reconfigurable for Various Construction Needs
One of CONCERT’s key features is its ability to change its structure and robotic arm based on the job at hand. This reconfiguration allows it to adjust its workspace, lifting power, and the amount of force applied during tasks.
The robot can integrate various tools such as drills, sprayers, sanders, and grippers, making it useful for different stages of construction. This flexibility means that companies can quickly repurpose the robot for new tasks without requiring significant modifications.
Ensuring Safety and Future Developments
A major focus of the CONCERT project is safety, especially when working alongside humans in unpredictable environments. The robot is equipped with multiple sensors, including 3D LIDAR, cameras, and ultrasonic detectors, to detect and react to nearby workers. These sensors help prevent accidents and ensure smooth collaboration between robots and humans.
Looking ahead, the CONCERT team aims to expand the robot’s capabilities by integrating artificial intelligence and machine learning. This would allow the robot to assess the quality of its work and make adjustments in real-time, further improving efficiency on construction sites.
With inputs from Reuters
