Automation in Construction in brief – 28/02/2026
Automation and Digitization
Developers confirm AI coding tools, like Anthropic’s Claude Code and OpenAI’s Codex, can now build applications from text prompts, aiding in coding, testing, and debugging. While professionals acknowledge their efficacy, opinions diverge on the net benefit. Some, like David Hagerty, caution against overhyping, noting AI’s strengths and limitations. This might help the construction industry to catch up in digitization.
A study in Automation in Construction reviews advancements in indoor 3D point cloud reconstruction for scan-to-BIM automation. The paper combines scientometric and systematic reviews to analyze the entire scan-to-BIM workflow, from raw point clouds to BIM modeling. It evaluates traditional and deep learning methods, identifies limitations, and suggests future research directions. The study aims to enhance understanding of scan-to-BIM automation, crucial for intelligent building management and smart city planning.
Source: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.autcon.2026.106853
A new plugin-based workflow, tested on a real Colombian road project, automates the segmentation of 3D road solids in Autodesk Civil 3D using Dynamo, linking them to time and cost data via IFC4.3. The system reduces modeling errors by 40%, cuts planning time, and enables granular 5D BIM management-critical for linear infrastructure where layers and segments often vary. Validation confirmed seamless interoperability with Navisworks and Synchro Pro, though broader adoption hinges on IFC4.3’s industry uptake. A scalable solution for contractors and designers seeking precision in road planning.
Construction Robotics
Researchers have developed an automated planning tool to enhance construction productivity through material handling robots (MHRs). The tool optimizes task allocation and scheduling, outperforming rule-based methods by minimizing delivery delays and reducing the need for a large MHR fleet. Validated with real-life residential building data, the tool addresses the industry’s challenges of stagnant productivity, labor shortages, and safety concerns. It facilitates a transition towards more intelligent and efficient construction operations, aligning with the industry’s progressive adoption of robotics.
Source: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.autcon.2026.106852
A novel robotic framework automates bamboo weaving, a sustainable yet labour-intensive craft. Using knot theory, it generates conflict-free weaving paths for irregular patterns, while a custom end-effector enables single-arm interlacing of varied bamboo profiles. Validated via a full-scale pavilion, the system reduces reliance on skilled artisans, though manual input persists. The method merges computational precision with adaptable hardware, advancing bamboo’s role in low-carbon architecture.
Source: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.autcon.2026.106824
Space Construction
NASA is accelerating its Artemis programme, adding a new mission in 2027 and aiming for annual lunar missions. The agency will standardize its Space Launch System (SLS) rocket configuration, targeting a 2028 lunar landing. Artemis II, a crewed test flight, is planned for April. Artemis III will test commercial landers in low Earth orbit. Artemis IV will mark the first lunar landing, with Artemis V initiating Moon base construction. NASA aims to leverage these missions for scientific discovery and future Mars exploration.
European student engineers tested a gecko-inspired robotic arm in simulated microgravity, aiming to enhance space debris removal and docking. The Sapienza University team, part of ESA’s GRASP project, conducted trials at ESTEC’s Orbital Robotics Lab in November 2025.
The SKYWALKER student team from Aalborg University, Denmark, successfully tested a smart algorithm for robotic arm movement in microgravity-like conditions at ESA ESTEC’s Orbital Robotics Lab in late September 2025. This advancement, part of the ESA Academy Experiments programme, aims to enable future robots to operate independently in space for construction, repair, and maintenance tasks.
The European Space Agency (ESA) has achieved a milestone by successfully 3D printing the first metal part on the International Space Station (ISS), a collaboration with Airbus. This breakthrough enhances crew autonomy for future long-duration missions. Additionally, ESA’s Lunar Link antennas, crucial for Gateway’s communications, have completed rigorous testing, including vibration, acoustic, and thermal vacuum tests. These antennas, built by Sener and assembled by Thales Alenia Space, will facilitate communications between the Gateway station, astronauts, and lunar infrastructure. The antennas and the central “baybox” will be integrated and sent to Northrop Grumman in the U.S. for installation onto the HALO module, ahead of a planned launch to lunar orbit aboard a Falcon Heavy rocket.
Source: https://www.esa.int/ESA_Multimedia/Images/2026/03/Lunar_Link_antennas_complete_testing
